Paradise Valley, Montana

The Paradise Valley is Montana’s primary gateway to Yellowstone, yet it’s also popular and famous in its own right. The valley, through which the Yellowstone River flows, was considered paradise for Native Americans to overwinter their horses. Strong, persistent winds blowing out of the south, especially from fall to early spring, made for less snow on the ground here as compared to higher elevations, making it easier for both horses and Native peoples to navigate Montana’s longest season. This twilight view is looking east from U.S. Highway 89 with the Absaroka Mountains towering in the distance.