Seasons of Roundup: What to Do in Spring, Summer, Fall & Winter

One of the best parts about staying at the Big Sky Motel in Roundup, Montana is that no two visits are the same. Our little town changes with the seasons, and each time of year brings something new to see, taste, and explore. Whether you’re stopping over for a night or staying a while, here are some of the best seasonal activities in and around Roundup.

Spring: Wildflowers & Fresh Air

When winter finally gives way, Roundup comes alive.

• Wildflowers in the Bull Mountains: Hillsides fill with colorful blooms — perfect for a short hike or scenic drive.

• Birdwatching on the Musselshell River: Spring migrations make this stretch of river a hotspot for eagles, cranes, and songbirds.

• Local Community Events: Small-town craft fairs and gatherings start popping up again — a great way to meet the neighbors.

Travel tip: Spring weather in Montana can change quickly — bring layers and sturdy shoes for mud season trails.

Summer: Sunshine & Celebrations

Summer in Montana means long days, cool nights, and plenty of room to roam.

• Fishing Along the Musselshell: Cast a line and enjoy the peaceful quiet of the riverbanks.

• Roundup Independence Days Extravaganza: Our town’s biggest event of the year! Celebrate the Fourth of July with parades, rodeos, concerts, and fireworks that light up the Montana sky.

• Stargazing Nights: With little light pollution, Roundup is one of the best places to see the Milky Way stretch across the sky.

• Rodeos & Local Gatherings: Nothing says “Montana summer” like cheering at a rodeo or grabbing a burger at a community BBQ.

Travel tip: July and August are warm and dry. Sunscreen, hats, and refillable water bottles are essentials if you’re exploring outdoors or sitting in the rodeo stands.

Fall: Hunting Season in Roundup

When autumn arrives, Roundup becomes a hunter’s paradise. The prairies, river breaks, and nearby Bull Mountains offer a wide range of opportunities for both residents and visitors.

• Big Game: White-tailed and mule deer are plentiful, pronghorn antelope roam the open country, and elk can be found in the nearby breaks and hills.

• Upland Birds: Pheasants, grouse, and wild turkeys make the Roundup area a destination for bird hunters.

• Licenses & Regulations: Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) manages licensing, regulations, and season dates. Be sure to purchase the correct tags well in advance — some are only available by drawing.

• Public Access: The Musselshell region includes state land and properties enrolled in Montana’s Block Management Program, which allows public hunting with landowner cooperation.

• Gear & Conditions: Fall mornings are cool and crisp, but days can warm quickly. Pack layers, good boots, game bags, and plenty of water. Orange vests and hats are required for rifle seasons.

Travel tip: Many hunters use Roundup as their headquarters because of its central location, easy access to supplies in town, and the comfort of returning to a warm bed after a long day in the field.

Winter: Slow Down & Stay Warm

Winter in Roundup moves at an easy pace, and that’s exactly its charm. Short days and snowy nights invite travelers to slow down, rest, and enjoy simple comforts.

• Roundup Christmas Stroll: Each December, Main Street glows with lights, music, and holiday cheer. The Christmas Stroll brings the community together with caroling, treats, and local shops open late for cozy browsing.

• Take It Easy: Winter here is less about rushing from one attraction to the next and more about savoring the quiet — a walk through town, a drive under the wide Montana sky, or a slow morning with coffee in hand.

• Stay Warm: Whether it’s a hearty meal from a local café, a good book tucked under a blanket, or simply turning in early for a full night’s sleep, winter is the season for comfort.

• Winter Stargazing: Cold nights bring clear skies, and with almost no light pollution, the stars sparkle brighter than ever. Bundle up and step outside to see the constellations stretch across the prairie sky.

Travel tip: Pack warm layers, a good coat, and boots with traction. Even a short walk downtown feels better when you’re bundled up against the crisp Musselshell County air.

Plan Your Trip Year-Round

No matter when you visit, Roundup has something to offer. From spring wildflowers to summer fireworks, from crisp fall mornings in the field to starlit winter nights, every season brings its own kind of beauty. And when you’re here, the Big Sky Motel is ready to be your home base — with clean rooms, small-town hospitality, and easy access to all the best of Musselshell County.

Ready to plan your stay? Book your room today and experience Roundup in every season.