Welcome to Paradise Valley: Quick Guide Around the Area

Nestled in the heart of the breathtaking Paradise Valley, Pray and Emigrant are more than just a pin on a map—they are the gateway to the true American West. Flanked by the rugged Absaroka and Gallatin mountain ranges, our community offers the perfect blend of high-country adventure and laid-back Montana charm.

📜 A Legacy of Gold & Wilderness

Long before the first settlers arrived, this region was a vital territory for the Crow (Apsáalooke) and other Indigenous tribes who hunted these valleys for over 11,000 years.

The town’s name is a nod to its 1860s roots. In 1864, a group of "emigrants" traveling the Bozeman Trail discovered gold high on the slopes of Emigrant Peak. This spark ignited a brief but wild gold rush, leading to the creation of "Yellowstone City." By 1902, the Old Saloon was established to serve travelers journeying by rail toward the newly created Yellowstone National Park.

🌲 Yellowstone: The World’s First National Park

Just 30 miles south of Emigrant lies the crown jewel of the American wilderness.

The Big Idea: After early explorers like John Colter described "places where mud boiled," the 1871 Hayden Expedition finally convinced Congress that this land was a national treasure.
A Historic Milestone: On March 1, 1872, President Ulysses S. Grant signed the act that made Yellowstone the world’s first National Park.
Don't Miss: Visit Mammoth Hot Springs to see Fort Yellowstone, where the U.S. Army protected the park before the National Park Service was even formed.

🏔️ Outdoor Adventures

Fly Fishing: The Yellowstone River is the longest free-flowing river in the lower 48. We recommend booking with Montana Fly Fishing Guides to find the best local spots.
Hiking: Reach for the sky on Emigrant Peak (10,926 ft) or enjoy a scenic, family-friendly hike to Pine Creek Falls.
Scenic Rafting on the Yellowstone River https://rowdyriverguides.com/
Rafting: Experience the river’s power with Paradise Rafting or take a quiet, luxury scenic float with Yellowstone Wood Boat Tours.

♨️ Hot Springs & Relaxation

Chico Hot Springs Resort: A valley favorite since 1900. Soak in natural geothermal pools and enjoy their world-class day spa.
Yellowstone Hot Springs: Located near the park entrance, these mineral-rich pools offer a quiet soak with stunning mountain views.

🍔 Dining & Nightlife

Faye's Cafe is described as a Breakfast place full of joy, warmth and imagination, aiming to share peace, love and happiness through food.
https://www.sarahfayemontana.com/
The Old Saloon: Step back in time at this historic 1902 landmark for great food and live music.
Follow Yer’ Nose BBQ: Widely considered the best BBQ in the state—perfect for a post-hike meal.
The Grill at Sage Lodge: Fine dining with floor-to-ceiling views of the mountains.

🏇 Horseback Riding & Golf

Horseback Riding: See the valley as the pioneers did. Chico Horseback Riding offers guided trips through the foothills.
Golfing: Play a round at the Livingston Golf & Country Club or head to the scenic Big Sky Resort Course.

Watch the Moving, Scenic Documentary Paradise on YouTube
(FREE, 20-Minutes Long)

The Power of Community: Protecting Montana’s Paradise Valley

Directed by Erik Petersen, the 2020 documentary Paradise documents an intense, localized environmental battle against proposed industrial-scale gold mining operations near Yellowstone National Park. The film follows Bryan Wells, a long-term Montana resident and self-described mining supporter, who becomes an unlikely activist after international companies target the delicate ecosystem of Paradise Valley. Through stunning cinematography of Emigrant Peak, the documentary highlights the stakes for local, tourism-based economies, showcasing a years-long, community-led effort to protect the region. Ultimately, the film chronicles the successful, grassroots-driven passage of the Yellowstone Gateway Protection Act, which permanently removed over 30,000 acres from future mineral exploration.