If you want to move to Montana, you may be concerned about the weather of your potential home. So, which city in the Northwestern state of Montana has the best weather?
Billings has the best weather in Montana. In Billings, Montana, you will get less rain than the national average, with 14 inches in Billings versus 28 inches. Expect fluctuating winter weather with a guarantee of 205 annual sunny days.
If you’re planning on visiting or moving to Montana, how cold winters are or how fresh summers are can affect which city you move to. Read on to discover how Billings has the best weather in Montana.
What Are Winters Like in Billings, Montana?
Billings is a great place to experience winter if you don’t like freezing temperatures because of the fluctuating weather. The winter temperature in Billings, Montana during the winter will range between 15 to 40 degrees. This is warmer than other cities in Montana. While Billings will experience 56 inches of snow, it is unlikely to accumulate because of warming winds, called Chinooks.
But if you want to do activities while there is snow on the ground, check these activities out.
- Snowshoeing- If you’ve ever wondered if you could walk across the snow like a penguin, then snowshoeing is the activity for you. Check out Lake Fork Trail for the best snowshoeing experience.
- Cross-Country Skiing – If you don’t want to travel too far from home, you can enjoy a nice glide through Riverfront or Two Moon Park. Fall in love with the view as you wind throughout the trees.
- Sledding – Check out Pioneer Park for some fun with friends and family. Rest assured that these slopes are for all levels of sledding experience.
How Much Does it Rain in Billings, Montana?
Billings Montana only receives 14 inches of rain annually, only 27% of the 38-inch national average. The most rain happens in summer, at 34% of all annual rainfall, the least rain takes place during Spring with 11%.
Because there are only 83 rainy days in Billings, Montana, you won’t have to avoid the rain too much, primarily because it is evenly spread throughout the seasons. However, if you find yourself craving adventure on a rainy day, here are some awesome places to visit:
- Western Heritage Center – Discover the history of the Yellowstone River Valley with over 40,000 photos and artifacts. Then, take a guided walking tour of historic landmarks around Billings. Be sure to reserve your spot, there is a limit of 15 people.
- Yellowstone County Museum – A true treasure, with free entry and an entry from a Cabin built in 1892. This museum holds artifacts from Native Americans and cowboys. Learn about the Natives Ghost Dance, Prehistoric Montana, and the story of Joe Medicine Crow as well as many other exhibits on display.
- Yellowstone Art Museum – Built in 1962, this museum focuses on artwork from artists originating in either Montana or the American Northwest. Their community outreach programs reach multiple schools, the Alzheimers Association, and Montanas Women’s Prison.
How Hot Is It In Billings, Montana
The average summer day in Billings, Montana will range anywhere between 60 degrees and the highest temperature of 90 Degrees. While it is possible, it will rarely get hotter than 98 Degrees.
These summer days are great for catching some fresh air without the fear of dehydration. If you’re in the mood for some outdoor exploring, these are some fun activities to check out:
- ZooMontana– Caring for over 80 different animals, and offering multiple outreach programs, for homeschoolers, public schools, and seniors, this zoo is truly there for the community of Billings, Montana.
- Yellowstone National Park – The history of Yellowstone goes back 11,000 years and became the first national park in 1872. Yellowstone offers a multitude of activities from a simple picnic, to camping and horseback riding. Be sure to plan your visit today.
- Bighorn Canyon – Explore over 12,000 acres of land, you can enjoy boating on Bighorn Lake or enjoy a great overlook when you choose from one of the trails that cover 17 miles of the park.
Some other summer activities to enjoy include: watching the Billings Mustangs at Dehler Park, and Summerfair, a craft fair that supports the Yellowstone Art Museum.
Visit Billings Montana
The weather in Billings, Montana, is Perfect year-round because the weather is never harsh. Even if it snows it hardly lasts long enough for it to truly affect day-to-day life. The roadways are cleared when necessary by experienced road crews to keep roads safe for drivers.
The summers are fresh enough to safely enjoy the beauty of Mother Nature at nearby national parks such as Yellowstone and Bighorn Canyon.
Even on a rare rainy day, the museums capture the important history of the American Northwest.