Things to Do in Billings in August
August weather, activities, events & insider tips
August Weather in Billings
Is August Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect outdoor festival season - the Montana Fair runs late July through August with 70-80°F (21-27°C) evenings ideal for concerts and rides
- Peak hiking conditions on the Rimrocks - morning temperatures of 60-70°F (15-21°C) make the 400-foot (122m) climb comfortable before afternoon heat
- Extended daylight hours with sunset around 8:30pm gives you 15+ hours to explore outdoor attractions like Pompeys Pillar and Pictograph Cave
- Hotel rates drop 15-20% compared to July peak tourist season, with better availability at downtown properties near the historic district
Considerations
- Afternoon temperatures regularly exceed 90°F (32°C) making midday outdoor activities uncomfortable - most locals avoid hiking between 11am-4pm
- Wildfire smoke from surrounding forests can create hazy conditions and poor air quality for 3-5 days during peak fire season
- Tourist attractions like ZooMontana and Moss Mansion get crowded on weekends as this is the last month before school starts
Best Activities in August
Yellowstone River Float Trips
August offers perfect water levels and warm weather for scenic float trips through Billings. Water temperature reaches 68-72°F (20-22°C), ideal for swimming stops. Morning launches at 8am avoid afternoon heat while catching wildlife at watering holes. The 2-3 hour floats pass through Riverfront Park and offer views of the Rimrocks.
Rimrock Trail Hiking
August mornings provide optimal conditions for exploring the 400-foot (122m) sandstone cliffs surrounding Billings. Start by 7am when temperatures are 60-65°F (15-18°C). The Airport Rimrock Trail offers 360-degree views of five mountain ranges. Afternoon heat makes these exposed trails dangerous after 11am.
Historic Downtown Food Tours
August brings peak season for local farmers markets and outdoor dining. The Saturday Farmers Market features 40+ vendors with Montana-grown produce. Evening food walks explore breweries and restaurants with outdoor patios perfect for 75°F (24°C) August nights. Local specialties include bison burgers and huckleberry desserts.
Little Bighorn Battlefield Tours
August weather is ideal for exploring this National Monument 65 km (40 miles) southeast of Billings. Clear skies and comfortable morning temperatures make the 1.6 km (1 mile) walking trail manageable. The visitor center's air conditioning provides relief during midday heat. Less crowded than July with better photo opportunities.
Beartooth Highway Day Trips
August is the only reliable month for accessing the full 109 km (68 mile) Beartooth Highway to Yellowstone. Snow typically clears by mid-July, leaving August as prime driving season. The route climbs to 3,337m (10,947 ft) with temperatures 20-30°F (11-17°C) cooler than Billings. Wildflowers peak in alpine meadows.
Pompeys Pillar Rock Climbing
August offers perfect rock climbing conditions at this historic sandstone formation 45 km (28 miles) northeast of Billings. Morning temperatures of 65-75°F (18-24°C) are ideal for the beginner-friendly routes. The site also features Lewis & Clark historical exhibits and picnic areas for post-climb relaxation.
August Events & Festivals
Montana Fair
Montana's largest fair features concerts, rodeo events, carnival rides, and agricultural exhibits. Evening temperatures in the 70s°F (low 20s°C) make it comfortable for walking the fairgrounds. Local food vendors serve Montana specialties including Indian tacos and funnel cakes.
Magic City Blues Festival
Free outdoor blues festival in downtown Billings featuring regional and national acts. The event takes advantage of August's mild evening weather with performances on outdoor stages. Food trucks and local breweries set up along Montana Avenue.