Things to Do in Billings in June
June weather, activities, events & insider tips
June Weather in Billings
Is June Right for You?
Advantages
- Peak wildflower season in the Beartooth Mountains with lupines and Indian paintbrush at their most vibrant from June 15-30
- Longest daylight hours of the year - sunrise at 5:30am, sunset at 9:15pm gives you nearly 16 hours for outdoor activities
- Perfect weather for ZooMontana and Riverfront Park activities with comfortable 21-27°C (70-80°F) afternoons
- Strawberry season at local farms - pick-your-own strawberries available at Yellowstone Valley farms from mid-June through July
Considerations
- Tourist season peaks mid-June meaning 40-60% higher accommodation prices and crowded Yellowstone gateway attractions
- Afternoon thunderstorms on 10+ days can disrupt outdoor plans for 1-2 hours, typically between 2-5pm
- Intense UV exposure at 1,100 m (3,600 ft) elevation requires constant sun protection - UV index reaches 8-9 daily
Best Activities in June
Beartooth Highway Scenic Drive Tours
June is the only reliable month for accessing the full Beartooth Highway as snow typically blocks passes until early June. Peak wildflower displays occur from mid-June onward. Morning drives (7-10am) offer clearest mountain views and wildlife spotting opportunities before afternoon clouds roll in.
Yellowstone River Floating Adventures
June offers perfect water levels after spring runoff settles but before late summer low flows. Water temperature reaches comfortable 16-18°C (60-65°F) by mid-June. Wildlife viewing peaks as animals come to drink during longer daylight hours.
Pictograph Cave State Park Hiking
June's dry conditions make the 1.6 km (1-mile) interpretive trail ideal with minimal mud and maximum visibility of ancient rock art. Early morning visits (7-9am) avoid both crowds and peak UV exposure while temperatures stay comfortable at 18-21°C (65-70°F).
ZooMontana Wildlife Experiences
June's mild mornings are perfect for seeing animals active before midday heat. Special behind-the-scenes tours run only in summer months. The 4-hectare (10-acre) facility is manageable in 2-3 hours with comfortable walking temperatures.
Little Bighorn Battlefield Historical Tours
June marks the anniversary period (June 25-26) with special commemorative programs and ranger-led talks. Clear weather provides unobstructed views across the battlefield landscape. Extended daylight allows for thorough exploration of the 1.6 km (1-mile) trail system.
Pompeys Pillar Lewis & Clark Site Visits
June's stable weather perfect for climbing the 46 m (150-foot) sandstone formation where William Clark carved his signature in 1806. Clear visibility extends 32 km (20 miles) across Yellowstone Valley. Interpretive programs run daily in summer months only.
June Events & Festivals
Strawberry Festival at MetraPark
Annual celebration featuring local Yellowstone Valley strawberry farms with fresh berry picking, homemade preserves, and live music. Family-friendly event showcasing Montana agriculture with food vendors and craft booths.
Last Stand Hill Anniversary Commemoration
Special ranger programs at Little Bighorn Battlefield marking the anniversary of Custer's Last Stand with historical reenactments, Native American cultural presentations, and extended battlefield tours.
Downtown Billings Art Walk
Monthly first Friday art walk expanded in June with extended hours taking advantage of long daylight. Local galleries, studios, and street vendors showcase regional artists with wine tastings and live music.