Hundreds in Bozeman area flock to Madison River to cool off amid heat wave

BOZEMAN, Mont. — Hot weather had people across the Bozeman area heading for the water, with the Madison River drawing big crowds as families looked for relief on Sunday. 

By 11 a.m., the Warm Springs and California Corner boat launches were packed. People spent the day floating, swimming and finding ways to stay cool. 

Ian Thompson was one of the people out on the river. 

“It's a hot day and just need to cool off. It'sa great day. It seems like everybody else is here,” he said. 

Kathleen Schreiber said her family came to the Bozeman area for her son's motorcycle race, but it was canceled because of the heat. Instead, they went to the Madison River two days in a row. 

“Just have a good family time and going down the river and seeing the sights and all the different things that people float on and watching out for the rocks,” she said.“The Madison is always fun. And it’s nice cause the water is a little higher,” Schreiber said. 

Schreiber's family also brought their dogs, most of whom enjoy cooling off in the water, as well. 

Younger families were on the river, too. Mac and Hayes, who were visiting from Tennessee and staying with family friends, spent Saturday at Hyalite Reservoir. 

“It was cold. My sister got a paddle board and I tied a tube to the back. And I sat on the board,” Macsaid. 

They spent Sunday at the river and hoped to spot wildlife while they cooled off. 

“Maybe seeing animals... catching crawdads. We already saw one,” they said. 

The Madison River was not the only place people in the Bozeman area can use to beat the heat. Bozeman Beach at Glen Lake Rotary Park is a popular stop for paddleboarders, swimmers and families. Hyalite Reservoir also offers room to spread out along with camping for people who can get a reservation. 

The city also offers the outdoor Bogert Pool on weekdays and Saturdays, and the Bozeman Swim Center. This summer, Bozeman opened a new splash pad at Story Mill Park, while Belgrade operates a splash pad and Lewis and Clark Park.