There’s something funny about this week between Christmas and the New Year. Time feels stretchy. You’re not totally sure what day it is. There may be leftover cookies calling your name from the counter… and yet, there’s also that little spark of motivation for a fresh start.

As someone who spends a LOT of time exploring neighborhoods, hiking trails, and popping into our local shops and coffee spots, I actually love this in-between week. It’s the perfect time to gently get moving again — no pressure, no intense resolutions — just enjoying the incredible place we live.

Here are a few of my favorite ways to get outside around Billings right now:

Take a relaxed hike (no summit required)

You don’t have to make it an epic workout. Just lace up and go breathe in some fresh air.

Some easy, beautiful options:

• Zimmerman Park – big sky views and lots of flexible wandering

• Four Dances – peaceful, open space and an overlook that never gets old

• Phipps Park – great if you want a little climb and incredible rims scenery

Even a short 20–30 minute walk can reset your brain after holiday chaos. Bundle up, bring a thermos, and go slow.

Pair movement with a local coffee stop

This is my favorite formula:
walk → warm drink → happy human.

A few ideas:

• Walk downtown, then grab a latte or tea

• Stroll Shiloh paths and swing by a nearby place to eat

• Run errands on foot between a couple of local shops

You’ll get your steps in and support local — my two love languages.

Wander your favorite local shops

Window-shopping counts as movement!

Check out:

• downtown boutiques

• small bookstores (we have a couple downtown)

• local gear shops like the Base Camp

It’s low-stress, you’re up and moving, and you might find inspiration for the new year — or the perfect cozy mug.

Explore a new neighborhood

Realtor confession: I do this even when I’m “off the clock.”

Take a slow drive or walk through:

• a neighborhood you’ve never explored

• an area you’ve wondered about moving to

• a new subdivision or golf course community

You’ll get ideas, see different architecture, and maybe even picture your next chapter.

Catch a sunrise or sunset

Minimal effort. Maximum payoff.

Set a reminder, step outside, and just be still for a few minutes. The winter skies in Billings put on some pretty incredible shows, and there’s something symbolic about watching the day begin or end during this transition week.

No pressure. Just gentle forward motion.

This week doesn’t have to be about “new year, new you.”
It can simply be:

• a walk

• fresh air

• local adventures

• moving your body a little

• remembering why we love living in Montana

And if getting outside also has you dreaming about a new home — closer to trails, a bigger yard, or maybe less yard 😄 — I’d love to help you explore what’s possible in 2026.

Here’s to that funny, cozy, hopeful week between what was and what’s next.