Are you a NATURE LOVER dreaming of living just MINUTES from INCREDIBLE HIKING TRAILS? 🌿

Billings, Montana, has it ALL—STUNNING VISTAS, abundant WILDLIFE, and ENDLESS outdoor adventures. As your trusted realtor, I’m here to help you find the PERFECT HOME that connects you to the great outdoors. Let’s explore the BEST NEIGHBORHOODS near Billings’ TRAILS that you’ll absolutely LOVE!

ALKALI CREEK NEIGHBORHOOD

This neighborhood is a DREAM for outdoor enthusiasts! Located along Alkali Creek, you’ll have EASY ACCESS to the SWORDS RIMROCK PARK trails, offering BREATHTAKING VIEWS of the Yellowstone Valley. Homes here feature SPACIOUS YARDS, MATURE TREES, and a PEACEFUL atmosphere.

WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT:

• • CLOSE TO SWORDS RIMROCK PARK
  • FAMILY-FRIENDLY and QUIET
  • SCENIC VIEWS of the RIMROCKS

RED LODGE GATEWAY

Looking for a PERFECT BLEND of town and mountain life? Red Lodge is just an hour from Billings and offers access to WORLD-CLASS TRAILS like PALISADES FALLS and LAKE FORK. This charming mountain town is your GATEWAY to the Beartooth Mountains and Yellowstone National Park!

WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT:

• EASY ACCESS to ICONIC TRAILS
• QUAINT SMALL-TOWN VIBE
• SPECTACULAR MOUNTAIN VIEWS

YELLOWSTONE RIVER CORRIDOR

If you’ve ever DREAMED of living by the WATER, this is the SPOT for you! Homes along the Yellowstone River offer EASY ACCESS to trails like FOUR DANCES NATURAL AREA and NORM’S ISLAND, perfect for HIKING, FISHING, and BIRDWATCHING.

WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT:

• RIVERSIDE LIVING
• TRANQUIL, SCENIC TRAILS NEARBY
• IDEAL FOR WATER AND TRAIL ENTHUSIASTS

RIMROCK WEST ESTATES

Located near ZIMMERMAN PARK, this neighborhood is a NATURE LOVER’S PARADISE! These trails wind through the ICONIC RIMROCKS, giving you PANORAMIC VIEWS of Billings. Homes here often have MODERN DESIGNS with LARGE WINDOWS that bring the OUTDOORS IN.

WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT:

• DIRECT ACCESS TO ZIMMERMAN PARK
• MODERN HOMES with AMAZING OUTDOOR SPACES
• JAW-DROPPING VIEWS from YOUR DOORSTEP

HEIGHTS NEIGHBORHOODS

For a SUBURBAN FEEL with EASY TRAIL ACCESS, check out the Heights. Nearby PHIPPS PARK and TWO MOON PARK offer a range of TRAIL OPTIONS, from LEISURELY RIVERSIDE WALKS to CHALLENGING CLIMBS with INCREDIBLE VIEWS.

WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT:

• CLOSE-KNIT COMMUNITY VIBE
• A VARIETY OF HOME STYLES AND PRICES
• DIVERSE TRAILS JUST MINUTES AWAY

TIPS FOR FINDING YOUR DREAM HOME NEAR TRAILS

• PROXIMITY: How CLOSE do you want to be to TRAILHEADS?
• LIFESTYLE: Are you looking for a QUIET RETREAT or a LIVELY COMMUNITY?
• AMENITIES: Does the home offer OUTDOOR SPACES that match your LOVE FOR NATURE?

LET’S FIND YOUR PERFECT HOME!

Billings has an AMAZING variety of homes for NATURE LOVERS like YOU. Whether you’re dreaming of RIMROCK VIEWS, RIVERSIDE SERENITY, or MOUNTAIN ADVENTURES, I’m here to help you EVERY STEP OF THE WAY. 🏡

Let’s find a property that brings you CLOSER to the GREAT OUTDOORS!

Thank YOU for coming! I hope to see you next year!

Discover peace on the trails around Billings, MT!

The HOLIDAY SEASON is here—a time for joy, celebration, and making memories with the ones we love. Let’s be honest: it can also get BUSY! Between finding the perfect gifts, hosting gatherings, and juggling packed calendars, it’s easy to feel a bit overwhelmed. That’s why I turn to one of my favorite ways to recharge and find BALANCE during this festive time: HIKING!

There’s something about stepping onto a trail that makes everything feel a little lighter. As a Real Estate Professional and nature enthusiast, I know firsthand how powerful a walk in the fresh air can be—not just for relieving stress, but for reconnecting with the beauty and simplicity of the season. Around Billings, we’re lucky to have so many breathtaking trails that provide the perfect escape, even during the holidays.

Why Hiking Is a Holiday Stress Buster

1. Clear Your Mind:
   There’s something magical about stepping into nature. Your racing thoughts are replaced with the crunch of leaves underfoot and the sound of the wind through the trees. Hiking is like hitting the RESET BUTTON.
2. Boost Your Mood:
   Exercise releases endorphins—your body’s natural mood lifters. Pair that with the gorgeous Montana landscapes; you’ve got an unbeatable combination for feeling GREAT.
3. Reconnect with What Matters:
   Hiking lets you unplug from holiday chaos and focus on the moment. It’s a chance to breathe deeply and reflect on the things you’re GRATEFUL for.

My Go-To Trails Around Billings

If you’re ready to lace up your boots, here are some of my favorite local trails for holiday stress relief:

1. Zimmerman Park
   Perfect for a quick escape, this trail offers sweeping views of Billings and the Rims. A sunrise hike here is the ultimate way to start your day feeling grounded and INSPIRED.
2. Four Dances Natural Area
   Tucked away yet so close to town, this trail gives you serene views of the Yellowstone River. It’s peaceful and a great reminder of Montana’s raw BEAUTY.
3. Phipps Park
   For a bit more of a challenge, head to Phipps Park. The climbs will get your heart pumping, and the vistas will take your breath away in the BEST way.
4. Red Lodge Area Trails
   Want to make a day of it? Head to Red Lodge for scenic winter hikes. Trails like the Lake Fork Trail offer a quiet, snow-dusted wonderland that’s worth the short drive.

As much as I love hiking for stress relief, I also see it as a way to celebrate the COMMUNITY we live in. Billings and the surrounding areas are packed with outdoor opportunities, making it a dream location for adventurers and nature lovers. If you’ve ever thought about moving closer to trails or finding a home with views of our incredible landscape, let’s CHAT!

This holiday season, don’t let stress get the best of you. Instead, grab your boots, head outside, and find the PEACE you deserve. I’ll see you on the trails—or maybe we can find you a home that’s just steps away from one. Wishing you all a happy, healthy, and BEAUTIFUL holiday season!

As a proud Billings resident and someone who loves to read, I can’t think of a better way to give back this holiday season than by supporting an organization that enriches our community and fosters a love for learning—the Billings Library Foundation.

With Giving Tuesday just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the impact of local organizations like this one. Whether you’re a lifelong bookworm or simply someone who believes in the power of education, the Billings Library Foundation plays an important role in making resources, opportunities, and imagination accessible to everyone.

Why the Billings Library Foundation Matters

The Billings Public Library isn’t just a building with books—it’s a hub of connection, creativity, and opportunity. And the Billings Library Foundation is the driving force behind many of the library’s most impactful programs.

• Programs for Kids:
  From storytime to summer reading challenges, the library helps ignite a love for books in kids of all ages. As a parent and advocate for childhood literacy, I know how transformative it can be for a child to have access to books and a place where their imaginations can soar.
• Community Outreach:
  The foundation supports programs that reach underserved members of our community, providing resources for education, job training, and more. It’s about making sure EVERYONE has a chance to thrive.
• Enriching the Library Experience:
  Through funding for technology, events, and special projects, the foundation helps keep our library vibrant and engaging. It’s more than just a place to borrow books—it’s a place to gather, learn, and grow.

I know that a community’s heart is what makes it a HOME. Organizations like the Billings Library Foundation bring us closer together by empowering individuals and families to learn, grow, and succeed. Whether it’s giving kids their first experience with reading or providing resources for adults to gain new skills, the foundation strengthens the very fabric of Billings.

This Giving Tuesday, I encourage you to consider supporting the Billings Library Foundation—or another local organization that’s making a difference. Together, we can ensure that our community continues to be a place where people of all ages and backgrounds can thrive.

Let’s make this season of giving truly meaningful—one page, one program, one act of generosity at a time.

Happy Holidays, and happy reading!

One of the best parts of living in Billings, Montana, is the incredible opportunity to connect with nature—even as the seasons shift. Late fall, or early winter is a special time for wildlife enthusiasts, offering quieter trails, crisp air, and the chance to see some of our region’s most beloved animals in their natural habitats. From graceful deer to fascinating bird species, late fall is a great time to grab your binoculars and head outside!

Here are some of the best spots near Billings to enjoy wildlife watching this season.

Four Dances Natural Area

If you’re looking for a close-to-town spot with abundant wildlife, Four Dances Natural Area is a must-visit. This scenic area, located just minutes from downtown, is home to mule deer, hawks, and even the occasional fox. The trails here offer panoramic views of the Yellowstone River and plenty of quiet corners to pause and observe nature.

Pro Tip: Sunrise and sunset are the best times to spot deer grazing in the open fields.

Riverfront Park

Riverfront Park is a haven for birdwatchers, with its mix of cottonwood trees, open meadows, and river habitats. In late fall, you can often spot waterfowl like mallards and Canada geese, as well as songbirds flitting among the trees. Keep an eye out for bald eagles, which are known to frequent the area as they prepare for winter.

Why It’s Great: The park’s flat trails make it an easy destination for families or anyone looking for a leisurely stroll.

Pictograph Cave State Park

While this site is famous for its prehistoric art, it’s also a wonderful place to see wildlife. The park’s natural setting is home to deer, rabbits, and an array of birds, making it a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle.

Don’t Miss: Look up! You might catch a glimpse of hawks or other raptors soaring overhead.

Zimmerman Park

Zimmerman Park, perched atop the Rims, offers incredible views and excellent wildlife watching opportunities. Mule deer are common here, and the open skies often feature red-tailed hawks and other birds of prey. The rugged terrain and unique rock formations make it a rewarding destination for both hikers and wildlife lovers.

Best Time to Visit: Mornings are ideal for spotting deer, while the afternoon light makes birdwatching a delight.

Tips for Wildlife Watching in Late Fall

• Dress Warmly: The temperatures can drop quickly, so layer up to stay comfortable.
• Pack Essentials: Bring binoculars, a camera, and a field guide to help identify what you see.
• Stay Quiet: Wildlife is more active in calmer environments, so minimize noise for the best experience.
• Respect Nature: Always observe animals from a safe distance and stick to designated trails to protect their habitats.

Why It Matters

Taking time to appreciate the wildlife around us isn’t just good for the soul—it’s a reminder of the natural beauty and balance that make Billings such a special place to call home. Whether you’re exploring local trails or simply enjoying the view from your neighborhood, these experiences connect us to something bigger than ourselves.

As a lover of the outdoors, I know how much these moments add to the joy of living here. If you’re looking for a home near these beautiful spots—or one with wildlife right in your backyard—I’d be thrilled to help you find the perfect fit.

As temperatures drop in Billings, keeping homes warm and energy-efficient is essential. Energy upgrades not only lower heating costs but make homes more comfortable—and attractive to buyers! Here’s a quick guide to energy-saving tips perfect for our Montana winters:

1. Upgrade to a SMART THERMOSTAT

A smart thermostat is a simple way to boost energy savings. It learns your schedule and adjusts heating automatically, so your home stays cozy when needed but conserves energy while you’re away. Buyers love these for their CONVENIENCE AND SAVINGS, so it’s a great investment.

2. Add INSULATION WHERE IT COUNTS

Proper insulation is key to keeping warm air in. Adding or upgrading attic and basement insulation helps prevent heat loss, which is especially important in colder climates like Billings. This INCREASES COMFORT while reducing energy costs—a huge plus for buyers.

3. SEAL WINDOWS AND DOORS

Drafty windows and doors are a big source of heat loss. Simple fixes like WEATHERSTRIPPING and CAULKING make a difference, while upgrading to energy-efficient windows is a great long-term investment. These updates keep homes warmer and appeal to buyers as a SMART, ENERGY-EFFICIENT CHOICE.

4. Make Use of NATURAL SUNLIGHT

Billings gets beautiful sunny days even in winter! Opening blinds during the day lets natural warmth in, while closing them at night provides insulation. This simple habit keeps the home cozy while creating a WARM AND WELCOMING AMBIANCE.

5. SERVICE THE HEATING SYSTEM

A well-maintained heating system runs efficiently and reliably. Changing furnace filters and cleaning ducts not only lower costs but assure buyers that the home’s HVAC is well-cared for. RECENT FURNACE SERVICE can be a strong selling point.

6. SWITCH TO LED LIGHTING

With Montana’s longer winter nights, efficient lighting can make a big difference. LED bulbs save energy, last longer, and create a warm atmosphere, which is ideal for winter showings. LOWER LIGHTING COSTS add even more appeal.

Final Thoughts: Energy Efficiency Sells

In Billings, energy efficiency is not just practical—it’s a valuable feature buyers want. By highlighting upgrades like smart thermostats, insulation, and energy-efficient windows, homeowners can enhance comfort and boost market value. These updates make homes COZY, EFFICIENT, AND MARKET-READY for our Montana winters!

Selling your home over the holiday season in Billings? While winter might seem like an off-season, it’s actually a GREAT TIME to showcase a cozy, inviting space! Here’s how to turn your home into a winter wonderland that buyers won’t forget.

1. DECLUTTER & CLEAN

First, go for a clean and clutter-free look. LESS CLUTTER = MORE SPACE, helping buyers imagine their own holiday decorations and style here. Clear off surfaces, store away extra furniture, and make each room feel open and spacious.

2. KEEP DECOR SIMPLE & FESTIVE

A LITTLE HOLIDAY SPIRIT goes a long way! Stick to simple, neutral holiday decorations—like white lights, a small wreath, or a touch of garland. This sets a cozy mood without being overwhelming. Remember, the goal is to let buyers see themselves celebrating the holidays here, so LESS IS MORE.

3. EMPHASIZE COZINESS

Highlight Billings’ warm winter charm! Add soft blankets, warm lighting, and gentle scents (think vanilla or fresh-baked cookies) to create a homey vibe. Avoid overpowering scents, like cinnamon, so your space feels cozy, not crowded.

4. SEASONAL CURB APPEAL

Give the outside a little boost! Sweep away leaves or snow, and add a simple wreath or welcoming doormat to make your home feel INVITING from the street. In Billings’ colder months, a well-lit, seasonal curb appeal makes a strong first impression!

5. FLEXIBILITY IS KEY

Holiday schedules are tight, so BE FLEXIBLE with showings. Allowing potential buyers to visit on weekends or evenings when they’re free can make a big difference—especially for serious buyers ready to make a move.

6. SHOW OFF WINTER FEATURES

If you have a cozy fireplace, radiant heating, or energy-efficient windows, SHOW THEM OFF! In Billings’ cold season, these features can be a major plus. Keep the home warm and comfortable so buyers can see just how well it fits their winter needs.

7. PRICE IT RIGHT

In a smaller holiday market, the right price is crucial. We will work closely together to find a competitive price. Holiday buyers in Billings are typically motivated, so a smart price can mean a faster sale!

Selling a home in Billings during the holiday season can be a unique opportunity. With the right touches, you can make your home feel like the perfect holiday retreat buyers won’t want to leave!

The holiday season is here, and there’s NOTHING like the smell of a warm apple pie baking to make everyone feel at home. This CLASSIC APPLE PIE WITH CINNAMON SUGAR CRUST brings the BEST blend of tart apples, warm spices, and buttery crust. It’s the kind of pie that FEELS LIKE A HUG and will make your holiday table complete— let’s get baking!

Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 6–7 medium apples (a mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp works great), peeled, cored, and sliced thin
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/4 tsp salt

For the Crust:

• 1 double pie crust (store-bought or homemade)

For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping:

• 1 tbsp milk or heavy cream (for brushing the crust)
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Filling

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F
2. In a large mixing bowl, toss the sliced apples with granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, lemon juice, and salt. Mix until well coated and let them sit for 10 minutes to soak up the flavors.

Step 2: Assemble the Pie

1. Roll out the bottom crust and place it in a 9-inch pie dish, letting the edges hang over slightly.
2. Pour the apple filling into the crust, mounding it slightly in the center.
3. Roll out the top crust and place it over the apples. Trim any extra dough, fold the edges under, and crimp to seal.
4. Brush the top crust with milk or heavy cream, then sprinkle it with the cinnamon sugar mixture for a sweet, golden finish.

Step 3: Bake the Pie

1. Place the pie on a baking sheet (to catch spills) and bake at 425°F for 20 minutes.
2. Reduce the oven temperature to 375°F and bake for another 30–35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
3. Let the pie cool for at least 2 hours before slicing—this helps the filling set.

Serve & Enjoy!

This Classic Apple Pie has all the holiday flavors, with tender apples and the perfect balance of sweetness and spice. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for the ultimate holiday treat.

Tips for the Best Apple Pie

• Use a mix of apples: Tart and sweet apples give the pie a great flavor.
• Make ahead: The pie can be baked the night before. Just cover and store at room temperature, then reheat gently before serving.
• For a crispier crust: Add an egg wash (1 egg + 1 tbsp water) before sprinkling with cinnamon sugar for a perfectly golden finish.

Enjoy baking this holiday classic, and remember—it’s also a warm-up for my Annual Pie Party in February! Hope to see you there! 🥧

With the beautiful fall weather still hanging around, it’s the PERFECT time to get the kids outside and explore some amazing trails! Hiking is a FUN way to enjoy nature, get some exercise, and create lasting memories. So, lace up those hiking boots, grab your backpacks, and let’s hit the trails! Here are some of the BEST family-friendly hikes around Billings that everyone will LOVE.

1. Swords Rimrock Park

Distance: 1.5 miles (loop)
Difficulty: Easy

Swords Rimrock Park is a MUST-DO for families! The trail offers STUNNING views of Billings and is easy enough for little ones. Look out for interesting rock formations and wildlife! Plus, there are picnic areas for a tasty snack after your hike.

2. Phipps Park

Distance: 1.5 miles (various trails)
Difficulty: Easy

Phipps Park is a HIDDEN GEM! With several short, easy trails, it’s perfect for families. Enjoy a mix of wooded areas and open fields—great for exploration! Don’t forget to pack a picnic to enjoy in one of the many picnic spots!

3. Zimmerman Park

Distance: 2 miles (loop)
Difficulty: Easy

Just a hop from downtown, Zimmerman Park is another FAMILY-FRIENDLY option! The trails are flat and easy to navigate, offering beautiful views of the city and rims. Take your time and enjoy the scenery—it’s a great place to relax and unwind!

4. Riverfront Park

Distance: 1.2 miles (loop)
Difficulty: Easy

For a leisurely stroll, check out Riverfront Park! The paved trails along the Yellowstone River are perfect for younger kids or those with strollers. Bring snacks to enjoy by the water while soaking in the BEAUTIFUL views!

Tips for Hiking with Kids:

• Pack Snacks: Keep everyone energized with trail mix, fruit, or granola bars!

• Stay Hydrated: Bring plenty of water to keep everyone refreshed.

• Make it Fun: Turn the hike into an adventure with a nature scavenger hunt!

• Dress for Success: Layer up—weather can change quickly!
• Take Breaks: Don’t rush! Allow time for breaks to enjoy the surroundings.

Hiking is a GREAT way for families to bond and explore nature together! Billings has some fantastic trails perfect for kids, so get out there and start your adventure! If you have any favorite hikes or tips, share them in the comments below. Happy hiking! 🥾🌲

The local market is seeing some interesting changes, so here’s the scoop:

Neutral Market

The 12-month median home price has crept up by $1,000, landing at $376,000. We’re now in a more NEUTRAL MARKET, meaning instead of rapid monthly price jumps, we’ll see steadier year-over-year equity growth—a Billings classic!

Listings Are Up, Sales Are Down

Year-to-date, listings increased, but sold listings DROPPED by slightly! More homes, fewer buyers—this could be the perfect opportunity for buyers to make a move!

Big Changes in the Luxury Range

If you’re looking at luxury homes, homes are staying on the market a little longer – meaning it could take almost two years to sell all available homes at this rate. Buyers in this price range have more room to negotiate!

More Choices in the mid-range

The $326K-$400K range is heating up, with 214 homes now on the market. Buyers in this sweet spot—rejoice!

What’s the Bottom Line?

We’re seeing more inventory and fewer sales, giving buyers more time to find their dream home. Sellers—we can be very strategic with your pricing in this changing market!

If you’re ready to buy or sell, or just want to chat about the market, I’m here to help! Let’s talk! 🏡