Our Neighborhood
The Community of Glastonbury is nestled in stunning Paradise Valley and the foothills of the mighty Rocky Mountains of southwestern Montana. Our community lies within the boundaries of Park County, with the town of Emigrant, MT the nearest incorporated city. The Community of Glastonbury is approximately 25-miles south of Livingston, 1-hour to Bozeman, and 30-miles North of Yellowstone National Park and the town of Gardiner, MT. The famous Yellowstone River meanders through the center of Paradise Valley providing a dramatic backdrop of the Absaroka Mountain Range to the East and the Gallatin Mountain Range to the West. The most prominent peak in the valley, Emigrant Peak, takes center stage and for many landowners its majestic rise from the valley floor is front and center any time they gaze eastward from their property.
Our History
Starting in the 1820s, fur trappers began targeting beaver in the traditional lands of the Shoshone and Crow peoples. Once the beaver were largely depleted, gold prospectors started arriving in the mid-1800s. The first wave of permanent settlers reached Park County during the 1860s, drawn primarily by the promise of gold in the mountains east of the Yellowstone River. When those mining efforts proved less successful than expected, many of these newcomers chose to remain, turning instead to ranching and farming in the rich valley lands. Meanwhile, the timber industry took root to supply materials for the mines, support the growing railroad network, and construct vessels for river transportation.
Today, Paradise Valley is known for its premier fishing access, hiking, wildlife viewing, dude ranches, hunting, and of course a gateway to Yellowstone National Park. Agricultural activities continue to be an integral part of the lifestyle for many Park County residents. We honor and appreciate our local farmers and ranchers for both the goods we have access to and their stewardship of the land.
The Area
Emigrant, the town nearest the Glastonbury community, may seem like a pass through town on your way to Yellowstone National Park adventures, but within this small town we have the famous Old Saloon and Livery, world class Follow Yer Nose BBQ, delicious pastries at Wildflower Bakery, and the Emigrant Output. Guided fishing and adventure tours abound with Angler’s West Outfitters, serving as the most prominent with its physical location adjacent to the Old Saloon. For residents, as well as those passing through, the Emigrant General Store is often a frequent stop, with this beloved establishment most often stocked with more than most could ever ask for! The town of Emigrant also offers banking services, Bank of the Rockies, a post office, St John’s Church, and Emigrant Hall where community members have gathered for years. Fire protection is provided by the Paradise Valley Volunteer Fire Department located one mile east of Emigrant. Law Enforcement services for our community are provided by the Park County Sheriff's Department.
There are several schools in the local area. The closest public elementary school, Arrowhead School, is located 10 miles north on East River Road.
Livingston, MT, the largest city within Park County, is located just a 25-minute scenic drive North. Livingston is one of the more unique towns in Montana with small town charm and lots of character. Known for it’s neon signs that line Park and Main streets, it is home to some great local eateries, cozy coffees shops and cafes, two large grocery stores, a health food store, schools, pharmacies, local shops, a hospital, motels, hotels and art galleries galore! One slogan you may see as you drive from Bozeman to Livingston on I-90 East is, “Livingston: where cowboys and artists meet”, and it’s truly that!
The town of Gardiner, with lodging, stores, gas stations and restaurants is located 30 miles South of Emigrant, at the north entrance of Yellowstone National Park. Gardiner is a great place for outdoor recreation, food and drinks, and refueling as you head into or out of the Park.
The nearest airport, Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport, is located just west of Bozeman, approximately 60 miles northwest of Emigrant.
Recreation
Emigrant, Montana is a recreation paradise. It is world famous for its trout fishing, big game hunting, and wildlife viewing. The Yellowstone River offers diversified rafting experiences from the rapids of Yankee Jim Canyon to leisurely floating through the center of the valley. Check out one of the many experienced outfitters in Emigrant, Gardiner, and Livingston for a guided experience or set out on your own. One of our own, a South Glastonbury landowner provides all types of river adventure excitement through Wild West Rafting in Gardiner.
The nearby Forest Service lands and Yellowstone National Park offer many opportunities for hiking, camping and cross-country skiing. Bridger Bowl in Bozeman and the Big Sky Resort and Moonlight Basin in Big Sky are nearby world class downhill ski meccas. Other highlighted local establishments are the Historic Chico Hot Springs Resort and Sage Lodge. Historic Chico Hot Springs, at the base of Emigrant Peak, offers natural hot springs, hotel accommodations, fine and casual dining, as well as a host of outdoor activities. Sage Lodge in nearby Pray, MT offers upscale dining, a luxury spa, and outfitter experiences. Also in the area, and adjacent to South Glastonbury is Mountain Sky Guest Ranch.