Swords Park

A Cliff-Top Oasis With Unbeatable Views

Perched atop the Rimrocks - those impressive sandstone cliffs that frame Billings - Swords Park stretches across 60 acres of urban wilderness. This isn't just any city park; it's a natural balcony offering some of the most breathtaking panoramic views you can find of Billings and the Yellowstone Valley below.

The park carries the legacy of George Swords, a generous soul who gifted this rimtop land to Billings between the late 1920s and early 1930s. The views from this elevation are a highlight of any visit.

Trails That Connect Far From Just Places

The Swords Park Trail winds through the landscape for about 2 miles, its paved surface smooth and inviting. It's not an isolated path but part of a larger trail network that weaves throughout Billings, perfect whether you're walking off lunch, training for a marathon, or just enjoying a leisurely bike ride.

The trail is notably accessible - you don't need to be an ultra-athlete to enjoy it. With mostly gentle slopes, it welcomes everyone from casual strollers to dedicated joggers. And if you're an aviation enthusiast, you're in for a treat - sections of the trail offer excellent views of planes taking off and landing at the nearby airport.

Where History Lives On

Beyond the natural beauty, Swords Park is steeped in fascinating history. If you follow the winding road up to the park's highest point, you'll discover the grave of Yellowstone Kelly, a legendary frontier scout whose final resting place is marked by a memorial that feels both solemn and significant.

The park also includes the Black Otter Trail, named to honor a Crow Indian Chief who was laid to rest in this area back in 1861 - a quiet reminder of the rich cultural heritage that shaped this land long before it became a park.

Nature in Its Element

In the undeveloped areas of the park, the Rimrocks' natural landscape remains preserved, offering a genuine glimpse into the region's geological story. These wilder sections provide crucial habitat for local wildlife and native plants.

If you visit in late spring, especially around May, you'll be rewarded with wildflowers dotting the cliffs with splashes of color. The keen-eyed might even spot various medicinal herbs growing wild within the park. Just a friendly heads-up: be aware of rattlesnakes during the warmer months - they're just part of the authentic Montana experience.

Simple Comforts in a Spectacular Setting

Swords Park keeps it refreshingly simple when it comes to amenities. You'll find clean vault toilets near the parking areas (though bringing your own hand sanitizer is a good idea), and picnic spots that transform an ordinary lunch into a dining experience with incredible views.

The park tends to be less crowded than other Billings parks, making it a peaceful spot for quiet time with nature.

Easy to Reach, Hard to Leave

Just a quick 10-minute drive from downtown Billings, Swords Park is remarkably accessible, with plenty of parking available around the grounds.

The park welcomes early birds and night owls alike, open daily from 5AM to 10PM. This makes it fantastic for catching a magical Montana sunrise or enjoying the twinkling city lights below on an evening walk. And yes, your four-legged friends are welcome too - the park is dog-friendly, with many trails well-suited for a walk with your furry companion.