What to See and Do
Hiking and Biking
Four Dances Trail
You'll find the Four Dances Trail within the Four Dances Natural Area near Billings. The trail, a moderately challenging loop, will take you on a 600-foot descent to the majestic Yellowstone River. Many visitors choose to run the trail, and if you do, you must be cautious while you're descending. The trail turns to slippery mud as you get near the water. You can bring your dogs to the Four Dances Trail, but they must be leashed.
Length: 3.0 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Phipps Park Trail
Another lovely hiking trail in the Billings area is the Phipps Park Trail. The popular loop trail is frequented by hikers, runners, and mountain bikers. As you traverse the rocky trail's mild elevation gains, you'll enjoy panoramic views of the sparsely forested area around Phipps Park. To enjoy the trail at its very best, try to visit between May and September.
Length: 2.5 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Chief Black Otter Trail
The Chief Black Otter Trail is a scenic out-and-back trail through Swords Rimrock Park. The route is smoothly paved and clearly marked, making it an excellent destination for trail running and road biking. With the trail's proximity to the urban parts of Billings, visitors will enjoy a special meeting of nature and the city. Despite the trail's year-round beauty and convenient location, it doesn't typically get very crowded. You're more than welcome to bring your pups, and they can be off leash in certain areas.
Length: 6.2 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Fishing & Boating
The best nearby body of water for fishing is the Yellowstone River. Located fewer than 20 miles south of the Acton Recreation Area, the river offers fantastic fly-fishing opportunities with various trout species to catch. You'll have a near-infinite number of fishing spots to choose from, whether you prefer casting your line from a boat or the riverbanks. Additionally, the Yellowstone River is perhaps the most popular body of water in the region for activities like kayaking, canoeing, and tubing.
Climbing
If you're looking to do some rock climbing near the Acton Recreation Area, head south to Billings and visit the Billings Rimrocks. The spot offers some of the best sandstone climbing in Montana. The climbing area features excellent cracks as well as several fragile face climbs. While climbing at the Billings Rimrocks, always be aware of the potential rockfall danger.
Wildlife Viewing
The local wildlife that roams the Acton Recreation Area isn't always easy to spot. Still, there are always creatures around, even if you can't see them. If you stay diligent and get a bit lucky, you might spot a badger, muskrat, coyote, skunk, or pronghorn. Most of these animals are elusive, so if you hope to observe them, you need to move quietly and remain alert.
Picnicking
If you're planning to enjoy a pleasant picnic surrounded by nature, you can use one of the picnic tables at the on-site BLM campground. The site also features cooking grills that guests can use. Of course, you're also welcome to put together your own makeshift picnic setup anywhere around the recreation area that's open to the public.
