Enchanting Story Time Hay Ride at Sunrise Pack Station in Bozeman, Montana

Read the full experience

Set just outside Bozeman, Montana, the Story Time Hay Ride at Sunrise Pack Station offers a charming blend of outdoor adventure and family-friendly storytelling that invites visitors to experience the Montana foothills in a uniquely approachable way. This gentle, horse-drawn hayride lasts for about an hour, following a tranquil route through local woods before pausing at a campfire site where guests cozy up with hot cider or chocolate, blankets in hand. It's a seasonal adventure specially crafted for children and their families, with each week featuring a new story that brings the fall foliage and mountain landscape to life through tales such as Every Autumn Comes the Bear and The Scarecrows Dance. Sunrise Pack Station is more than a setting; it’s a gateway to the Gallatin Valley’s outdoor heritage. Located at 1099 Manley Rd, the station is surrounded by rugged ranchlands framed by iconic Rocky Mountain vistas. This region’s mix of ponderosa pines, wildflower meadows, and abundant wildlife makes it a standout destination for nature lovers, while the focus on storytelling here connects visitors with local culture, blending natural beauty and folklore. The hayride itself is suited for all ages, making it one of Bozeman’s most accessible outdoor experiences. With a modest group size of up to 14, it strikes a balance between intimate and social. Riders can expect a relaxed pace that allows attentive immersion in the wooded surroundings, with the campfire stop providing warmth and a communal atmosphere that’s hard to match. Hot beverages and blankets make the crisp Montana air more comfortable, perfect for autumn evenings when the colors of changing leaves contrast with the clear blue sky. Parents will appreciate the thoughtful touches—the stories change weekly, offering repeat visitors fresh enjoyment, while the half-hour duration encourages engagement without overstaying attention spans. Visitors may also find comfort in the straightforward pricing, with $20 for adults and affordable options for children and infants. Whether you’re a local or a traveler passing through Bozeman, the Story Time Hay Ride stands out because it combines outdoor recreation with cultural enrichment in a way that’s deeply rooted in Montana’s spirit. It’s an opportunity to slow down, connect with nature, and ignite imagination in young explorers—all under a wide-open sky framed by mountain peaks that have watched over this land for centuries.

Trip highlights

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

1 hour.

Fitness level

Suitable for all fitness levels, no physical exertion required

Frequently asked questions

Are the hayrides suitable for young children?

Yes, the rides are designed for families and children of all ages, with age-based pricing and gentle pacing.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Rides may be rescheduled or canceled in the event of severe weather; guests will be notified in advance.

Is the campfire smoke bothersome?

The campfire is built in a well-ventilated area to minimize smoke exposure, but those sensitive to smoke should be aware.

Can I bring my pet on the ride?

Pets are not permitted on the hayride to ensure safety and comfort for all guests.

Is the ride wheelchair accessible?

Currently, the hayride is not wheelchair accessible due to the terrain and wagon design.

How do I book a spot?

Reservations can be made online through the Sunrise Pack Station booking link, recommended due to limited group size.

Local insights

Wildlife

Deer frequently spotted along the ride route
Occasional sightings of red foxes in the surrounding woods

History

Sunrise Pack Station has operated as a working ranch and pack station since the early 1900s, reflecting Montana’s horse culture heritage.

Conservation

The station practices responsible land stewardship by adhering to sustainable grazing and minimizing campfire impact each season.

About Sunrise Pack Station

Sunrise Pack Station is a family-oriented equestrian outfitter located in Bozeman, Montana. The operation specializes in seasonal horse-drawn experiences and hands-on horsemanship instruction for visitors and locals. Offerings include daytime and evening sleigh rides, half-hour and one-hour hayrides, a historic one-horse open sleigh Valentine’s Day ride, city carriage tours through Bozeman’s historic homes district, and a two-day horse and mule packing clinic. Rides travel along the East Gallatin River and through scenic woods beneath the Bridger Mountains, often featuring cozy campfire stops with hot chocolate or hot cider and seasonal storytelling. Holiday and evening rides are illuminated with Christmas lights and may include seasonal stories appropriate for families. The Valentine’s Day sleigh ride uses a Norwegian fjord horse; other sleighs and carriages are pulled by draft horses and teams suited to passenger comfort. The operation also offers driving classes that teach safe ground handling, harness driving basics, and horse behavior for both children and adults. Sunrise Pack Station emphasizes hands-on learning and small-group experiences. The packing clinic provides practical instruction in saddle fitting, load tying, and backcountry stock management using horses and mules. Services are well suited to families, groups, and individuals seeking a scenic, educational, or romantic outdoor experience near downtown Bozeman. Select half-hour sleighs and bobsled rides can accommodate up to 12 passengers, making them suitable for small groups and family outings. Sessions run seasonally through fall and winter.

Base locationBozeman, Montana

Tours offered12+

Specialtyland-adventures

Adventure tips

Dress in layers for chilly eveningsEvenings can be cool, so bring warm layers and blankets provided on the ride.

Bring a camera for scenic stopsThe route offers picturesque views, especially near the campfire area—perfect for photos.

Arrive early to check inPlan to arrive 15 minutes before your ride to allow for check-in and seating arrangements.

Note small group sizesGroup sizes max out at 14, so booking in advance is recommended to secure your spot.

Recommended gear

Warm jacket: Keeps you comfortable during cooler fall evenings on the open hayride.
Closed-toe shoes: Protect your feet on uneven ground during the outdoor campfire portion.
Camera: Capture the scenic Gallatin Valley and magical moments around the campfire.
Reusable water bottle: Stay hydrated before or after the ride, especially with children.