10 Things to Do if EVERY Montana Day Was Longest of Summer

The absolutely worst part of the summer solstice is the realization that you're already running out of daylight.

That as soon as that sun reaches its highest point over Montana you're already starting to slip back toward the dark days when blizzards, Christmas shopping, and ice scrapers are your daily focus.

But this year I was fantasizing about what it would be like if time would stand still, and the long evenings didn't run out, at least until Labor Day. So here are 10 suggestions. And if you squeeze them all in over the next few weeks maybe you can at least feel better about December 21st.

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10). Take a Longer Evening Trail Walk

No need to breathlessly rush up the "M" trail, or lose your way at Skalkaho Bend Park when it gets dark. Plenty of time to enjoy the view and still make it back to the car.

9). Motorcycle ride to get your favorite food

Cruise all the way around the Reserve-Broadway-Brooks triangle, enjoy a meal at an outside table, and then ride back in the opposite direction. Because you can.

8). Backyard fire with the family

No worry about wasting wood here. Stoke it up and enjoy a 2nd, or 3rd, or 4th round of s'mores.

7). Fish til the last possible minute

By the end of August, there's barely time to get the waders on before dark. What if you could fish until 10 pm every night? Sweet.

6). Mow your lawn when it cools off

The neighbors don't like this, but it would be great to cut the grass an hour after the sun is down. And heck, maybe they don't mind anyway because they're off fishing.

5). Head to the lake after work

My #1. The lakes are best after sunset. If you're still allowed to do remote work you can catch up and spend even longer tomorrow night.

4). Stay longer at Splash Montana

Wouldn't it be awesome if Splash Montana went back to staying open until after 8, or even 9? Really miss those late summer evening swims when it's really hot.

3). Slip in some extra four-wheeling after work

Good call. Especially if you have one of those rigs where the lights keep cutting off. Plus, it's a good way to outrun the mosquitos.

2). Get in more than one river float a week

Why should "floats" be only weekend fun? Use that "remote work" excuse and get your return on that $10 you invested in a used 'tube.

1). Have seconds at Big Dipper

A big line at the Big Dipper? No problem with the long summer evening. Go through twice and get a second (or third) scoop. Makes it easier to decide which flavor. And if you stay late enough you've got your summer breakfast covered.