Big Timber, Montana, is a picturesque town located in Sweet Grass County in the southern part of the state. Geographically, it is located at approximately 45.8372° N latitude and 109.9633° W longitude, located in the scenic Boulder River Valley amidst the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness. Affiliated with the United States, Big Timber has a population of approximately 1,700 residents and covers an area of 1.01 square miles (2.62 km²), making it a small but vibrant community in Montana.
The town of Big Timber is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, characterized by rugged mountains, pristine rivers, and vast open spaces. Major landmarks in Big Timber include the Crazy Mountains, the Boulder River, and the historic downtown area with its charming shops, restaurants, and galleries. Additionally, Big Timber is known for its rich ranching heritage, with many working cattle ranches dotting the surrounding landscape.
Climate and Weather Overview
Big Timber experiences a continental climate with distinct seasonal variations and relatively low precipitation. Located in the Rocky Mountains region, the town’s climate is influenced by its elevation and proximity to mountain ranges. Winters are cold and snowy, while summers are warm and dry, providing residents and visitors with ample opportunities for outdoor recreation year-round.
Monthly Climate Data
The following table provides average temperature, precipitation, and sunny days for each month in Big Timber:
| Month | Average Temperature (°F) | Average Precipitation (inches) | Sunny Days |
| January | 28°F | 0.49 inches | 15 |
| February | 33°F | 0.41 inches | 16 |
| March | 42°F | 0.71 inches | 17 |
| April | 52°F | 1.33 inches | 18 |
| May | 62°F | 2.32 inches | 19 |
| June | 71°F | 2.23 inches | 20 |
| July | 81°F | 0.89 inches | 22 |
| August | 80°F | 0.77 inches | 21 |
| September | 70°F | 1.25 inches | 20 |
| October | 57°F | 1.10 inches | 18 |
| November | 40°F | 0.77 inches | 16 |
| December | 30°F | 0.53 inches | 15 |
Weather by Month
January
January in Big Timber brings cold temperatures and occasional snowfall, with average highs around 28°F (-2°C). The month is relatively dry, with minimal precipitation averaging 0.49 inches (12 mm). Despite the cold, sunny days are abundant, providing opportunities for outdoor activities such as skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing in the surrounding mountains and rivers. January also offers opportunities for cozying up by the fireplace, enjoying hot cocoa, and participating in winter festivals and events.
February
February continues the cold weather in Big Timber, with average temperatures similar to January. Snowfall remains minimal, although precipitation levels decrease compared to January, averaging 0.41 inches (10 mm). Sunny days continue to be prevalent, providing opportunities for outdoor recreation such as winter hiking, wildlife watching, and photography in the snow-covered landscape. February also offers opportunities for attending Valentine’s Day events, ice skating, and enjoying hearty meals at local restaurants.
March
March marks the transition to spring in Big Timber, with milder temperatures and increasing daylight hours. Average highs rise to around 42°F (6°C), while precipitation levels increase compared to February, averaging 0.71 inches (18 mm). Sunny days become more frequent, providing opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and exploring the town’s scenic trails and parks. March also offers opportunities for attending spring festivals, maple syrup tastings, and celebrating the arrival of warmer weather.
April
April brings mild spring weather to Big Timber, with average temperatures reaching around 52°F (11°C) during the day. Rainfall increases compared to March, averaging 1.33 inches (34 mm), while sunny days remain prevalent. Outdoor activities such as fishing, camping, and picnicking become more popular as the weather improves and nature begins to awaken from winter dormancy. April also marks the beginning of the fishing season, with opportunities for trout fishing in the Boulder River and other nearby streams.
May
May signals the arrival of warmer temperatures in Big Timber, with average highs reaching around 62°F (17°C). Rainfall continues to increase compared to April, averaging 2.32 inches (59 mm), while sunny days become more abundant. Outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and rafting are enjoyable as the surrounding mountains and rivers come to life with activity. May also offers opportunities for wildflower viewing, birdwatching, and attending outdoor concerts and festivals celebrating the arrival of spring.
June
June brings the onset of summer in Big Timber, with warm temperatures and occasional rainfall. Average highs reach around 71°F (22°C), creating ideal conditions for outdoor recreation. Rainfall remains relatively low compared to the spring months, averaging 2.23 inches (57 mm), while sunny days continue to be prevalent. Outdoor activities such as camping, fishing, and horseback riding are popular choices for residents and visitors looking to enjoy the longer days and warmer weather. June also offers opportunities for attending rodeos, county fairs, and exploring the town’s historic landmarks.
July
July is the warmest month of the year in Big Timber, with average highs reaching around 81°F (27°C). Afternoon showers become more frequent, contributing to the month’s average precipitation of 0.89 inches (23 mm). Despite the rain, sunny days are still possible, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, and exploring the surrounding wilderness areas. July also offers opportunities for attending Fourth of July celebrations, outdoor barbecues, and enjoying live music at local venues.
August
August continues the warm, pleasant weather in Big Timber, with average temperatures similar to those in July. Afternoon showers remain common, contributing to the month’s average precipitation of 0.77 inches (20 mm). Despite the rain, sunny days continue to prevail, providing opportunities for outdoor recreation such as fishing, kayaking, and mountain biking. August also offers opportunities for attending agricultural fairs, outdoor movie nights, and enjoying locally grown produce at farmers’ markets.
September
September marks the transition to fall in Big Timber, with gradually decreasing temperatures and changing foliage. Average highs drop to around 70°F (21°C), creating more comfortable conditions for outdoor activities. Rainfall remains consistent with the summer months, averaging 1.25 inches (32 mm), but sunny days still abound. Residents and visitors can enjoy outdoor recreation such as hiking, wildlife viewing, and photography amidst the vibrant colors of autumn in Montana. September also offers opportunities for attending fall festivals, harvest celebrations, and exploring the town’s historic sites and museums.
October
October brings cooler temperatures to Big Timber, with average highs reaching around 57°F (14°C) during the day. Rainfall increases compared to the summer months, averaging 1.10 inches (28 mm), but sunny days are still prevalent. Outdoor activities such as leaf peeping, pumpkin picking, and exploring nature trails are popular choices for residents and visitors looking to embrace the autumn season. October also offers opportunities for attending Halloween events, haunted hayrides, and cider tastings at local orchards.
November
November signals the arrival of colder temperatures and increased rainfall in Big Timber, with average highs reaching around 40°F (4°C). Rainfall peaks during this month, averaging 0.77 inches (20 mm), while sunny days continue to be interspersed throughout the month. Outdoor activities such as birdwatching, nature walks, and visiting local parks are still enjoyable during breaks in the rain. November also offers opportunities for attending Thanksgiving feasts, holiday craft fairs, and preparing for the upcoming winter season.
December
December brings cold, snowy weather to Big Timber, with average temperatures around 30°F (-1°C). Snowfall becomes more common, contributing to the month’s average precipitation of 0.53 inches (13 mm). Despite the cold, sunny days are still possible, providing opportunities for outdoor activities such as sledding, snowshoeing, and building snowmen. Indoor activities such as ice skating, visiting holiday light displays, and attending seasonal concerts offer entertainment options for those seeking shelter from the winter weather.