Rimrocks Cliff

Address: Rimrocks (The Rims), Billings, Montana

Hours: Open access (public land)

Admission: Free

The Rimrocks are a prominent escarpment of exposed sedimentary rock that forms the northern and western edge of Billings, Montana. The cliffs rise several hundred feet above the Yellowstone River valley and are a defining topographic feature of the city.

Cliff-top overlooks provide panoramic views of downtown Billings, the valley and surrounding plains, used widely for photography and short recreational walks. The rim area includes popular local destinations such as Sacrifice Cliff and the Four Dances Natural Area, with trails, viewpoints and informal rock-climbing spots.

The Rimrocks are a natural geologic feature formed by deposition of sedimentary rock followed by uplift and erosion that exposed the cliff faces over geologic time. They have long served as a landmark for the region and as recreational open space for residents of Billings.

The escarpment runs along the northern and western margins of Billings in Yellowstone County, Montana, immediately adjacent to the city’s residential neighborhoods and parklands.

• Best viewpoints: Offers several accessible overlooks with broad views of downtown Billings and the Yellowstone Valley, best around sunrise or sunset for contrast and color.
• Access: Trail access from multiple parking areas and neighborhood streets makes short hikes and road-side viewing possible without extensive backcountry travel.

What to See#

• Sacrifice Cliff: A steep limestone and sandstone cliffline that overlooks the Yellowstone River valley and downtown Billings, with multiple trailheads and lookout points along its rim.
• Four Dances Natural Area: A municipal natural area on the rim offering short hiking trails, panoramic viewpoints and access from several city neighborhoods.

From downtown Billings: head north on 27th Street North (toward the heights) for about 10 minutes. Common access points include Dinosaur Park (off Rimrock Road) and Swords Park; several trailheads and neighborhood streets meet the Rimrocks rim. Most visitors reach trailheads by car; parking is limited at peak times.

• Take the Rimrocks Trail to reach viewpoints that look back over downtown Billings - Dinosaur Park and Swords Park give the best skyline photos.
• Go at dawn or dusk. Light hits the sandstone in warm tones; afternoons blow up with wind and dust in summer.
• Stay off the very edge and watch for loose sandstone. Much of the face is crumbly - respect the cliffs and the warning signs.