Plein Air Painting Story Mill

Story Mill Park

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Community Event
Event Details
22 Jun
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Capture Nature's Beauty

Unplug. Create. Connect. Join us for a unique outdoor experience where the serenity of nature meets the joy of painting. This workshop is designed for women who seek inspiration in the great outdoors and wish to express it through art. What to Expect Guided Hike: Embark on a leisurely hike to a scenic location, suitable for all fitness levels. Enjoy the journey as much as the destination, with plenty of opportunities to soak in the surroundings. Once we reach our picturesque spot, settle in for an interactive painting session. Learn basic watercolor techniques to capture the essence of the landscape. No prior painting experience is necessary—just bring your enthusiasm! All Materials Provided: We'll supply all the painting materials you'll need, including watercolors, brushes, and paper. Just bring your creativity and a willingness to explore. Community and Connection: Share this experience with a group of like-minded women. Whether you're bonding over brush strokes or trail tales, it's an opportunity to forge new friendships.

Cost per person:

$

Event Schedule
Here's the plan!
🕛 5:30 PM Arrival & Welcome
  • Meet at the designated trailhead (we’ll send GPS & details ahead of time).
  • Quick introductions and overview of the day.
  • Group safety check, gear handout (watercolors, pads, brushes).
🕐 5:45 PM – Guided Hike Begins
  • Leisurely hike led by a guide—easy pace, lots of stops for photos and plant/landscape appreciation.
  • Nature connection moment: we pause to take in our surroundings, breathe deeply, and settle in.
🕝 6:00 PM – Arrive at Painting Spot
  • Set up at a beautiful viewpoint or quiet riverside meadow.
  • Light snacks and water break.
🕒 6:15 PM – Painting Workshop Begins
  • Quick demo of basic watercolor techniques (blending, washes, adding detail).
  • Time to create: Everyone works on their own painting, guided support available.
🕓 7:30 PM – Sharing & Reflection
  • Optional sharing circle: show your work, share your process or feelings.
  • Group photo with your art!
🕝 7:45 PM – Pack Up & Return Hike
  • Clean up our painting space (Leave No Trace style!).
  • Return hike to the trailhead.
🕓 8:00 PM – Wrap-Up
  • Back at the trailhead.
  • Final reflections, thank-you's, and reminders to tag us on social!
  • Optional post-hike hangout at a nearby coffee shop or brewery (info provided for those interested).

Bozeman, Montana's Adventure Film Festival
Dive into stories of daring backcountry ski trips to transformative journeys of personal growth with No Man's Land Adventure Film Festival.
Celebrating female filmmakers who redefine what's possible, each film exemplifies courage, resilience, and the power of storytelling.
Outdoor Market
Join Ripple Outside in the Emerson Ballroom to explore the outdoor market made up of Montana-made goods, outdoor equipment,
art & apparel.
Our Outdoor Market features a diverse array of local businesses, highlighting everything from women-centric fly fishing apparel to custom bike bags, bespoke headwear, and outdoor-themed art.

Interested in becoming a vendor at the Market?
Become a Vendor →
Raffle Prizes!
Support MSU’s chapter of the Backcountry Squatters by purchasing raffle tickets and you could win BIG! ($5/ea or 3 for $10)
Backcountry Squatters is countrywide student organization dedicated to encouraging women to build outdoor skills and community in the outdoors. Members share experiences & education, fostering confidence and camaraderie in outdoor pursuits.

*Must be present to win.
About the Venue

Story Mill Park

Story Mill Community Park: Bozeman's Natural Gem Nestled in the heart of Bozeman, Montana, Story Mill Community Park spans 60 acres of diverse landscapes, offering a harmonious blend of natural beauty and recreational amenities. Developed in partnership with the Trust for Public Land, this park stands as a testament to community collaboration and environmental stewardship. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat into nature, a place to gather with friends and family, or an educational outing, Story Mill Community Park offers a multifaceted experience that celebrates the spirit of Bozeman.
What to Bring
All the essentials you need for the Hike & Paint workshop
Please watch your email for more info including what to bring and where to meet.
🌿 Trail Essentials
  • Comfortable hiking shoes
  • Water bottle (at least 1 liter)
  • Daypack or small backpack (to carry your gear and supplies)
  • Weather-appropriate layers (think: Montana in May = unpredictable)
    • Light jacket or rain shell
    • Hat & gloves (optional but smart)
    • Breathable layers
  • Sun protection
    • Hat
    • Sunglasses
    • Sunscreen & lip balm with SPF
🎨 Creative Gear

(Provided by us, but feel free to bring your own if you have favorites!)

🍎 Snacks & Comfort
  • Lunch
  • Easy snacks (granola bar, trail mix, fruit)
  • Camp chair or small sitting pad (optional but cozy)
  • Bug spray
  • Personal medications (e.g., EpiPen, inhaler, allergy meds)
📸 Optional Extras
  • Camera or phone for photos
  • Journal or notebook
  • Extra ziplocks or a trash bag (Leave No Trace!)

Meet your host:

Meet your guide.
Bozeman, Montana
Ripple Outside

Ripple is a community-driven collective founded to equip women through skill-building, personal wellness, and meaningful connections. Our offerings include outdoor education courses led by women for women, tools and resources to support your pursuits, and a membership platform for shared learning and collaboration. From forums and packing list archives to film festivals, campouts, and vendor fairs, Ripple creates space for women to grow, connect, and find renewal—both in nature and within themselves.

testimonials
Here's what past attendees have to say about Ripple events.
♡ Leave us Review!

"I was only able to attend the film, but I think having women owned business representation is inspiring, and empowering and a great way to see what women in our local community are doing!"

Film Festival Attendee
2024 No Man's Land Adventure Film Festival

"I loved having the vendors there. It was great to meet them, buy some fun stuff, learn new things, and find more ways to get involved."

I liked that they were women-owned, but would be fine with others there too.

Outdoor Market Attendee
2024 No Man's Land Adventure Film Festival

"It was great to see that kind of representation, even if I didn't end up buying anything."

I loved having the vendors around, and it was fantastic that all of the businesses were owned by women.

Outdoor Market Attendee
2024 No Man's Land Adventure Film Festival

"It was perfect! I felt a great sense of community and was really inspired by the films and the people around me."

Outdoor Market & Film Festival Attendee
2024 No Man's Land Adventure Film Festival

"It was so inspiring to watch films portraying women getting out and getting things done in the backcountry!"

Film Festival Guest
2024 No Man's Land Adventure Film Festival

"Ripple Outside events help me believe in myself more."

When I learn new skills, it makes me feel stronger and more capable. Because of that, I want to do my part to get #allwomenoutside too!

Course Attendee

"It is amazing to have such an inclusive group."

Mountain Girl is a phenomenal resource to women in Bozeman. They promote an amazing sense of community and provide opportunities that help so many people get into the outdoors.

Course Attendee

"The best event ever! I will come every year to support and see such great films."

I left feeling so inspired and empowered by the films & all the vendors. I got the coolest handmade bike bag from a local artist and the hot bar was SO GOOD.

Kaylee L.
2024 No Man's Land Adventure Film Festival
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Let's stay in touch!
Ripple is a community-driven collective founded to equip women through skill-building, personal wellness, and meaningful connections. From outdoor education courses led by women (think fly fishing & nordic ski clinics!), to tools and resources that support your pursuits (backpacking lists & maps), and of course outdoor get-togethers where you can meet like-minded women.
P.S. We promise to keep things short + sweet, because we know you'd rather be playing outside than checking your inbox.
“The supportive environment at Clearmind makes me feel comfortable and safe. It’s a relief to finally find a place like this.”
– Lucille P.
Greenwich, CT