On a recent Saturday morning bike ride, sun shining, heart pounding and trees ablaze in an exhibition of fall hues, I was struck by a gratifying reality: I have grown up in the best place in the world. While it stands to reason that this statement may be met with skepticism, further analysis defends why I can’t help but stand by my proclamation.

Where else can you find unparalleled opportunity in a safe and vibrant community nestled amongst a backdrop of majestic mountains (which facilitate world class skiing), stunning rivers (which accommodate world class fishing/rafting/kayaking) and the beautiful big sky (which promotes, well, world class happiness)? The answer: Nowhere.

As a community we are a body of highly intelligent, driven and interesting people. The Montana Census states that 49.5% of Bozeman’s population has earned a Bachelor’s degree or higher. We are home to a world class University that attracts individuals from across the
globe and has been dubbed one of the top engineering schools in the country by the US News and World Report. Many staff and students of the University are at the forefront of cutting edge research and innovation.

The high school we so begrudgingly attend everyday is in fact, in the top 500 High Schools in the nation. Its graduates go on to achieve incredible things from advising the President to performing life changing research as a doctor at one of the premier universities in the country. Yes, we should stop complaining. These accolades hardly draw from the close-knit community that Bozeman remains.
One needs only to wander through the Farmer’s Market on a lazy summer evening
or duck into the Deer Park Chalet at Bridger Bowl on a powder day to be provided with
evidence of the inter connectedness and overall friendly atmosphere of our little valley. In addition, the Bozeman community cares. Over four-hundred various nonprofits operate out of Bozeman, addressing everything from environmental and political causes to health and human services.
Bozeman offers a thriving arts community for a town of its size. Complete with multiple first rate theatre, music, dance and art groups, as well as a plethora of national acts that make their way here, we are given many opportunities to immerse ourselves in various aspects of the artistic world. Undoubtedly, our proximity to the ski hill is a winning point, but beyond that we have access to an array of world-class facilities in all athletic and natural arenas. The hiking, biking, fishing, hunting, running and climbing accessible just outside our back door is incomparable. Similarly, the athletics offered locally are exceptional, from state championships, to junior national champions.
And how could one possibly neglect to mention the sheer beauty and magnificence
of it all? The startling Rockies piercing the clear blue sky. The crisp autumn wind rustling
the brightly colored fallen leaves. The purity of a morning with a foot of new snow, icing everything the eye can see. Drive a few miles in any direction and you will find yourself outside the bustle of it all and in full agreement with the notion that we reside in the last best place.

So, as the slog through the high school years continues and we find ourselves counting the days till we can get out, I find it humbling to be reminded of all we do have. And while yes, I look forward to exploring what resides beyond these four mountain ranges, I know I’ll be leaving a place to be missed. And I’ll always anticipate coming back.

Camille Garnsey