Norm's Island

Norm Schoenthal Island, or Norm’s Island, is part of Riverfront Park and is under the jurisdiction of Billings Parks and Recreation. However, Norm’s Island was developed by the non-profit Yellowstone River Parks Association in the early 1990s. YRPA still performs most of the maintenance at Norm’s Island. Norm Schoenthal was a beloved biology professor at a local college, and a founding member of YRPA. He was instrumental in the development of the eponymous island and the nearby Montana Audubon Center. The island is accessed by Wendell’s Bridge, which is off S. Billings Blvd on the west side of Riverfront Park. The 130-acre island has over 2-mi of gravel and mowed sod trails and is a node on the Billings Heritage Trail system. Cyclists are welcome but should warn of their approach and yield to pedestrians. Norm’s Island is surrounded by the Yellowstone River and Beebe’s Channel. Fishing from Norm’s Island is encouraged. Camping, hunting, campfires, and fireworks are prohibited on Norm’s Island. Pets are welcome at Norm’s Island, but dogs must be always under owner’s control. Dog owners are also required to pick up their pet’s feces and place it in the trash bins provided. Remember, public use of Norm’s Island is a privilege. If abused, we will lose it.

Directions

Go south on S Billings Blvd about 1/2 mile beyound the Midland Rd. intersection. Then take a right onto the gravel road that is the entrance to the west side of Riverfront Park. The sign for Montana Audubon Center is also on the corner at the entrnace.Go south on S Billings Blvd about 1/2 mile beyound the Midland Rd. intersection. Then take a right onto the gravel road that is the entrance to the west side of Riverfront Park. The sign for Montana Audubon Center is also on the corner at the entrnace.