In the early 1980s, amid Cold War anxieties, Paradise Valley and the adjacent Emigrant area became home to an extensive network of underground bunkers—more than 50 are believed to have been built by the Church Universal and Triumphant (CUT). These sturdy earth-bermed shelters, constructed from corrugated iron and reinforced concrete, were designed to protect cult members against a predicted nuclear apocalypse, equipped with heavy blast doors, advanced air-filtration systems, and stocked to sustain dozens, even hundreds, of people for extended periods. In recent years, several of these Cold War relics have been acquired and repurposed—one notable example being Dean Anderson’s three-story subterranean bunker conversion into living quarters and communal spaces, supported by geothermal systems and staffed in part by individuals in recovery.
Welcome to Paradise Valley
Nestled between the Absaroka and Gallatin Mountains with the Yellowstone River winding through it, Paradise Valley offers unforgettable outdoor adventures. It’s a world-class blue-ribbon trout fishery—fly fishing the Yellowstone and tributaries like DePuy Spring Creek is widely acclaimed for brown, rainbow, and native cutthroat trout . Rafters can choose from thrilling white-water excursions through Yankee Jim Canyon or peaceful floats amid scenic river corridors with outfits like Paradise Adventure Company, Yellowstone Raft Company, and Montana Whitewater. For hikers, the popular Pine Creek Falls (roughly 2.5 mi round‑trip) provides a family-friendly journey to a waterfall, while adventurous trekkers can keep climbing to view stunning alpine Pine Creek Lake—up nearly 4,000 ft in elevation. Add horseback riding through mountain meadows, zip-lining, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and dog-sledding, and you’ll understand why locals say there’s something for everyone.
Just beyond the natural thrills, the valley brims with opportunities to unwind and explore Western culture. Chico Hot Springs—a beautiful historic resort since 1900—is a local favorite for soaking in geothermal pools (96°–113°F), horseback rides, live music, and outstanding farm-to-table dining. The valley’s towns like Emigrant, Livingston, and Gardiner offer charming eats and culture: roadside steakhouses, huckleberry ice cream near Yellowstone’s North Entrance, art galleries, live music at Pine Creek Lodge and The Old Saloon, and small-town movie magic at Livingston’s Empire Theatre. Of course, a day-trip into Yellowstone National Park—via Mammoth Hot Springs, Lamar Valley wildlife viewing, and geyser trails—caps any mountain escape in style.
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