Find your Wild

Cory Hardy has been in the Madison Valley for 11 years after leaving the Bozeman area to come back to what he considers to be the most beautiful places on earth. “I’ve always loved the esthetics here in the valley and believe it to be one of the most gorgeous places in the world.”

When he isn’t busy with his drywall business, Hardy spends his time outside – mountain biking, trail running or cross-country skiing are some of his favorites. “I really like cross country skiing and Virginia City provides some great local groomed trails,” he said. “That’s one of my favorite parts of living here and it’s something to do in the wintertime and there’s hardly anyone out there.” 

Moving into warmer weather, Hardy can often be found on two-wheels or his own two legs. He has been mountain biking since the age of 12 and enjoys cruising the Alder Gulch on his rides. “I’ll also go out on the fish hatchery road and ride around with my road bike out there,” he said. 

Hardy took up running a littler later in life, about age 18 after he joined the military. He has an upcoming 10k run in Helena, the Prickly Pear trail run. “I love to do our local runs in town, too,” he said. “I absolutely love those and it’s nice to have those options and they’re always for a good cause.” 

An active lifestyle is important, especially for Hardy, and helps promote others to live an active life outside. And, it’s free. “That’s the coolest thing about living in the area that we do – we get to enjoy these resources essentially for free,” Hardy said. “Just getting out there is completely free. Just because you’re not spending money, doesn’t mean you’re not having fun.” 

*If you wish to nominate someone who lives a life outside, call 682-7755!