Chico Hot Springs Giant Chicken

scottw888 (Atlas Obscura User)

In the rolling grasslands north of Yellowstone National Park, along a path used for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, stands a giant chicken.

The chicken stands about nine feet tall and is brightly painted white, yellow and red. It is a surprising discovery for anyone exploring the trail, as the chicken is largely hidden from view by hills. There is no marker or plaque indicating why the chicken is here, but it’s believed to have once belonged to a short-lived restaurant in the area. After the business failed, the resort acquired the large chicken.

Before or after your exploration, consider stopping for a meal or a drink across the street at Chico Hot Springs to thank them for offering the trail system.

Know Before You Go

To get to the chicken, head for the Chico Hot Springs resort in Pray, Montana, about 35 minutes north of Yellowstone. Just as you reach the edge of the resort property -- you’ll see some buildings on your left -- turn right up a gravel road called Dance Hall Hill Road.

Follow the road up an incline about 200 yards and park in the Field of Dreams parking lot (yes, that’s what it’s called). After parking, follow the road uphill about 20 yards and turn right on another dirt/gravel road (unnamed). You’ll see a sign welcoming you to Ranch 635, which is owned by Chico Hot Springs.

About 50 yards down this road, turn right at a sign that directs you to the “Multi-Use Trail.” The trail first goes slightly downhill and turns left, before meandering through the grass-covered hills. Follow the path about a half-mile to the chicken.

If you need more exercise, you can explore the other pathways in the area. The full perimeter loop is about five miles and will take you back to the parking area.