Derek Wolf, Townsquare Media Journalist Profile

Articles

Going-to-the-Sun Road: 10 Wild Facts About Montana’s Epic Drive

1 week ago | kmmsam.com | Derek Wolf

Montana’s full of iconic places—Yellowstone, the Little Bighorn Battlefield, Flathead Lake, Our Lady of the Rockies, and of course, Glacier National Park. Each offers something to explore, learn, and experience. One of the most anticipated seasonal openings just happened: the Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier. This stunning stretch stays closed most of the year due to massive amounts of snowfall, and its opening date is always a bit of a mystery.
Hiker Goes Missing in Montana

1 week ago | kmmsam.com | Derek Wolf |Megan Shaul

We all know Montana isn’t just beautiful—it’s wild, unpredictable, and at times, dangerous. From sudden weather changes to fast-moving rivers, grizzly bears, and rugged terrain, there’s always risk involved when we step into the wilderness. But in a strange way, that’s part of the draw. We chase the adventure, we soak in the beauty, and we accept the risks that come with it. Unfortunately, every year we’re reminded just how real those risks are.
Montana See's Big Numbers In Weekend Protests, But Why?

1 week ago | kmmsam.com | Derek Wolf

If your social media feed is anything like mine, you see a whole lot of posts from a whole lot of folks with a whole lot of opinions about our country. This past weekend was no exception, with all of the protests that took place around the country, including several here in Montana. If you're anything like me, you probably feel trapped between two sets of people who continue to try and convince the other they're wrong. Saturday was a bit of a mixed bag.
Montana Home For Sale: Complete With An Underground Bunker

1 week ago | kmmsam.com | Derek Wolf |Jesse James

If you live in Montana, chances are you appreciate a little seclusion. I mean, we're one of the least populated states in the country—you've got to like your space. Another thing Montanans tend to be great at? Preparedness. Whether it's stocking up before a snowstorm or keeping bear spray within reach, we're usually ready for just about anything. Of course, there are levels to being prepared… and for some of us (myself included), having a bug-out plan—or even a bunker—doesn't sound that far-fetched.
Top 5 Music Venues To Visit In Paradise Valley, Montana

1 week ago | kmmsam.com | Derek Wolf

One of the best parts of a Montana summer? The live music. With so many shows happening, it can feel a little overwhelming to pick where to go. But if you're looking to catch a concert in a setting that's as memorable as the music, Paradise Valley delivers. Here are our top 5 concert venues in Paradise Valley, Montana worth keeping on your radar—each with its own vibe and killer lineup. Pine Creek LodgeThis venue is a local icon... it's been around since 1946.
Good Lovin? Where Do Montanans Rank In The Bedroom?

1 week ago | kmmsam.com | Derek Wolf

It's never easy to write about sensitive subjects. Those Taboo things that we're not supposed to talk about in public. Of course, we're all familiar with the old saying, you should never talk about "sex, religion, or politics". If you're anything like me, those are 3 of my favorite things to talk about. However, as a warning, I should let you know that we will be talking about a subject that might not be suitable for younger eyes or for people who are easily offended.
Montana City Named Among The Best For Backyard Barb-B-Q

1 week ago | kmmsam.com | Derek Wolf

Now that summer is here, folks will be getting together for all kinds of "summer fun". Camping, hiking, rafting, and of course, backyard bar-b-q's are a big part of summer in Big Sky Country. No matter how skilled you are on the grill, anyone can make something delicious. From burgers and hot dogs to something a little more advanced, there are numerous options and different grills that can help you come out looking like a real grill master.
On The Move? Which State Are Montanans Now Calling Home?

2 weeks ago | kmmsam.com | Derek Wolf

We often discuss people moving to Montana from various states across the country, but what about those leaving Montana? Where are they moving to? Montana is a big state with a relatively small population. (although many locals will tell you the state currently has no vacancy) So it's not about people moving here and crowding up the whole state; it just seems that people moving here are only moving to certain areas, mainly the western part of the state.
Tiny Montana Town Hosts One Of The State’s Wildest Events: Pig Races

2 weeks ago | kmmsam.com | Derek Wolf

There are just some things that hit different in Montana. Like the Livingston Roundup on the Fourth, ski joring in Big Sky, or Butte's Irish Day celebrations—those are events you can't really replicate anywhere else. They're part of what makes this place... well, Montana. So when I stumbled across a TikTok that simply said "somewhere in Montana" and featured baby pigs—with numbers on their backs—racing through what looked like a bar, I had to know more.
Know This Guy? Montana FWP Offers Reward After Bold Daylight Theft

2 weeks ago | kmmsam.com | Derek Wolf

We all know how the honor system works, right? It’s the backbone of self-pay stations at campgrounds and fishing access sites across Montana. You drop your cash in the box, do what you're supposed to do, and go enjoy the river/ camp ground—simple as that. Sure, you'll get written up if you skip out on paying, but these little metal boxes aren’t exactly Fort Knox. Still, one guy in Billings must’ve thought he hit the jackpot... because he straight-up robbed one like it was a mini bank.

Journalists covering the same region

Blake Simonson

Executive Producer at KTMF-TV (Missoula, MT)

Host at Montana Murder Mysteries

Blake Simonson primarily covers news in Montana, United States, including areas around Billings, Missoula, and Helena.

Don Kaltschmidt

Columnist at Bozeman Daily Chronicle

Don Kaltschmidt primarily covers news in the Helena area of Montana, United States, including surrounding regions.

Russell Nemetz

Radio and Television Ag Broadcaster at Western Ag Network

Russell Nemetz primarily covers news in the Helena area, Montana, United States, including surrounding regions such as the Great Falls and Butte areas.