Montana, also known as Big Sky Country, is a wonderful place to visit if you love nature and the outdoors. It is mostly rural and offers stunning national parks, vast stretches of open land, a variety of wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes.
In addition to its natural beauty, Montana is home to lively cities that embrace cowboy culture. Make sure to include these unforgettable destinations on your itinerary when planning your trip to Montana.
10. Whitefish
Whitefish is a lovely resort destination situated just north of Kalispell. It is known for being the gateway to the Glacier National Park. The town was formed due to glacier activity, resulting in an abundance of fresh water in the surrounding area.
This has led to the creation of beautiful lakes and streams that can be found throughout the landscape. In Whitefish, the majority of attractions are natural, and there are plentiful opportunities for outdoor activities.
Whether you enjoy fishing in Whitefish Lake, skiing at the Whitefish Mountain Resort, kayaking along the Flathead River, or playing golf at the local courses, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this picturesque town.
9. Helena
Many people choose to start their adventures in Montana in the city of Helena. It is the state’s capital and is located in the Gold West Country. The main attraction in Helena is the Montana State Capitol Building. Visitors can take guided tours of the building throughout the week.
Another popular destination is the Gates of the Mountains on the Missouri River. These cliffs were named by Lewis and Clark and offer stunning views of the river.
Helena also has other interesting sites such as Reeder’s Alley, a historic mining district, the Great Northern Carousel with intricate hand-carvings, and the Old Fire Tower from the 19th century.
8. Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument
One of the most well-known military battles in American history happened at the Little Bighorn Battlefield. It was the site of Custer’s Last Stand in 1876, involving the United States and Native American tribes such as the Dakota, Lakota, Northern Cheyenne, and Arapaho. Even now, the area attracts many visitors with its annual reenactments.
You have the opportunity to explore the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument or visit the nearby town of Crow Agency for dining, shopping, and water sports.
7. Flathead Lake
Flathead Lake, located just 15 minutes south of the city Kalispell, is the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi River. This lake was formed by glaciers, making it a significant piece of Montana’s history. However, it has also become a popular destination for sightseeing and recreational activities in the 21st century.
If you head north of the lake, you can enjoy activities like hiking or even horseback riding. In the summer season, fresh cherries can be easily found at farmer’s markets near Flathead Lake. Sailing has also gained popularity in this area, and you can rent boats or take lessons from various places surrounding Flathead Lake in Montana.
6. Great Falls
Located in the heart of Montana, Great Falls is commonly referred to as the Electric City. It is often seen as a place to rest when traveling through Montana or while exploring the neighboring national parks. However, Great Falls has its own offerings as well.
One option is to dedicate a day to exploring Ryan Dam, which not only features numerous hiking trails but is also the origin of the city’s nickname.
Another recommendation is to take a leisurely stroll along the Missouri River, where you can interact with trout and gain insights into American history at the Giant Springs State Park and the nearby Lewis and Clark National Interpretive Center.
5. West Yellowstone
Yellowstone National Park is predominantly situated in Wyoming, but there are entrances in Montana as well, with one of the popular ones being West Yellowstone. This entrance serves as the western access point to the park, which is renowned for its breathtaking features including Old Faithful.
In addition to providing entry to the park, West Yellowstone is also home to the Yellowstone Museum, which features a vast collection of artifacts. While exploring the area, you can browse through unique souvenirs at the shops on Yellowstone Ave or enjoy delicious local cuisine at affordable prices on Faithful Street.
4. Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park
Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park is the oldest and most remarkable state park in Montana. It is situated near Three Forks. The caverns, created from limestone, feature fascinating columns, stalactites, and stalagmites.
During the guided tours, you’ll explore a significant area, descending 600 steps and experiencing a noticeable drop in temperature. Along with the caverns, which are accessible all summer, the park provides various activities such as hiking, picnicking with beautiful views, canoeing, and observing wildlife in their natural habitats.
3. Missoula
Missoula, the second largest city in Montana, is known for its expansive University of Montana campus. In the past, Missoula was an important transportation hub for railways, and remnants of the historic railroad stations can still be found around the city.
Those interested in history may enjoy visiting attractions such as the Caras Park Carousel, the Missoula Art Museum, and the Roxy Theater. The Clark Fork River runs through the center of Missoula, offering opportunities for recreation such as rafting or leisurely walks along the Kim Williams Trail by the waterfront.
Downtown Missoula is a vibrant area, housing local breweries, independent restaurants, and boutique shops where visitors can find unique souvenirs to take home.
2. Bozeman
Bozeman, a city in Montana, is highly popular among travelers because it is home to Montana State University and serves as the gateway to Yellowstone National Park. People are attracted to Bozeman not only for its natural beauty, but also for its rich culture, history, and art.
When visiting the city, make sure to explore attractions like the Pioneer Museum, the Museum of the Rockies, the Emerson Center for Arts and Culture, and the unexpected yet impressive American Computer Museum. Bozeman is also blessed with the Gallatin River, which offers opportunities for swimming, fishing, and kayaking.
If you prefer something more active, you can take a walk through Downtown and discover the many bars and breweries, known as the Barmuda Triangle of Bozeman.
1. Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park is a captivating destination for those who love breathtaking scenery and remarkable landscapes. Situated on the border with Canada and linked to the Canadian Waterton Lakes National Park, it offers an unforgettable experience of exploring nature’s diverse plant and animal life.
While shuttles and guided tours are accessible, nothing beats exploring the park on foot. With over 700 miles of hiking trails to choose from, popular options include the Trail of the Cedars and the Huckleberry Mountain Trail. Additionally, fishing, mountain biking, and horseback riding are available within the park. Boating is also an option on Waterton Lake and Lake McDonald.
