best places to visit and stay in montana

25 Best Places to Visit in Montana: A Local’s 2024 Guide

Best Places to Go in Montana for Nature, Skiing, Downtown Fun & Much More!

The best places to visit in Montana differ for everyone, but that is what makes Montana so special. There is something for every type of traveler!

25 Best Places to Visit in Montana

• Bitterroot Valley
• Glacier National Park
• Yellowstone National Park
• Montana Dude Ranch
• Montana Badlands
• Bighorn Canyon
• Flathead Lake
• Holter Lake / Gates of the Mountains
• Big Sky Resort
• Red Lodge / Beartooth Highway
• Hot Springs
• Great Falls
• St. Ignatius / Mission Mountains
• Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument
• Bannack State Park
• Virginia City
• Butte’s Mining Past
• First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park

If you’re looking to get away and get outside this year, then Montana is the perfect destination for you. However, as the fourth largest state in the United States, it can be hard to narrow down the best places to visit in Montana during your trip. We’re here to help!

We’re Montanans who have explored every part of this state. In this article, we’ve listed out the best places to go in our beloved state. These places are broken into different categories: Nature, Water, Cities, Skiing, History, and Wildlife Viewing.

Of course, most places you can visit in Montana are going to fall into numerous categories. For example, we put Yellowstone National Park under Best Places in Montana for Wildlife Viewing, but let’s face it — Yellowstone could go under practically all of these categories! It’s easily one of the best places to visit in Montana.

So with that out of the way (woo-hoo, we love our national parks, but there’s so much more to Montana!) let’s move onto the best places to visit in Montana, for every type of travel personality.

Top 25 Must-See Places in Montana

Montana has quickly become a coveted travel destination. The state provides epic scenery, crowd-free terrain, a burgeoning food and drink scene, and some of America’s most breathtakingly stunning national parks.

We love all of Montana! Still, there are some spots that stand out. Read on for our top 25 places to visit in Montana.

Best Places to Visit in Montana for Nature Lovers

It’s the beauty of the Montana mountains and plains that draws most people to the state. So let’s start with the best places to visit in Montana for nature… 

1. Bitterroot Valley

One of the main attractions of the Bitterroot Valley is its natural beauty. With the Bitterroot Mountains to the west and the Sapphire Mountains to the east, visitors are surrounded by breathtaking scenery and a variety of outdoor activities to explore.

The valley is home to several national forests and wilderness areas, including the Bitterroot National Forest and the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness, which offer miles of trails for hiking and backpacking.

In addition to the natural beauty of the area, the Bitterroot Valley has a variety of cultural and historical attractions. Visitors can explore the small towns and communities that dot the valley, each with its own unique character and charm. You’ll find a historic, must-see chapel in Stevensville, art galleries in Hamilton, and a Main Street with a wild west feel in Darby (this is also where the ranch scenes in Yellowstone are filmed ).

2. Glacier National Park

It’s probably no surprise this national park ended up here. Glacier National Park is known for its epic, gravity-defying scenery punctuated by towering mountain peaks, turquoise glacial lakes, and miles upon miles of stellar hiking trails.

Are You Looking For The Best Activity in Glacier National Park? Here are some top-rated tours that make it easy to explore the park and have memorable adventures:

• Experience the quieter side of Glacier National Park with this Glacier National Park Scenic Float .
• Have a thrilling day on a Half-Day Glacier National Park Whitewater Rafting Adventure
• Spot wildlife in its native habitat with a Half Day Scenic Float on the Middle Fork of the Flathead River

Glacier National Park is best experienced when you hit the trail, making this an easy spot on our best places in Montana for nature lovers. It’s also one of the most likely areas to spot a grizzly bear or moose.

Read More: The Best Things to Do in Glacier National Park

3. Yellowstone National Park

With drives, hiking trails, and wide, open plains that make it easy to see wildlife, Yellowstone National Park is one of the best places to visit in Montana for many reasons. However, for many visitors it’s the wildlife that stands out.

While driving through Yellowstone you’re bound to see bison roaming the plains. Wolves, moose, bears, elk, mountain lions, and other animals are also possible to see.

One of the best places to see wildlife in the park is the Lamar Valley, which is located by Yellowstone’s northeast entrance. The gateway to this entrance is Cooke City, MT. And an epic way to get to Cooke City is via the Beartooth Highway – more on that under the Red Lodge entry!

Read More: Best Things to See in Yellowstone National Park

Bonus Place to Visit: West Yellowstone

To maximize your time in the great outdoors and proximity to wildlife when visiting Yellowstone, we recommend staying in West Yellowstone (if you can’t or don’t want to get a lodge within in Yellowstone’s boundaries , of course).

West Yellowstone is a small Montana town right by the west entrance to Yellowstone National Park , which makes it a gateway to some of the best natural wonders in the world. But West Yellowstone also has its own outdoor fun and animal adventures. 

West Yellowstone is home to the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center. Visit to see these majestic and often elusive creatures (all rescues) in their natural habitat.  We wrote more about our visit to the center here.

In West Yellowstone , you’ll find the Museum of the Yellowstone, where you can learn more about the flora and fauna inside the park.

West Yellowstone is also close to Big Sky where you can find seemingly endless adventures in every season!

4. Montana Dude Ranch

Experience the land and its animals the Montana way — or at least the Montana cowboy way — with a stay at a dude ranch.

You can choose to stay at a small family-run ranch where you’ll get to know the family well. Participate in day to day tasks that will truly give you a taste of what it’s like to live on a working ranch.

Want some pampering? Choose one of the luxury dude ranches like Triple Creek Ranch . You’ll dine on exquisite food, can get spa treatments after horseback rides, and do one-of-a-kind guided adventures.

Read More: The Best Dude Ranches in Montana

5. Montana Badlands

The Badlands are located in eastern Montana and consist of miles upon miles of flat sandstone rocks stacked upon each other. This forms incredible rock stacks and structures against the background of the plains.

Many of the rocks look precariously stacked on top of each other. That combined with the barren surroundings, give the badlands an almost otherworldly appearance in parts. 

For some of the most scenic views of Montana’s badlands, head to Makoshika State Park off of Interstate 94 near Glendive. While you’re there, also make sure to check out the fun dinosaur museums in the town and park. Some of the world’s most incredible dinosaur fossils are from this area.

Read More: The Ultimate Glendive Travel Guide

The Terry Badlands near Terry, MT (a short drive southwest of Glendive) are also known for mesmerizing hoodoos and other rock formations.

Fun Water Destinations in Montana

Love water sports or gazing at serene water framed by gorgeous vistas? Montana is definitely the place for you then. Usually known for its mountains, Montana also has incredible water features, from glistening alpine lakes to rushing river wonders. Next up are our favorite outdoor spots to visit in Montana for some water fun.

6. Bighorn Canyon

Bighorn Canyon is easily one of Montana’s best hidden gems . This massive water reservoir is home to some of the most mesmerizing boating around.

The Yellowtail Dam created this massive canyon. The sheer size of the red-tinged cliffs that surround you as your boat or pontoon slices through the calm water is awe-inspiring.

You can easily find parts of Bighorn Canyon that you’ll have pretty much all to yourself. Waterski on calm water without worrying about wakes from other boats, or just relax on your pontoon and enjoy the peace and quiet. 

Read More: Insider’s Guide to Montana’s Best Kept Secret: Bighorn Canyon

7. Flathead Lake

Flathead Lake is located in northwestern Montana, about 70 miles north of Missoula. It’s considered one of the most picturesque lakes in Montana, with mountain peaks visible in the distance. Around the lake are charming little towns and cherry tree orchards producing famously sweet, delicious cherries. 

A good base for starting your Flathead adventures is either Polson on the south end of the lake or Bigfork on the northeast end. There are boat and watersport outfitters located around the lake where you can rent equipment. You can also bring your own and use the public dock and boat launch in one of the six Flathead Lake State Parks .

A boat ride or paddle over to Wild Horse Island is also an enchanting way to spend a day on Flathead Lake. This unique state park has a loop trail that takes you through island woods with water vistas and the chance to see the five wild horses who live on the island.

When we were there we didn’t see the horses on our hike, but did see the herd of bighorn sheep that also lives on the island.

Read More: Guide to the Best Flathead Lake Activities to Do on Your Trip

8. Swan Lake

If Flathead Lake is too big and busy for you, head to sleepy Swan Lake, less than thirty minutes from Bigfork on the northeast corner of Flathead Lake.

Swan Lake has an excellent day use area that is easy to access. It also has a low fee to visit for the day. Park and be at at a peaceful beach and picnic table in mere moments. Relax by the shore or head out on your paddle board or kayak.

Or simply go for a swim or sit on the shoreline and enjoy the beauty of this peaceful lake nestled against the backdrop of Flathead National Forest. My kids especially enjoyed splashing around by the beach even though the water was pretty cold! We brought wetsuits for them to wear.

9. Holter Lake / Gates of the Mountains

Follow in the canoe path of the Lewis and Clark expedition with a boating adventure in Holter Lake. Holter Lake is surrounded by the pristine Holter Wilderness Area. Part of the Holter Reservoir was created by a dam erected in the Missouri River.

You can boat and dock by campgrounds and trailheads after you glide through the infamous Gates of the Mountains. It’s called “Gates of the Mountains” because that is what Lewis said as they were going through the water pass.

No boat of your own? Sign up for a boat tour that takes you through this part of the reservoir. The tour is also a great way to learn about the area’s history.

Read More: Ultimate Guide to Visiting Holter Lake and the Gates of the Mountains

Love racing down the mountainside in the middle of winter? Us too! Next up are a couple of our favorite places in Montana to visit in winter for snow adventures.

10. Big Sky Resort 

The preeminent ski resort in Montana is massive Big Sky Mountain Resort. It’s home to a number of challenging runs that make Big Sky Mountain a ski destination exciting for experienced skiers and snowboarders. Yet it also has plenty of trails for beginners and is home to an excellent ski school.

Plus, the views you’ll get from the top of the ski runs are stunningly gorgeous.

You can stay right in Big Sky Resort at one of the ski-in, ski-out condos and townhomes, or rent a nearby vacation rental. Another popular option is to stay in Bozeman, which is about an hour’s drive away.

Read More: Insider’s Guide for All the Best Places to Ski in Montana

11. Red Lodge / Beartooth Highway

If you want to ski where the locals ski (at least those who live in Billings and eastern Montana), head to Red Lodge instead of Big Sky in 2023.

You won’t find any of the pomp and circumstance Big Sky is sometimes known for due to it glitzy clientele. Instead you’ll find a laidback mountain town with one Main Street of restaurants and bars and a smattering of hotels. 

Summer in Red Lodge Tip: Red Lodge is also a popular destination in non-ski seasons. Mostly because it’s the start of the incredible Beartooth Highway Drive. This scenic drive leads to the northeast entrance of Yellowstone National Park and has some of the best mountain views in the country. You might see some mountain goats, too!

Plus, even is summer there’s a good chance you’ll see snow at the top of the pass. There’s even a ski run there in the summer, Beartooth Basin , that operates two platter lifts. We only recommend skiing here for advanced skiers, but even if you’re not skiing, it’s cool to watch people gliding down the mountainside seemingly in the middle of nowhere during the height of summer.

Read More: Winter Guide for Red Lodge Mountain

12. Hot Springs

Soak outside in one of Montana’s blissful hot springs. Montana makes it easy to do so at various hot spring resorts and facilities. Our favorites are:

• Quinn’s Hot Springs
• Chico Hot Springs
• Bozeman Hot Springs

Read More: Best Hot Springs in Montana

Must-Visit Cities in Montana

Montana is known for nature and wildlife, but it also has a cosmopolitan side, which you can experience in these cities. All of which are still located close to gorgeous scenery and outdoor activities.

A visit to Helena takes you to Montana’s state capital, a gorgeous city located right in the mountains. It’s home to a university, the stately capitol building, and a downtown area brimming with historic homes and buildings. 

Our favorite place to hang out in Helena is along the Walking Mall. This is a pedestrian-only street in downtown that has an actual creek running through it. My kids love playing in it, while I enjoy watching them play in it from the patio of Windbag Saloon & Grill with a local beer in my hand. 🙂

Cross the road at the end of the Walking Mall and you’re at Reeder’s Alley, which is a really cool historic area that has been preserved to reflect the turn of the 20th century. It’s also where the visitor center is so you can get more ideas on what to do in and around Helena while there, such as going to the nearby Flathead National Forest or other local hiking trails.

Read More: Ultimate Guide for Things to Do in Helena

14. Billings

Billings doesn’t get enough clout as a tourist destination, in our opinion. It’s situated right in between Montana’s massive mountains to the west and the rolling farmland to the east.

(In fact, we love Billings so much we wrote a book about it, 100 Things to Do in Billings Before You Die , which you can get at local booksellers and from Amazon, Target, or Barnes & Noble.)

Billings often gets earmarked as just a starting off point or ending point if accessing Montana via the Billings International Airport. 

However, it would be a shame to overlook Billings on your trip since it has a burgeoning food and craft beer scene plus historic attractions. Despite being Montana’s largest city, it has still retained a small town vibe, making it a welcoming place to explore while in Montana.

Some of the top attractions in Billings include the Billings Beer Trail , the Yellowstone Kelly Memorial atop the rims (rocky cliffs on the north end of Billings that gives the city a beautiful frame) and the Old Town Historic District where you’ll find a number of old homes and museums. 

Read More: All the Top Things to Do in Billings, Montana

15. Bozeman

Beautiful Bozeman is nestled in the gorgeous Gallatin Valley in southern Montana and is surrounded by mountains. It’s home to Montana’s busiest airport and provides easy access to Big Sky Resort for skiing and snowboarding. Bozeman is also a short drive down to Yellowstone National Park. 

Bozeman is a great city in its own right, though, and shouldn’t just be used as a gateway to the rest of Montana. Dedicate a day or two (or more) to spend in Bozeman and get a feel for why it’s one of the best places to live in Montana — and some say, all of the USA! 

Bozeman has a number of craft breweries and distilleries, delicious restaurants that focus on local ingredients, and a fun downtown area with bars and nightlife. It’s also close to epic hiking at Hyalite Canyon which you can follow up with a relaxing soak at Bozeman Hot Springs.

In addition, Bozeman is the location of the esteemed Museum of the Rockies , which is one of the best dinosaur museums in the whole country.

Museum of the Rockies is a must-see for anyone who thinks dinosaurs are cool (and isn’t that pretty much everyone??). You’ll see a massive skeleton of a Tyrannosaurus Rex and a Triceratops plus learn about the paleontology work done in Montana that unearths these prehistoric dinosaur bones. 

Read More: Best Things to Do in Bozeman

16. Whitefish

Whitefish is a beautifully situated town located in the northwestern part of the state, nestled at the base of the impressive Whitefish Mountain Resort with the gorgeous alpine Whitefish Lake flanking the north edge of the town. With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture, Whitefish is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Montana.

One of the top attractions in Whitefish is the aforementioned Whitefish Mountain Resort, which offers a wide variety of outdoor activities year-round. In the winter, visitors can enjoy skiing and snowboarding on the resort’s world-class slopes. When visiting Whitefish in the summer , visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and zip-lining up at the mountain resort, or swimming and paddle boarding down the mountain at Whitefish Lake.

The town itself is also full of unique shops, delicious restaurants, and lively bars, making it the perfect place to unwind after a day of adventure. Whitefish is also home to a thriving arts and culture scene. The local community is known for its support of the arts, with numerous galleries and theaters showcasing the work of local artists and performers.

Read More: Best Things to Do in Whitefish

17. Missoula

Missoula is one of the most beloved cities in Montana for a number of reasons. Its beauty is what first pulls people in.

Surrounded by towering mountain peaks, Missoula is breathtaking to behold. The city is a short drive from Lolo National Forest and Flathead Lake. Just a bit farther north and you’ll find yourself in Whitefish and Glacier National Park. 

Top things to do in Missoula include taking a ride around the hand-carved Carousel for Missoula , going for a stroll along the River Walk, dining at the hearty restaurants and craft breweries in town. Beyond downtown, you can escape to the Clark Fork River for some whitewater rafting, fly fishing, or kayaking. 

Read More: Top 10 Things to Do in Missoula

18. Lewistown

Lewistown is a charming small town located in the heart of the state, surrounded by rolling hills, sprawling ranches, and endless natural beauty. Visitors to Lewistown are drawn to its laid-back atmosphere, friendly locals, and abundance of outdoor activities.

One of the top attractions in Lewistown is the Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument, which offers stunning views of the rugged landscape and opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, and boating. History buffs will also appreciate the town’s rich heritage, with several historic sites and museums showcasing the area’s Native American and pioneer past.

In addition to its natural and cultural attractions, Lewistown also boasts a thriving arts scene, with galleries, studios, and annual events like the Montana Winter Fair and the Chokecherry Festival. Whether you’re in the mood for adventure, relaxation, or inspiration, Lewistown is a great place to visit and experience the best of Montana.

Read More: Best Things to Do in Lewistown

19. Great Falls

Great Falls is a hidden gem surrounded by stunning natural beauty including the Missouri River, the Rocky Mountains, and the vast prairie lands of Montana. Visitors to Great Falls can experience the best of both worlds, with easy access to outdoor adventures and city amenities.

One of the top attractions in Great Falls is the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center, which tells the story of the famous explorers who passed through the area on their expedition to the Pacific Northwest. The center features interactive exhibits, artifacts, and a replica of the boat used by the expedition.

Another must-see attraction is the C.M. Russell Museum. C.M. Russell is arguable Montana’s most famous artist. He’s one of the world’s most beloved Western painters, known for his paintings depicting the frontier and Native American life in the late 1800s and early 1900s. An extensive collection of his works are housed in the museum in Great Falls. His old log home is also located on the grounds.

Outdoor enthusiasts will also find plenty to do in Great Falls, with hiking, fishing, and boating opportunities available in the nearby mountains and rivers. The Giant Springs State Park is an especially popular spot for picnicking, bird watching, and fishing. The park features a natural spring that produces over 156 million gallons of crystal-clear water every day, making it one of the largest freshwater springs in the country.

Read More: Complete Guide to the Best Things to Do in Great Falls

By the way…

Before we get to the rest of this list, quick break to make sure you know about our First Timer’s Guide to Montana travel guidebook. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or want some expert advice for Montana trip planning all in one place, this 139-page guidebook is for you! Click here to learn more about it!

…and now back to the best places to visit in Montana list!

Historic Places to Visit in Montana

History abounds in Montana, and here are some of the historic places that stand out that you should add to your Montana bucket list.

20. St. Ignatius / Mission Mountains

A historic place to visit between Missoula and Flathead Lake is the town of St. Ignatius on the Flathead Indian Reservation.

St. Ignatius is home to the similarly named St. Ignatius Mission, which is a popular tourist attraction in this area.

St. Ignatius Mission is a Catholic Church that dates back to the 1890s. When visited, it must be seen from the inside. That’s where you’ll see the 58 original paintings on the ceiling painted by Brother Joseph Carignano. There is also a museum next to the mission.

To learn more about the history of the area, head to the Ninepipes Museum of Early Montana in St. Ignatius where you can learn more about the importance the land has played to the native people of Montana throughout the past centuries. 

St. Ignatius is also near the Mission Mountains, which provides visitors with opportunity to partake in a number of outdoor activities. Popular ones include rock climbing, ice climbing, river rafting, and boating.

21. Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument

Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument is a historic site located in Southeast Montana. The site is dedicated to preserving the memory of the Battle of Little Bighorn, which took place in 1876. This battle is also known as Custer’s Last Stand, as it saw the defeat of General George Custer and his troops by the Lakota Sioux and Cheyenne warriors. The battlefield is a somber, yet interesting place to visit because of its historical significance and natural beauty of its surroundings.

Visitors to Little Bighorn Battlefield can explore the site and learn about the events leading up to the battle, the battle itself, and its aftermath. The visitor center features exhibits and artifacts that give insight into the lives of the soldiers and Native Americans who fought in the battle. Guided tours are also available, led by knowledgeable rangers who can provide more in-depth information about the site and its history.

In addition to its historical significance, Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument is also a beautiful natural area. The site is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer and prairie dogs. The landscape is dotted with rolling hills and wide open spaces, offering visitors a chance to experience the beauty of the American West.

The 1-mile Deep Ravine Trail is a good hike to do to soak in these views while learning more about the battle and the Native American history in the area. The site is also a great place for hiking, with several trails that offer stunning views of the battlefield and surrounding area. 

Bonus Site: While in this region, also head to Pompeys Pillar, a large sandstone rock tower that has a visitor center about the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Why here? It’s the only known spot where one of the explorers left a mark of their identity: William’s signature etched into the rock face. Read more about Pompeys Pillar here.

22. Bannack State Park

Located in the southwest corner of Montana, Bannack State Park offers visitors a unique glimpse into the past. The park is home to the ghost town of Bannack, which was once a bustling gold rush town in the late 1800s. Today, visitors can explore the well-preserved buildings and artifacts of this historic town, giving them a glimpse into what life was like in the Old West.

Aside from its fascinating historical significance, Bannack State Park also offers plenty of outdoor recreational opportunities. Visitors can hike or bike on the park’s trails, fish in the nearby streams, or camp overnight in the park’s campground. The park is also home to a number of special events throughout the year, including living history days, ghost tours, and gold panning demonstrations.

23. Virginia City

While Bannack is cool and spookily deserted, if you want to really feel what it was like to live during the mining boom period, head to Virginia City. Located about 90 minutes east of Bannack State Park, Virginia City is also an old mining town that was once deserted…but this time an initiative in the 1960s refurbished many of the buildings along Virginia City’s Main Street. The buildings now reflect almost exactly as they would have been set up in 1890. Their is a bank, carpenter, hat store, general store, pharmacy, and many more shops all available for you to peer into and glimpse the past.

Virginia City is also where Montana’s oldest bar is located, which you can still sidle up to and order a beer or stiffer cocktail.

Just a couple minutes down the road from Virginia City is Nevada City, MT. This is another little ghost town has abandoned old buildings and homes with informational signs about what the town was like back during the gold rush.

24. Butte’s Mining Past

Located in Central Montana, Butte is located between Missoula and Bozeman right off I-94. As a result, most road trippers drive right through this historic city or just stop to get gas.

This is definitely doing yourself a disservice!

Butte has an incredible history and was once nicknamed the “Richest Hill on Earth.” This moniker was due to the extensive minerals (and resulting riches) its massive mining industry unearthed in the early 1900s.

Today, the mining industry is gone, but you can still see remnants of it, both in downtown Butte and on the outskirts of town.

In downtown Butte, tour the gorgeous Victorian homes from the mining town’s heyday. Beyond the town, you can see the Anaconda Smelter Stack jutting up into the sky. Drive up the hill to view acidic Berkeley Pit, a sad reminder of the toll mining has on the earth.

Read More: The Best Things to Do in Butte

25. First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park

First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park is a fascinating and historically significant site located in Montana. It was once used by Native American tribes as a hunting ground for bison. The bison would be driven over the edge of the cliff, providing an abundant source of food and supplies for the tribes.

Today, visitors to the park can explore the area and learn about its history through informational signs and plaques. The park also features an interactive visitor center, which provides additional information about the site and its significance. Visitors can even watch a short film that explores the history of the buffalo jump and its importance to Native American culture.

One of the highlights of First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park is the hiking trail that leads to the top of the cliff. This trail offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, and it is a great way to experience the site from a unique perspective. Along the way, visitors can explore the remnants of ancient hunting structures and learn more about the history of the site.

First Peoples Buffalo Jump Park is located in the town of Ulm, a short drive southwest of Great Falls. If you’re sticking to southwest Montana, there’s also a buffalo jump site in the small town of Three Forks called Madison Buffalo Jump State Park.

No matter what type of vacation you’re looking for, these best places in Montana to visit are epic. Each place will have you experiencing Montana in an epic way with gorgeous scenery.

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » Montana (MT) » 15 Best Resorts in Montana

15 Best Resorts in Montana

If you’re looking to have your breath taken away, Montana is the place to be! Boasting unspoiled natural beauty and captivating stretches of unspoiled wilderness, rugged mountains, and pristine lakes I am sure it will melt your worries away. Apart from being the 4th largest state by area, Montana is officially known as the ‘Treasure State’, ‘The Last Best Place’, and the ‘Land of Shining Mountains’, for obvious reasons.

Derived from the Latin word ‘Montana’, which means ‘Mountain’ this place is true to its word – a land rich with history that will leave you asking for more. Home to iconic national parks like Glacier and Yellowstone, Montana is an outdoor enthusiasts’ playground of adventure, from hiking and wildlife viewing to fly-fishing and snowboarding. Embracing its cowboy heritage, the state’s charming small towns and wide-open spaces exude a sense of freedom and an invitation to explore the untamed beauty of the American West. And as if that’s not enough, it’s also home to the Triple Divide, and a large variety of wildlife that you won’t see in any other state. Come to Montana to relax, enjoy, and weave precious memories!

Let’s explore the best resorts in Montana :

1. The Resort At Paws Up

If you’re looking to stay in a resort that’s like no other, The Resort at Paws Up will be one you’ll never forget. Apart from offering you an unparalleled luxury stay among Montana’s exotic wilderness, this heaven on earth is located just 35 minutes from Missoula. Tucked away into some of the world’s most beautiful sceneries, The Resort At Paws Up is a perfect destination for families, honeymooners, or couples who just want to unwind and get away from their busy lives.

Set across 37,000 acres, this resort boasts beautifully designed expansive vacation homes and luxury camping tents, known as glamping – glamorous camping – that are sure to take your breath away. A community on its own, this resort is home to two gourmet restaurants, a luxurious spa, and a truckload of activities that include horseback riding, Go-Karts, Archery, Fitness Trail, and a lot more. Whether you decide to zip around in your personal watercraft or indulge in the resort’s heavenly spa treatments, a trip to this resort is one you will remember for a long time.

Website : http://www.pawsup.com/

2. Montana Rock Creek Cabin

You probably already know that apart from being the land of mountains, Montana is also known for its fly fishing, and for those who want the best of the best, there’s no better place than Montana Rock Creek Cabin. Located approximately 40 minutes from Missoula, this exotic lodge, built from massive Montana lodgepole pine, is strategically located near many of the best fishing spots along the banks of Rock Creek. Surrounded by the majestic Sapphire Mountains along with over 2 million acres of the beautiful Lolo National Forest.

In order to provide exceptional service to all its guests, this lodge offers a fireplace and jacuzzi and with 2 bedrooms, sleeps up to 4. Features include a well-equipped kitchen, an oversized deck, and a sitting room, along with a gas fireplace. You can officially say, “country living at its finest!” when you visit this lodge!

Website : https://www.montanarockcreekcabin.com/

3. Triple Creek Ranch

Have you always wanted to visit a resort you could call your second home? Whether you’re newlyweds or couples in love, this is that ‘special’ place to be so you can enjoy intimate and quality romantic time together. Triple Creek Ranch is for grown-ups, and we mean adults only, in the best way. Here there are no obligations, except perhaps that we expect you to enjoy yourselves. Triple Creek Ranch is located in the Bitterroot Mountains of Western Montana, near the small town of Darby, and provides the best of Western hospitality and action, including horseback riding, hiking, snowshoeing, a fly-casting clinic, a fitness center, and a tennis court.

It’s exclusive: there are only 12 distinctly different private, luxurious log cabins, equipped with unique essential oil diffusers that create a soothing, romantic, wilderness-scented background for your dream holiday. Go for a round of golf, or just doze off in a hammock among the towering pines, then sample their contemporary gourmet cuisine at the end of each day among friends new and old. If there’s one special place for couples to weave their memories, it’s here, at the Triple Creek Ranch.

Website : https://www.triplecreekranch.com/

4. The Ranch at Rock Creek

The heart of your holiday here is the Granite Lodge, an authentic 100-year-old homestead with furnishing, photographs, antiques, world-class cuisine, and signature spa treatments that will give you the true Western experience. From this base, you can plan your daily activities with the help of their Ranch Ambassadors: romantic, equestrian, fly fishing – your choice.

Then in the evening visit The Silver Dollar Saloon for a good old-fashioned evening of billiards, darts, bowling, a private movie theater, and a luxury cowboy saloon for the whole family – all this on a 6,600-acre ranch in a classic, inspiring Montana landscape. Apart from expansive villas with beautifully designed bathrooms, deep soaking tubs, and huge brass beds, you can also request glamorous camping tents that are warmed by large potbelly stoves.

You will soon understand why The Ranch at Rock Creek is the world’s only Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star ranch. There are only 29 accommodations, for a maximum of 125 guests. It’s a place for families, with the Little Grizzlies Club for your kids. You’re welcome!

Website : http://www.theranchatrockcreek.com/

5. Rainbow Ranch Lodge

The essence of this lodge is its appeal to adults and children, to holidaymakers and to businessmen. Its location is perfect, just 50 minutes from Yellowstone National Park, giving you the opportunity to take part in a great variety of Western-style activities and adventures, like fly-fishing for trout along the Gallatin River, horseback riding, hiking, kayaking, and whitewater rafting.

All guests are welcome to take advantage of their yoga sessions followed by a massage, then a comfortable night in one of their luxurious rooms, all featuring a different view of the Gallatin River, which wraps the property. As for food, there’s a bar, a restaurant, a snack bar, and for those who’re weight-conscious, there are special diet menus available on request. If you’re searching for the epitome of splendor and warm hospitality, this resort won’t fail you. The Rainbow Ranch Lodge – for the best of the West.

Website : http://www.rainbowranchbigsky.com/

6. Double Arrow Resort

Have you always wanted to go on a horse-drawn sleigh ride?  The Double Arrow Resort is just the place for it. Don’t get me started on their indoor swimming, fly fishing, snowmobiling, whitewater rafting, and their 18-hole golf course. With a rich history that goes back 88 years, this stunning resort has hosted a multitude of memorable vacations for people from all walks of life.

Whether for a family reunion, a wedding, or a corporate retreat, this resort, located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains in the Seeley Swan Valley, will go above and beyond to make sure you enjoy your stay with them.

Above all, you can find peace and relaxation, by either opting to stay in individual family lodges, private log cabins, or guest rooms in the Main Lodge, each letting you taste the combined blend of Western hospitality with European elegance. As for dining, guests can enjoy country classic cuisine in the Seasons Restaurant or unwind at the Stirrups Lounge for a drink or two. If you want to fill your heart with peace and quiet, yet enjoy the comforts and luxury, this is the place to be – home away from home.

Website : http://doublearrowresort.com/

7. Wood’s Lodge

If you love wild creatures, this will be your dream destination, located just south of one of the cutest little towns and sitting near the entrance to Glacier National Park. The luxurious log cabin provides marvelous mountain views, you are bound to see wild turkeys, eagles, and maybe even moose and elk just outside your door!

Every suite comes with a jetted claw-foot tub, king sized bed, and there are 2 fire pits on site that are surrounded by a serene garden. As a vacation center for adults with romance on their minds, or as a venue for a wedding, this is a perfect place to relax. The kids will love it too, with many opportunities for waterskiing, kayaking, skiing, and more in the area.

Website : https://www.woodslodgemt.com/

8. Meadow Lake Resort

How about a shot at dog sledding?  If that’s your thing, then run don’t walk to Meadow Lake Resort, in Columbia Falls near to the famous and fabulous Glacier National Park. But that’s not all that’s available in this center for your Montana adventure. You have a choice of styles in accommodation – condos, vacation homes, and a hotel all that adorn the fairways of an 18-hole championship golf course.

Apart from golf, this heaven on earth provides a great variety of activities that a concierge is eager to guide you through which includes biking, hiking, whitewater rafting during the summer, skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling during the winter. Whether you want to sit back, relax and enjoy scenic boat cruises or get pampered at their full-service spa, this resort will make your dreams come true! As if that’s not enough, the heated pools and Jacuzzis are sure to blow your mind after you taste the mouth-watering cuisine in their in-house restaurant. What a way to end your day!

Website : http://www.meadowlake.com/

9. Grouse Mountain Lodge

What is it that makes Grouse Mountain Lodge so special? I think it’s because it’s within 20 minutes’ walking distance of the charming small town of Whitefish Montana, famous for its annual huckleberry dessert bake-off contest, shopping, and nightlife. That is, of course, in addition to the skiing with a complimentary shuttle service, fishing, golfing, and swimming at the lodge itself. Whether you want to golf at one of Flathead Valley’s nine golf courses or hike on the Whitefish Trail, this four-season destination has everything you need to help you unwind and relax.

As for accommodation, you can choose between a golf-course Nordic view, that overlooks the Whitefish Lake Golf Club’s South Course, corner suits, and even bi-level loft suits to match your needs. And after a long day of play and exploration, you can sit back, relax and enjoy in the resort’s outdoor hot tub or tickle your taste buds at Logan’s. What more could a discerning traveler want?

Website : http://www.glacierparkinc.com/lodging/grouse-mountain-lodge/

10. Mountain Sky Guest Ranch

After starting out as a dude ranch nearly 100 years ago, this super-friendly resort has grown into a warm and genuine family destination. You can still pretend to be a cowboy, but also admire the breathtaking mountain views and rustic surroundings while absorbing the cozy hospitality of the Mountain Sky family. If that’s not enough, you can also enjoy yoga sessions, watch some horse-herding, go for a hike, and fish in a mountain stream! Meanwhile, your kids can have a whale of a time swimming, riding, and making art projects under the friendly supervision of trained counselors.

As for accommodation, this resort has lots to offer! From Rustic Area to Pool Area, all the way to Trout Pond Area and Lodge Area – one thing’s for sure each cabin is unique and tastefully designed featuring stone fireplaces, picture windows, and marvelous views of the unspoiled nature outside your door. In the evening you can join the cowboys in a barbecue followed by Western-style singing and dancing and when you retire to bed, the sounds of the tricking stream nearby will surely soothe your heart! Nothing like it!

Website : http://mountainsky.com/

11. Lodge at Whitefish Lake

It’s not every day that you can go on a Float Plane Tour over the Hungry Horse Reservoir near Glacier National Park in Montana, a specialty of the beautiful Lodge at Whitefish Lake. You can stay a week in this resort and still run out of time for the smorgasbord of other adventures on offer, including skiing at Whitefish Mountain Resort, rock climbing, stand-up paddle boarding, whitewater rafting, and much more!

Surrounded by magnificent mountains and crystal clear waters of Whitefish Lake, this paradise is just minutes from downtown Whitefish and about 30 minutes from the beautiful Glacier National Park. Apart from live music on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays there are 8 diners, a coffee shop, and 5 different dining experiences you can choose from!

As for accommodation, whether you decide on waking up to a lake view, the Viking Creek Wetland Preserve, a private beach, or the main lodge, this resort has you covered and every morning will be a dream come true! And at the end of the day, you have the full-service spa awaiting your arrival. What’s not to like?

Website : http://lodgeatwhitefishlake.com

12. North Forty Resort

Have you tried Glamping? At North Forty Resort they have a tent that is so luxurious it has a king-size bed, a mini refrigerator, a coffee maker, and an electric fireplace! For anyone who wants to get away from the stresses of life, this should be enough, but it doesn’t end there. They also have twenty-two individual log cabins for more conventional guests and at the Snowberry Center a fully-equipped indoor space for business meetings, family reunions, and receptions.

Oh, and all this is about 25 – 30 minutes from the Glacier National Park, Flathead Lake, and Big Mountain Ski Area. With plenty of golf courses nearby, this resort promises you an experience like none other. Featuring two sheltered hot tubs, a sauna, and rustic nature trails, this dreamland is a perfect base for your adventures. You will not be disappointed.

Website: http://www.northfortyresort.com/

13. Big Sky Resort

If you have an adventurous partner or fun-seeking kids, this is the place to go for the ultimate in luxury and variety. It’s perfectly placed in South Central Montana, about fifteen miles from Yellowstone National Park, and has a great choice of accommodation for the most discerning travelers – from traditional western-style lodges to the Signature Collection of four-star rooms, cabins, and chalets.

All these are a convenient base for an exciting range of Summer and Winter activities, including mountain biking, a high ropes course, an 18-hole golf course, wildlife viewing, horseback riding, rock climbing, and a lot more that will leave you speechless! Whether you prefer bars and grills, Italian or Hawaiian cuisine, this resort has a restaurant for every palate. Don’t miss out on this wonderful, unique center of excellence and excitement, you won’t regret it!

Website : http://bigskyresort.com/

14. Quinn’s Hot Springs Resort

If you really want to focus on feeling healthy, relaxed, and virtuous, visit Quinn’s Hot Springs Resort, a place that is simple but extra special. Let us not forget that the icing on the cake is their 6 bathing pools filled with hot springs water, featuring mineral content and free from any chemicals, leaving you and your body healthy and super relaxed. Did we mention that these pools are surrounded by some of Montana’s most exotic and untouched beauty?

As if that’s not enough, you have a wide variety of accommodations to choose from. Whether you decide to stay in cabins that overlook the beautiful river or those that overlook the majestic mountains, the fact is that they’re all luxuriously comfortable and uniquely designed to ensure that every morning is a dream, and every night is heavenly.

After dining at either the Harwood House Restaurant or at the Quinn’s Tavern head out for the evening’s entertainment, which may include the High-Country Cowboys, or Rocklyn Road, the rocker in a tutu. You never know what it will be, except that it will be a lot of fun! You can thank us later!

Website : http://quinnshotsprings.com/

15. Marina Cay Resort

Here’s a lovely combination of lakeside living with small-town pleasures. At Flathead Lake, you can take a fishing charter, go jet skiing, kayaking, or paddleboarding all through the summer. And if you visit Marina Cay during the winter you can enjoy dogsled races or just stick to skiing and snowboarding. If you’re looking for the epitome of luxury, you’re not going to be disappointed with this resort’s 60 uniquely designed rooms, each with its own theme and décor. Whether you decide to stay in waterfront studios, expansive condos, or lakeside lodges, at Marina Cay, you’re going to find all that your heart needs to skip a beat.

Apart from a dockside restaurant, there also happens to be a Tiki bar where you can enjoy live music from local musicians every Saturday and Monday evening. During the day you can enjoy all the activities the lodge has in store for you and in the night, as the air gets colder, you can either warm up to the outdoor fireplace or soak in the heated pool or hot tub. You can’t get any luckier than that!

Website : https://themarinacay.com/

15 Best Resorts in Montana:

• The Resort At Paws Up
• Montana Rock Creek Cabin
• Triple Creek Ranch
• The Ranch at Rock Creek
• Rainbow Ranch Lodge
• Double Arrow Resort
• Wood's Lodge
• Meadow Lake Resort
• Grouse Mountain Lodge
• Mountain Sky Guest Ranch
• Lodge at Whitefish Lake
• North Forty Resort
• Big Sky Resort
• Quinn’s Hot Springs Resort
• Marina Cay Resort

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Home » North America » Where to Stay in Montana (2024 • COOLEST Areas!)

Where to Stay in Montana (2024 • COOLEST Areas!)

Up in the northeast of the United States, Montana is a land of diverse landscapes stretching from the Rocky Mountains to the Great Plains. It’s a fantastic destination for adventurers, photographers, and explorers, with a few cities dotted here and there. These are admittedly small, but come with unique cultural attractions showcasing the fascinating history of the state.

There’s no avoiding it – Montana is huge! It’s the fourth-largest state in the country and happens to be one of the least populated, so you’ll find most areas quite sparse. This adds its own challenges, however, as driving times between each destination are long. For this reason, you’ll want to make sure you get it exactly right when deciding where to stay in Montana.

That’s where we come in! We’ve been to Montana and have the lowdown on the five best places to stay in Big Sky Country. Whether you’re here for epic hikes, adrenaline-fuelled skiing, or simply somewhere affordable to kick back and relax, we’ve got you covered.

So let’s jump right in!

Where to Stay in Montana

Montana neighborhood guide – places to stay in montana, montana’s top 5 places to stay in, faqs about finding a place to stay in montana, what to pack for montana, don’t forget travel insurance for montana, final thoughts on where to stay in montana.

Not looking for anywhere specific? These are our top recommendations for places to stay in Montana.

Paradise Valley | Best Airbnb in Montana

Airbnb Plus properties are hand-selected for their stylish interiors, epic locations, and next-level guest service. This particular property is located just outside Bozeman in Paradise Valley. The stunning interiors combine rural charm with modern design, creating a cozy and comfortable space. There’s a wood-burning stove, large balcony, and space for six guests.

Apgar House | Best VRBO in Montana

If you want to stay in the heart of the national park, you can’t go wrong with this stunning cabin in Montana ! It’s located right by the lakeside, giving you unbeatable views across the mountains and glacier lakes. This spacious cabin maintains a rustic atmosphere and has enough room for up to eight guests. This makes it our top pick for families visiting Montana.

North Forty Resor t | Best Resort in Montana

Still undecided on whether to stay in a cabin or a hotel? Get the best of both worlds in this charming resort just outside Kalispell. Each cabin comes with its own kitchen and bathroom, and a large communal kitchen is also available. The resort offers various activities, so you can really make the most of your stay.

Right in the heart of Glacier County, Missoula is the perfect destination for first-time visitors to Montana. You’ll only be about a two-hour drive from the National Park, and Bozeman and Kalispell aren’t too far away either.

n a state divided between imposing mountains and endless plains, Bozeman straddles the boundary of the two sides. This makes it a great overall destination for checking out everything the state has to offer. As the home of the largest university, it’s also great for budget travelers.

Glacier National Park

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Park, the natural beauty of Glacier National Park is almost impossible to describe with words. With towering mountains, crystalline lakes and unique wildlife, it really must be seen to be believed. Straddling the border with Canada, this is America’s version of the world-famous Banff National Park.

Billings is the largest city in Montana and a great spot for experiencing Great Plains culture. It’s not often that we include the largest city as our top pick for families, but at just shy of 100k people Billings still manages to maintain a laid-back atmosphere.

Kalispell is just outside Glacier National Park, and many consider it to be part of the same region. It’s actually in the center of the Flathead Valley, a unique natural region that has been carved by melting glaciers over the past few centuries.

Montana is one of the largest states in the US and is split into two broad areas – the mountainous west and the flat east. With so much to explore, we reckon a road trip around Montana is the best way to take it all in.

Missoula lies on the Rocky Mountains side of Montana. It’s home to a large student population and is a good gateway into the national parks. All the most popular attractions are within driving distance of Missoula, making it the most convenient base for first-time visitors.

Billings sits on the Great Plains side and is the most populous city in the state. It’s the best area in Montana for families, offering the biggest array of attractions, easy walking trails, and cycling paths.

Glacier National Park is a must-visit in Montana, and one of the best national parks in the USA . This UNESCO World Heritage Site straddles the border with Canada and is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the world. It’s also great for adventure travelers with plenty of hikes, mountain biking trails, and other outdoorsy activities to keep you occupied.

Kalispell is a fantastic alternative for those that prefer to stay in an urban hub. You’ll have quick access to Glacier, as well as the rest of the Flathead Valley. In winter, you’ll find epic ski slopes nearby.

Finally, Bozeman is an epic destination between the boundary of the Rocky Mountains and the Great Plains. Home to Montana State University, it’s a great choice for budget-conscious travelers. It’s also close to Yellowstone National Park.

Still undecided? It’s not an easy decision! We’ve got some more information about each destination below, plus our top accommodation and activity picks to help you plan your itinerary.

1. Missoula – Where to Stay in Montana for your First Time

Right in the heart of Glacier County, Missoula is the perfect destination for first-time visitors to Montana. You’ll only be about a two-hour drive from the National Park, and Bozeman and Kalispell aren’t too far away either. Missoula is the second-largest city in the state, offering a huge variety of attractions.

Whilst Bozeman is home to the largest university in Montana, Missoula has the most cosmopolitan student body. This makes it a unique destination culturally. You’ll find a great selection of restaurants across the city, as well as regular events.

The Bungalow at Blackfoot Basecamp | Best Airbnb in Missoula

Rattlesnake National Recreation Area and Wilderness is a huge region of natural beauty to the north of Missoula. Blackfoot Basecamp is the name of a resort right in the heart of the area. This stylish bungalow gives you immediate access to the hikes and adventure trails of the area – but it’s also only a ten-minute drive from central Missoula! It really is the best of both worlds.

Comfort Inn University | Best Hotel in Missoula

The Comfort Inn is known for its affordable, yet comfortable, accommodation all over the world! Their Missoula hotel is located in the university district, meaning you’re also pretty close to some great budget-friendly bars and restaurants. It comes with a free gym, free high-speed internet, and – most importantly – a free hot breakfast every morning. Rooms are pretty basic, but roomy and cozy nonetheless.

Mountain Views | Pet Friendly Flat in Missoula

Want to bring the family dog? There are a few great pet-friendly accommodations in Montana, including this cabin in East Missoula. The Clark Fork River is right on the doorstep and is a perfect spot for daily dog walks. This one-bedroom apartment is slightly on the small side, but it’s a good budget option for couples and solo travelers heading to the area.

Mountain Views is one of our favourites in Montana but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

Things to See and Do in Missoula:

• Learn how one local lives a Zero Waste lifestyle in one of the least eco-friendly places in the world in this unique experience .
• Unleash your creativity in this highly rated pottery experience – it’s actually outside of Missoula, but only by about 30 minutes if you have a car.
• Mount Sentinel is the easiest natural attraction to visit from Missoula, offering a variety of hikes to suit most abilities.
• The Roxy Theatre is a community-owned cinema right in the heart of town. They also host regular events, so check local listings.

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2. Bozeman – Where to Stay in Montana on a Budget

In a state divided between imposing mountains and endless plains, Bozeman straddles the boundary of the two sides. This makes it a great overall destination for checking out everything the state has to offer. As the home of the largest university, it’s also great for anyone traveling on a budget. You’ll find some great budget-friendly bars and restaurants across the town.

Best of all, it’s only a short drive away from Yellowstone National Park! This is notoriously one of the most expensive national parks in the country, but Bozeman lets you visit Yellowstone on a budget . Perfect for those looking for an inexpensive adventure. 

Paradise Valley | Best Chalet in Bozeman

This gorgeous Airbnb Plus property is located just outside Bozeman in Paradise Valley. The peaceful location gives you unspoiled views towards the mountains, with the city just a 10-minute drive away. We love the outdoor deck with a swing chair where you can watch the sunset behind the mountains. There’s also a private hot tub to keep you warm in the evenings.

Treasure State Hostel | Best Hostel in Bozeman

This isn’t just the only hostel in Bozeman, it’s the only hostel in the entire state! For backpackers, this is the best way to visit the area without breaking the bank (especially if you’re planning to stay near Yellowstone ). The main nightlife district is within walking distance – perfect for heading out with your new traveling buddies.

The LARK | Best Hotel in Bozeman

Budget traveling in the USA doesn’t mean you can’t travel in style, and this hotel perfectly combines affordable comfort with modern design. It’s located right in the city center, only a short walk from the university. The main shopping and dining street runs right by the hotel, giving you immediate access to the best attractions in the city.

Things to See and Do in Bozeman:

• Feel like John Wayne by embarking on a horse ride through the Great Plains.
• There are some great art and culture attractions available across the city including Altitude Gallery, Emerson Center for Arts and Culture, and the Museum of the Rockies.
• The Scoop, the Haufbrau, and the Molly Brown form the ‘Barmuda triangle’ – three super affordable bars popular with local students.

3. Glacier National Park – Scenic National Park in Montana

You can stay in Glacier National Park itself for some epic camping, especially during the summer. In the winter months it’s advised to stay in one of the gateway towns like West Glacier or Essex. This is also a great choice for those who prefer to stay in a hotel.

Luxury Sky Dome | Best Glamping in Glacier National Park

This is a great camping option for those that aren’t quite ready to rough it out! Housed within a sky-dome, you’ll be able to fall asleep under the stars whilst enjoying a warm place to relax in. The dome comes with modern furnishings – including a walk-in rainfall shower.

Apgar House | Best Cabin in Glacier National Park

Rather stay in a cabin? There are a few of those dotted around Glacier National Park too, including this super spacious retreat next to Lake McDonald. The town of Apgar offers boat rentals, peaceful hikes, and organized cycling trails. This makes it a fantastic choice for adventure travelers in the area.

Under Canvas Glacier | Best Campsite in Glacier National Park

Camping is the best way to stay inside Glacier National Park, but it can be intimidating for newbies. Thankfully there are a few luxury camping options around, so you won’t have to give up on your home comforts. This luxury campsite offers cabins, yurts, and tipis to suit all group sizes. The communal vibe also means you’ll have plenty of opportunities to socialize with other guests.

Things to See and Do in Glacier National Park:

• Drive along the Sun Highway, home to the most spectacular viewpoints in the entire national park.
• Take a boat tour of the glacier lakes . We recommend Lake MacDonald in particular, but Many Glacier and Rising Sun also offer incredible experiences.
• Kick back and relax in the many bars in Babb, a town just outside the national park with a local heart.
• Glacier National Park is home to some of the best hikes in the USA . Cracker Lake is the coolest one in particular, but it’s pretty intense!

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4. Billings – Best Area in Montana for Families

Billings is the largest city in Montana and a great spot for experiencing Great Plains culture. It may be the largest city in the state, but still manages to maintain a laid-back atmosphere. 

In Billings, you will find a whole host of family-friendly attractions – from horse rides and adventure parks to interactive art museums. It’s also home to a number of events – so make sure to check the local calendar before you book.

Alkali Creek | Best Home in Billings

Breathtaking views, rustic interiors, and epic hiking trails nearby – what doesn’t this property have? Sleeping up to 12 people across four bedrooms, this is our top pick for larger families heading to Billings. The property is surrounded by huge windows, giving you stunning 360-degree views around the area. Alkali Creek is on the doorstep – an excellent spot for fishing, hiking, and cycling.

Doubletree by Hilton Billings | Cozy Hotel in Billings

Doubletree is known for its family-friendly comfort, offering rooms to suit families of all sizes. A complimentary breakfast is offered every morning – so you can fuel up for an adventure-filled day head.

Park City | Country Ranchette in Billings

Get back to basics in this ranch home just outside Billings. Our favorite feature is the private hot tub, which makes the perfect spot to unwind after a long day of exploring. It’s located in Park City – a smaller town about 15 minutes from Billings that has a more local vibe. This is a great option for smaller families thanks to the excellent rates.

Park City is one of our favourites in Montana but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

Things to See and Do in Billings:

• The whole family will love Pappy’s Adventures , a local tour company that specializes in cowboy-related experiences.
• Speaking about cowboys, the Great Plains are the best part of the country for horse riding. Check out local listings for more information on where to look.
• Yellowstone Art Museum is full of contemporary art from Montana and the rest of the Rocky Mountains.
• Take a trip to Pictograph Cave State Park and learn about some of the best-preserved cave drawings in the world.

5. Kalispell – Best Skiing Destination in Montana

Kalispell is just outside Glacier National Park. It’s actually in the center of the Flathead Valley, a unique natural region that has been carved by melting glaciers over the past few centuries.

Kalispell transforms into a major snow-sports hub in the winter. Whitefish Mountain Resort is nearby, offering some of the best slopes in the state.

Flathead Lake | Lakeside Barn in Kalispell

Flathead Lake is just outside Kalispell, and the town of Somers is located right on the waterfront. This property is housed within a modern barn conversion, combining rustic charm with contemporary luxury. There are some fantastic trails close by, so make sure to pack your hiking boots !

Evolve Vacation | Best Apartment in Kalispell

This is our favorite accommodation for those that want to stay closer to the city center. The apartment has been recently renovated with plenty of open spaces, luxury finishes and modern appliances. The river is only a short walk from the apartment, and offers some stunning views.

North Forty Resort | Friendly Resort in Kalispell

North Forty Resort is located on the road to Whitefish Mountain Resort. If you’re visiting for skiing, this is our top pick out of all the accommodation in Montana. You’ll also have quick access to Glacier National Park and the city of Kalispell. Golfing and horse riding are popular activities in the area – perfect for families heading on an adventure vacation.

Things to See and Do in Kalispell:

• Whitefish Mountain Resort is a world-class skiing hub just north of the town.
• Conrad Mansion Museum is a fascinating historic artifact with regular tours throughout the year.
• You have to grab a cup of joe at Montana Coffee Company.

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Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Here’s what people usually ask me about the areas of Montana and where to stay.

Where is the best place to stay in Montana if I’m visiting for the first time?

Missoula is the perfect area for first-timers to Montana. Why? Because it’s right in the heart of Glacial County and is home to some of the best of what Montana has to offer. You’re also in the ideal spot here to explore the National Park, and Bozeman and Kalispell from.

Where is the best place to stay in Montana in the summertime?

Glacier National Park is gorgeous in the summertime. From unique wildlife to glistening lakes and mighty mountains, I can see why it’s listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Park.

What is the best area to stay in Montana to be near Yellowstone?

Bozeman is the spot for you travellers hoping to head to Yellowstone National Park. It’s a short drive to the national park and even better, it’s actually a pretty affordable place to stay.

Can I go fishing in Montana?

Well, if you’re an unmarried woman in Montana, then apparently you cannot. And if you are a married woman, you can but you cannot go alone on Sundays. This may be a wise tale, I can’t say I tried to go fishing alone! But if you do try it, let me know how you get on.

Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.

Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Sea To Summit Micro Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!

Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!

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Montana is one of the best destinations in the United States . Home to beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Sites, quirky cultural hubs, and some of the most photogenic spots in the country, it makes for a fantastic destination. Known as Big Sky Country for its endless blue skies, this is a must-visit for anyone interested in the great outdoors.

If we had to pick one place that stands out for us it would be Missoula ! It maintains a youthful atmosphere thanks to the student population, and is full of vibrant cultural attractions. Missoula is pretty close to Glacier National Park, Kalispell and Bozeman, so you can easily take a few day trips whilst you’re there.

That being said, the best place for you really depends on what you want to get out of your trip. Glacier National Park, Kalispell, and Bozeman are all fantastic options for adventure-oriented travelers. On the other hand, Billings offers a fascinating insight into Great Plains culture and is a great destination for chilling out.

We hope this guide has helped you narrow down your options for your upcoming adventures in the USA.

Did we miss anything? Let us know in the comments!

• Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around USA .
• Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in USA .
• Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in USA instead.
• Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in USA to plan your trip.
• Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for USA . 
• Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Sheridan Cahoon

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The 8 best places to experience Big Sky Country in Montana

Sep 17, 2023 • 7 min read

Immerse yourself in the striking landscapes of Big Sky Country © Nature Is Magical / Getty Images

Massive Montana comprises the Last Best Place in the American West, encompassing a wild terrain of Rocky Mountain adventures and bucket-list places to visit. Amid the mountains, national forests and wild rivers teeming with trout, several historical and current railroad depots punctuate the state, now grown into Montana’s best cities, showcasing its independent yet inviting culture.  

Interstate 90 and 15 cross in the mountainous western half of the state, supplemented by a network of state highways lending access to several notable Big Sky destinations. While some top spots get a wave of traffic throughout summer, getting around Montana typically involves wide-open roadways. Montana’s cities are small enough to explore car-free, but a personal vehicle offers much more freedom to explore outdoors.

1. Glacier National Park

Best place to satisfy wanderlust on a hiking trail  

The Crown of the Continent in northwest Montana –  Glacier National Park  – is a true choose-your-own-adventure for jaw-dropping hiking trails . Over 700 miles of well-worn paths navigate its terrain of startling mountain peaks and wildlife-strewn valleys. Several trails challenge the legs, although a general rule of thumb is the higher the climb, the better the view. 

For those just getting introduced to Montana hiking trails, head for the Hidden Lake Trail departing from the Logan Pass Visitor Center . Clements Mountain provides a scenic guidepost along this approximately five-mile round-trip hike, visible above the wildflower meadows of Hanging Gardens lining the route. For those ready for a bigger challenge, the park’s signature hiking trail, the Highline Trail, also departs from Logan Pass. 

Planning Tip : Finding parking can be the most challenging aspect of visiting the famous Logan Pass – the highest point along the Going-to-the-Sun Road. The park’s free summer shuttle system ensures you’ll never be turned away because of parking capacity.

Best place for Western history

Wild West history is on full display in Butte, Montana, near the western slopes of the Continental Divide. This mining town experienced its boom in the late 1800s with vast copper lodes contributing to its moniker: “The Richest Hill on Earth.” 

Mining operations have ceased in Butte, leaving behind the infamous Berkeley Pit and over 6,000 historic properties now part of the Butte-Anaconda Historic District , one of the largest in the country. This landmark status plunges visitors into the history that once made Butte the largest city between San Francisco and Chicago.  

Copper King mansions, underground mines and sealed-away speakeasies are a few guided tour opportunities diving deeper into Butte’s history. The Pekin Noodle Parlor is also a current attraction of historical interest as one of the oldest family-run Chinese restaurants in the country.

Best basecamp for skiing and snowboarding

The university city of Bozeman draws an adventurous crowd throughout its long, powdery winter season. And between late November and April, residents and visitors flock toward the cold smoke of two of Montana’s best ski and snowboard destinations , Bridger Bowl Ski Area and Big Sky Resort.  

Bridger Bowl is at the backdoor of Bozeman, accessible with a 30-minute drive or a free shuttle ride. Its 2,000 skiable acres attract a moderate crowd of students, community members, and tourists, though it only gets busy by Montana standards, with rarely more than a 20-minute chairlift wait. Lift tickets are cheaper if you buy online through Bridger Bowl’s website. 

Big Sky Resort , located a scenic hour’s drive south, is the pinnacle of Montana skiing. A growing collection of over 30 lifts, including North America’s first 8-person lift (heated seats included), access its staggering 6,000 acres flowing down from Lone Peak. Intrepid downhill visitors can ride the Lone Peak Tram to the summit for a memorable black-diamond ride.

4. West Yellowstone

Best place for spotting wildlife

West Yellowstone is a gateway community for Yellowstone National Park , with the park’s entrance less than a mile from the center of this small tourist town. Wildlife abounds in the nation’s first national park, alongside hot springs, fumaroles, and geysers, with frequent sightings of American bison along the roadside. 

Head to the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center in West Yellowstone for guaranteed sightings of Greater Yellowstone wildlife. This non-profit, AZA-accredited wildlife park maintains a stimulating habitat for animals unfit to live in the wild. Budget extra time to hang out in the Naturalist Cabin, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the resident wolf packs.   

5. Flathead Lake

Best place for summer traditions

Flathead Lake is hard to miss when visiting northwest Montana. It’s the largest freshwater lake west of the Mississippi River in the contiguous United States, requiring at least a 40-mile drive from end to end. And with state parks, campgrounds, boat ramps, and small towns lining the route, it’s often a central base for summer road trip traditions.    

Flathead Cherries are one summer tradition not to miss. Cherry season is short and sweet in the Flathead Valley, with farm stands popping up near the shoreline in July through early August. Plan a visit to coincide with the Flathead Cherry Festival , typically the last weekend of July, for the full taste of these regional treats.

Planning Tip: Looking for an adventure? Rent a kayak or book a charter to Wild Horse Island near the lake’s western shore, and keep your eyes peeled for the feral residents.

6. Missoula

Best place to fly fish blue-ribbon waterways

Missoula is a fly-fishing paradise at the junction of great trout rivers in western Montana. Local author Norman Maclean captured this ethos in his iconic 1976 collection of stories, A River Runs Through It , and Brad Pitt and Robert Redford revamped enthusiasm with their 1992 blockbuster hit. 

The Clark Fork, Bitterroot, and Blackfoot are world-class rivers within bicycling distance of Missoula, including tributaries like Rock Creek. Outfitters like Missoulian Angler offer guided fly-fishing trips for first-timers and experienced anglers alike. Fishing spots and hatch dates are often discussed at local fly stores like Grizzly Hackle Fly Shop .

Planning Tip: A valid fishing license is required to cast a line in a Montana waterway. Many guiding companies require you to purchase your fishing license before a trip, which can be done online.

7. Red Lodge

Best spot for a scenic drive

The Beartooth and Absaroka Mountains set the tone for the tourist-friendly town of Red Lodge in southern Montana, near the Wyoming border. These picturesque peaks, some of the tallest in the state, offer unlimited outdoor recreation opportunities. And the seasonal 68-mile Beartooth Highway offers parking lot access to all the wild terrain spanning from Red Lodge to Yellowstone National Park.

The Beartooth Highway is one of Montana’s best road trips between late May and October 15th. This All-American road tops out at nearly 11,000 feet with prominent views of the glacier-caked Beartooth Mountains and tree-lined valleys. Hiking trails, viewpoints and summer skiing opportunities line the route, eventually connecting to the hydrothermal wonders of Yellowstone National Park via Cooke City. 

8. Phillipsburg

Best place to uncover hidden gems of the Treasure State

Phillipsburg is a picturesque mountain town on the Pintler Veterans’ Memorial Scenic Byway, approximately halfway between Glacier and Yellowstone National Parks. Silver and other underground resources built this early Montana town in the 1860s, and that era still resonates down Broadway Street with antique storefronts housing modern shops and restaurants.

Montana Sapphires are still mined for in Phillipsburg, and visitors sift for their own at places like Gem Mountain and Montana Gems of Phillipsburg . Here, buy a bag of gravel sourced from nearby sapphire mines and head to the washing station to uncover personal treasures. Shops will cut and polish anything you find, though nothing is guaranteed in sapphire mining.   

Planning Tip: You can also find a sweeter type of treasure in Phillipsburg within hundreds of glass jars lining the walls of The Sweet Palace . This nostalgic candy store sells homemade confections like fudge and saltwater taffy – you'll get a sugar high from its aroma alone. 

This article was first published September 2021 and updated September 2023

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Montana Is Packed With Luxury Hotels, Charming Small Towns, and Lots of Adventures — How to Plan the Perfect Trip

Find big adventure in Big Sky Country — here's where to eat, stay, and play in Montana.

They call Montana Big Sky Country. Once you make the trek here, you'll understand why. Untamed rivers run for hundreds of miles, teeming with trophy trout, cutting through the corrugated peaks that loom large along the horizon. Through the thicketed forests, world-class hikes lead to hot springs, geysers, and glaciers in every direction. The powder-packed skiing of winter is rivaled in magnitude by the whitewater rafting of summer. Everything is, well, bigger . To enjoy it all, you need nothing more than a rugged sense of an adventure — and a sensible travel plan. The former is up to you, but we can certainly supply the latter. Your ultimate guide to Montana exploration is below.

Best Time to Visit Montana

The short answer is whenever you want. When you should arrive in Montana is entirely dependent on what you want to do. If you're more inspired by winter sports, world-class ski resorts such as Big Sky and Moonlight Basin are smothered in snow from early December through mid-April. For those motivated by hiking, hot springs, and fly-fishing, June through September is a dependable time to pack your bags. However, if you want to avoid the crowds — especially in national parks like Glacier and Yellowstone — don't sleep on the shoulder season of late summer and early autumn.

Best Things to Do in Montana

Although Montana is an unparalleled paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, it still has plenty to offer by way of cosmopolitan delights, especially within the hip college towns along the western part of the state. Over the past decade, Bozeman has come into its own as one of the coolest mountain towns in the U.S. You can enjoy craft cocktails in dimly lit speakeasies like the Devil's Toboggan , or chow down on stuffed quail and other farm-fresh delicacies at Blackbird . Or, spend time in Missoula and soak up the sensational local beer scene at Conflux Brewing Company or Cranky Sam Public House. Either way, if you're looking to enjoy the nightlife — or a pub crawl — during your time in Montana, make sure you're booking a stay in one of these two destinations.

If you're more interested in camping out under the stars, Montana is in no short supply of options. Big Sky Country, it turns out, affords plenty of dark sky , completely devoid of nocturnal light pollution. A great way to experience it all is through the expansive state park system. Flathead Lake is an underrated gem here. It's the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi and a wonderful summer getaway for boating, swimming, and fishing, offering a multitude of pull-up campsite options.

While up this way, in the northeastern reaches of the state, you'll want to devote some time to strolling the quaint resort towns of Kalispell and Whitefish . And if it's between late June and early October, you'll definitely want to plod through Glacier National Park along the aptly named Going-the-the-Sun Road. Just beware that traffic along the route can be intense throughout this time of year.

Further south in Bozeman, the surrounding Gallatin Valley acts as the entry way to Yellowstone . Although the nation's first national park is primarily located in Wyoming, many of its five million annual visitors come by way of this part of Montana. Come in the summer and you can book world-class whitewater rafting adventures through the three river systems that ultimately converge to form the Missouri River.

Fancy an unforgettably epic road trip? Traverse the 69 miles of Beartooth Highway between Red Lodge and Cooke City. Crescendoing atop a wide plateau 11,000 feet above sea level, this legendary section of U.S. Route 212 is among the most picturesque stretches of highway in the country. But if soaring, vertigo-inducing heights aren't your thing, head an hour west of Bozeman and delve downward into the Lewis and Clark Caverns — one of the biggest limestone caves in the country.

Arrive in winter and you can survey the snow-capped terrain aboard a Ski-Doo . West Yellowstone serves as the snowmobile capital of the lower 48 from December through March. If you prefer to plow through the powder with actual horsepower, check out Big Sky, where you can charter sleigh rides that are sure to enchant the entire family. At the end of an action-packed day, relax your weary bones and soak up the scenery from the region's heralded hot springs .

Where to Stay in Montana

When it comes to overnight options, they are as varied as they are abundant, from primitive pull-up campsites and RV parks with mini golf to dude ranches and luxury boutiques with a bit of history .

If you're craving a high-end hideaway, the town of Big Sky has emerged as the go-to destination. Home to its eponymous ski resort for nearly 50 years, only in recent years has the luxury set spread its wings here. Lone Mountain Ranch is a stellar standout, and high in the running for best resort in all of Montana. The property features stand-alone log cabins along gently moving creeks. You can do guided yoga in the morning and horseback riding in the afternoon. At the base of the slopes, the Montage just opened the doors to its 139-room ski-in, ski-out resort.

For rustic charm further north in the state, book a stay at The Lodge at Whitefish Lake , nestled between its namesake lake and the 28-acre Viking Creek Wetland Preserve. Its thoughtful amenities — hot tubs, spa, live music — are overshadowed only by its access to unspoiled wilderness.

Back in the cities of Bozeman and Missoula, boutique hotels are finally becoming part of the landscape. Notable among them is the new Kimpton Armory, a refurbished property from the WWII barracks of the Montana National Guard. With 122 guest rooms, three restaurants, a rooftop pool featuring unimpeded views of the Bridger Mountains, and its own concert venue, it's quickly becoming the place to be in downtown these days.

But if you're seeking a more laid-back bed-and-breakfast feel, Montana has you covered in every corner. For those looking for lodging in Missoula, a sensational example can be found at Blue Mountain — five private rooms set atop 20 acres of wildlife habitat directly next to Lolo National Forest. With Big Sky comes big options. Choose wisely.

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20 Best Places to Visit in Montana

Are you interested in finding the truly best places to visit in Montana ? Perhaps you’ve heard of Glacier National Park or Yellowstone National Park. Both are otherworldly and are top Montana vacation spots for a reason. But did you know that there are many more lesser-known Montana vacation spots that are equally as wonderful as the big ones?

For example, have you ever heard of the Lewis and Clark Caverns? They are as incredible as they sound. It’s time to explore the best places to visit in Montana , from the vast Glacier National Park to the sleepy ghost towns of the prairies.

Here is our list of top Montana vacation spots that you can spend either one afternoon or a whole week exploring. Here’s a deep dive into the best places to see in Montana.

20 Best Places to Visit in Montana – Montana vacation spots

Where are the best places to visit in Montana? If you want to know where to vacation in Montana in summer and winter, then we’ve got you covered:

• Yellowstone National Park
• Lake McDonald
• Glacier National Park
• Lewis and Clark Caverns
• Pryor Mountains
• Garden of One Thousand Buddhas
• Beartooth Mountains
• East Rosebud
• Great Falls
• Chico Hot Springs

Let’s discuss each one in detail.

1. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is one of the best places to visit in Montana and is also one of the most popular. And well, it’s one of the most popular for a reason. It’s beauty and awe are unmatched by any other place in the state. This is why we’ve put it at the top of our list, despite not being a hidden gem of top Montana vacation spots. 

If you’ve ever seen a photo of Yellowstone National Park then you may already know why. Underneath the whole area of Yellowstone National Park is a caldera, sometimes called the Yellowstone Supervolcano. 

The result of this deep and diverse caldera underneath this whole land mass is an otherworldly landscape of geysers, hot springs, colorful pools, steaming lakes and boiling rivers. 

Top Montana Vacation Spots – Pools of bright orange and electric blue

Pools of bright orange and deep blue with white steam climbing to the skies are common in Yellowstone. In many of these areas you’re able to park, get out of your car and walk a boardwalk around the pools so you can get an up close look at the natural phenomenon. 

Just be aware of your step and be sure you always remain on the designated walkways. These pools can reach over 400 degrees fahrenheit. The Grand Prismatic Spring in Yellowstone is the largest hot spring in the United States and the third largest in the world. 

Other, less hot streams and pools of water exist that you can even swim in. Some of these are pools and other places in the park there are rivers with hot water flowing from geysers into the river, making for a very pleasant water temperature for swimming. 

Of course, only jump in if you are a confident swimmer, because these are wild pools of water and, of course, there are no lifeguards on duty. Some of the calmer pools of water are generally safe for everyone and are a delight to sit and relax in stress free. I highly recommend them.

Top Montana Vacation Spot – Old Faithful Geyser

Any Montana trip to Yellowstone National Park should include a visit to the Old Faithful Geyser. Old Faithful is one of the most famous geysers of Yellowstone and this is for good reason.

Each time Old Faithful erupts it releases 3,700 to 8,400 gallons (14,000 to 32,000 l) of boiling hot water straight up into the sky. There aren’t too many places on earth where you can watch such a beautiful spectacle occur in the wild without any human engineering behind it. 

The water column reaches a height of 100 to 200 ft (30–55 m) and has an average temperature of 169.7°F (76.5°C).

After some time in the otherworldly environment of Yellowstone National Park, you may even forget that you’re in Montana.

See it on the map .

2. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Lake McDonald

(Lake McDonald, Glacier National Park)

Lake McDonald is one of the best places to visit in Montana because of its mystic natural beauty nestled in between dramatic mountain ranges. Perhaps you’ve heard of Glacier National Park. I will talk more about the park below. But first, Lake McDonald deserves some attention of its own. 

Lake McDonald is one of the reasons Glacier National Park is so admired by Montanans and out-of-state visitors and is one of the best places to visit in Montana. It’s one of the reasons Glacier National Park has the reputation it does.

This natural spectacle is 10 miles long and 470 ft deep. Many visitors say it reminds them of a Norwegian fjord. It is the largest lake in Glacier National Park. 

Going-to-the-Sun Road – Best places to visit in Montana

If you’re ever here, one popular driving route is on the nationally-renowned and scenic Going-to-the-Sun road, which eventually runs right up and along the southern shore of Lake McDonald. 

Lake McDonald is a popular Montana vacation spot not only for its natural beauty but because of its historical significance. The lake sits in an ancient basin that was carved out of the ground by glaciers during the Ice Age.

People looking for the best place to visit in Montana for hiking and walking in nature will be delighted by Lake McDonald. 

The lake is one of the best places to visit in Montana for: 

• Wildlife viewing
• Sightseeing

Aside from the lake, this area abounds with wildlife. Keep an eye out for:

• Black bears
• Mountain goats
• Bighorn sheep

And much more. As with almost every natural area in Montana, it’s always advised to be prepared for bears. A bottle of bear spray is a good method of defense. 

(Importance of Bear Spray in Montana)

Wherever you purchase your bear spray from, ask one of the specialists from the shop to explain how to use it. Basically, a canister of bear spray shoots a strong stream of highly potent, stinging liquid several yards. 

When it comes in contact with the bear’s eyes, it immobilizes it and gives you a chance to get away.

Important note: If you decide to test your canister of bear spray at any time, make sure you’re in an open space outdoors, that no one’s nearby, and never spray it upwind. 

Even if the slightest remnant floating through the air in your direction comes into contact, it can be a very painful experience and take hours before you start to feel normal again.

Unfortunately, it’s a necessary topic to cover when we’re talking about Montana travel and vacation spots. Montana’s wild and stunning natural environment is what continuously draws visitors to the state. However, there are aspects of wild nature that we need to be prepared for. 

A little foresight and preparedness goes a long way. It can ensure you avoid any serious problems and make sure your vacation in Montana is a pleasant one!

Back to Lake McDonald

On the other hand, the natural wildlife underwater in Lake Powel is absolutely stunning and doesn’t pose a threat! Many natural inhabitants call Lake McDonald home, which is another reason it’s considered one of the best places to visit in Montana:

• Native trout

And much more. 

There are many places to see in Montana which can make it hard to decide which is the best place to visit in Montana for you. However, if your time is limited and you’re going to visit some of the top spots, like Glacier National Park, we highly recommend stopping by Lake McDonald. 

See it on the map . 

3. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Glacier National Park

Besides the beauty of Lake McDonald, there is much more to see in Glacier National Park. It’s also one of the most popular Montana vacation spots. We’ve included it in this list of the best places to visit in Montana because it just never disappoints. If you’re in Montana, I can’t recommend enough that you visit Glacier. 

Glacier National Park is an expansive area of majestic beauty sitting on the US-Canada border, where sites like Lake McDonald abound. The park covers an area of 1 million acres and includes two mountain ranges, more than 100 lakes and thousands of animal and plant life.

It’s a natural oasis sitting in the middle of what many scientists refer to as the Crown of the Continent Biosphere Reserve. 

One of the reasons Glacier is one of the top Montana vacation spots is that here, you can do many outdoor activities:

• Mountain climbing
• Wildlife watching 

There are more than 650 miles of trails that twist and roll through the forests and meadows, past the mountains and lakes. If you prefer exploring Glacier by car, you’re in for a treat. The Going-to-the-Sun road is a famous scenic 50-mile road that is also a marvel of modern engineering.

Other Sites in the Park – Best Montana vacation spots 

Inside the park you can also visit Two Medicine, the Goat Haunt and Many Glacier where you can learn about Native American history, see some former homesteading sites and further immerse yourself in the history and nature of the park.

The views and the atmosphere that Glacier has to offer are what many visitors to Montana came here hoping to see. 

This makes it one of the best places to visit in Montana.

Glacier National Park is one of the most famous Montana tourist attractions. Be sure to add it to your list of Montana destinations . I think the best time to visit Glacier National Park is during the summer. Though if you love the sparkle and charm of a dramatic natural setting blanketed in snow, visiting Glacier National Park in the winter also won’t disappoint. 

4. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Columbus

Columbus, the town, is very small and doesn’t offer much beyond some historic antique shopping, a large gas station right off I-90 which is great for refueling on a long road trip to Montana, some restaurants serving local cuisine and the Yellowstone river flowing through. 

However, it’s on this list of the best places to visit in Montana because the town itself is quiet and pleasant to stop through and just outside of Columbus is some of the nicest nature Montana has to offer. 

Follow the road through Columbus, cross the tracks over the Yellowstone bridge and veer right up towards the Stillwater River. Take this road as far as you like. The drive itself is beautiful. 

Drive Along the River – Best Montana vacation spots

Stop at any of the many public accesses to the river and take it all in. The Stillwater is one of the most pristine and beautiful rivers in Montana. It’s not a far drive from Billings – about an hour. This makes it one of the best places to visit in Montana if you’re in or nearby Billings. 

The further you follow the highway up the valley along the Stillwater River, the scenery changes and reveals itself in a new way, opening up to new hillsides and mountains where the river narrows and widens. 

This Montana vacation spot is suited for those who are looking to get a taste of Montana nature with the opportunity to eat at a small restaurant on the way without being in the city.  

If you’re not interested in small towns off the beaten path, then I can’t recommend this as one the best places to visit in Montana. You may prefer Livingston or Bozeman better.

Absarokee – Best places to visit in Montana

It can make you feel as if you’re driving through the setting of a Hollywood film. Take the road all the way to Absarokee (pr. abzorkee ), a small town that is well prepared to cater to the many local and foreign tourists that make their way up there. 

Despite how small Absarokee is, there are several nice restaurants serving local food.

After lunch continue on up road 420 to continue following the Stillwater. The scenery remains as beautiful as ever and there are several public accesses along the road with bathrooms and places to picnic.

Again, cell service can be intermittent when you’re this far up in hills, so be sure to take note of how you got to where you are so that if it’s already dark when you decide to go back, you know how to get there. 

At the very least, you can simply remember to follow the 420 back to Absarokee. From there, you just follow highway 78 back to Columbus, where you can get back on I-90 and head back to Billings or continue West to Livingston or Bozeman. 

5. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Livingston 

Livingston is a well-kept, medium-sized historic Montana town, with a main street that could have been taken straight from a film set. This makes it one of the best places to visit in Montana.

Livingston is set in a picturesque location and offers almost everything you could desire if you are looking for the modern version of an old western town. This includes antique shops filled with mysteries, historic souvenirs, stylish furniture and more.

The restaurants in Livingston are equally impressive, which makes the town one of the best places to visit for those looking to experience local Montana cuisine. 

Paradise Valley – Top Montana vacation spots

A short 30 minute drive from Livingston, in the opposite direction of I-90, is another stunning area, called Paradise Valley, that is worth taking a drive through if you’re Livingston. 

The name speaks for itself. Paradise Valley is another example of a beautiful place that is a short drive from a city. Once you leave Livingstone and enter Paradise Valley, it feels like you’ve entered another world and are miles from the nearest town. 

The sweeping meadows lined by jagged mountains are about as dramatic and beautiful as it gets in Montana. You can expect winding rivers that glide through open fields and forests set below dramatic rising mountains. Just driving through is enough to feel the atmosphere. 

Paradise Valley is a top Montana vacation spot, which means slowly and surely, homes and cabins continue popping up here and there, but it’s mostly open nature with a very special atmosphere, especially in the summer. 

6. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Bozeman

(Hyalite Canyon, 5 minute drive from Bozeman)

Bozeman is one of the most unique places to visit in Montana. Because it’s one of the larger towns in Montana, with a University and a relatively diverse population, it has become one of the top Montana vacation spots in the past several decades and one of the best cities to visit in Montana. 

Bozeman is a small town of about 50,000 residents with one of the most popular Universities in the state. It’s also one of the most popular places in Montana that people from out of state and even out of the country choose to move to.

At the same time, Bozeman was originally a small, farming town, without much outside influence. The current mix of residents makes for a very diverse and stimulating atmosphere. 

This is one of the main reasons many people consider it one of the best places to visit in montana.

Shopping Bozeman – Best places to visit in Montana

If you’re interested in Montana shopping, Bozeman will be a top Montana vacation spot for you. Main street is a typical western American main street, lined with record stores, chic boutiques, coffee shops, book stores, ski and snowboard shops, restaurants, historic hotels and much much more. Historic hotels are some of the best places to stay in Montana.

Once you’ve strolled main street, step one block north or south and stroll up and down one of the side streets parallel to main street. There’re more small restaurants and shops to be discovered. 

Skiing Bozeman – Best Montana vacation spots

Bozeman doesn’t only have an energetic city-life to offer. Bozeman is located one hours’ drive from Big Sky Mountain Resort and about 45 minutes’ drive from Bridger Bowl Ski Area. These are two of the most popular Montana vacation spots in the whole state. 

Big Sky is known for being wide and open, offering almost every type of terrain imaginable. Bridger Bowl is a ski resort spread across a large ridge, with different runs peeling off from different points cutting through forests and glades. 

Back in Bozeman you can find many restaurants on Main street and plenty of hotels throughout the town. It’s one of the more expensive cities in Montana, but still relatively affordable relative to the rest of the country. Except for its real estate. Bozeman real estate is exceptionally expensive. But this is because it’s such a popular place to live.

7. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Lewis and Clark Caverns

The Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park is as incredible as the name suggests, which is why it is one of the best places to visit in Montana. It is one of the most popular Montana vacation spots. 

The caverns are one of the biggest and most elaborate limestone cave complexes of the Northwestern United States. 

The park is the first and one of the best known national parks of Montana. It’s been a popular Montana vacation spot for a long time. The park covers 3,000 acres of land and sits at around 5,000 ft above sea level. 

Underground – Top Montana vacation spots

Once you descend into the caverns you’ll notice it’s naturally air conditioned, which is a delight if you decide to visit this Montana vacation spot on one the hottest June or July days. 

Stalagmites, stalactites, helictites and columns are stacked all around you, coming from the ceiling of the caves and shooting up from the ground. 

The caverns and their stalactites and columns are electrically lit, making for a very dramatic environment. The lights also ensure it is safe and easy to see as you walk the pathway and its stairs.

Above the caverns are 10 miles of trails above ground, which give you a great opportunity to explore the surrounding beautiful nature. 

For those that want to stick around for more than just a couple hours, there is a campground nearby the park, fully equipped with:

• camping cabins: max 6 people; disabled access; no plumbing, kitchen facilities or bedding provided. Equipped with electric lights 
• Picnic area
• Toilets (flush and vault)
• RV dump station
• Grill and fire rings
• Garbage cans
• Food, beverage concession

Your pets are welcome on the campgrounds if they are on a leash.

The Lewis and Clark cabins are such a sought after Montana vacation spot that they’re open year round. This makes them one of the best places to visit in Montana, no matter which time of the year you come. 

However, guided tours are available only from May 1 to September 30. Also, the event program in the summer makes this one of the best places to visit in Montana in the summer. 

Nearby are the towns of Three Forks and Whitehall where you’ll find access to all the amenities you missed while camping out, including a golf course and museums.

8. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Billings

(Zimmerman Park)

Billings is the largest city in Montana. This means it can be one of the most interesting Montana destinations. It’s population is about 100,000 people. This fact, alone, is good enough reason to at least see it once. The large population makes it one of the best cities to visit in Montana. If you’re flying to Montana, there’s a good chance you’ll fly into Billings. 

It’s worth it to stay a couple nights if you have the time, because it truly is one of the best places to visit in Montana if you’re interested in Montana’s cities.  

Largest City in Montana – Best places to visit in Montana

Because Billings is the largest city in the state, it has more to offer than other cities in terms of services, restaurants, neighborhoods and city activities. Billings’ historic downtown is a great place for a walk. 

Despite being the largest city in the state, the population is only 100,000, which means downtown is almost never overcrowded. 

Downtown has a wide range of western boutiques, book shops, restaurants and more. You can get a lot of your Montana souvenir shopping done if you are in billings. There are also several shops selling Native American items and souvenirs.

Outside of downtown are a number of pleasant neighborhoods to drive through. One neighborhood, referred to by residents as ‘the avenues’ is a historic neighborhood with a historic feel. 

Leaving downtown past the hospital heading northwest, you can turn off Poly Dr. and cruise through the avenues. If you turn back onto Rimrock road and go west, you’ll drive past many houses and the local private college called Rocky Mountain College.

Zimmerman Park – Best places to visit in Montana

Continue heading west on Rimrock for about 10 minutes until you reach Zimmerman trail. Turn right on Zimmerman trail to wind your way and around the sandstone cliff that borders the whole northern side of the central part of Billings. 

You’ll wind your way up to the top of the cliffside to the open prairie and farmland up top. At the roundabout at the top, take the third exit and drive west. 

Several hundred yards ahead of you you’ll see a small gravel parking lot on the left. This is Zimmerman Park. Here you can park your car and walk the trails all across the top of the sandstone cliff. 

There are several levels that cascade down to the cliff’s edge. Before the edge are various trails to stroll on, past boulders, drops, caves and open areas all overlooking the city below. If you like views, Zimmerman Park is one of the best places for views in Billings, especially if you want to experience pristine nature at the same time.

Looking out over the city, you’ll see the green trees, the farm land out west and further south on a clear day you can see the Pryor Mountains, one of the best places to visit in Montana, which is just a short drive from Billings.

Lake Elmo – Best places to visit in Montana

If you leave Zimmerman Park and drive back East towards the roundabout and continue straight past Zimmerman trail you’ll reach the airport. Past the airport lies Billings Heights. 

A vacation in Montana is always special. If you’re in the heights on a summer day, I recommend stopping by Lake Elmo, a small state park in the heights with a small man made lake. It’s a nice place to unwind and have a picnic by the water. 

Billings is a relatively large town, so I recommend driving around and exploring each neighborhood as you come across it. There’s lots to see. 

9. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Pryor Mountains

The Pryor Mountains are a unique mountain range that don’t get much recognition outside of the state of Montana. Those who visit the Pryors are often locals, from Billings or one of the other nearby towns. 

They are near the top of our list for a reason. They feature an extra degree of that dry, otherworldly desert landscape that is so often found in Montana and North & South Dakota. There are forests in the Pryor Mountains as well, which balance out the dry, winding coulees, red rocks and low lying desert vegetation. 

Wild Horses – Montana vacation spots

Amidst it all, if you’re out driving through the Pryors or riding your mountain bike, you’re likely to be met with a herd of wild mustangs (horses) led by a couple wild stallions darting through the forest or cutting across the fields. 

These aren’t horses from a nearby farm. They are the live wild mustangs of the Pryor Mountains. While wild horses aren’t aggressive in nature, they are still wild animals, so if you come across a herd while exploring this top Montana vacation spot, it’s a good idea to give them their space if you want to capture some photos. 

As I mentioned, the Pryor mountains feature a dry arid landscape that is reminiscent of the southwestern US with desert vegetation, multiple shades of red and beige colored hill and cliff sides. 

Hiking and Biking – Best places to visit in Montana

Many visitors come by car and cruise slowly around the dirt roads in the region, but if you have the energy and the desire to see more of this mountain range, a hike or a mountain bike through the trails and dirt roads is a great way to explore where the roads don’t lead. 

It can be extremely hot in the Pryor Mountains in the summer, so be sure to remember to pack lots of water. 

Cell service is spotty in the Pryor Mountains, so also be sure to tell someone where you’re going and for how long, to be sure that help will be on the way if you run into trouble.

Billings, the biggest city in the state, is just about an hours’ drive from the Pryors, making it a perfect day trip if you are in Billings for a couple days.

10. Top Montana Vacation Spots – Garden of One Thousand Buddhas

The Garden of One Thousand Buddhas is a unique Montana destination. It sits just outside of the small town of Arlee in the Jocko Valley. This is a calm and natural area of the state that isn’t visited as often as Glacier or Yellowstone National Park. 

It is an International Peace Center with the goal of helping the human race cultivate inner peace via preserving the ancient culture of Tibet. 

A Thousand Stupas – Best places to visit in Montana

The central statue of the grounds is a 24-foot tall figure of the Great Mother of Transcendent Wisdom, Yum Chenmo. 

Surrounding the whole garden complex are one thousand stupas, which are one one of the human race’s oldest forms of architecture. They honor past great warriors and kings.

The Garden was established by Tulku San-ngag Rinpoche and is situated on the land of Ewam Sang-ngag Ling. The Garden is a piece of Bhuddist culture in Montana that aims to bring about awakening of the human qualities of compassion, joy and wisdom.

The garden is open from dawn to dusk to people of any religion. Visitors to the garden enjoy walking around and absorbing the atmosphere while admiring various Bhuddhist statues, images, symbols and structures. 

The unique atmosphere makes this garden one of the best places to visit in Montana. It’s especially popular because visitors of Montana can spend an afternoon connecting with another culture. 

It is one of the top Montana vacation spots for those interested in making an afternoon trip or stopping for a few hours to see an interesting site on their way to their final destination.

11. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Beartooth Mountains

The Beartooth Mountains are devastatingly beautiful and dramatic. If you’ve ever seen a picture of the Beartooth Mountains then you already understand their beauty and why many consider them to be one of the best places to visit in Montana. 

The Beartooth Pass, which is the road leading up and over the Beartooth Mountains, begins right in the nearby town of Red Lodge. From Red Lodge, you can follow main street out of the town and continue on until the road starts climbing upward. 

From here, the road winds back and forth up a steep mountain side all the way to the top. As you climb higher and higher, the view from the road becomes greater and greater. There are several pull-outs on the way up where you can park your car and gaze out across the landscape below. 

The sheer elevation of the pass can make major mountains down below seem small. Once you’ve reached the top, you’ll continue driving across flatlands and tundra with very unique vegetation. At this point, you are far above the treeline and the surrounding vegetation reminds you of this fact. 

Short vegetation that clings to the ground are likely a result of the high winds that come across this area. It’s absolutely beautiful. 

The Bear’s Tooth

A famous mountain that can be seen from certain points along the road is the Bear’s Tooth. This is a jagged peak that is so narrow and pointed that the top of it resembles a tooth of a wild animal. 

In the spring, when the road is finally cleared by snow plows and the pass opens up to the public, visitors come from all over to drive the pass and enjoy the views. Some people come to ski the glaciers up top. 

To explore the Beartooth Mountains more deeply, you can park your car at a trailhead and hike one of the many trails that lead across the tundra, through the forests, past lakes and deep into the mountain range. 

12. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Red Lodge

If you’re thinking about visiting the Beartooth Pass, then you’ll likely go through Red Lodge, unless you start the drive from the other side of the pass. Red Lodge is easily one of the best places to visit in Montana. It is an incredibly charming town with an atmosphere of an old western town with lots of dense forest in the surrounding nature.

From Billings, Red Lodge is a scenic one hour drive through small towns and open fields and hills. The highway to Red Lodge becomes Main Street once it reaches there. Upon driving up Main Street you’ll notice new and old restaurants, cafes, diners, antique shops, boutiques, toy stores, historic hotels and more. As I mentioned above, historic hotels are some of the best places to stay in Montana 

Red Lodge is a small town tucked away in the hills of Montana. The population is about 2,000 people, so it’s surely a place where you can experience the way people in Montana live. 

Skiing and Snowboarding – Top things to do in Montana

One of the best places to visit in Montana in the winter is one of the many ski resorts. Red Lodge Mountain is a ski area a few minutes’ drive from the town. 

Red Lodge is one of the best places to visit in Montana in summer. If you visit during the summer, there’s plenty to enjoy, including the drive there, the many restaurants and any of the hiking trails and creeks nearby. The Rock Creek runs through the town, making for some pleasant spots for a picnic. 

Red Lodge’s residents are a diverse group of people with different heritages. They are known for preserving their history and culture and celebrate it each year at the local Festival of Nations in Lion’s Park. If you’re in Red Lodge at the end of July, it may be of interest to you. It’s free. 

 See it on the map .

13. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Missoula

Missoula isn’t known as a tourist destination in Montana, but it’s definitely one of the best places to visit in Montana. It’s in an absolutely beautiful region of the state, with the Clark Fork River running straight through town. Missoula sits at the convergence of five mountain ranges: Bitterroot Mountains, Sapphire Range, Garnet Range, Rattlesnake Mountains and the Reservation Divide. 

But most locals and visitors, if they’ve heard of Missoula, know the town as one of the major cities of Montana, with a lot of university students and a lively, liberal environment. It’s large population of young university students tends to continuously attract more young people from around the state, especially those getting ready to attend university. 

Missoula really is a quaint, comfortable town in Montana, making it one of the top Montana vacation spots, if you’re interested in checking out one of the most interesting and pleasant towns in Montana. 

Access to Nature – Best places to visit in Montana

As with most cities in Montana, Missoula is surrounded by beautiful nature that is quickly and easily accessible. If you’re into outdoor activities like skiing, biking, rafting, paddleboarding, kayaking and more, Missoula is a great place for you. 

Endless hiking trails cut through the surrounding forests. You can see the remnants of an ancient lake and discover the signs of the former Indian tribe that used to occupy this area – the Salish American Indian Tribe.

From Missoula you can also visit one of the nearby ghost towns. Missoula almost has it all and is easily one of the best places to visit in Montana. 

14. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Whitefish

Whitefish is a great town in the northwestern part of the state. If you fly into Billings, it’s about a seven hour drive to Whitefish. But once you’re up in this part of the state, it’s easy to see why it’s considered one of the best places to visit in Montana.

Whitefish Lake – Best places to visit in Montana

Right in town is Whitefish Lake. Visitors to Whitefish in the summer can enjoy the convenience of having a pristine lake right on the edge of town. Not only is the water fresh, the landscape of mountains and forests surrounding the lake and town add to the atmosphere. It’s one of the many wonderful lakes of Montana in the summer.

Whitefish is also home to Whitefish ski resort. If you visit this town in the winter, it’s likely because you’re interested in Montana skiing and you’ve heard of Whitefish Mountain Resort. 

Just south of Whitefish is the town of Kalispell, an equally beautiful town that is almost synonymous with Whitefish. When Montanans refer to Whitefish, they often refer to Kalispell as well, since it’s considered the Whitefish/Kalispell region among Montana residents. 

Flathead Lake – Best places to visit in Montana

Drive 10 minutes south of Kalispell and you’ll reach one of the most beautiful lakes in Montana – Flathead Lake. Flathead is a popular lake among Montana residents and visitors from out of state. The lake is enormous and its waters are crystal clear. 

Glacier National Park – Best places to visit in Montana

And, of course, not far from Whitefish and Kalispell is Glacier National Park. There is a lot to see in the top Montana vacation spot. It’s clear to see why this area is considered one of the best places to visit in Montana.

15. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Butte

If you’re driving from Bozeman to Missoula, Butte is a highlight of the journey. It’s one of the best cities to visit in montana. I highly recommend stopping and staying for a day or two if you have the time. Butte is one of the best places to visit in Montana because of its history and its unique atmosphere. 

It’s best known for its history as a major mining town of Montana. Today, visitors to the mine walk out on a viewing platform and look down into the Berkeley Pit, a former open pit copper mine. 

At one point in time, Butte was the largest city in the Rocky Mountains. Even back then, it was one of the best places to visit in Montana. The World Museum of Mining preserves the history and culture of Butte. 

After visiting the museum, I suggest having a stroll through town and stopping in one of the many restaurants or cafes. There is a strong Irish population in Butte who are proud of their heritage, so you’ll likely see signs of Irish heritage in some places in the city. 

Irish Heritage – Top Montana vacation spots

Butte is a storied city that has changed greatly over the past 100 years. This is another reason why it’s one of the best places to visit in Montana. Its booming years were around 1917. Some people estimate that the city had around 100,000 inhabitants back then. It now has around 34,000 inhabitants. 

After exploring the history and culture of Butte, you may very well understand why so many people consider Butte as one of the best places to visit in Montana. 

16. Best Places to Visit in Montana – East Rosebud

(East Rosebud road)

East Rosebud is, yet again, another one of the pristine natural areas that people in Montana cherish. It’s one of the best places to visit in Montana if you want to explore the nature of the Southwestern part of the state. 

If you decide to drive through Columbus and up to Absarokee, as I described above in this article, you may want to consider visiting East Rosebud. From Absarokee, you’ll take highway 78 to Roscoe. And from Roscoe, there’s a road that leads directly to East Rosebud. 

When you reach East Rosebud, you’ll see an incredible, crystal clear lake with a small grouping of cabins, all surrounded by the walls of incredible mountains shooting to the sky on either side of the lake.

It’s an incredible sight. 

At the East Rosebud Lake there is also a trailhead for hiking. There is a campground there if you’d like to stay the night. The water is cold year round. The peacefulness and beauty of the East Rosebud lake is worth seeing at least once, especially if you’re already nearby. It’s easily one of the best places to visit in Montana.

17. Top Montana Vacation Spots – Helena

(Montana State Capitol)

Helena is the capital of Montana. It’s located right in between Yellowstone National Park and Glacier National Park. If you’re driving from Billings, Bozeman, Yellowstone National Park or anywhere in the southern part of the state to Glacier, you may want to stop in Helena at least for the afternoon. If you can stay for a day or two, that’s better.

Helena is one of the best places to visit in Montana also because of its history and its access to nature. All throughout the town are areas of historical significance including the State Capitol Building, the Mansion District and Carroll college. 

There are also 75 miles of nearby trails for hikers and bikers to access straight from town.

Helena is a very quaint, pleasant Montana town with a wide range of restaurants and comfortable small town feel. Many visitors love to stay at least a night in Helena to explore the capitol, learn about the history of the town, stroll the sidewalks of the different districts and neighborhoods and get out for a walk on one of the local trails. 

After a rest in Helena, you’ll be fully energized to continue on to Glacier or Yellowstone.

18. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Great Falls

Great Falls is a small, but spectacular town. It’s surroundings make it one of the best Montana destinations. Any direction you look in, you’ll see either the rolling Missouri River, snow-capped mountains, soaring buttes or rolling endless plains. 

The city is also in the center point between five waterfalls. Visitors of Great Falls immediately see why this is considered one of the best places to visit in Montana. 

Great Falls is one of the largest cities in Montana and has some interesting cultural events and sites for visitors. These include the C.M. Russell Museum, the Mansfield Center for Performing Arts, the Paris Gibson Square Museum and more.  

If you’re interested in learning about a unique part of Montana’s history, I can recommend the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Interpretive Center. This is situated above the Missouri river on the bluff. 

The views from the center are spectacular. Visitors can gaze out across the terrain that Lewis and Clark crossed in 1805, strategically finding their way around the region’s waterfalls and rivers.

Other historic and natural points of interest include: 

• First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park
• University of Great Falls
• 40 miles of River’s Edge Trail
• The Electric City Water Park

The outdoors is a major aspect of this town’s beauty and is what makes it one of the best places to visit in Montana for an afternoon. It’s a short drive northeast of Helena.

19. Top Montana Vacation Spots – Chico Hot Springs

Chico Hot Springs is a resort and day spa about a 30 minutes’ drive south from Livingston. It is one of the best places to stay in Montana. 

If you happen to be in Livingston, you may want to consider driving up to Chico and spending the night. It’s one of the best places to visit in Montana because the man made pools are sourced by chemical-free, geothermally heated mineral water from the ground. 

There are several pools, varying in temperature. Find the one that’s right for you and sit back, relax and gaze over the absaroka mountains. The pools are open earlier and later for guests staying in the hotel. Admission to the pools is included in the lodging cost. 

Montana History – Top Montana vacation spots

The best places to visit in Montana always have a storied history. The first records of people using the springs in this region were of gold miners working in the nearby Emigrant Gulch. By the 1890s, the people in the region had constructed a little wooden building where the source of the springs was located. The springs then flowed into two wooden tubs, about 4 ft deep. 

Before the miners, the hot springs were used by the local Native American tribes for cooking, bathing and preparing hides.

Many Montanans see Chico Hot Springs as a top Montana vacation spot. This is one of the best places to visit in Montana for a reason. It’s a place to get away from the city, get in touch with the history of Montana and experience ultimate relaxation that penetrates deep into your soul.

20. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Big Timber

If you’re wondering where to visit in Montana besides majestic parks and major towns, I suggest exploring a small town.

If you drive from Billings to Bozeman, you’ll pass Big Timber on I-90. I recommend stopping in this small community for at least a day. It’s small population of 1,639 people make it one of the best vacation spots in Montana for relaxation and calm.

The territory between Billings and Bozeman, especially where Big Timber sits below the Crazy Mountains, is especially serene, which put it on the list of best places to visit in Montana. 

Here, you can hike, float the river, golf, souvenir shop or have a picnic and watch the sun set over the Crazies. 

To take a dive into the history of this special part of Montana, stop in the Crazy Mountain Museum. Inside you’ll see a miniature model of Big Timber as it stood back in 1907, called the “Cobblestone City”.

You’ll also find an example of a Norwegian Stabbur, a house made of stone. This is to display the Norwegian heritage of Big Timber. The cultural heritage of Big Timber is another reason we think it’s one of the best places to visit in Montana. You’ll also find a small, one-room school with images of Presidents and blackboards and chalk.

Yellowstone River – Top Montana vacation spot

The mighty Yellowstone River flows through Big Timber. This is one of the largest rivers in Montana and flows through many of the towns along I-90. I can recommend stopping in any town along I-90 between Billings and Bozeman for a small break or picnic. 

That whole drive is one spectacular scene unfolding after the next. They aren’t the most popular places to visit in Montana but they are truly Montanan. I can say they are some of the best places to visit in Montana. 

They offer a unique experience, especially if you decide to stay the night and spend some time strolling the sidewalks and along the waterways, enjoying the silence and atmosphere of small town Montana life.

20 Best Places to Visit in Montana – Final verdict

The best place to visit in Montana is the one that suits your preferences. Enjoy picking out your next Montana vacation spot !

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18 Top Things to Do in Montana

From museums to national parks, Montana has something for everyone.

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Known as "The Treasure State," Montana offers a plethora of travel treasures, such as beautiful national and state parks, unique museums, historical monuments and more.

Montana is the fourth-largest state in the U.S. by landmass, measuring 147,040 square miles. The Treasure State is also home to some of the most beautiful natural wonders in the world, including Glacier National Park , Yellowstone , the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi and more than 300 mountain peaks standing more than 9,600 feet tall.

If you love the outdoors, Montana has so much to offer, from hiking and camping to skiing and fishing. But it's also an excellent place to learn about the history of its inhabitants, particularly the Native American tribes, as well as the wildlife that roam the region.

The state also has the third-lowest population density in the nation, and plenty of wide-open spaces, making it a great place to go if you want to avoid crowds. Read on to learn about all of the best things you can do as a visitor in Montana.

(Note: Some tours and excursions may be affected by the coronavirus pandemic. Capacity restrictions, mask mandates even closures may be in effect. Check with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local tourism boards before making plans.)

Glacier National Park

Established in 1910, Glacier National Park is sometimes referred to as the Crown Jewel of the Continent. Here, you'll find 26 glaciers, 762 lakes, 563 streams, hundreds of species of animals and thousands of species of plants. It also includes roughly 746 miles of hiking trails, making it a paradise for avid hikers. Some of the more iconic routes include the Trail of the Cedars to Avalanche Lake, the Grinnell Glacier Trail and the Highline Trail . Just be sure to look up trail conditions and difficulties before you set out.

While you're visiting, you'll also want to add Going-to-the-Sun Road to your itinerary. The 50-mile road that crosses the Continental Divide is an engineering marvel, passing glaciers, valleys, waterfalls, alpine meadows covered in wildflowers and more. Just keep in mind that the upper portion of the road past Lake McDonald Lodge closes during the winter months.

Visitors hail the park as one of the most beautiful places they've been to, citing stunning views and clear blue glacier water that's almost unreal. Get out on the water in a canoe, kayak, paddleboard, raft or half - or full-day whitewater rafting tour.

Depending on what kind of experience you're looking for, you can camp at one of the park's many campgrounds, or you can stay at a lodge, hotel or bed-and-breakfast. If you're considering more formal accommodations, the Lake McDonald Lodge and Belton Chalet should be on your list of options.

[See more of Glacier National Park: Things to Do  | Hotels  | When to Visit  | Photos . ]

Yellowstone National Park

Only 3% of Yellowstone National Park resides in Montana, but the state is home to three of the park's five entrances. Near the north entrance of the park, you'll find Mammoth Hot Springs , which has been said to look like a cave that's been turned inside out. The large terraces are formed by limestone that's dissolved by the hot, acidic water that rises from the chambers below, then reforms after it's above ground. If you decide to enter through the west entrance, located just across the Wyoming and Idaho borders in West Yellowstone, you'll be a quick drive away from several geyser basins, which include both geysers and hot springs.

Some of the more popular attractions in this area include Old Faithful , Grand Prismatic Spring , Fountain Paint Pot and more. Finally, the northeast entrance, which is closed during the winter months, gives you the best access to the park's famous Lamar Valley , which is where you'll be able to observe grizzly bears, black bears, bison and wolves. Visitors to Yellowstone National Park have called it a piece of heaven on Earth, a breathtaking experience and nature at its best.

Depending on where you're coming from, there are plenty of lodging options for each entrance. In West Yellowstone, the ClubHouse Inn West Yellowstone and the Alpine Motel are top-rated. If you're coming from the north entrance in Gardiner, Montana, Yellowstone Village Inn and Yellowstone Riverside Cottages have great reviews. And if you're coming from the northeast, consider the Elk Horn Lodge or Alpine Motel in Cooke City. If you're interested in a guided experience, consider a private Yellowstone tour .

For an especially unique experience in Yellowstone National Park, get out on the water. You can go fly-fishing, kayaking and boating on Yellowstone Lake or take a half - or full-day whitewater rafting tour.

[ See more of Yellowstone National Park : Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos .]

Soak in one of the state's many hot springs

The Treasure State is home to dozens of hot springs perfect for enjoying a relaxing soak. One of the top options is Quinn's Hot Springs Resort in Paradise, Montana, which is about 70 miles northeast of Missoula. At the resort, you can take a dip in five natural hot spring pools. You can also stay in one of the resort's cabins or lodges. Past guests called the resort a relaxing experience, with some making repeat visits.

For a unique experience, check out the Boiling River in Yellowstone near Mammoth Hot Springs. It's one of the few areas where you can legally soak in the national park, and it features a mix of hot water from the spring and cold water from the Gardner River. Before you go, be sure to check the park's website , as the area does close due to varying water conditions. Visitors can access the spot via a short half-mile walk from the parking lot.

You can bed down at the Yellowstone Village Inn or Yellowstone Riverside Cottages in nearby Gardiner. Some travelers have called the Boiling River a highlight in the park, but recommend bringing sandals to walk in the river and a towel to dry off afterward. Other favorite hot springs to visit in the state include the Chico Hot Springs, Bozeman Hot Springs, Norris Hot Springs and Elkhorn Hot Springs.

Visit the Museum of the Rockies in Bozeman

Courtesy of Museum of the Rockies

The museum is a Smithsonian affiliate and offers an incredible array of exhibits. For starters, it has one of the world's largest collections of North American dinosaur fossils, including T-Rex, one of very few mounted Tyrannosaurus rex skeletons on display in the U.S. It also offers exhibits about the history of Yellowstone National Park and the American Indians who lived on the Northern Plains and near the Rocky Mountains, among other topics. There's also an exhibit dedicated to children 8 years and younger, where they can explore and learn about the science of Yellowstone. Every year, the museum also showcases three to five temporary exhibitions. There's also a planetarium, where you can watch shows about the cosmos.

The museum is rated as one of the top things to do in Bozeman. Past visitors call out the dinosaurs, in particular, as a major draw. If you're looking for accommodations in Bozeman, consider staying at the RSVP Hotel or the SpringHill Suites Bozeman .

Address: 600 W. Kagy Blvd., Bozeman, MT 59717

Check out the World Museum of Mining in Butte

Josie Trudgeon | Courtesy of World Museum of Mining)

This is one of the few mining museums in the world that's located on an actual mine yard called the Orphan Girl Mine. It's home to 50 exhibit buildings and 66 primary exhibits in the mine yard itself. With a visit here, you'll learn about the history of hard-rock mining in Butte, which was home to one of the most productive copper mines ever. You'll also get the chance to take an underground mine tour of Orphan Girl, which includes a 100-foot descent to the mine's original shaft station. There, you'll be able to touch the rock and hear stories about the people who worked there.

Past visitors highly recommend the mine tour and praised the tour guides' knowledge and presentation. Reviewers say you'll want to bring a jacket, because the museum is primarily outdoors and the mine is chilly year-round. Some of the best-ranked accommodations in Butte include the Copper King Convention Center, Ascend Hotel Collection and the Hampton Inn Butte.

Address: 155 Museum Way, Butte, MT 59701

Visit the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center in Great Falls

The Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center offers a look into the history of the famous 19th-century expedition, with a focus on the Corp of Discovery's time in Montana. When you first walk in to the center, you'll see a two-story diorama depicting the portage of the Missouri River's five falls. The museum, which was developed in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service, features exhibits, hundreds of artifacts and art collections, all of which help tell the story of the residents and travelers over the course of hundreds of years in the Great Falls region.

Past visitors say that even for travelers who know the basics of the story of the Lewis and Clark expedition, there's a lot more to learn. Others highlight that it's a family-friendly activity. If you're planning to stay in Great Falls, some of the top options for accommodations include the Historical Hotel Arvon and the Best Western Plus Riverfront Hotel and Suites.

Address: 4201 Giant Springs Road, Great Falls, MT 59405

Learn about the cattle industry at Grant-Kohrs Ranch in Deer Lodge

Originally established in 1862 by Canadian fur trader John Grant, then expanded by cattle baron Conrad Kohrs, this ranch was once the headquarters of a 10-million-acre cattle empire. Now a historic site, the ranch serves as a commemoration of the Western cattle industry from the mid-1800s through recent times. It's also still a working cattle ranch, so travelers can witness some live demonstrations. Visitors can also walk through 88 historic buildings, hike nearly 10 miles of ranch roads and trails and take a tour of the ranch house.

Grant-Kohrs Ranch is located in Deer Lodge, which sits 37 miles northwest of Butte. Many travelers say they stopped by the ranch on their way to somewhere else and describe the historic site as a worthy detour.

Address: 266 Warren Lane, Deer Lodge, MT 59722

Enjoy an all-inclusive dude ranch experience at the Resort at Paws Up

Courtesy of The Resort at Paws Up

Montana is home to a number of all-inclusive dude ranches , which give travelers the chance to experience Western culture (think: horseback rides, nightly campfires and fly-fishing) in a luxurious setting. For example, The Resort at Paws Up , located about 30 miles northeast of Missoula in Greenough, is home to 28 luxury homes and 36 luxury glamping tents . The resort offers more than 50 activities for travelers to enjoy on its 37,000-acre cattle ranch. Options include backcountry tours, canoeing, dog sledding, fly fishing, geocaching, snowshoeing, photography and more. The rate includes all meals and more than a dozen activities that can be enjoyed solo, and more than 50 guided activities for an additional charge. Travelers describe the resort as "unreal," "intimate" and a "once-in-a-lifetime experience."

Other top-rated all-inclusive dude ranches in Montana include the Ranch at Rock Creek , Blacktail Ranch, the Hawley Mountain Guest Ranch and Elkhorn Ranch.

Address: 40060 Paws Up Road, Greenough, MT 59823

Drive the Hi-Line

The northernmost route in the state traveling east to west, U.S. Highway 2, is called the Hi-Line by locals. If you're visiting Glacier National Park, the western edge of the roughly 650-mile highway is close by. As you drive the Hi-Line, you'll come across small towns that will make you feel like you've stepped back in time. The farther you get from glacier country, the landscape morphs into great rolling plains with isolated volcanic peaks, which are sacred to the local Native American tribes. Keep going, and you'll come across reservoirs, rivers, historic homes and shops, breweries and distilleries and so much more.

Travelers say you can easily spend a week exploring all of the places you come across along the way. Depending on how far you plan to travel along the highway, check local towns for lodging options.

Visit Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument

Located in southeastern Montana, Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument memorializes the Battle of Little Bighorn, which is also known as Custer's Last Stand. The battle was between the U.S. Army and the Sioux and Cheyenne tribes. The monument includes a visitor center and a museum, where you can learn about the battle and some of the prominent men who fought there. You'll also discover what it was like for Native Americans living on the plains. You can take a 4.5-mile self-guided tour between two battlefields, the Custer Battlefield and the Reno-Benteen Battlefield, with parking lots at each site.

Some travelers describe visiting the monument as a solemn experience, but also an important one to learn the real history of the events that took place. The nearest major city to the national monument is Billings, which is 65 miles northwest.

Address: I-90 Frontage Road, Crow Agency, MT 59022

Pick your own fruit at Bozeman's Rocky Creek Farm

Montana has many farms where you can pick your own fruits and vegetables. If you're in Bozeman, Gallatin Valley Botanical at Rocky Creek Farm is a great place to find fresh berries and apples. Berry season kicks off in late June with strawberries, and continues with raspberries and aronia berries in the later summer months and early fall. You can pick apples from the farm's orchard between late August and November, and even request to have your apples pressed into custom cider. During your visit, stop by the farm stand in the blue barn, where you can buy vegetables, herbs, flowers, meats, eggs, honey and more, all of which are grown at the farm. According to reviewers, the farm also offers activities for children, such as farm school and summer camps.

Address: 34297 Frontage Road, Bozeman, MT 59715

Relax in the Garden of One Thousand Buddhas

It's not where you'd expect to find a shrine to the Buddha, but the Flathead Indian Reservation just north of Arlee, Montana, is home to the Ewam Sang-ngag Ling Garden of One Thousand Buddhas. Here, you'll find 1,000 hand-cast Buddha statues, all arranged around the central figure of the Great Mother, or Yum Chenmo, who is the manifestation of the perfection of wisdom. It's hoped by those who have built the shrine that those who visit feel peacefulness and compassion. And that's exactly what past visitors say they experienced when describing their time in the garden. Located in western Montana, Arlee sits just 26 miles north of Missoula.

Address: 34756 White Coyote Road, Arlee, MT 59821

Ski at Big Sky Resort

Courtesy of Big Sky Resort

Considered one of the top ski vacations in the U.S. , Big Sky Resort is home to 5,850 skiable acres and 39 lifts. There are runs for skiers of all experience levels, including a 1,450-foot vertical ride up to Lone Peak, giving seasoned skiers an experience similar to heli-skiing. After you're done skiing for the day, hit the spa or one of the many restaurants for après-ski or dinner. There are also a handful of retailers if you want to upgrade your ski uniform. Other winter activities include cross-country skiing, ziplining, snowshoeing, dog sledding, sleigh riding and more.

During the summer months, the resort remains open with a variety of outdoor activities, such as golfing, ziplining, hiking, disc golf, whitewater rafting and more. Visitors talk up the resort's beautiful setting, both in the winter and the summer. If you're staying at the resort, there are four hotels to choose from. There's also the Whitewater Inn, which is a short 15-minute drive from the resort.

Address: 50 Big Sky Resort Road, Big Sky, MT 59716

[Read: The Top Ski Resorts in Montana .]

See rock paintings at Pictograph Cave State Park

Andy Austin | Courtesy of Pictograph Cave State Park

Within Billings city limits, Pictograph Cave State Park is an area with three caves, which were home to generations of prehistoric hunters. Those hunters left behind artifacts and more than 100 rock paintings, or pictographs. The oldest painting dates back more than 2,000 years, while the most recent are from 200 to 500 years ago. To reach the caves, there's a three-quarter-mile loop with displays providing more information about the pictographs, as well as the vegetation and natural features of the area. You can also enter the visitor center to see some of the artifacts that were collected from the caves. The deepest of the three caves, Pictograph Cave, is where the rock paintings of animals, warriors and rifles are still visible.

It's recommended that you bring binoculars to properly view the paintings. Some visitors describe the pictographs as too faded, but binoculars may help solve that concern. Others warn that there's a steep climb to Pictograph Cave that may not be suitable for small children and casual hikers.

Address: 3401 Coburn Road, Billing, MT 59101

Marvel at the Ringing Rocks in Whitehall

David Abrams | Courtesy of Western Montana BLM

Roughly 18 miles east of Butte, there's a unique geologic area where the rocks actually chime with the light tap of a hammer. Experts believe that this phenomenon was caused by a combination of the rocks' composition and the joining patterns that have developed during the natural course of erosion – if one of the boulders is removed from the pile, it no longer rings. Some visitors note that the road leading to the rocks can be tough on smaller vehicles without four-wheel drive. There may also be a hike, depending on where you stop your car. Reviewers say that there are hammers near the entrance, so you don't have to worry about buying one at the local hardware store before you go.

Aside from Montana, you'll find a similar experience at Ringing Rocks County Park in Pennsylvania, one of the state's most unique attractions .

Visit the C.M. Russell Museum in Great Falls

Courtesy of CM Russell Museum

Charles Marion Russell was an American artist whose works centered on the Old West. His work, which includes paintings, sculptures and drawings, portrays the daily life of cowboys and Native Americans, as well as the landscapes of Big Sky Country, through the lens of his personal experiences. Russell's home, which was built in 1900, along with his log studio, which was built three years later, were both converted into a museum that houses the largest collection of the artist's art and memorabilia. The C.M. Russell Museum contains more than 3,000 works of Western art across 16 galleries, an outdoor sculpture garden and a research center. Nearly a third of the works on display were created by Russell himself. The museum is rated among the top things to do in Great Falls. Many visitors are impressed with the sheer volume of work showcased here, saying it gives you a feeling like you're stepping back in time to the artist's life.

Address: 400 13th St. N., Great Falls, MT 59401

Witness the destructive power of nature at Quake Lake

About 25 miles northwest of West Yellowstone is Earthquake Lake, called Quake Lake for short. The lake in the Madison Canyon River Area was formed in 1959 when an earthquake struck the area. The seismic activity created a landslide of roughly 80 million tons of rock, halting the water flow in the Madison River Canyon gorge. Tragically, 28 people were killed as a result of the landslide. The 7.2 magnitude earthquake was so devastating that it altered the geyser patterns in Yellowstone National Park and was felt as far away as Salt Lake City, which is 330 miles away. Today, Quake Lake is a popular fishing spot, with authorities stocking it each year with brown and cutthroat trout. Just watch out for the timbers below the surface that were brought down in the landslide.

See the wildlife in West Yellowstone at the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center

Located in West Yellowstone, the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center opened in 1993 with the mission to give visitors a better understanding and appreciation of grizzly bears. The center acts as a sanctuary for bears, wolves, otters, birds of prey and ground squirrels. Visitors will not only get the chance to see some of the wildlife that's housed at the center, but they'll also be able to learn about the animals through interactive exhibits, films, displays and demonstrations.

The Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center can be a great way to begin or end a trip to Yellowstone National Park. The center is highly recommended by travelers, with some saying it's worth a stop even if you only have a little time to spare. Others say that it can be a great way to get close to the wildlife if you didn't get that opportunity in the national park.

Address: 201 S. Canyon St., West Yellowstone, MT 59758

You may also be interested in:

• Amazing Montana Vacations
• The Best U.S. National Parks
• The Best Places to Hike in North America
• The Best Places for National Park Camping
• The Top Things to Do in Colorado
• The Top Things to Do in South Dakota
• The Top Restaurants in Jackson Hole, Wyoming
• The Top Restaurants in Colorado Springs
• The Top Restaurants in Omaha, Nebraska
• The Best Tourist Attraction in Every U.S. State

Tags: Travel , Montana Vacations , US Vacations , National Parks , U.S. West Vacations

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Top 20 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Montana 

Otherwise known as Big Sky Country, I personally think the diverse and dazzling Western state does live up to the hype! This is a seriously gorgeous place, home to a large and pristine wilderness preserve that crosses into Canada.

It’s a tough choice as pretty much all the scenery here is jaw-dropping, but here are my favorite spots…

1. Glacier National Park

Aptly called the “Crown of the Continent,” Glacier National Park is home to more than one million acres of beautiful, unspoiled terrain.

The scenic wilderness area encompasses jaw-dropping scenery, such as spectacular lakes, glacier-carved peaks, pristine forests, and alpine meadows.

It also forms part of the world’s first International Peace Park , so it is perfect for both adventurous souls and solitude seekers. I would suggest gazing in awe at the huge glacier and spotting mountain goats amid the gorgeous scenery at Grinnell Glacier.

Drive along the breathtaking scenic mountain road of the Sun Highway, which passes through more than fifty miles of unique terrain, and then paddle across the pristine waters of Lake McDonald. 

See the beauty of Glacier National Park in 4k…

My must-do highlights…

• Drive to Logan Pass, the highest point in the park that can be reached by car for the best panoramic views.
• Hike to the Grinnell Glacier where you will find stunning waterfalls, vibrant emerald lakes and beautiful scenery along the way.
• Take a boat tour across the Lake McDonald Valley for a more relaxed way to admire the surrounding landscapes.

2. American Prairie Reserve

The American Prairie Reserve is located on Montana’s Great Plains, and I honestly think one of the most stunning spots to explore in Montana.

Stretching north and south of the Missouri River, the massive conservation area preserves the natural mixed-grass prairie ecosystem and native wildlife, including deer, elk, pronghorn, burrowing owls, bison, and bighorn sheep. 

The area is another beautiful gem in the Montana Tourism crown. Dive into the history at the Great Plains Dinosaur Museum or visit the restored Prairie Union Schoolhouse.

Wake up to the awesome free-roaming bison and chirping birds. This place will force you to slow down and observe the beauty of the prairie ecosystem. Roam around freely, hike, or bike. This is a truly magical place that nature lovers will absolutely adore. 

• Stop by the National Discovery Center to pick up a map and learn about the vision for the area.
• Explore across the terrain on a mountain bike, where trails include obstacles such as steep hills, soft sand, and ruts.
• Stay till it’s dark to witness the sky come alive with bright stars, if you’re lucky you might even see the Milky Way.

3. Rocky Mountains

Home to over a hundred ranges in Central Montana, the Rocky Mountains run along the western part of Montana. The rugged and rustic charm of the Rockies is the best place to seek both solace and outdoor adventures.

Snuggled in the Madison Range of Montana, the Big Sky ski resort is enveloped by mountains in every direction. It is definitely worth a visit, especially if you’re a fan of winter sports. 

Another charming destination located at the doorstep of Glacier National Park is Whitefish Resort Mountain, which is home to a shimmering lake, lofty peaks, stunning trails, and a quirky downtown area. 

• Watch a breathtaking sunrise at Dream Lake before heading on to reach Emerald Lake.
• Visit the Coffee on The Rocks café for beautiful views whilst enjoying a hot drink and light snack.
• During the winter months, explore through the area with cross-country skiing, a magical activity to do in the snow.

4. Yellowstone National Park

One of North America’s most loved national parks, the world-famous Yellowstone National Park sprawls over a 3,500-square-mile area. The beautiful landscapes sit atop a volcanic hot spot, which makes them extra special and offers some truly unique landscapes. 

Home to many species of wildlife, dramatic canyons, rivers, hot springs, and gushing geysers, the park is mostly in Wyoming but crosses over to Montana and Idaho. 

• Visit the magical waterfalls at the spectacular Grand Canyon of Yellowstone.
• Take a rafting ride down the river for some exciting and adrenaline-pumping fun.
• Go for a hike through one of the popular trails to admire gorgeous views overlooking the landscape.

Located in Gallatin County in southwest Montana, Bozeman is ranked among the most livable places in the US, and for good reason.

I love the dramatic mountains, impressive wildlife and cultural scenes here, and the opportunities to go hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, skiing, and backcountry exploring. 

Ski in the Bridger Bowl area, raft on the Gallatin River, or witness the stunning fall colors of nearby Yellowstone Park. The city of Bozeman is a true Montana treasure! 

• Have a go at learning how to rock climb at either an indoor wall or on the outdoor rocks.
• Explore the town in a unique way with a scavenger hunt, where you will be given fun tasks to complete.
• Soak in one of the best hot springs in Montana, the perfect way to end a busy day.

6. West Yellowstone

West Yellowstone is one of the best small towns in southern Montana. It’s a gateway to the world-famous Yellowstone National Park, but it is also a wonderful tourist attraction and a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts in both summer and winter.

The charming Montana town is quaint and easy on the eye. It is home to some interesting independent shops and restaurants, a theatre, and plenty of places to stay.

Highlights of West Yellowstone include the Yellowstone River ( the country’s last “free-flowing” river), the popular Playmill Theatre, the beautiful Earthquake Lake, and The Museum of Yellowstone. During the winter, I would recommend snowmobiling as a fun Montana activity!

• Visit the Museum of Yellowstone located in the old train station to learn about the area’s history.
• Have a thrilling adventure on a snowmobile during the winter season months.
• Check out the array of local restaurants and cafes across the town, find your favorite one and have a delicious meal.

7. Paradise Valley

It is close enough to Yellowstone yet far away from the crowds; the Paradise Valley is dwarfed by the towering Absaroka Range on the east and Gallatin Range on the west.

Located in southwest Montana, Paradise Valley is Montana’s premier vacation destination. With the gushing waters of the Yellowstone River, snow-capped mountains, a crisp blue sky, and beautiful ranch land, It deserves a place on this list!

I highly recommend soaking in the naturally warm waters at the Chico Hot Springs or La Duke Hot Springs or hiking along the breathtaking trails! 

• Watch the magnificent eruption of the Old Faithful, well known for being one of the best sights to see.
• Relax at the Chico Hot Springs located in the heart of the area and surrounded by lush greenery.
• Have a go at disc golf, an unusual activity that many people haven’t heard of.

8. Livingston

This lovely town in SouthWestern Montana enjoys a truly gorgeous position nestled on the banks of the Yellowstone River between the rugged Crazy and Absaroka mountain ranges. The town dates from the late 1880s and is quiet and charming, but its striking mountain backdrop is truly jaw-dropping.

The main focus here is on outdoor activities. Still, its historic buildings have drawn many notable visitors over the years and have even been featured in popular films A River Runs Through It , The Horse Whisperer, and even Marlboro advertisements.

There are some good accommodation options, museums , art galleries and restaurants to explore. Popular things here include cross-country skiing, river rafting, hiking, or just kicking back and enjoying the wonderful scenery!

• Watch live music at the cool venue, The Attic, a restored historic building.
• Take a picnic to enjoy at Sacajawea Park after having a stroll through the gardens.
• Check out the art galleries throughout the town filled with vibrant pieces, and the art walk during summer.

9. Beartooth Highway

On the Beartooth Highway, you can experience one of Montana’s most beautiful road trips. Located on the northeast entrance of the Yellowstone National Park, this highway offers some truly wonderful scenery.

The mesmerizing views include the majestic Absaroka and Beartooth Mountains, countless glacial lakes, pristine waterfalls, and high alpine plateaus. 

Camp around the wide wilderness or hike across the broad plateaus. The Beartooth Highway offers a rare opportunity to explore the untouched landscapes of Montana’s alpine country. Every wilderness lover’s dream, this 68-mile panoramic drive is a spectacular journey of a lifetime! 

• Soak up the picturesque scenery as you drive along this gorgeous highway.
• Make sure to stop off at several of the viewpoints to capture Instagrammable shots overlooking the landscape.
• Grab a souvenir to remember the trip at the Top of The World Store.

10. Montana State Capitol 

The state capital of Montana is located on a gentle slope and surrounded by beautiful lawns. One of the best things to see in Montana is the majestic state capitol, which was completed in 1902 and resides in Helena, the capital of Montana and one of the best cities to explore in the state.

Outside, the building is comprised of granite and exquisite sandstone; inside, it houses the Montana state legislature. The prominent feature of the Capitol includes the attractive rotunda with four circular paintings depicting the people of Montana’s early history.

The Lady Liberty, or the Montana statue, sits atop the copper-based Capitol dome. Visit and enjoy viewing the beautiful murals, stained glass, and marble preserving the early history of the Treasure State.

• Grab a brochure on your way in to experience a self-guided tour around the building.
• Admire the stunning murals, stained glass and marble that have been preserved from the historic past.
• Be amazed by the art located throughout this landmark.

11. City Beach

Located in Whitefish, this wonderful place offers seven miles of sandy shorelines that surround the south end of Whitefish Lake. It’s a much-loved hang-out area with a designated swimming area, kayak and paddleboard rentals (during the summer), picnic tables, and gazebos. 

I recommend swimming in crystal clear water or just lazing around on the beach, all with the amazing backdrop of beautiful mountains.

• On a hot day, take a dip in the refreshing crystal-clear waters to cool off.
• Rent a kayak or paddleboard to spend some time out floating on the ocean.
• Pack a picnic to enjoy on the sandy shores and spend the whole day relaxing.

12. Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park

The Waterton Glacier International Peace Park is a World Heritage Site and a wonderful example of friendly Canada-USA relations. A union of Glacier National Park and Waterton National Park of Canada, it is the first-ever global peace park.

Here, you can expect exceptional mountain scenery, glacial landforms, crystal clear lakes, abundant wildlife, and a distinctive climate, which make both national parks wonderful places to explore. A little slice of paradise, the park is home to travelers seeking solitude and adventure.

The park also features dark night skies free from light pollution and has even received a Gold Tier Designation with provisional status from the International Dark Sky Association. 

• Rent a bike from the town to explore along the roads that go through the scenic park.
• Hike up to Bertha Falls to witness stunning views overlooking the landscape across this wonderful area.
• Go on a boat tour and cruise down Waterton Lake, a more relaxed way to admire the surroundings.

13. Conrad Mansion

A beautifully preserved mansion in Kalispell, the Conrad Mansion Museum reflects the luxurious Norman-style architecture and the lifestyle in the Pacific Northwest. Built in 1895, the Conrad Mansion was the home of renowned businessman Charles E. Conrad.

A dreamy mansion in the backdrop of Montana wilderness, the Conrad Mansion overlooks the flathead valley and Swan mountain range. Tour the 26 rooms with diamond-paned, Tiffany stained glass windows with the original family furnishings, landscaped gardens, and a drystone fence. 

• Take a guided tour of the 26-roomed mansion and discover the history behind how the Conrad family had a big impact on Montana.
• Stroll through the gorgeous gardens surrounding the property which feature six large flower beds filled with color.

14. Helena National Forest

This stunning natural area is located in west-central Montana. The wonderful Helena National Forest covers a vast expanse of 984,558 acres.

Broken into several separate sections, the Big Belt Mountains dominate the eastern region, while the Scapegoat wilderness and the Elkhorn Mountains form the national forest’s west and south borders.

A mix of grass, sagebrush lowlands, and shaded groves, the park also offers camping in designated areas. Covering the Gates of the Mountain Wilderness Area and a portion of the Scapegoat Wilderness Area, the National Forest is a little slice of paradise for naturalists and photographers.

• Spend the night in one of the rentals available at the campgrounds located throughout the forest.
• Have some fun out on the water with a bit of jet skiing, tubing and water skiing.
• With thousands of miles of hiking trails, find one best suited to you and enjoy exploring this gorgeous area.

15. Wild Horse Island State Park

The largest primitive island on Flathead Lake, Wild Horse Island State Park , is only accessible by water. For centuries, the Salish-Kootenai Indians used this beautiful island as pasture land to keep horses from being stolen.

Full of pine forests, incredible trails, and wildlife watching, you can catch a glimpse of the wild horses still inhabiting this park. A designated state park since 1987, Horse Island’s 2,200-acre beautiful state park offers swimming, hiking, boating, and kayaking. 

• Admire the picturesque landscapes as you ride over to the island by boat, and get your camera ready to capture some great shots.
• Go for a swim in the refreshing waters on a hot summer’s day, or kayak along if the weather is a bit cooler.
• Walk through the pine forests via the 4 miles of trails or if you’re feeling adventurous explore the off-trail areas too.

16. Gates of the Mountains Wilderness

In the lofty hills, the legendary Missouri River carves a path through towering sandstone cliffs once named the Gates of the Mountains by Meriwether Lewis (an American explorer, soldier, and politician).

Encompassing a wide area of 28,465 acres, the Helena National Forest manages the wilderness.

The Montana beauty spot is known for its prominent grey cliffs, an ancient lake, high meadows, narrow gorges, and open forests. It also offers an excellent opportunity to spot bighorn sheep and mountain goats up close.

Hike along Refrigerator Canyon or camp on Bear Prairie. The scenic gates promise pristine natural beauty galore! 

• Visit the unique point of Refrigerator Canyon which acts as a wind funnel perfect to explore on a hot day.
•  Head over to Holter Lake where you can enjoy a range of different water sports.
• If you’re looking to spend more than a day in this area, camping overnight is a great idea and experience.

17. Blodgett Canyon

If you’re anything like me, when traveling in Montana, you will want to find the best hiking spots, and I honestly think this one is one of the best.

Nestled in southwestern Montana, the Blodgett Canyon – carved out by ice age glaciers – is beautifully positioned in the middle of the Bitterroot Mountain Range.

It features over two dozen scenic canyons, steeply carved granite mountains, meandering valleys, and moraines.  Known for its wall climbing spots and excellent hiking trails, the Blodgett Canyon provides one of the best scenic hikes in Montana, surrounded by truly spectacular landscapes. 

• Hike to the magnificent overlook for dramatic views of the canyon.
• A favorite spot for climbing, stopping at the local outdoor shop for some tips is a must-do.
• For those who love mountain biking, ride along the 6-mile round trip as many times as you like.

18. Moss Mansion

Head to the Montana city of Billings and seek out this wonderful red-stoned Moss Mansion Museum . I’m a big fan of this place, once home to the wealthy Moss family. The stunning mansion was designed by Henry Janeway Hardenbergh in 1905.

The high-end interiors, with walls with gold threading, a marble fireplace, and beautiful paintings, are a perfect example of early American residential architecture.

Still intact with the original items of the home, the mansion is a doorway to the unique architecture of the past. Listed as a National Historic Place, the mansion has appeared in many period films.

Today, the Billings Preservation Society manages it, and the museum hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year.

• Admire the gorgeous and upscale interiors within the property.
• Check out what events are being hosted at the mansion and grab a ticket to go.
• Take a tour around this National Historic Place to learn about its history.

19. Lolo Trail

Described by Lewis and Clark as the most challenging yet majestic portion of their journey, the Lolo Trail is not only of immense significance in US history, but it is also one of the top places to visit in Montana. Go hiking or mountain biking for miles on one of the most famous trails in the United States.

You can visit the Lewis and Clark camps, such as 13-Mile, Sinque Hole, Lonesome Cove, and others, and stop at the visitor center to get practical information and historical insight into the Lewis and Clark and Native American trails.

• Enjoy a thrilling ride through the trails on a mountain bike to cover more ground and see the stunning scenery.
• Take a picnic and have a break at one of the designated areas whilst being surrounded by the tranquil nature.
• Explore this location on foot and discover the magic within the forests.

20. Whitefish Mountain Resort

Big Mountain in northwestern Montana is home to one of the top destinations in the state. Whitefish Mountain Resort has hosted its fair share of championships and has provided training slopes for many US Olympic athletes such as Andrea Mead, Tommy Moe, and others.

Located in Flathead County, near Going-to-the-Sun Road and Glacier National Park, the town of Whitefish is famous for its world-class skiing. It also boasts a freshwater lake, a popular Montana travel destination for those who like boating or simply taking in spectacular views.

• Sour through the sky on a zipline tour to witness a bird’s eye view overlooking the lands.
• With over 3,000 acres of snow-covered terrain in the winter, skiing or snowboarding is a must-do activity.
• Slow down with a scenic chair lift that takes you up to wonderful areas across the resort.

1 thought on “Top 20 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Montana ”

Montana has been on my bucket list for years now! Love how majestic your photos are.

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The Perfect 5 to 7 Day Montana Itinerary

Last Updated on December 4, 2023

by Duncan McHenry

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

The “Big Sky Country” of Montana is marked by an abundance of Rocky Mountain peaks and richly forested valleys that stand alongside wide-open prairies and ranchlands. For travelers who are planning a 5 to 7-day Montana itinerary, it’s a good idea to chart a route that will take you through a variety of the different landscape types and towns in the Treasure State.

Like other nearby Rocky Mountain states such as Wyoming, Colorado, and Utah, Montana is known as a haven for outdoor adventurers like hunters, anglers, backpackers, mountain bikers, and skiers.

It makes sense to mix in some stops at outdoor attractions such as Yellowstone National Park , Glacier National Park , or Montana’s famed Gallatin River as part of any Montana vacation itinerary, depending on your goals and the time of year.

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How Many Days in Montana?

Figuring out how many days you should devote can be a challenge when planning a trip to Montana—especially since things are spread so far apart and there’s so much ground to cover. It’s generally a good strategy to pick a major interstate, such as I-90, and plot your stops accordingly.

The difference between spending 5 days and 7 days in Montana can be significant, as traveling for a full seven days can give you more opportunity to do something like spend a night camping in Glacier NP during the summertime.

One advantage of spending 5 days in Montana, on the other hand, is you might dive a bit deeper into exploring a single area if you’re more time-constrained. Skiers visiting Montana in the wintertime might want to focus on a resort like Big Sky, Bridger Bowl, or Whitefish, for example, rather than spending too much time driving.

But if you wanted to have enough time to spend some time in both Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks, for example, then you might be more likely to opt for a 7-day itinerary.

5 to 7-Day Montana Itinerary

Generally speaking, there’s more to see and do in Montana once you get to the central and western parts of the state, so this 5 to 7-day Montana road trip itinerary will assume you’re driving across eastern Montana on Interstate 94 (if not directly into the western part of the state via the same highway) or from the south by way of interstates 25 and 90.

That being said, regardless of how you get into Montana, this itinerary will give you some good ideas on things to do in some of its most picturesque, activity-rich ecological areas and cities.

If you need to rent a car for this trip, you can browse Rentalcars.com which aggregates prices for many different car hire companies. Alternatively, you can consider renting an RV or campervan from Outdoorsy if you’re on a long trip to Montana from Denver or other cities such as Seattle.

Day 1 – Billings

The yellowstone river.

As you’re coming into the central part of Montana on Interstates 94 and 90, Billings stands between the Bighorn lands surrounding the Yellowstone River and the corridor that eventually leads to the more mountainous areas of Livingston and Bozeman.

The Yellowstone River runs right along the highway around the city of Billings, and convenient access points like the Duck Creek, Bundy Bridge, and Voyagers Rest access areas make for nice rest stops on a road trip.

The Rimrocks

These natural rock formations are a great option for an afternoon hike and offer some of the area’s best views overlooking the city. Locals enjoy coming here for the sunset, but it’s an equally good option for a morning hike before pushing on to the Bozeman area, assuming that’s your next stop.

Yellowstone Cellars & Winery

With some of the best wines you could ever find produced in the Western US, the winery at Yellowstone Cellars is an ideal stop for anyone looking to stay close to the interstate on their trip to Montana. There’s sometimes a live music act on Fridays, as well.

Though the area is known far more for picking wild huckleberries than for cultivating grape vines, you will be surprised my the quality of wines to be found here.

Where to Stay in Billings

Northern Hotel – An excellent option if you’re looking for a bit of luxury during your trip to Montana, this hotel has it all. They offer a range of plush and comfortable rooms, a central location for exploring Billings and its surrounding area as well as an on-site bar and diner for guests to enjoy.

Riversage Billings Inn – This mid-range hotel is a great option in Billings if you’re travelling on a bit of a smaller budget but still want a level of comfort. They have countless lovely rooms available, a fitness centre on-site, a great location and even allow pets.

Private Rental – A private rental is also a great option in Billings. Properties such as this bright 2-bedroom apartment is just one of many options in the city.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Billings hotels!

Day 2 – Bozeman

The museum of the rockies.

Under the umbrella of Montana State University, the Museum of the Rockies is a world-class natural history museum with one of America’s most highly prized collections of dinosaur fossils.

This is obviously a great stop for kids, featuring exhibits that explore everything from ancient archaeology to cutting-edge advancements in technology and science. Planetarium shows, educational programs, and a museum store with exhibit-inspired souvenirs all add to the museum’s appeal.

Downtown Bozeman

Anyone who appreciates a quintessential college town will enjoy taking a walk around Bozeman. This is arguably your best chance at experiencing a wide array of different restaurants and bars during your travels in Montana.

If you’re craving a burger and beer combo after a day of hiking or sightseeing, local favorites like Backcountry Burger Bar are a great bet; or if you’re in the mood for something a little less American, try Whistle Pig Korean or Dave’s Sushi.

The Gallatin Canyon

The Gallatin River is among the most famous of the great drainages in the Western US and Montana—up there with the Missouri, the Blackfoot, and the Madison Rivers, among others.

This is a great river for rafting, kayaking, tubing (when the water is lower), or fishing, and road trip travelers who are just passing through can find a lot of easy access points for a hike or a picnic and enjoy the beautiful wilderness.

There are plenty of turnouts as you drive along the steeply winding cliffs that line the Gallatin, and even families with kids and travelers with pets will find easy access points for taking a break by the river.

Where to Stay in Bozeman

RSVP Hotel – If you’re looking for a luxury option in Bozeman, then this hotel is a great choice. They have a range of lovely rooms available, a wonderful location and a number of other amenities available to help make your time in Bozeman memorable.

The LARK – Another great option in Bozeman is this modern boutique hotel. Located in the downtown area close to all the action, there are plenty of great rooms to choose from, they offer valet parking, and they even allow pets if you happen to be traveling with a furry friend.

Private Rental – A private vacation rental is also a great option in Bozeman. Properties like this modern condo and many others are available and there are lots of options to choose from that will suit your travel style and needs.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Bozeman hotels!

Day 3 – Helena

State capitol.

Montana’s Capitol building is arguably one of the country’s most stately historic structures, complete with Greek columns, marble accents, painted ceilings, and well-manicured lawns that look out across the valley where this city resides.

It can be fun to tour the inside of the Capitol before wandering down the hill or over toward Helena’s downtown area.

The Montana Historical Society

A stop here makes sense if you’ve decided to visit the Capitol building, as the Montana Historical Society is right next door.

The Society hosts Montana’s Museum, which is home to several permanent exhibits and galleries, including the Charles M. Russell Gallery and its collections detailing Lewis and Clark’s experiences as their expedition passed through Montana.

Last Chance Gulch

Essentially Helena’s historic Main Street area, Last Chance Gulch gives visitors a true sense of the city’s Gold Rush-era origins. This area was the site of the original mining camp upon which Helena was founded, but today it’s also a happening part of town with a great nightlife scene.

Local businesses do very well in the buildings that showcase the sort of Victorian architecture you’ll find in mountain towns all across the American West.

Finally, a nice dinner and an evening on the town in the Last Chance Gulch area is a great way to finish things in Montana’s capital.

Where to Stay in Helena

Best Western Premier Helena Great Northern Hotel  – If you’re looking for a great, solid choice in Helena, then this hotel is a fantastic option. There are a number of clean and comfortable rooms available, they have a central location for exploring the Montana capital and there is an on-site bar and swimming pool to enjoy. 

Oddfellow Inn & Farm  – If you’re looking for a unique and quaint stay near Helena, then this traditional inn on a working farm is a great option! They have a number of lovely rooms available and there is even a great restaurant on site! 

Private Rental   – If you’d rather have your own space in the Montana capital, then a private rental – like this comfortable 1-bedroom suite  – is an excellent option. You will find lots of properties available that can suit all kinds of travel styles and needs. 

Not quite what you’re looking for?  Click here to browse more Helena hotels!

Day 4 – Missoula

Downtown missoula.

As the home of “the Griz,” Missoula is where you’ll find Montana’s other main college, the University of Montana. The drive to Missoula from Helena takes you along sections of the Blackfoot River and the Clark Fork River before reaching the Bitterroot Valley area.

Downtown Missoula has a unique personality that makes it feel a bit more tight-knit than Bozeman, with funky little music venues including The Wilma, The Badlander, Monk’s Bar, and others.

The Sapphire Mountains

If you hook directly back to the southeast from Missoula, the mountainous area that spans across to the small town of Philipsburg and the Rock Creek drainage is a beautiful place to sightsee and car camp.

Crowds tend to be almost non-existent in these alpine National Forest areas, even on weekends, and photographers will love the opportunities for bird- and wildlife-watching.

Be mindful that this is grizzly bear country, so it’s best to have any food or non-smell-proof items sealed in a bear-proof container overnight if you’re camping.

The Bitterroot River

While anyone who is walking or wading along the banks might prefer stopping at a smaller river like the Blackfoot, the Bitterroot River—along with the nearby Clark Fork—is a great chance to work some watersports into your itinerary.

You might even consider floating the Bitterroot and the Clark Fork on separate days if you have the time.

The Bitterroot tends to see more crowds, and the Clark Fork is perhaps even more prized for its fly fishing opportunities these days, but both are incredibly scenic and come with sightings of bald eagles soaring overhead and the at-times snowy peaks that line the Bitterroot Valley in the background.

Where to Stay in Missoula

C’mon INN Missoula – This hotel is an excellent option if you’re looking for a comfortable and reliable accommodation option Missoula. They have a range of clean and comfortable rooms available, an indoor swimming pool and fitness center on site and a number of other amenities to make your stay a great one.

Private Rental – Another popular option in Missoula is a private rental, like this plush condo in central Missoula . There are lots of properties to choose from in the city that you’re sure to find something that suits your needs.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Missoula hotels!

Day 5 – Kalispell

Downtown kalispell.

You might choose to set out on a trajectory for Glacier NP after leaving Missoula on a Montana road trip, and the town of Kalispell is worth a stop on the way.

As the largest city in northwest Montana, Kalispell’s downtown area is very pedestrian-friendly and hosts lots of mom-and-pop businesses selling everything from small-batch ice cream to high-end outdoor gear.

Flathead Lake

The largest freshwater lake west of the Mississippi River is nearly 30 miles long and less than a 20-minute drive from Kalispell.

A tribal recreation pass is needed to access the southern half of the lake, but Montana Fish & Wildlife maintains a number of recreation sites on the other half of the lake—some of which allow for tent camping. Visitors tend to go boating, fishing, and swimming, and pontoon boats are available to rent.

On Flathead Lake, you can also visit Wild Horse Island, which is home to – not surprisingly- wild horses along with bighorn sheep and other wildlife. You can also get excellent views around the lake.

For something smaller, consider visiting nearby Swan Lake and, for more iconic wildlife, consider driving a bit further from Flathead Lake to the CSKT Bison Range where you can see bison roaming in the prairie.

Whitefish Mountain Resort

If you’re visiting Montana during the winter months, Whitefish Mountain Resort (also known simply as Big Mountain) is renowned for getting some of the best snowfall totals of all the Montana ski resorts.

Eleven chairlifts service the mountain, meaning that the already sparse crowds can disperse, and the glades, groomers, and powder-stashed runs often feel downright secluded. If you’re only planning a 5-day Montana itinerary, this is the best place to end your trip.

Where to Stay Near Kalispell

The Ridge at Glacier – If you’re looking for a rustic but plush place to stay close to Kalispell, Whitefish and Glacier NP, then these luxury cabins are a great option. There are a range of cabins to choose from that can suit all kinds of visitors.

Under Canvas Glacier – Glamping is another great option for your visit, and this place located near Kalispell is a good choice if this is an accommodation that intrigues you. Well located close to all the area has to offer, there are a number of safari-style canvas tents to choose from and plenty of great amenities to ensure you have a great stay.

Private Rental – A private vacation rental is one of the best options in Kalispell or near the national park. You’re sure to find something that suits your travel style and budget and a place like this historic home in Kalispell or this mountain view cabin within the Park are just some of countless options.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more hotels in Kalispell!

Day 6 – Butte

World museum of mining.

If you’re not proceeding north from the Missoula area toward Glacier NP, then looping back to Butte after having driven the length of the Bitterroot Valley could be a good option. The World Museum of Mining, known for its witty and informative tour guides, is perfect for anyone looking for a short diversion.

Copper King Mansion

The Copper King can double as an option for lodgings, as there’s a year-round bed & breakfast available, but it’s also worth working into any Montana vacation itinerary simply for its remarkable Victorian-era architecture. If you stay here for a night, be sure to book one of the guided tours to learn about the building’s history that dates back to the early days of Butte.

Day 7 – Glacier National Park

Avalanche lake.

If your final destination on your visit to Montana is the Glacier National Park area, then it’s hard to find a better day hike than the Avalanche Lake Trail.

Other hikes such as the Highline Trail might offer more in the way of views stretching out as far as the eye can see, but Avalanche Lake strikes a nice balance as a moderate hike of about five miles in total. This glacial cirque is full of healthy pines and features some memorable waterfall views.

Logan Pass Visitor Center

Even if you’re not looking to get out of the car and venture into the backcountry, a visit to Glacier isn’t complete without stopping in the Logan Pass Visitor Center, which rests at the highest point of the Park’s Going-to-the-Sun Road.

You’ll get great information and an opportunity to use facilities here before driving on to other iconic Glacier NP destinations like Wild Goose Island.

Have More Time?

Book a guided float fishing trip.

Montana’s popular angling ideal of “A River Runs Through It” is definitely accurate in its portrayal of fly fishing culture as gospel in the state of Montana.

Rivers like the Blackfoot (featured in the Norman McLean novel and the movie it inspired starring Brad Pitt), the Madison, the Missouri, the Gallatin, and the Bighorn are excellent options for booking a guided float fishing trip.

Lodges and outfitters like renowned angler and fly-tier Kelly Galloup’s Slide Inn have experienced guides ready to take clients out in search of wild trout practically year-round.

Head south toward Yellowstone by way of Big Sky

If you’re not planning a trip to Montana that trends toward the northwestern part of the state, then you can always veer south toward the town of Big Sky and Yellowstone National Park.

This area is known for outstanding downhill skiing and mountain biking, so outdoor adventurers will find it worth spending a day here on their way to Yellowstone.

Montana’s many natural areas, its abundance of wildlife, and its classic mountain towns make it another Rocky Mountain state that’s perfect for road-trippers. No matter how you structure your 5 to 7-day Montana itinerary, the Treasure State has something for travelers of all kinds.

Are you planning to visit Montana? Have any questions about this route? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

10 Best Stops on a Denver to Yellowstone Road Trip

A Guide to Visiting Glacier National Park in the Winter

12 Best Stops on a Seattle to Glacier National Park Road Trip

About Duncan McHenry

Duncan is a writer for The World Was Here First. He lives in Colorado and also works as a fly fishing guide and instructor when not editing or writing. He has spent time in Costa Rica and has made numerous trips exploring the Western states of the Rocky Mountains.

Wow, you completely left out a day to visit Kootenai Falls west of Libby, just east of Troy. It’s a 2 hour drive West on Highway 2 from Kalispell. McGregor Lake, Thompson Lakes Upper, Middle and Lower, Happy’s Inn is 1/2 way. Kootenai Falls is where they filmed the waterfall scenes in The River Wild and The Revenant. There is a swinging bridge over the Kootenai River just west of the falls. A trip a few miles south gets you to Bull Lake where the movie Always was filmed and just a couple miles from there are the Ross Creek Cedars. The Kootenai River is a blue ribbon trout fishery with summertime opportunities for paddle boarding or just floating on a tube or Kayak. Seventeen miles north of Libby is Libby Dam which is I believe the 3rd or 4th largest dam in the U.S.A. You can get in all of this within a days time.

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22 Best Places to Visit in Montana

Written By: The Planet D

United States

Updated On: February 11, 2024

If you are looking for a memorable US getaway , visiting the state of Montana is the perfect plan. Montana is full of interesting places and has some of the country’s best art galleries and national parks. Montana uniquely balances cultural attractions for history buffs and culture lovers and outdoor activities for thrill-seekers. Immerse yourself in old traditional western flair or head out for a day of hiking trails and rock climbing.

But what are the best places to visit in Montana? Do you head to Eastern Montana or Western Montana? To Glacier National Park or to the town of Great Falls? This guide will break down the very best places to visit in Montana. Let’s get straight into it.

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Best towns and cities to visit in Montana

Some of the best places to visit in Montana are its towns and cities. You’ll find many tourist attractions, cultures, and communities in these places – perfect for getting a  real  feel of Montana living. These are our top eleven best towns and cities in Montana.

Helena is Montana’s capital city. If you want action, culture, and a lively but friendly atmosphere, Helena is where to visit in Montana. The city is packed with art galleries, museums, and historical architecture. You’ll spend a lot of time on your feet, be it walking Reeder’s Alley or through the exhibits at the Montana Historical Society.

Helena was originally a gold camp in the Montana gold rush. Its glitzy history is recognizable thanks to the city’s wealth today, and visitors can enjoy wandering the elegant historical buildings – especially in the downtown district.

Of course, you can’t visit a state capital without visiting the State Capitol Building either. Montana State Capitol is well worth visiting for its architectural and political history.

Have you heard of Big Sky Country? If not, Big Sky is a small ski town in the Rocky Mountain region of Southwest Montana. The town is most famous for Big Sky Resort and is one of the best places to visit in Montana for a winter getaway.

According to Forbes, the town is surrounded by ‘5,850 skiable acres. Whether you want to learn to ski or are already a pro, you’ll love the fierce winter sports culture. Visiting Big Sky in winter means a lot of snow, skiing, and après ski. For a winter wonderland experience, you really can’t do better. Plus, Big Sky is just an hour’s drive from the western entrance to Yellowstone National Park.

If you are visiting Big Sky in winter, make sure to grab your ski rentals here before you go. It makes things much more convenient.

3. Philipsburg

Philipsburg is small but mighty. First and foremost, it is a mining town. Philipsburg has kept an industrial, old west atmosphere that makes it a fantastic place to visit. The tiny town is no shy wallflower on Montana’s tourist scene either and has scored the title of the most beautiful small town in Montana. If you like immersive history and small towns, look no further.

Granite County Museum is a great place to discover Philipsburg’s old mining industry, while Granite Ghost Town State Park is another gem to visit. The abandoned town is the remnants of the region’s golden years during the mining boom of the late 19th century. Immerse yourself in Philipsburg and its surrounding area’s distinct characters.

4. Garryowen

Garryowen gets its name from an old Irish marching song. The town itself has strong military links, and it was formed as a cavalry station. One of the town’s best attractions, Custer National Cemetery, is a military graveyard marked by the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument. Visitors can walk to mass burial sites marked by white memorials and visit the visitor center and museum on-site.

Nowadays, Garryowen is located on Crow Indian Reservation. If you are interested in 19th-century American history or military history in general, Garryowen is a great place to visit. You can learn about the town’s history, pay respects to local Native American culture, or visit the Little Bighorn National Monument.

5. Great Falls

Great Falls is a stunning riverside city located in central Montana. Great Falls is known as somewhat of a cultural hub, and you’ll find museum after museum in the city. You can spend your days visiting the C.M. Russell Museum, Paris Gibson Square Museum of Art, or the Children’s Museum of Montana. There’s even the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center, which follows the story of the Lewis & Clark western expedition with unique exhibits, films, and displays.

Great Falls is an excellent choice if you want an interesting cultural base in central Montana. It has a lively city atmosphere and is only a two-hour drive from Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest and Giant Springs State Park – home to one of the largest natural hot springs in the US.

Want a pleasant stay in Montana? Bozeman is considered the most liveable place in the state, making it one of the best places to visit in Montana for a laidback getaway.

In the city center, there are more attractions than you can count. Bozeman itself is located just outside of the mountainous region around Big Sky, with plenty of small towns and areas of natural beauty to explore on a day trip. If you don’t mind a two-hour drive, there’s Yellowstone to your south and Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest to your north.

Bozeman is also home to Montana State University, giving the city a sociable, friendly atmosphere. You can head to the trendiest eateries, soak in Bozeman Hot Springs, or make the most of the city’s fantastic location for day trips in nature. Bozeman is the perfect compromise between city living and access to natural wonders.

7. Whitefish

Like Big Sky, Whitefish is a little resort town that floods with skiers every winter. The town is one of the best places to visit for outdoor fun and adrenaline sports. Whitefish is scenically situated on the outskirts of Glacier National Park and has stunning alpine views – perfect for beautiful scenery while cross-country skiing. There’s also a vast freshwater lake, where you can enjoy a dip or spend some time fly fishing in summer.

Whitefish’s famous ski resort is Whitefish Mountain Resort. If you want a holiday full of outdoor activities and winter sports, Whitefish Mountain Resort is a fantastic place to stay with a ton of facilities, equipment rentals, and shuttles.

This is a great place to base yourself for a visit to Glacier National Park. This private full-day tour has something for everyone!

8. Missoula

Choteau might seem off the beaten track and unassuming. However, the town is one of the best paleontology sites in the world. Exciting, right? If you love everything fossils and geology, then a visit to Choteau should be on the cards. In fact, its nearby Egg Mountain was used as a breeding ground for dinosaurs millions of years ago. In nearby Bynum, you can participate in fossil digs at the Montana Dinosaur Center.

Old Trail Museum is the major attraction in Choteau itself. The museum covers everything from dinosaurs to teepees. Old Trail Museum is a perfect stop-off and place to spend an hour or two, especially if you like your museums eclectic.

Missoula has become known as a natural retreat, despite its city status. The city is divided into two by the Clark Fork River, famed for its Blue Trout (take note if you love fishing). Situated in Western Montana, Missoula is right next to the Idaho border and is within driving distance from Lolo and Flathead National Forests. Missoula is a beautiful place to visit if you want to base yourself in Western Montana.

Of course, the city also has a lot of its own attractions, including the Missoula Art Museum. While history lovers can learn more at Missoula Natural History Museum and the Historical Museum at Fort Missoula.

Butte was once a gold and silver mining camp. A couple of centuries later, Butte is now one of the best places to visit in Montana and one of the state’s most booming cities. Butte is somewhere to appreciate Montana’s past while enjoying the present moment. The city has great historical attractions and a fantastic entertainment scene.

You can discover the city’s humble beginnings at the World Museum of Mining. You can also peer into Berkeley Pit (an old copper mine) from a viewing stand within easy walking distance from the city center. Alternatively, have a flutter by visiting Richest Hill. Richest Hill is Butte’s casino and the center of its nightlife and partying scene – great if you want to let your hair down.

11. Virginia City

Virginia City is one of our absolute favorite places in Montana. The town is a complete time capsule, from log cabins to old western street signs. Get ready to be transported back to 19th-century Montana.

The town has a small museum called the Thomas-Hickman Museum. You can also catch a performance at the Virginia City Opera House. However, the main draw of Virginia City is to just walk the traditional town main street and soak up the old western architecture and atmosphere. Virginia City is easily the most authentic place to visit in Montana. You’ll love it, especially if you love immersive history.

Best natural places to visit in Montana

Now that we’ve covered the best towns and cities, let’s look at the best natural places to visit in Montana. From national parks to state parks, these are our top ten recommendations.

12. Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone is a celebrity amongst US national parks. You’ll find the world’s largest collection of geysers, including Old Faithful. There are also more hot springs, mountains, and animals than you’ll be able to count. If you want a national park that will provide lifelong memories, Yellowstone National Park is the one.

Yellowstone actually straddles Wyoming, Idaho, and Montana. While the largest section of the park is in Wyoming, you can experience some parts in Montana – or just allow time to cross the borders and see as much as possible. Some attractions, like the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center (near the West Yellowstone entrance) and the Museum of Yellowstone, are in Montana. Others, like Old Faithful, are located in Wyoming, so you’ll need to allow extra travel time.

If you are interested in hiking don’t miss our recommendations for the Best Hikes in Yellowstone , complete with difficulty ratings and elevation.

In West Yellowstone, you’ll find the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center. The animal refuge center has resident grizzly bears, grey wolves, and birds of prey. It is an excellent place to visit if you want to support a local not-for-profit and don’t manage to spot animals in the wild.

Fancy an adrenaline rush? Go whitewater rafting down Yellowstone River. Yellowstone River snakes through the national park’s center with many exciting sections of rapids – perfect for an adventurous day out.

13. Flathead National Forest

How does 2.4 million acres of mountain forests sound? In winter, you can zip through Flathead National Forest on snowmobiles and skis. In spring and summer, you’ll have hiking trails galore and no shortage of space for camping and multi-day treks. Flathead National Forest is an excellent natural place to visit in Montana, regardless of the season.

The forest is home to many animals, including black bears and grizzlies. You’ll see bighorn sheep, elk, moose, and mules. And, if you keep your eyes on the skies, you may get lucky and catch sight of an eagle or owl. Flathead National Forest is one of the most rewarding natural places to visit in the state of Montana.

14. Gates of the Mountains Wilderness

Just outside of Helena, the Gates of the Mountains Wilderness is one of the most accessible places of natural beauty to visit in Montana. It is also one of the most exciting to explore since the best way involves hopping on a boat.

The nature preserve is situated along a section of the Missouri River that winds through a jaw-dropping mountain park. Sailing up the river, you can admire and be humbled by the scale of the mountain range surrounding you – definitely bring a camera.

You can take a guided tour or rent water sports equipment to appreciate the Gates independently. The Gates of the Mountains Wilderness is best visited in warm, dry weather, as sailing can get extremely cold with the strong breeze and exposure to the elements. We recommend visiting in late spring or summer for the best experience. Plus, the mountains will be covered in beautiful greenery during these months.

15. Giant Springs State Park

The name Giant Springs State Park speaks for itself. The park is home to one of the US’s largest freshwater springs, and the Giant Springs produces an incredible 156 million gallons of water daily. It is said that water takes approximately 26 years to reach the springs from its origin in the Little Belt mountains – a fascinating concept.

Aside from viewing this natural phenomenon though, visitors can make the most of river activities like fishing, swimming, and boating. There are also trails for mountain biking and horseback riding if you want to explore a little differently than on foot. The park was first discovered on the Lewis & Clark Expedition in 1805 and is an important location in the early mapping of Montana.

Giant Springs is the best place for you if you like natural attractions with a large network of trails and a historical backstory.

16. Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park

Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park is an excellent natural place to visit in Montana. The 3,000-acre park is best known for its limestone caverns, named the Clark Caverns. Visitors can take guided tours into the Clark Caverns for an ultimate caving experience. Allow just under two hours for a tour of the caverns, but a whole day to experience the best of the park.

The park is an exciting place to witness underground beauty and explore beautiful hikes in the sunshine above ground. It is undoubtedly one of the most unique places to visit in Montana if you want to experience natural beauty.

17. Flathead Lake State Park

Flathead Lake is split into six different park sections, so choose which area you want to visit wisely (our favorite is West Shore). The park is situated around Flathead Lake, making it ideal for fishing, swimming, and water sports activities. The park is the best place to spend a lake-side holiday and is dreamy in late spring and summer.

Flathead Lake is a good option if you are looking for great camping spots in Montana. The park has many well-established campgrounds with plenty of facilities, which is excellent if you want a relaxing, entry-level camping experience.

18. Spring Meadow Lake State Park

Spring Meadow Lake State Park is a cheeky addition to our list of natural beauty spots. The 61-acre park has an artificial lake – so technically, it is a manmade area of beauty. However, it is so stunning we just had to add it to the list.

The park is best for those who want clear trails and purpose-made walking paths. You can follow the paths, stop for a bite to eat on one of the picnic benches, or enjoy some water activities. Spring Meadow Lake State Park is a popular spot for kayaking and paddle boarding, and you can hire equipment on-site if you don’t have your own to bring along.

The best part about Spring Meadow Lake State Park is that it is located just outside of Helena. The park is less than a ten-minute drive from Helena’s center and a great way to get some time in the outdoors during a city break.

19. Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area

Have you ever seen a wild horse? If not, Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area is where you just might. With a bit of luck, you’ll spot herds of wild horses when exploring the area’s hiking trails. There are also plenty of ranches where you can saddle up to see the wild horses on horseback.

Located on the Montana-Wyoming border, the area is centered around Bighorn Canyon itself, which is definitely worth visiting. You can drive to scenic overlooks or hike to the most remote yet rewarding viewpoints – it is totally up to you. Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area is full of surprises and exciting things to see.

20. Makoshika State Park

Meet the largest state park in Montana. Makoshika State Park is overflowing with fossils, and dinosaur lovers will be ecstatic at seeing the fossil remains of dinosaurs like Tyrannosaurus Rex and Triceratops. Families note this park down for your little ones. But adults don’t miss out on the fun either – Makoshika State Park impresses all ages.

Start your visit at the visitor center, where you can admire a series of interpretive exhibits and the best dinosaur fossils. Then you can hike the Montana Dinosaur Trail for the ultimate paleontology experience. Allow a whole day to visit as there is so much to see, and you don’t want to rush.

21. Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument

Now the Missouri River is the longest river in the US, so, unless you want to sail the length of it (which would be an exciting adventure), you’ll have to choose a small section to visit. The river cuts through Montana east to west, passing multiple riverside towns and cities. However, our favorite place to enjoy the river is the Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument.

Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument is a 377,000-acre national park and the ideal spot for a riverside adventure. You can kayak, swim, or hike. To experience the Missouri River, the national park is the best and quietest place in Montana.

Of course, you can also indulge in a river rafting experience to pump your adrenaline or sit along the river banks for some relaxing fly fishing. North Montana is also full of different attractions like Bear Gulch Pictographs and the Phillips County Museum that you can combine with visiting the park.

22. Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is beautiful. There’s no denying it. In particular, its hiking is renowned as some of the best in the US, and you can read our complete guide on the best hiking trails in Glacier National Park here . The park is sure to impress no matter the season and no matter your interests.

If you are in a rush, we recommend visiting Lake Mcdonald and Logan Pass. Lake Mcdonald is the park’s largest lake and is a picture-perfect alpine destination with still water and mountainous views. Logan Pass is a dramatic elevation pass on the Continental Divide, with gorgeous scenery and lots of mountain goats to spot. You can’t go wrong with a visit to Glacier National Park.

Final Thoughts

Montana is incredible. The state has a dreamy mix of natural wonders and historic towns and cities to explore. By visiting Montana, you’ll be visiting some of the  best places in the US  – get ready to start ticking off your bucket list.

If you have the chance, try to visit as many of these places as possible for the ultimate Montana experience. We hope you have a fantastic trip.

Plan Your Nest Trip to Montana With These Resources

• 46 Best Places to Visit in the US
• 9 of the Best Glacier National Park Hikes
• 21 Best Winter Vacations in the US For 2022

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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2 thoughts on “22 Best Places to Visit in Montana”

Would love to visit Yellowstone someday.

Very beautyfoul places i would live there

15 Stunning Mountain Towns in Montana for Your Next Getaway

The Western state of Montana is synonymous with mountains (fun fact: Montaña means “mountainous” in Spanish). The Rocky Mountains meet the Great Plains smack in the middle of Montana, bringing with them all those great mountain things—hiking and skiing, wildflowers and lakes, waterfalls, and vistas.

Of course, Montana isn’t only mountains—but that’s a story for another day! Montana’s mountains are some of the best around and are world-renowned for their raw, remote beauty.

The remoteness can make them hard to get to, but luckily, many picturesque little towns are scattered throughout Montana’s mountains to help make those mountains just a bit more reachable.

So, for a place to rest your weary head after a day exploring the wilderness, read on for 15 of the most stunning mountain towns in Montana (in no particular order).

Table of Contents

The small town of Darby, Montana in the Bitterroot Valley has always been known for its beauty, but now is even more famous because the hit show Yellowstone takes place there. I’ll tell you one thing: Darby really is as beautiful as it looks on TV!

If you’re a fan of the show, Darby is a must-see, but there are also many other things to do in the area, like ski at Lost Trail Ski Area, go flyfishing on the famous Bitterroot River, hike around nearby Lake Como, or drive the epic Magruder Corridor.

2. Whitefish

Whitefish does have a reputation as a playground for the rich, but I promise, it’s for everyone! Whitefish Resort provides skiing in the winter and hiking in the summer, plus stunning year-round views from its gondola.

The town itself is an intriguing mix of Montana and more “citified” tastes, and the nearby Whitefish Lake is always pretty and always swimmable (well, maybe not when it’s frozen over…although some people still try).

The fastest-growing town in Montana (and one of the fastest-growing in the entire United States), Bozeman barely can be called a “town” these days. But, it’s still Montana, where the entire population of the state barely hits 1 million, so Bozeman isn’t that big!

And when it comes to mountain access, you can do no better. Blue-ribbon flyfishing rivers surround the town, mountain peaks studded with fresh lakes ring the valley, ski hills are a short drive away, and the lively town manages to be both old-time cowboy and new West at the same time.

A half an hour’s drive from Bozeman on one side and Yellowstone National Park on the other, the resort town of Big Sky has one of the most idyllic settings you could ever imagine.

The town itself is small with a few restaurants and boutiques, but the activities are endless, whether you’re coming for that famous powder, or for those famous waterfalls.

5. Red Lodge

Sometimes known as “Base Camp to the Beartooths,” (Montana’s highest mountain range, home of the epic Beartooth Highway), the quaint town of Red Lodge is one of spectacular beauty.

The Beartooth Highway is also the “most scenic” route into Yellowstone National Park, which is saying something, as all of the roads into Yellowstone are pretty scenic! Red Lodge is also known for its thriving art and music scene, many festivals, and genuine Western hospitality.

6. Philipsburg

Philipsburg, Montana is a charming 19th-century mining town that will give you the impression that you have stepped back in time. Many of the buildings are historical, including the courthouse (with the hanging noose still intact), the school, and the old-fashioned candy shop.

Philipsburg is also nearby the historical Butte and Anaconda, the gorgeous Georgetown Lake, Discovery Ski Hill, and many rivers and trails.

Ennis, the “Fly-Fishing Mecca” of Montana, is in the Madison Valley, home of the world-class fishing river, the Madison. Ennis is an ideal jumping-off point for Yellowstone National Park and has many picturesque resorts, cute shops, tons of outdoor recreational opportunities, and fishing.

Rafting or fly-fishing, canoeing or hiking, backpacking or horseback riding, the chances for some adventure are endless in Ennis!

Teeny tiny little Pray, Montana is well-located in the stunning Paradise Valley. It’s close to nearby artsy Livingston (also a cute little mountain town in Montana!) as well as Yellowstone National Park, and several famous lodges, like Chico Hot Springs and Sage Lodge.

Nearby Emigrant has one of the oldest saloons in Montana, and the surrounding hills are what Montana dreams are made of.

Set on the edge of the stunning, crystal-clear Flathead Lake, the town of Bigfork, Montana is the lakeside oasis you don’t even know you always needed.

Bigfork, although small, seems to have it all: charming restaurants and inns, access to all of the lake fun that Flathead provides, and a short drive to places like the Seeley-Swan Valley, the North Fork of the Flathead River, and Glacier National Park.

Plus, the sunsets from Bigfork over Flathead Lake might just be some of the most spectacular in the world.

10. Virginia City

The old mining town of Virginia City—originally settled during the Montana Gold Rush at Alder Creek in 1864—is essentially a piece of living history. Designated a historic district in 1961, the town is an “alive ghost town,” that gives you a taste of what life was like in the Old West.

About a mile away you’ll also find the (true) ghost town of Nevada City. Virginia City is ideal if you want to visit saloons and blacksmiths, pan for gold, meander through mini-museums, and stay in historic cabins.

11. Columbia Falls

Columbia Falls, Montana, located in the beautiful Flathead Valley, is often voted one of the safest and cleanest towns in Montana. It’s also ideally situated near Glacier National Park, Flathead Lake, several ski hills, golf courses, and of course, gorgeous mountains!

12. Stevensville

Stevensville often gets overlooked in favor of nearby tourist hubs of Hamilton and Darby, not to mention Missoula. But this little town in the Bitterroot Valley might be one of the most stunning spots in the state. The mountains are right there —you really can’t get closer!

Stevensville is also home to St. Mary’s Mission, the first permanent pioneer settlement in Montana and sometimes called “where Montana began.”

13. Livingston

The artsy town of Livingston lies in the middle of the Paradise Valley, famous as home to many a celebrity, and well-named for its beauty. Livingston is near Yellowstone National Park and the Yellowstone River, providing many incredible outdoor activities.

The town itself is known for its quirky galleries, small-town friendliness, and many local shops (oh, and some seriously amazing food!).

14. Missoula

The hip and lively college town/city of Missoula, Montana has probably already hit on your radar! “Zootown” is known for its incredible music scene, gourmet restaurants, world-class fishing and skiing, the nearby mountains, and, of course, the party scene (hence the nickname).

In the summer, you can float right through town on the Clark Fork River; in the winter, ski the powder at the nearby Montana Snowbowl; year-round, enjoy the vibrant festivals and delicious food.

15. Seeley Lake

The small town of Seeley Lake (population: 1,600), nestled in the Seeley-Swan Valley, is unforgettable thanks to its remote beauty. The lake itself is part of a chain of lakes that meander through the valley, which is flanked by the mighty Mission and Swan mountain ranges.

This is a true taste of rural Montana, with historical ranches and mining towns, stunning campgrounds and state parks, and all the outdoor activities you could ever wish.

BONUS: Garnet Ghost Town

With the fast and furious mining booms that helped Montana grow, it’s probably not a surprise that dotted throughout the state are many abandoned mining towns. One of the most stunning is Garnet, near Drummond, Montana.

Right on the side of the Garnet Mountains, nestled in the forest, you’ll find over 20 well-preserved buildings dating back to Garnet’s glory days in the 1890s. Many of these buildings are furnished with period furnishings, and some you can even rent overnight—although rumors of ghosts abound (you’ve been warned).

Let’s be real—these 15 gorgeous little towns are just the start of all the amazing mountain towns (and towns in general) that Montana holds.

These ones are a great little sample, though, of all that Montana has to offer, especially in the mountains—that Western hospitality and beautiful vistas, historical buildings next to wide-open spaces, peaceful wilderness settings, and wild outdoor adventures.

Which of these mountain towns in Montana sounds most idyllic to you? And, if you have one to add to this list, share it in the comments below!

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Montana’s Ultimate Winter Vacation Guide for Travelers

By Mark Barnett

The perfect winter vacation destinations combine outdoor adventure, cozy relaxation, and scenic natural beauty.

If you’re looking for an ideal snowy getaway, there’s nothing quite like the majestic experiences of a Montana winter vacation. 

This article is a complete guide for travelers interested in learning about winter vacations in Montana. We’ll share everything you need to know about winter in Montana and provide key insights into the following:

• Best winter activities to try in Montana 
• Top spots to check out during winter in Montana 
• Popular wintertime events in Montana
• How to plan a winter vacation in Montana 

Let’s dive in!

Winter Activities in Montana

What makes Montana such an astounding destination to visit is the wide array of winter adventures. Let’s explore some of the must-try activities during the winter season in Montana: 

Skiing and snowboarding at popular ski resorts

• Locations: Big Sky Resort , Bridger Bowl , Blacktail Mountain
• Price range: $45 – $70 (excluding lessons or rentals)
• Best for: Those looking to rip it up with a session on the slopes  

There is no shortage of spectacular ski areas in Montana for skiers and snowboarders to hit. 

Many of the resorts offer abundant terrain for all levels, luxurious accommodations, and first-rate amenities. 

If you’re looking to try skiing and snowboarding for the first time, Black Mountain is one of the best hills for beginners. 

Snowmobiling and snowshoeing in national parks and forests

• Locations:   Yellowstone National Park , Glacier National Park
• Price range: $7 – $15 for snowshoeing, $99 – $230 for snowmobiling
• Best for: People interested in journeying through the unmatchable trails of Montana  

Snowshoeing and snowmobiling are two of the most popular and accessible winter activities in Montana. 

You’ll find tons of opportunities for them in Yellowstone National Park and Glacier National Park. See the natural beauty of Montana off the beaten path while also enjoying the excitement of snowshoeing and snowmobiling!

Ice fishing on frozen lakes and rivers

Locations:   Flathead Lake Charters , Price range: $350 – $650 Best for: Those who want to spend the day relaxing in an ice shelter and enjoy a freshly caught seafood dinner  

Spend the day out experiencing the thrills of ice fishing in Montana. Trout, perch, kokanee, and Northern Pike are just some of the species that you can try and catch. For beginners, Flathead Lake Charters offers guided ice fishing right by Whitefish Mountain Ski Resort. 

Dog sledding and sleigh rides

• Locations:   Dog Sled Adventures , Lone Mountain Ranch
• Price range: $65 for a sleigh ride, $180 – $435 for dogsledding
• Best for: People curious to try an Eskimo Roller Coaster or cozy up in a sleigh with their family  

You don’t have to travel to the North Pole for a horse-drawn sleigh ride, nor do you have to go to Alaska for a dog sled ride. Whether you want to be a spectator or experience these for yourself, there are plenty of opportunities throughout winter in Montana. 

Hot springs and spa experiences

• Locations: Norris Hot Springs , Boulder Hot Springs , Yellowstone Hot Springs
• Price range: $10 – $20 
• Best for: People looking for the best way to relax after a day of outdoor adventures  

While winters in Montana can be incredibly cold, there are several hot springs to keep you toasty and warm. You can rest assured that wherever you are in Montana, you’ll never be too far away from a hot spring where you can soak your muscles in.

Winter fat biking adventures

• Locations: Whitefish Bike Retreat ,  Dog Creek Lodge & Nordic Center
• Price range: $13 – $50 
• Best for: Those who want to take a gorgeous bike ride and take in glimpses of the woods and nearby lakes   

Fat biking is one of the most popular pastimes in Montana because wide tires provide more traction on slippery terrain and allow you to pedal through the snow. First-timers can find plenty of groomed trails and easy terrain in Montana.

Ice skating at an outdoor rink

• Locations: High-Altitude Skating Center , Lion’s Park , Winninghoff Park
• Price range: $3 – $7 
• Best for: People looking to unleash their inner Wayne Gretzky or Michelle Kwan  

Ice skating is one of the most fun ways to stay active and enjoy the outdoors of Montana during the winter. Most of these outdoor rinks are accessible at any time and even free to use. 

Best Places to Visit in Montana During Winter

There’s something unmistakably magical about Montana during the coldest months of the year. Here are the top destinations in Montana that make it a magnificent winter wonderland unlike any other:

Yellowstone National Park

• Address: Yellowstone National Park Yellowstone National Park, WY
• Contact number: +130-7344-7381
• Price range: $20 – $35 
• Best for: People looking to try snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing.  

While both Montana and Wyoming share different entrances to Yellowstone National Park, Montana offers the only Yellowstone access point open during the winter. Apart from the many types of winter activities, you can also find winter lodges with excellent accommodations for a winter vacation. 

Glacier National Park

• Address: 64 Grinnell Drive Glacier National Park Headquarters West Glacier, MT
• Contact number: +140-6888-7800
• Price range: $20 – $35  
• Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts looking for winter peaceful solitude   

Travelers can glide by Avalanche Lake and Lake McDonald as they embark on a serene cross-country ski trip to Glacier National Park. It provides a fantastic opportunity to get away from it all and explore the national park via Nordic ski or snowshoe. 

Big Sky Resort

• Address: 50 Big Sky Resort Rd, Big Sky, MT
• Contact number: +1 800-548-4486
• Price range: $196 – $900 
• Best for: Snowboard and ski fans  

Big Sky Resort is one of the nuggets ski resorts in Montana that is highly beloved by tourists. Big Sky Mountain is fully equipped with state-of-the-art chair lifts and some of the most amazing ski runs in the US.

Whitefish Mountain Resort

• Address: 1015 Glades Dr, Whitefish, MT
• Contact number: +1 406-862-2900
• Price range: $73 – $97 
• Best for: Those seeking a cozy ski destination  

You really get the feel for an authentic mountain ski town whenever you are in Whitefish Mountain Resort. Aside from snowboarding and skiing, guests can enjoy the remarkable lake views and easy access to the restaurants and bars along Main Street.

Bozeman Hot Springs

• Address: 81123 Gallatin Rd, Bozeman, MT
• Contact number: +1 406-586-6492
• Price range: $25 – $28 
• Best for: People looking to escape the cold winter air by taking a dip in the hot springs  

Bozeman Hot Springs has been responsible for heating the local bathhouse since the late 1800s. It’s a wonderful spot to soak in the steamy outdoor and indoor pools on a cold day.

Art House Cinema & Pub

• Address: 109 N 30th St, Billings, MT
• Contact number: +1 406-534-1128
• Price range: $6 – $50 
• Best for: Those interested in a one-of-a-kind cinematic experience  

Art House Cinema & Pub is a popular non-profit organization that shows a curated selection of both new and old films. Grabbing a drink and catching a movie at an independent theater in Montana is the perfect option when you’ve had enough of the cold.

Museum of the Rockies

• Address: 600 W Kagy Blvd, Bozeman, MT
• Contact number: +1 406-994-2251
• Price range: $12 – $20 
• Best for: People looking for world-class exhibits along with the art, history, and culture of Montana.  

Museum of the Rockies is a great destination to escape the cold while getting to see all of the natural history of Montana. It is the best museum in the state and is committed to featuring native art as special collections and permanent exhibits. 

Popular Events

Montana hosts plenty of special events throughout the winter season in addition to all the regular attractions and activities. Let’s take a look at some of the most highly recommended festivals and happenings that will make your Montana winter vacation all the more memorable: 

Whitefish Winter Carnival

• Location: Whitefish, Montana  
• Price range: Free 
• Schedule: January to early February 
• Best for: People looking for an old-fashioned celebration of all things snow and ice   

Whitefish Winter Carnival pays homage to Ullr, the Norse god of winter activities, and celebrates the season with everything from ski races and ice sculpting to a hockey tournament the World SkiJoring Championships. 

Fun events such as a disco party, polar plunge, and gala will lead up to the Grand Parade in early February.  

Big Sky Winter Fest

• Location: Big Sky, Montana 
• Price range: $15 – $75 
• Schedule: Early February  
• Best for: Those seeking a family-friendly winter celebration in the heart of Big Sky  

Big Sky Winter Fest is a popular celebration of all things winter in Montana. Some of the most famous lineup of activities include live music, retro movie screenings, Viking Races, skijoring, ice sculptures, and many more! 

Yellowstone Ski Festival

• Location: West Yellowstone 
• Price range: around $12 
• Schedule: Week of Thanksgiving 
• Best for: Those looking to experience a monumental winter tradition in Montana  

Nordic skiers from all around the US have gathered at West Yellowstone for over 40 years to take part in the Yellowstone Ski Festival. 

The event has tremendously grown from a fall training camp to a complete celebration with ski clinics, races, an indoor expo, and on-snow demonstrations.

Christmas Stroll in Downtown Bozeman

• Location: Downtown Bozeman 
• Schedule: Early December 
• Best for: People looking to take in the Christmas spirit with their friends and family during winter in Montana  

The Annual Christmas Stroll has taken place for 43 years in Historic Downtown Bozeman. 

Visitors can enjoy an evening of great food, fun, and festive activities that include a Gingerbread House Contest, a lighting ceremony of downtown decorations, Christmas carols, and many more!

Montana Winter Fair

• Location: Lewistown 
• Schedule: Every 3rd week of January 
• Best for: Those curious about Montana’s world-class agricultural production and lifestyle  

The Montana Winter Fair has been a local celebration of farm, family, and the Western way of life since 1946. 

Currently, the fair has 27 official events that include a chili cook-off, snowmobile shootout, Dutch oven cooking, home brew tasting, and the State Fiddle Contest to name a few.

Tips for Planning a Montana Winter Vacation

A winter getaway in Montana is not for the unprepared. To help ensure that you have your dream Montana winter vacation, we’ve rounded up some of the most crucial tips to apply in your planning process:

Best time to visit Montana during the winter season

The most ideal time to plan a winter vacation in Montana is between December and March ! 

The latter months are when popular ski areas experience tons of snowfall but with more comfortable temperatures, while December to January is typically the snowiest and coldest in the state.  

What to pack for a winter vacation in Montana

When packing for a winter getaway in Montana , your top priority is how your gear can handle the weather. 

Remember to bring all of your warmest clothing, including accessories and footwear!

Since the weather can be unpredictable, make sure to have lighter-weight clothing that you can layer. 

How to get around Montana during the winter season

There are many options for public transport in Montana , but during winter, traveling via automobile is your best choice!

However, operating a vehicle during the winter season can be difficult and dangerous if you are not used to driving on ice. 

In most cases, snow tires or chains and a 4WD with high clearance are a must, especially if you’ll be driving through the mountains. 

Always make sure to check the weather and road conditions to ensure a safe and smooth winter excursion in Montana.  

Where to stay in Montana during the winter season

The types of accommodations that you’ll find in Montana range from charming bed and breakfasts and cozy lodges to first-rate resorts and historic hotels . 

For a truly magical home-away-from-home feel during the winter season in Montana, some of the best spots include: 

• Dog Creek Lodge in Olney 
• Northwest Montana Retreat in Troy 
• ROAM Beyond in Whitefish
• Old Faithful Snow Lodge in Yellowstone National Park
• The Lodge at Trout Creek
• Montana Treehouse Retreat in Columbia Falls 
• Bitterroot River Ranch in Darby 
• Relics Retreat in Eureka 
• Sherman Lodge in Kalispell

About The Author

Mark Barnett

Mark Philip is a writer and lifestyle enthusiast from the Midlands in the U.K. With a background in martial arts and fitness, Mark headed out to Bangkok, Thailand where he now lives and works. Mark has authored e-books, articles, and blogs across a wide range of topics for commercial, educational, factual, lifestyle and leisure-based purposes.

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Missoula is One of the Best Places to Stay in Montana

A new year is here, which means a new year full of adventures and possibilities.  Montana should definitely be on your “must-see” list this year, especially Missoula, which is easily one of the best places to stay in Montana.

What makes the charming yet rugged town of Missoula one of the best places to stay in Montana?  It’s a combination of big-city amenities, like restaurants, breweries, museums, and more, small-town charm, and unprecedented access to some of the most beautiful scenery in Montana.  It’s also within easy reach of popular day-trip destinations, like Flathead Lake and Glacier National Park.

Aside from being able to visit extraordinary places, visiting Missoula also gives you the chance to stay at our rural Bed and Breakfast, which we would consider top among the best places to stay in Montana.  We’re situated just outside of Missoula, close enough for you to be able to enjoy the best of this magnificent city, but far enough away to relax and unwind under the big skies Montana is famous for.

Why Missoula is One of the Best Places to Stay in Montana

There are plenty of reasons to consider Missoula one of the best places to stay in Montana.  It starts, of course, with the biggest draw to the area; Missoua’s a veritable mecca for outdoor enthusiasts.  There are virtually endless hiking and biking trails in Missoula, not to mention a river for a variety of water sports, and a winter blanketed with snow for an entirely new range of outdoor pursuits.

If you’re not into the outdoors or want a mix of adventure and culture on your trip, you can find that in Missoula, too!  Missoula is a college town, which means it has a diverse range of attractions.  The beer scene here is exceptional, and the restaurants are pretty great, too.  Truly, Missoula has a little something for everyone, and that is why we consider it one of the best places to stay in Montana.

Depending on when you visit, there are more than enough things to do in Missoula to keep you busy and having fun, too!  We’ve broken our list of things to do in Missoula out by summer activities (which really apply to spring, summer, and fall), and winter activities for you snow-loving adventurers. It won’t take you long to see why Missoula is one of the best places to stay in Montana!

The rugged natural beauty of this area lends itself to summertime exploration and so there are many options of things to do in Missoula. Whatever you choose to do, get ready for plenty of big adventures!

• Hiking is easily one of the top things to do in Missoula during this time of year, and arguably one of the things that makes Missoula one of the best places to stay in Montana.  There are endless trails to choose from, but some good ones to get started with include  Mount Sentinel or the “M” as it is referred to, the Kim Williams Trail , trails in the Rattlesnake Wilderness , as well as those in the Pattee Canyon National Recreation Area .
• Biking is another popular reason to visit Missoula. The city is very bike-friendly and offers pathways through the downtown, along the river, or off-road adventures in the many National Recreation areas. Popular trails include The Bitterroot Trail and the Kim Williams Trail .
• Visit the seasonal markets in Missoula, like Clark Fork River Market and The Missoula Farmers Market .
• Fishermen love Missoula – it is home to some of the best trout fishing in the world.  You have your choice of the Clark Fork, Bitterroot, and Blackfoot Rivers, and there are plenty of outfitters in town to work with, including Blackfoot River Outfitters , Missoula On The Fly , and Grizzly Hackle .
• Water sport enthusiasts don’t want to miss the surfers at Brennan’s Wave downtown on the Clark Fork River. This man-made wave was constructed in memory of a world-class kayaker. On summer evenings you can come down to check out kayakers, surfers, and paddleboarders trying out new tricks on the wave.
• Head down to the Hip Strip for some unique boutique shopping, checking out art galleries, and great eateries. The businesses here are all locally owned and operated and offer a great way to find that perfect souvenir for your time in Missoula.
• Unwind in the afternoon with a cold pint of beer at one of the many incredible breweries that dot the city. From craft and specialized breweries to establishments that serve up more traditional brews, you’ll see why Missoula is one of the top destinations for beer in the country. Places like Big Sky Brewing Co. , Bayern Brewing , Kettlehouse Brewing , Conflux Brewing , and so many others offer great spaces to enjoy a refreshing beverage on a summer’s day.
• Beer isn’t the only great reason to visit Missoula – there are also some great distilleries here.  Try  Mongomery Distillery , Montana Distillery , Rattlesnake Creek Distillers , and Lolo Creek Distillery.

Snow, snow, and more snow! That is what winter in Missoula is all about. There are plenty of things to do in Missoula in the winter, and this opportunity for four seasons of fun is what makes Missoula one of the best places to stay in Montana. Here are a few of our favorite things to do in Missoula in the winter.

• Snowshoeing into an open Montana wilderness is a breathtaking journey.  Head to places like Pattee Canyon Recreation Area , and Rattlesnake Recreation Area , and enjoy an unforgettable afternoon in Missoula.
• Cross country skiing goes hand in hand with winter in Montana. Check with the Missoula Nordic Ski Club for an up to date check on trail conditions and grooming reports, and enjoy popular trail networks like the Seeley Creek Nordic Ski Trails .
• For a bit of thrilling adventure, head out to some of the snowmobiling trails around Missoula. If you don’t have your own, you can rent or take a tour with Bitterroot Adventures .
• How about some ice fishing?  Team up with Flathead Lake Charters and Howe’s Fishing , which provide qualified guides to lead you on this adventure.
• The same great breweries, restaurants, and distilleries that you visit during the remainder of the year are here to warm you up after a day of fun in the great outdoors of Missoula.
• Visiting a natural hot spring is one of the best things to do in Missoula in the winter! Lolo Hot Springs is a more developed facility, while Jerry Johnson Hot Springs or Weir Hot Springs offer a more natural experience.
• Team up with experienced dog sledding guides f0r an unforgettable adventure at places such as Dogsled Adventures Montana , Absaroka Dogsled Treks , and Triple Creek Ranch .

The Best Place to Stay in Missoula

So now that we’ve covered why Missoula is one of the best places to stay in Montana, let’s talk about the best place to stay in Missoula itself!  When it comes to extraordinary lodging in Missoula, nothing beats the comfortable accommodations and exceptional hospitality provided by our Missoula Bed and Breakfast. The Blue Mountain Bed and Breakfast is located close enough to town to enjoy the best breweries, restaurants, museums, and other great things to do in Missoula, but it’s also far enough away to soak up the tranquil ambiance of Missoula’s stunning countryside. We offer guests the perfect blend between rustic and elegant accommodations, set amidst stunning natural surroundings. It’s truly the best of both worlds. As exciting as Missoula is (and why it ranks as one of the best places to stay in Montana), our Bed and Breakfast also offers our guests various onsite leisure activities to enjoy while here.  We make it easy for you to enjoy a down day or two, an essential part of any action-packed adventure! Regardless of what you plan to do during the day, each morning here will start with a delicious and hearty breakfast . It’s the perfect fuel for whatever adventure lies ahead. Sink your teeth into our Swedish pancakes, huckleberry sourdough, crab cakes, or steak and eggs. You definitely won’t go hungry here! If you’re ready to experience the best place to stay in Missoula, then it’s time to start planning.  Book your room at our Missoula MT Bed and Breakfast today!

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The 9 Best Places to Visit in February

Come February winter tends to linger a little too long. We all tend to get a bit anxious for Spring but will have to wait a while longer. What better way to remedy such impatience than with a bit of wanderlust? Near or far, there are plenty of places worth visiting in February. With Valentine's Day on February 14th, it's also a great excuse to get away for a romantic break . From the northern lights in Norway to the golden sands of Goa, here are our picks for the beset places to visit in February.

As luck has it, that you'll find amazing homes available for exchange in every one of them in the HomeExchange network. Home exchanges are a great way to travel authentically, affordably, and comfortably. So, learn more about HomeExchange today and start planning your next great escape with us.

The Best Places to Visit in February in North America

Stowe, vermont, usa.

Stowe is full of sweet surprises come February and Valentine's Day. It's on our list of best places to visit in February thanks for its reputation for great East Coast skiing and the romantic winter wonderland atmosphere here just in time for Valentine's Day. Nestled in the heart of Vermont, it has quintessential New England charm with picturesque landscapes blanketed in snow. Winter sports enthusiasts can hit the slopes at Stowe Mountain Resort. Whether you're a seasoned skier or a beginner eager to learn, the resort offers well-groomed slopes and breathtaking mountain vistas. From skiing and snowboarding to snowshoeing and ice climbing, there's an adventure waiting for everyone Meanwhile, the idyllic village, lined with quaint shops, cozy cafes, and charming boutiques also makes Stowe a great place for a romantic getaway.

Whitefish, Montana, USA

For more winter adventure, Whitefish is another pick for the best places to visit in February. Slightly more rustic then our other snowy selection, Stowe, Whitefish offers the rugged beauty of Montana's Rocky Mountains. It's also known for its great ski and snowboarding, with uncrowded slopes and breathtaking mountain scenery at Whitefish Mountain Resort . There is plenty of romance to be found here as well, just in time for a Valentine's Day getaway with your special someone. Cozy up under blankets in a horse drawn carriage to a snowy sleigh ride. Stroll hand in hand in the charming downtown area to pick the perfect restaurant for a romantic dinner. Relax together and local wellness retreats, and simply enjoy the beautiful landscape that surround you everywhere you look in Whitefish. Not far from Glacier National Park , if you're feeling adventurous you can also head over to explore the areas natural wonder even further! This hidden treasure is just waiting for you to visit and discover all it has to offer.

Scottsdale, Arizona, USA

Our snowbird pick for February definitely has to be Scottsdale , Arizona. The sun is almost always shining here, but in February the temperatures are mild which make the Sonoran Dessert as inviting as ever. Scottsdale is a dessert Oasis offering amazing spas where you can relax. There is great food with a wide range of restaurants offering southwestern cuisine. For golfers, Scottsdale is one of the best places to visit in February. Indulge in rounds of golf at world-class courses, where the manicured green against the backdrop of the rugged desert landscape. For more outdoorsing, enjoy the pleasant temperatures as you explore the hiking trails in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve to see the unique desert flora and fauna along the way. Discover the vibrant arts scene in Old Town Scottsdale , with its charming galleries, boutiques, outdoor sculptures, and old adobe architecture. February also brings the renowned Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show, where you can witness the grace and elegance of these majestic creatures. Scottsdale has something for everyone this time of year.

The Best Places to Visit in February in Europe

Venice, italy.

February is a special time to visit Venice as it time for Carnival! As you wander through the narrow streets and canals, you'll see elaborate masks and costumes on locals and visitors alike. The air has an electric energy as the city comes alive with parades, performances, and masquerade balls. Get your own Venetian mask to take part in the fun of the Venice Carnival , intricately crafted to conceal identities and evoke a sense of mystery. Then, take a gondola ride along the picturesque canals, passing by the iconic landmarks of St. Mark's Square and the Rialto Bridge, which provide a backdrop of architectural splendor to the Carnival revelry. As always when in Italy, never miss an opportunity to eat! Indulge in traditional Venetian delicacies, from pastries to seafood dishes, all while savoring the lively atmosphere that permeates every corner of the city in February.

Tromsø, Norway

If you visit Tromsø in February, brace yourself for beautiful arctic landscapes and a winter wonderland. Come to witness the extraordinary Northern Lights, but stay for all the spectacular snow activities. February provides optimal conditions for witnessing this celestial spectacle, as the long nights create a mesmerizing backdrop for the light show. Go dog sledding through snow-covered forests gliding across the white expanse. See breathtaking fjords and mountains on exhilarating snowmobile tours, and immerse yourself in the untouched beauty of this Arctic wilderness. Take a cable car ride up Mount Storsteinen for panoramic views of the city and surrounding snow-capped peaks. In Tromsø, you can also visit the iconic Arctic Cathedral , a true architectural marvel. For an authentic cultural experience, indulge in local cuisine, savoring traditional Arctic delicacies like reindeer meat and fresh seafood. Tromsø in February guaruntees a truly unforgettable winter memory!

If you fancy island life with some mild winter weather, and the chance to indulge in heaps of history without the crowds, then Cyprus is one of the best places to visit in February. Explore the charming coastal towns like Paphos and Limassol , where you can wander through ancient archaeological sites, visit Byzantine churches, and marvel at well-preserved Roman ruins. Take leisurely walks along the scenic beaches, basking in the tranquil beauty of the turquoise sea. If you're an outdoor enthusiast, embark on hiking adventures in the Troodos Mountains, where you'll be rewarded with breathtaking vistas and the opportunity to see snow-capped peaks. Dig in to some Cypriot cuisine such as souvlaki and halloumi cheese. Like Venice, February also offers the unique opportunity to witness the traditional Carnival celebrations here in Cyprus with parades, music, and costumes to animate the winter island ambiance.

The Best Places to Visit in February Worldwide

Goa is India's tropical paradise on country's western coast. In February it's blessed with perfect weather ideal for enjoying beautiful beaches like the golden sands of Calangut. In Goa's historic neighborhoods, you'll encounter the remnants of Portuguese colonial architecture blended with traditional Indian influences. Explore the winding streets of Fontainhas in Panaji, the state capital, with colorful colonial houses covered in bougainvillea. You can also visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site , known for its stunning baroque architecture and housing the relics of St. Francis Xavier. In February, Goa also has Carnaval celebrations happening adding to the excitement of the surroundings in town. For more exploration, head to the spice plantations in the lush backcountry and enjoy local river cruises. Other highlights include what's on the menu of course, with incredible local Indian food (Indian food varies enormously from region to region so there is always something new to try!) as well as the local nightlife that light up its beaches by night.

Antigua, Guatemala

In February, Antigua, Guatemala, reveals its enchanting allure against the backdrop of the dry season's clear skies and comfortable temperatures. As you traverse its cobblestone streets, you'll be mesmerized by the colonial architecture adorned with colorful bougainvillea. Embrace the mild weather as you explore the city's historical landmarks, from the iconic Santa Catalina Arch to the majestic ruins of the Cathedral of Santiago. Indulge in the local culinary delights at bustling markets, where vendors offer an array of traditional dishes and freshly brewed coffee. Don't miss the chance to ascend to Cerro de la Cruz for breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding volcanoes.

Byron Bay, New South Wales, Australia

Escape to the sun-drenched shores of Byron Bay in February for natural beauty down under. As Australian summer reaches its peak, Byron Bay is as alive as ever. Picture yourself basking on its beaches with sand between your toes and an ocean breeze on your skin. In February, you'll have the chance to witness the incredible migration of humpback whales as they pass by the coast, breaching and tail-slapping in their mesmerizing marine magnificence. Come to catch some world famous waves as they roll into the shore. Then, stay to check out the local arts scene, as February brings an array of festivals and events that celebrate creativity, including the Byron Bay Writers Festival and the Byron Bay International Film Festival . Venture to Cape Byron Lighthouse, and witness a breathtaking panoramic sunsets. In February, Byron Bay becomes a haven of coastal bliss, where you can experience the height of summer in the southern hemisphere, connect with nature, and create memories in an idyllic Australian paradise.

Stay With HomeExchange in the Best Places to Visit in February

With HomeExchange , you can have unique and immersive experiences year round, all while enjoying the comforts of a home away from home. Go explore the romantic canals of Venice, chase the Northern Lights in Tromsø, or swim in the seas of Goa. HomeExchange opens doors to all these amazing destinations and so many more around the world. So, why wait? Join the global community of passionate travellers and unlock a world of possibilities with HomeExchange.

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Marvelous Montana: The Best Places To Visit In The Treasure State

Posted: November 21, 2023 | Last updated: November 21, 2023

Top spots in the Treasure State

Big Sky Country. The Treasure State. The Last Best Place. Whichever of these nicknames you use for Montana, you won’t be wrong. America’s fourth largest state by area – which has just been named in Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2024 as one of the world’s top regions for travelers – is a real Western wonder. With endless beautiful and intriguing places to explore, from national parks and other natural attractions to small towns, slick cities, and historic landmarks, what are you waiting for?

Click through to discover the very best spots to see in Montana right now...

Swaddled by the spectacular landscapes of the Beartooth Mountains and Custer Gallatin National Forest, this charming enclave calls itself a town and has the quaint, community feel of one, but it’s actually a small city. A Native American trading post frequented by cowboys and outlaws back in the 19th century, Red Lodge has since retained its Western-style architecture and reputation for warm hospitality.

Head downtown to sample the fruits of its locally-owned independent stores and farm-to-table restaurants, or visit Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary to support animals from the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem who are unable to live in the wild. 

Yellowstone National Park

While Wyoming is the state most synonymous with Yellowstone, Montana has two gateways into America’s oldest national park. The little tourist town of West Yellowstone is just a short drive from the West Entrance and will steer you right into the heart of this geothermal marvel.

West Yellowstone is fun to visit in its own right, with the must-see Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center promising close encounters with Greater Yellowstone animals who can’t live in the wild. Yellowstone’s North Entrance – the original way into the park – can be found in Gardiner and leads into the so-called ‘American Serengeti’ year-round, via the iconic Roosevelt Arch.

Beartooth Highway

Beginning just south of Red Lodge, the Beartooth Highway is a 68-mile All-American Road snaking through Montana’s highest mountain peaks and into the state of Wyoming. After crossing the border via Montana's Cooke City, the road climbs to reach Beartooth Pass (elevation: 10,947 feet) and enters Shoshone National Forest before arriving at the northeast entrance of Yellowstone National Park.

The scenic route, with its hairpin bends and sharp switchbacks, is typically open between May and October. Allow at least three hours for the total drive (not including photo stops).

Gallatin River

Known to the Shoshone Tribe as Cut-tuh-o-gwa (swift water), the Gallatin River was renamed after the Lewis and Clark Expedition arrived in Montana during the early 1800s. Around a quarter of the river falls within the northern tip of Yellowstone National Park, attracting hikers, fly fisherfolk, and watersports nuts with its astonishing beauty, as well as local bears, deer, and moose.

Downstream, the river rushes through the Gallatin Canyon and the Gallatin Valley, where the scenery effortlessly shifts from pine forests to cottonwoods and hay fields.

Medicine Rocks State Park

Listed in the National Register of Historic Places, Medicine Rocks State Park is filled with unusual sandstone formations that look like lumps and shards of dusty honeycomb. Shaped by the elements over millions of years, these unique rocks were deemed sacred by some Native American groups (such as the Crow, Northern Cheyenne, and Sioux peoples), who convened in their shadows for ceremonial and religious gatherings.

Called “as fantastically beautiful a place as I have ever seen” by Theodore Roosevelt when he visited as a boy, Medicine Rocks is still a captivating haven for nature lovers.

Bannack State Park

Bannack, a former boomtown near the border with Idaho, was Montana’s first territorial capital and the site of its first major gold strike in 1862. Within a year, the settlement’s population had ballooned to over 3,000, which was then followed by a gradual decline as gold became less valuable.

Now labeled the best preserved of all the state’s ghost towns, Bannack is something of an open-air museum, showcasing more than 50 original Old West buildings seemingly frozen in time. There are 28 campsites (including a tipi to rent) open for year-round overnight stays in the park too.

Fort Peck Lake

Soaking a swathe of Montana’s Missouri River Country, Fort Peck Lake (really a reservoir) is the state’s largest body of water. Its 1,520 miles of shoreline outnumbers the length of the Californian coast and is home to the Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge, populated by herds of mule deer, red foxes, mountain bluebirds, coyotes and so much more.

The lake was founded with a practical use in mind – to alleviate flooding, as well as post-Depression poverty by creating jobs – but has evolved into a hub of outdoor recreation.

Wrapped in blankets of trees on all sides, it’s no mystery how Missoula won its nickname. The ‘Garden City’ is uniquely situated within driving distance of five of Montana’s seven national forests; Lolo National Forest surrounds it entirely.

Within Lolo, visitors will find myriad walking and cycling trails sewn throughout the picturesque Rattlesnake and Blue Mountain National Recreation Areas – but there’s plenty to do indoors too. Missoula is a burgeoning university city; its downtown neighborhood and the so-called ‘Hip Strip’ are awash with music venues, cool art galleries, and coffee houses.

We can’t round up the most gorgeous places in Big Sky Country without mentioning Big Sky itself. Dramatic peaks crest all around this small town like rearing waves and wear whimsical names like Sphinx Mountain, Cinnamon Mountain, and Lone Mountain (pictured). Adrenaline-inducing winter sports and whitewater thrills are the main draws here, with the Big Sky Resort boasting some of the biggest skiing in the US.

While a sense of adventure is encouraged, it’s not mandatory to enjoy your time in Big Sky – just hit the Historic Crail Ranch Museum or the stores instead of the slopes.

Makoshika State Park

The name of Montana’s largest state park derives from the Lakota phrase meaning ‘bad earth’ or ‘bad spirit,’ relating to the harsh and inhospitable conditions of Montana’s eastern badlands. But life has been known to thrive in what is now Makoshika State Park; aside from the juniper and pine scrub that peppers its rocky landscape today, dinosaurs once roamed here.

At the park’s visitor center, you’ll find the fossilized remains of tyrannosaurus rex, triceratops, and even more prehistoric creatures. As well as archaeological wonders, Makoshika is laced with nature trails, scenic driving routes, and campsites. An open-air theater hosts an annual Shakespeare festival too.

Blackfoot Pathways: Sculpture in the Wild

This sculpture park in Lincoln features large-scale installations by Montana natives and international artists that celebrate Blackfoot Valley’s precious cultural, environmental, and industrial heritage. Carving through the western corner of the state, the Blackfoot Valley cradles a free-flowing river of the same name and has been inhabited by Native American peoples for at least 10,000 years.

One of the most striking pieces you can see at Blackfoot Pathways: Sculpture in the Wild is “Tree Circus” by Patrick Dougherty (pictured), created out of willow and alder wood.

Glacier National Park

Forming part of the Crown of the Continent – a Venn diagram of vast temperate ecosystems shared by Montana and the Canadian provinces of British Columbia and Alberta – Glacier National Park is a wilderness of alpine meadows, gleaming lakes, majestic valleys, and vanishing glaciers. It is vast, but we think hiking in the Many Glacier area is a particularly jaw-dropping introduction to exploring this national park.

Tripping the Going-to-the-Sun Road can’t be missed either; take an interpretive tour with Blackfeet-owned tribal business Sun Tours to fully understand the national park’s complex history.

First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park

Set within the High Plains, First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park is where Indigenous hunters used to kill herds of buffalo and bison by driving them over a sheer cliff. Believed to be the largest such jump in North America, this site was used for at least two thousand years and features a mile-long sandstone ledge where compacted bovid remains lie entombed beneath.

While this all might make you shudder, a single jump could feed, clothe and shelter the hunters’ people for a whole year, so they were necessary for survival.

Butte was once called the Richest Hill on Earth, owing to the abundant copper lodes that transformed it from a humble mining town on the slopes of the Continental Divide into Montana’s first major city. At the turn of the 20th century, Butte was the largest city west of the Mississippi and was also the biggest between San Francisco and Chicago for a considerable stretch of time.

Nowadays, while the copper boom has long since dwindled, the city remains a monument to its past – it contains one of the USA’s largest National Historic Landmark Districts and some fascinating museums that document its 1800s prime.

Bozeman is Montana’s other university city, which has been called “the most liveable place.” Combining ample opportunities for backcountry exploring and adventure sports with diverse festivals, farmers’ markets, theaters, cafes, and craft breweries, the growing town is keen to show off its experimental and eclectic vibe.

Spare some time for the Museum of the Rockies, an affiliate of the illustrious Smithsonian Institution and home to one of the country’s largest dinosaur collections, as well as exhibits on regional Native American culture and Western art. If that wasn’t enough, the planetarium and outdoor living-history sections will leave you equally entertained and educated.

Paradise Valley

If you’re visiting Bozeman, supplement your trip with a gorgeous 90-minute drive through the heart of Paradise Valley to the North Entrance of Yellowstone – the only way into the national park during the winter months. With the Absaroka mountain range to its eastern flank and the Gallatin range to the west, Paradise Valley offers some amazing outdoor experiences, including cross-country skiing, dude ranches, dog-sledding, ziplining, and river rafting.

Head to Chico Hot Springs, a spa resort that’s been in operation for over a century, to toast yourself up.

Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area

With one foot in Wyoming and the other in Montana, Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area boasts 17 miles of designated trails and spans over 120,000 acres in its entirety. The park has been touted as the state’s best-kept secret; pontoon boats can be rented and steered between the rugged canyon walls, while the visitor center at Fort Smith overlooks Yellowtail Dam and tells its origin story.

Named after Robert Yellowtail, leader of the Crow Nation, the dam siphoned the once-volatile Bighorn River into a serene lake that now forms the centerpiece of the park.

Kootenai Falls

The largest undammed falls in Montana (and one of the largest free-flowing falls in the American northwest), Kootenai Falls is certainly impressive. The rushing cascade sits on the sacred lands of the Kootenai Tribe, to whom the falls represent the center of the world.

Community members come here for spiritual guidance and direction from their ancestors. For visitors, this is a place to feel grounded and close to nature. Follow the forest trail from the parking lot down to the Swinging Bridge, which promises a great perspective of the falls if you’ve got a head for heights (and aren’t put off by the wobble).

Ross Creek Cedars

Ross Creek Cedars Scenic Area is a 100-acre grove of giant red cedar trees. Many tower above Kootenai National Forest as they have for the past thousand years, their striped trunks sentinels of the past.

Thriving in the shadows of the damp understory are mosses, mushrooms, hemlocks, and lichens, delighting nature lovers with their earthy perfume. For a gentle day hike through a closed canopy of ancient western cedars, follow the Ross Creek Trail 142; a shorter circular trail, lined with information boards and picnic benches, is ideal for families.

Swan Lake might be small in size compared to its neighbor Flathead Lake, but don't let that fool you – it belongs to a big-hearted community, softened and shaped by their connection to nature. The lake lends its name to a nearby town, established in the early 20th century to accommodate lumberjacks felling timber to build the Great Northern Railroad.

It has since grown around the lake, building a modest reputation for its sought-after fish stocks. Nestled among blue peaks and cozy forests, Swan Lake spawns a host of hiking trails and also holds its signature huckleberry festival annually, which has been going for over 40 years.

Whitefish Mountain Resort

Also borne out of the railway, Whitefish (adjacent to Glacier National Park) in northwest Montana was incorporated in 1905 and frequented by loggers, miners, and railroad workers in its early days. Now, there’s one main reason that people come in their droves to this compact city.

Whitefish Mountain Resort is renowned as one of the biggest and best ski spots in North America, featuring over 3,000 skiable acres. But contrary to what you might expect, it’s something of an all-seasons destination – when the powder melts, zipline tours, downhill mountain biking, and treetop walkways become the signs of summer.

Gates of the Mountains

Just north of Helena, Montana’s capital city, you’ll find the magical Gates of the Mountains. Split by the Missouri River, this bewildering limestone canyon has more than 28,000 acres of designated wilderness area named after it, where airy forests, high-altitude meadows, and slender gorges give a different flavor in every season.

It caught mainstream attention after Meriwether Lewis and William Clark passed through on their 8,000-mile journey across what was (in the early 19th century) an uncharted corner of the United States; those following the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail today will find this landmark a highlight of the route.

Humbug Spires

The wilderness study area of Humbug Spires relates to a swathe of peculiar rock formations that form part of the Boulder Batholith, where quartz monzonite shards have pushed up from beneath the surface of the Earth and calved jagged, shark-tooth-like peaks. Pristine and car-free, you’ll seldom see another soul on the trail here, which runs for three miles along Moose Creek and meanders through an old-growth forest.

A boon for rock climbers, the views of Big Sky Country from the spires are top tier.

Terry Badlands

The town of Terry in Montana’s Prairie County is your gateway to the Terry Badlands Wilderness Study Area and the stunning Big Sky Back Country Byway, which ends at Wolf Point on the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail. Its stark badlands are a striking departure from the snow-capped mountains and glacial lakes that most would associate with the Treasure State, comprising weathered escarpments of neatly banded sedimentary rock, fairy chimneys, and sandstone buttes.

The Terry Badlands are remote, but definitely worth the adventure – follow the Natural Bridges Trail for a punchy introduction to the park’s unique geology.

Located on the shores of Flathead Lake, in the midst of Montana’s Glacier Country, Bigfork has been called one of the best small art towns in America. This idyllic enclave may seem sleepy to those just passing through, but stay a while and you’ll discover a thriving community with creativity and curiosity at its core.

From outstanding art galleries to artisanal stores, coffee stops, and markets, Bigfork has a lot to offer within its tiny footprint. Annual celebrations like Bigfork Whitewater Festival and Bigfork Brewfest give the town even more excuses to demonstrate its gregarious spirit.

Flathead Lake

With water so clear in summer that you can see 20 feet into its depths, Flathead Lake is the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi River in the contiguous US and one of Montana’s best places for aquatic activities. Look out for the mysterious Flathead Lake Monster though, which has reportedly been sighted several times in the past 130 years. Note that the southern half of Flathead Lake rests on tribal land, so you’ll need to secure a recreation permit from the Confederated Salish and Kootenai peoples if you’re planning to spend time here.

Now discover the most mysterious place in every US state

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