Montana, known as the Last Best Place, is a treasure trove of the American West, offering a glimpse into its wild past and vast natural landscapes. With more residents than national forest acreage, it's a haven for adventurers and nature lovers.
Outdoor activities are at the heart of Montana's attractions, with breathtaking scenery from Glacier National Park's mountains to the trout-filled wild rivers. The state's Old West heritage, particularly in the capital, Helena, adds to its charm and sense of discovery.
Discover the top things to do in Montana with our guide.
1. Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park, the "Crown of the Continent," is a paradise for adventurers with its diverse landscape. The Going-to-the-Sun Road offers a breathtaking drive across the park, while over 700 miles of trails invite hikers to explore.
Read More:
- Top-Rated Things to Do in Glacier National Park, MT
- Best Campgrounds in Glacier National Park
2. Explore a National Forest
Montana boasts seven national forests, including Kootenai and Custer-Gallatin, offering easy access to outdoor adventures from cities like Missoula and Bozeman.
Read More: Best Hiking Trails in Montana
3. Hit the Slopes at Big Sky Resort
Big Sky Resort is renowned for its extensive ski terrain and luxury experience. Other ski destinations like Lost Trail Powder Mountain and Whitefish Mountain Resort also offer exceptional skiing with stunning views.
Official site: http://bigskyresort.com/
4. Fly Fish Blue Ribbon Waterways
Montana's fly fishing is legendary, with rivers like the Blackfoot and Gallatin providing excellent conditions and scenery.
5. Meet the Residents at the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center
The Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center in West Yellowstone offers a safe way to observe these majestic animals and learn about their conservation.
Official site: www.grizzlydiscoveryctr.org
6. Unearth History at the Museum of the Rockies
The Museum of the Rockies in Bozeman features an impressive dinosaur collection and exhibits on regional history and culture.
Official site: https://www.museumoftherockies.org/
7. Visit Yellowstone National Park
Montana provides access to Yellowstone National Park, where visitors can explore geysers, hot springs, and diverse wildlife.
8. Discover the Richest Hill on Earth at the World Museum of Mining
Butte's World Museum of Mining offers a glimpse into the city's copper mining past with a restored mining camp and underground tours.
Official site: http://miningmuseum.org/
9. Tour the State Capitol in Helena
Helena's State Capitol Building and its vibrant culture reflect the city's gold-digging history, while the surrounding Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest offers outdoor recreation.
10. Explore the Shore of Flathead Lake
Flathead Lake, the largest natural freshwater lake in the West, is a hub for boating and outdoor activities, with charming lakeside towns like Polson and Bigfork.
11. Go Underground at Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park
Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park offers guided tours of its impressive limestone caverns and aboveground hiking trails.
Official site: http://stateparks.mt.gov/lewis-and-clark-caverns/
12. Soak in One of Montana's Hot Springs
Montana's hot springs, like Quinn's Hot Springs Resort and Chico Hot Springs, offer relaxing soaks in natural settings.
13. Get Inspired at the C.M. Russell Museum Complex
The C.M. Russell Museum in Great Falls showcases the work of the Cowboy Artist, with the original Russell House and Studio as a highlight.
Official site: www.cmrussell.org
14. Spot the Smelter Stack in Anaconda
Anaconda's history is visible in its preserved smelter stack and attractions like the Discovery Ski Area and Old Works Golf Course.
15. Drive the Beartooth Highway
The Beartooth Highway offers a scenic drive with panoramic views, connecting Red Lodge to Yellowstone National Park.
16. Visit the Moss Mansion in Billings
The Moss Mansion in Billings is a historic home with original furnishings and guided tours.
Official site: www.mossmansion.com
17. Indulge at the Sweet Palace in Philipsburg
The Sweet Palace in Philipsburg is a delightful candy shop on the Pintler Veteran's Memorial Scenic Highway.
18. Ross Creek Cedars Scenic Area
Ross Creek Cedars Scenic Area in Kootenai National Forest features an ancient cedar grove with a 0.9-mile interpretive trail.
19. Pay Respects at the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument
The Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument marks the site of the 1876 battle between the US Army and Native American tribes.
Official site: https://www.nps.gov/libi/index.htm
20. Dive Deep into the Western Heritage Center
The Western Heritage Center in Billings displays artifacts and photographs of the Yellowstone River region's history and culture.
Official site: www.ywhc.org
