Also known as “Big Sky Country,” Montana is steeped in natural beauty, outdoor adventure and signature experiences. Montana is a destination for travelers of all kinds, from outdoorsy to adrenaline junkies to people who just want to soak in stunning vistas. So this article is all about the places that you need to visit to experience some jaw dropping views and experiences that compel you to visit this state.
Montana is a state that lives up to its nickname. Its wide-open skies, immense mountain ranges, clear lakes and abundant wildlife make it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. There are so many best places to visit in Montana that one trip will never be enough. Whether hiking the jagged mountains of Glacier National Park or sitting quietly on the foggy shores of Flathead Lake, Montana is a place where moments are made.
Montana itself is known for its pristine natural beauty and wide-open spaces. Far from the crush of international cities, Montana encourages visitors to unplug from the frenzy and plug into nature. Home to some of the most iconic national parks, picturesque small towns and scenic drives in the U.S., the state ranks among the countries’ superlative natural wonders. Hiking along alpine meadows, bathing in hot springs or just soaking it all in, there’s a certain charm to Montana.
Montana’s Crown Jewel: Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park is often described as the crown jewel of Montana — and for good reason. This park is a province of more than a million acres of pristine wilderness. The park is known for its soaring peaks, glacier-fed lakes and rich wildlife, including grizzly bears, mountain goats and elk. Takey kyop, one of Glacier National Park’s most scenic drives, Going-to-the-Sun Road offers visitors some of the most breathtaking views of the park’s iconic landscapes.
There are no lack of things to do in Glacier National Park. There is much to do out on the trail, which varies from gentle walks to rugged ascents.The Highline Trail and Grinnell Glacier Trail are must-dos for avid hikers. If you prefer working up a sweat, the best way to take in the park’s scenery is by canoeing or kayaking on Lake McDonald. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, too — the park holds some of North America’s top wildlife.
Yellowstone National Park: Where Adventure Meets Nature
In addition, a portion of Yellowstone National Park is contained in Montana (great places to visit in Montana). Famous for its geothermal phenomena including the iconic Old Faithful geyser, Yellowstone is a wonderland of natural wonders. But the park’s diverse landscapes — from verdant forests to gurgling hot springs — make compare it any go destination.
Yellowstone has so much to do for visitors. Wildlife watching is popular here, and visitors can see bison, wolves and elk roaming through their habitat. It’s hard to beat the park’s gem-like geothermal draws — the Grand Prismatic Spring and Mammoth Hot Springs, for example. For the lovers of hiking, there is Mount Washburn Trail for mesmerizing views of the park. Be sure to explore the Yellowstone River and its regal falls for a wonderful virtual experience!
Big Sky Resort: A Fun, Year-Round Destination
Big Sky Resort is one of the best places to visit in Montana for outdoor fun any time of year. And in winter, it’s a top draws for skiing and snowboarding, with some of the best slopes in the country. In summer, the resort is a base for hiking, mountain biking and zip-lining.
Winter sports enthusiasts will appreciate the resort’s 5,800 acres of skiable terrain, while summer visitors can take chairlift rides. The Big Sky Zipline Tour provides an adrenaline-boosting way for adrenaline junkies to take in the scenes. It is a great destination for families, with kid-approved activities, too.
A Guide to Flathead Lake: Nature’s Jewel of Montana
Flathead Lake is the largest natural freshwater lake lying west of the Mississippi River; not only is it among the best places in Montana to escape and unwind, but it’s also a stunning sight to behold. The lake sits between low hills and small towns, and it draws tourists who wish to swim, boat and fish.
Rent a kayak or paddleboard to paddle across the lake’s glassy waters, or kick back on the shore and enjoy the view. Cute shops and restaurants line the nearby town of Polson, a good place to loiter after a long day on the water. Do not miss Wild Horse Island, a state park in the lake, home to wild horses as well as other wildlife.
Bozeman: A Blend of Culture and Adventure
Bozeman is a colorful town that marries culture and outdoor activity. Famous for its buzzing downtown and eateries and for being close to some of Montana’s best hiking trails, Bozeman, along with Billings, is one of the best places to visit in Montana for a mix of culture and nature.
Explore the Museum of the Rockies, home to a spectacular collection of dinosaur fossils, or stroll downtown through Bozeman’s art districts and boutiques.The outdoor set will give way to neighboring Hyalite Canyon, where they can hike and fish and marvel at waterfalls. In winter, the Bridger Bowl Ski Area, 18 miles northeast of the town center, draws visitors looking to ski and snowboard.
Missoula: The Heart of Western Montana
Missoula is a small city in western Montana, bursting with beautiful arts, outdoor culture and generally friendly people. If you enjoy a mix of the urban and the natural, it is one of the best places to visit in Montana.
Walk along the Clark Fork River, or go to any of the many parks and trails throughout the city. Missoula is the home of the Montana Museum of Art & Culture, with the work of local and regional artists. For the unusual, visit the Smokejumper Visitor Center to learn about the men and women who parachute to combat wildfires.
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Whitefish: A Charming Mountain Town
Missoula is this great, small city in western Montana, with wonderful arts and an outdoor culture and friendly people. If you are up for a mix of both urban and natural experiences, it is one of the best places to visit in Montana.
Walk along the Clark Fork River, or go to any of the dozens of parks and trails throughout the city. Housed in Missoula, the Montana Museum of Art & Culture showcases works by local and regional artists. For the unusual, visit the Smokejumper Visitor Center to learn about the men and women who parachute in to battle wildfires.
Helena: Montana’s Historic Capital
Helena, the capital of Montana, is full of character and history. With its historic buildings and colorful arts community, Helena is one of the top places to visit in Montana for history and cultural buffs alike.
Take a tour of the Montana State Capitol and learn about the state’s history, or head to the Holter Museum of Art for a cultural fix. For lovers of the outdoors, nearby Mount Helena City Park has hiking trails that offer views of
Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park: Underground Wonders
Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park is one of the top places to visit in Montana for an outdoor adventure underground. Its park has one of the largest known limestone caverns in the Northwest.
Take a guided tour of the caves to see stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and other formations. But there are above-ground attractions as well, including hiking trails, picnic areas and wildlife viewing areas.
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Beartooth Highway: A Scenic Drive Like No Other
The Beartooth Highway has been called “the most beautiful drive in America,” and it’s easy to see why. The lovely byway stretches along this stunning area, with breathtaking views of mountains, valleys and alpine lakes, and also the National Bison Range.
Stop at scenic overlooks to admire the vistas or hike along one of the many trails that flank the way. The highway is also an access road to Yellowstone National Park, so it’s a perfect sidebar to a Montana trip.
Conclusion: Plan your trip to Montana Today!
For amazing views and fun, Flathead Lake, Montana, is among the best places to visit in Montana! Whether you favor the outdoors, have an interest in history, or are simply seeking to enjoy the majesty of nature, the diverse landscapes and towns of Montana give plenty of options to visit and explore. The highlights where to explore in Montana are positively not just a drive; they are encounters that will offer reminiscences to enable you to carry a profitable life.
So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, camera at the ready, and immerse yourself in the beauty that is Big Sky Country. Whether you’re hiking alpine meadows, swirling in hot springs or driving scenic byways, Montana’s a whole new world, a different kind of adventure. So make sure to plan your trip today and visit the best places in Montana for an unforgettable experience!
For more travel inspiration, check out our guides on the Best Places To visit in Indiana and the Top 10 Best Places to Visit in Chicago.
