The rugged individualism and spirit of the Wild West isn’t confined to your grandparents’ black and white TV screen or dusty old history books. It’s a living, breathing way of life in modern-day Montana.
From fly fishing on a wild mountain river to making friends with cowboys in an Old West saloon, here are a few of the best experiences to be had in a state that offers a bit of everything.
Fly fishing: catch your own dinner
Montana is world famous as a fly-fishing paradise, with dozens of clear cold-water rivers teeming with healthy fish populations. The state does not stock its waters with trout, which maintains the wild character of its rivers while protecting native habitat species.
Famous for rainbow, cutthroat, and brown trout that average 14-16 inches long, Montana’s rivers often pair with spectacular mountain scenery, making a day fly-fishing a highlight of any visit. There’s a reason ‘A River Runs Through It’ was filmed here. With 450 miles of rivers and streams classified as ‘blue ribbon’ trout waters, you can fish anywhere up to the high-water mark (even if it passes through private property). You can also camp along the river banks anywhere up to the high-water mark, enabling multi-day trips spent catching and cooking your own meals.
The Yellowstone River is Montana’s longest river and offers top-notch fly-fishing in the state, especially in the section between Yellowstone National Park and the town of Livingston, noted for its scenic beauty. Hiring a guide from a local outfitter like Angler’s West Fly Fishing Outfitters is a great way to experience a productive day reeling in wild trout with the Absaroka Mountains in the background.
Hot springs: Soak in a Montana experience
With over 60 known hot springs, Montana offers a wide variety of options – from luxurious resorts with hot springs-fed pools to hidden natural springs in the backcountry. Fairmont Hot Springs near Butte is particularly glamorous, featuring an on-site golf course and poolside tropical drinks in summer. Alternatively, soak in a natural hot spring within Yellowstone National Park at a popular spot called The Boiling River. Many of Montana’s hot springs, like Norris Hot Springs and Bozeman Hot Springs, host live bands, allowing you to enjoy Montana craft brews while soaking in the scenery.
River floating: Enjoy an aquatic happy hour
Fishing and rafting are popular summer activities among locals, but floating down the river in a tube is a relaxed favorite. No guides, licenses, or expert knowledge is required. Simply pack an inflatable flotation device and float your way down one of Montana’s rivers, preferably with a drink in hand. Remember to mark where you parked or arrange for a friend to shuttle your vehicle back to make the experience hassle-free.
National Parks: Blaze your own trail
With over a million people spread across 147,000 square miles, Montana is the third least densely populated state (after Alaska and Wyoming), providing ample room to roam in Big Sky Country. Yellowstone National Park has a small section in the northern part of the state that allows for crowd-free adventures. Furthermore, Glacier National Park is a picturesque mountain destination featuring stunning alpine lakes and the renowned Going-to-the-Sun Road scenic drive, perfect for DIY nature excursions.
Saloon-hopping: Drink at a Western watering hole
Montana is loaded with authentic Western bars that evoke the Wild West spirit, from the historic Bale of Hay (Est 1863) to the legendary Pony Bar in the tiny town of Pony. Another iconic establishment is the Old Saloon, which has served drinks since 1902, attracting a diverse crowd from local families to adventurous tourists. This destination features live country bands rocking the outdoor stage as the dramatic Montana sunset provides the perfect backdrop for your evening.
Ride the range: Stay in luxury on a ranch
While Montana is known for its dude ranches, opt for a less commercial experience at the new Sage Lodge in Paradise Valley. Nestled on a 1,000-acre ranch in a peaceful wilderness area, Sage offers upscale dining and luxury accommodations along with fishing, horseback riding, and river floating excursions. With 34 hotel-style rooms and 16 cabins, all with stunning views of Emigrant Peak, guests can also engage in cider-making with apples from the on-site orchard.
Outdoor amphitheaters: grab a spot in the grass
The new KettleHouse Amphitheatre, located on the banks of the Blackfoot River outside Missoula, provides a spectacular backdrop for live music performances. Enjoy sounds from bands such as The Flaming Lips and Trombone Shorty, paired with craft brews from Missoula’s KettleHouse Brewing Company. With accommodations for 4,000 guests, the venue’s layout ensures that there is no bad seat in the house. Ride the shuttle bus from the Top Hat in Missoula to enhance your experience and meet fellow attendees along the way.
Explore: Find your favorite Montana small town
In towns like Virginia City and Bannack, you can soak in the history and explore what life was like in Montana during the late 1800s. For a modern experience infused with charm, the town of Livingston is a must-visit. Attracting a blend of artists, writers, outdoor enthusiasts, and real-life cowboys, the heart of the town is the historic Murray Hotel and Murray Bar. Other fine establishments include The Mint and Whiskey Creek. A leisurely stroll along the Yellowstone River completes your Montana experience, blending history with natural beauty.
