Top 15 Must-Do Activities in Montana

Montana is renowned as a sanctuary for outdoor enthusiasts. It offers a plethora of activities including winter sports, aquatic sports, biking, and hiking. Those who visit often refer to it as Big Sky Country due to its stunning, rugged scenery. A picturesque drive through the Rockies or alongside one of the longest state borders with Canada will undoubtedly leave you in awe. Moreover, Montana is the fourth largest state and is situated in a northern location, resulting in a low population density that attracts wildlife lovers and birdwatchers throughout the year. Consequently, Montana is a dream destination for many travelers.

1. Glacier National Park

Spanning one million acres, this national park represents a true paradise on earth. The park boasts an extensive array of hiking and biking trails exceeding 700 miles, a scenic 50-mile drive along the Going-to-the-Sun Road, and the majestic Logan Pass, which reaches a height of 7,700 feet. Encounter breathtaking views from Reynolds Peak at 9,100 feet and unwind by one of over 130 lakes. Traverse the wildlife-rich interior of the park, which is considered Montana’s top tourist destination. The park has been recognized as the Crown of the Continent Ecosystem, affirming its extraordinary natural significance. If you choose to include this location in your itinerary, you may find yourself planning a return visit, as the allure of Glacier National Park is truly captivating.

2. Flathead Lake

Flathead Lake is the largest natural lake in the Western United States, encompassing 200 square miles of water and 185 miles of shoreline. With the Swan and Flathead Rivers flowing into it, the lake has become a prime destination for anglers and water enthusiasts. A portion of the lake lies within tribal reservation land, where visitors are required to obtain a pass to explore this beautiful area. If your visit coincides with Memorial Day, you can experience the annual Bigfork Whitewater Festival. Wildhorse Island, located in the center of the lake and accessible only by boat, serves as a 2,000+ acre state park that is ideal for a leisurely afternoon.

3. Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument

One of America’s most recognized historical sites is the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument, located in Crow Agency, Montana. This memorial comprises several components, including a visitor center, the Custer National Cemetery, a museum, the 7th Cavalry Memorial, and the Reno-Benteen Battlefield. The site commemorates the Battle of Little Bighorn, which was infamous for its violence between the US government and the Sioux and Cheyenne American Indians, resulting in thousands of casualties. The memorial serves as a significant element in ongoing reconciliation efforts.

4. Ringing Rocks

Located just outside Butte, Montana, the Ringing Rocks of the Boulder Batholith are unique formations that emit melodic chimes when struck with a mallet or similar instrument. Such geological features exist in only a few locations worldwide, including Pyeongyang in Vietnam, Orissa in India, and various lithophones in Africa. The knowledge of these formations dates back approximately 2,000 years. While theories abound regarding the cause of the ringing, no definitive scientific explanation currently exists. Additionally, if one of the boulders is removed, the formation’s acoustic properties will cease.

5. The Museum of the Rockies

Situated in Bozeman, Montana, the Museum of the Rockies is an essential destination. Affiliated with the Smithsonian Institution, it is celebrated for its extensive collection of dinosaur-related exhibits, which include eggs, skeletons, and lifelike models of various species. The museum also houses the largest Tyrannosaurus rex skull and a T-Rex skeleton, affectionately named “Bike Mike.” Visitors will also find artifacts from the Plains American Indians, pioneer exhibits, and Tinsley House, a preserved 19th-century log cabin.

6. Lake McDonald

Lake McDonald is one of the remarkable 130 lakes contained within Glacier National Park. Stretching ten miles long and nearly 500 feet deep, it offers an unparalleled view of the Great Continental Divide. The area attracts visitors for hiking, wildlife observation, birdwatching, picnicking, and photography, with common sightings of elk, bighorn sheep, black bears, and mountain goats. Lake McDonald serves as the hub for the park’s western region, and the early 20th-century lodge provides a perfect retreat after a day of exploration. The striking glacial formations forged over millennia create a lasting impression that visitors cherish.

7. The Garden of One Thousand Buddhas

Encounters with the Garden of One Thousand Buddhas in Montana may come as a surprise, yet that adds to its charm. Established in 2000 on an American Indian reservation, the garden serves as a center for peace. The layout spans 750 feet in a circular formation, symbolizing the wheel of dharma and the Noble Eightfold Path, reflecting the cycle of life, death, and rebirth. At its center stands Yum Chenmo, the Great Mother. Each Buddha is crafted from white concrete and arranged symmetrically around the perimeter, creating a profoundly moving scene that embodies the dedication of the volunteers who contributed to its development.

8. Big Sky

If skiing is on your agenda, Big Sky, Montana, is your premier destination. Recognized as one of the largest and most sought-after ski resorts in the United States, it attracts numerous visitors annually due to an average snowfall of 400 inches and nearly 6,000 acres of skiable terrain. The resort caters to skiers of all skill levels; during peak season, lifts can accommodate 29,000 skiers per hour. The area boasts luxury accommodations, fine dining options, and ample entertainment, making a trip to Big Sky a worthwhile experience. Locals often share tales of others who came for a visit and chose to remain. The town itself maintains a quaint and rustic charm while offering a perfect balance of modern amenities and opportunities for relaxation.

9. West Yellowstone

Following the creation of Yellowstone National Park, the first national park in the United States, in the late 19th century, visitors began to converge on this fascinating and largely unexplored region. The entrance to the park evolved into a settlement, which currently accommodates approximately 1,200 residents. Each year, West Yellowstone attracts over four million visitors, offering accommodations and amenities tailored to park guests. A visit to the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center allows firsthand encounters with live wolves, grizzly bears, and raptors. The town features an IMAX theater, numerous local craft shops, all necessary outdoor gear, and an extensive range of dining options. Additionally, enjoy a ride on a snow coach for a unique opportunity to observe local wildlife while gaining insights into the town and park’s history.

10. Castle Ghost Town

Montana is home to numerous towns established during the silver rush of the late 19th century that eventually fell into decline. Castle is one such site that remains open to visitors today. In less than seven years, nearly 1,000 locations were claimed by prospectors, leading to the emergence of Castle, Montana. At its peak, Castle featured a school, a jail, numerous shops, 14 saloons, and seven brothels, thriving during its brief existence. This lively town gained notoriety when Calamity Jane (Martha Jane Cannary Burke) operated a restaurant there for a short time. Castle’s lifespan was brief, lasting no more than 50 years, as the town was abandoned in the 1930s. Today, visitors can explore the remains, including the notable Minnie’s sporting house.

11. Helena

Helena, the capital city of Montana, was once referred to as Last Chance, named after a small group of prospectors who decided to take one final dig and struck gold. The state capitol building is a remarkable example of Greek Renaissance architecture, adorned with murals that depict various historical events that transpired in Montana. A visit to Helena serves as an excellent starting point for exploring the state’s natural wonders. Make sure to explore Helena National Forest, hike portions of the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail, and visit the Elkhorn Wildlife Management Unit to observe magnificent big game. Key attractions also include the Cathedral of St. Helena, the Holter Museum, and a walking tour of the historic district.

12. Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Centre

A visit to West Yellowstone is incomplete without stopping at the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Centre. This sanctuary provides a home for animals that have adapted to human surroundings or have been orphaned. Witness stunning grizzly bears and noble gray wolves in their natural habitats, and enjoy the opportunity to interact with the cubs. The visitor center provides informative resources regarding animal behaviors, their historical context, and issues of population decline. The bears often display playful behavior in their ponds, while the haunting calls of the wolf packs can be heard in the early morning.

13. The Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail

Extending nearly 4,000 miles, the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail connects a small town in Illinois to the Columbia River’s origin in Astoria, Oregon. This extensive trail includes passages through 11 states, including Montana, alongside several American Indian reservations. Established in the late 1970s, the trail allows visitors to retrace the approximate journey of the Corps of Discovery. The significant expedition of Lewis and Clark played a pivotal role in defining and expanding America during this critical period.

14. Earthquake Lake

Upon initial observation, Earthquake Lake may appear to be an ordinary lake, framed by serene mountains and displaying a striking blue hue. However, deeper exploration reveals its tumultuous history. In 1959, a 7.3 magnitude earthquake shook the area, causing 80 million tons of earth to tumble into the canyon at excessive speeds. The seismic activity not only altered the landscape but also generated a tsunami-like wave and formidable winds that raced through the canyon. Geological scarps emerged, geysers erupted, and the ground dramatically subsided by 19 feet in seconds. In total, the earthquake resulted in the tragic loss of 28 lives. The site continues to fascinate scientists, evoking a sense of the formidable power of nature and is a must-visit for nature aficionados.

15. The Western Heritage Centre

Situated in Billings, the Western Heritage Centre resides within the historic Parmly Billings Library, which boasts over a century of history. The center features more than 16,000 artifacts, showcasing a collection of 1,000 photographs that illustrate the culture and development of the Yellowstone River region. In association with the Smithsonian Institution, the center emphasizes the importance of preserving the history and heritage of the Crow and Cheyenne American Indians. Prior to visiting, it is advisable to check their website for any special lectures, programs, or workshops.