Discover Montana: Top Destinations to Explore

Massive Montana encompasses a wild terrain of Rocky Mountain adventures and breathtaking places to visit. Amid the mountains, national forests, and wild rivers teeming with trout, several historical sites and current attractions punctuate the state, 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 providing access to notable Big Sky destinations. While some top spots experience heavy traffic throughout summer, navigating Montana typically involves wide-open roadways. Montana’s cities are small enough to explore car-free; however, having a personal vehicle offers much more freedom to venture beyond them.

Here’s a guide to the very best places to see on your trip to Montana, the Last Best Place in the American West.

1. Glacier National Park

Best places for hiking

The Crown of the Continent in northwest Montana, Glacier National Park, is a true choose-your-own-adventure for hikers. With over 700 miles of well-maintained trails, visitors can navigate through startling mountain peaks and wildlife-rich valleys. While many trails present challenges, a general rule of thumb is that the higher the climb, the better the view.

For those new to hiking, the Hidden Lake Trail departing from the Logan Pass Visitor Center is an excellent choice. Clements Mountain serves as a scenic guidepost along this approximately 5-mile round-trip hike, adorned by wildflower meadows. For more seasoned hikers, the park’s signature Highline Trail begins at the same location.

Planning tip: One of the biggest challenges when visiting the famous Logan Pass is finding parking; therefore, utilizing the park’s free summer shuttle system is highly recommended.

2. Butte

Best for Western history

Wild West history is vibrant in Butte, Montana, located near the western slopes of the Continental Divide. This former mining town experienced a boom in the late 1800s, earning the label “the Richest Hill on Earth.” Although mining operations have ended, the infamous Berkeley Pit and over 6000 historic properties remain, now part of the Butte-Anaconda Historic District, one of the largest in the country.

Copper King mansions, underground mines, and guided tours provide deeper insights into Butte’s fascinating history. The Pekin Noodle Parlor stands out as one of the oldest family-run Chinese restaurants in the country, presenting a unique culinary experience.

3. Bozeman

Best basecamp for skiing and snowboarding

This university city draws adventurous crowds throughout its long, powdery winter season. Between late November and April, residents and visitors flock to nearby Bridger Bowl Ski Area and Big Sky Resort, two of Montana’s premier ski and snowboard destinations.

Bridger Bowl, located just 30 minutes from Bozeman, features 2000 skiable acres and sees only moderate crowds. Big Sky Resort, a scenic hour’s drive south, encompasses an impressive 6000 acres of skiable terrain accessible via a cutting-edge lift system, including North America’s first 8-person lift.

4. West Yellowstone

Best for wildlife spotting

West Yellowstone serves as a gateway to Yellowstone National Park, situated less than a mile from the center of this charming tourist town. Wildlife abounds within the park, ensuring frequent sightings of American bison along the scenic roads.

For guaranteed wildlife experiences, visit the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center, which maintains a safe habitat for animals unable to return to the wild. Be sure to allocate extra time to enjoy the Naturalist Cabin, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows for an extraordinary wildlife observation experience.

5. Missoula

Best for fly-fishing adventures

Missoula is famed as a fly-fishing paradise, located at the junction of great trout rivers in western Montana. Renowned author Norman Maclean captured this ethos in his iconic work, making Missoula a must-visit for fishing enthusiasts. Major rivers, including the Clark Fork, Bitterroot, and Blackfoot, offer world-class fishing opportunities.

Local outfitters provide guided fly-fishing trips suitable for both first-timers and experienced anglers. Be sure to visit local fly shops for insights on fishing spots and timely hatch dates.

6. Flathead Lake

Best for summer traditions

Flathead Lake is hard to miss when visiting northwest Montana. As the largest freshwater lake west of the Mississippi, it serves as a popular destination with numerous state parks, campgrounds, and boat ramps. Renting a kayak or taking a charter to Wild Horse Island can add an adventurous twist to your visit.

Planning tip: Don’t miss the chance to taste Flathead cherries, which are in season from July to early August. Plan your trip around the Flathead Cherry Festival, typically held the last weekend of July, for a delightful experience.

7. Red Lodge

Best for scenic drives

Red Lodge, located in southern Montana, is framed by the majestic Beartooth and Absaroka Mountains, offering unlimited outdoor recreation opportunities. The Beartooth Highway, a popular drive between late May and October 15, provides stunning views of glacier-caked mountains and connects directly to Yellowstone National Park.

Prepare for breathtaking vistas along this road, with ample parking at trailheads and viewpoints for outdoor exploration.

8. Phillipsburg

Best for uncovering gems

Phillipsburg is a charming mountain town situated along the Pintler Veterans’ Memorial Scenic Byway, boasting a blend of historic architecture and modern shops. This area continues to draw attention for its sapphire mining, where visitors can sift for their own treasures at local mining operations.

Moreover, the Sweet Palace, a nostalgic candy store selling homemade confections, offers a delightful sugar high that visitors will not want to miss.