Jace Lamonica
Montana, known as “Big Sky Country,” is a land of unspoiled wilderness. It has towering mountains and breathtaking vistas that seem to touch the heavens. Plus, you get endless opportunities for wildlife viewing and outdoor adventures. Just pick the best time as per your activity, plan for changing conditions, and you’re ready. Here are the top 10 places in Montana that will make you want to come back.
Yellowstone National Park
Beneath the park’s steaming geysers and bubbling hot springs, a massive supervolcano simmers. The Montana section is a hotspot for wildlife where wolves prowl in Lamar Valley and bison march across golden plains. Mammoth Hot Springs, with its eerie limestone terraces, looks more like an alien planet.
Beartooth Highway
Some roads take you places. This one takes you to a dreamy world. Beartooth Highway zigzags through alpine tundra, past icy lakes, and up to nearly 11,000 feet. It’s got hairpin turns, breathtaking overlooks, and snow—even in summer. It’s the kind of drive that makes you roll down the windows and just soak it all in.
Glacier National Park
Few places capture Montana’s rugged beauty like Glacier National Park. With over 700 miles of trails, it’s a paradise for hikers and nature lovers. The Going-to-the-Sun Road offers panoramic views of towering mountains, glacial valleys, and pristine lakes. Wildlife sightings are common, with grizzlies, elk, and mountain goats calling this park home.
Flathead Lake
Flathead Lake, famous for its crystal-clear waters and scenic mountain backdrop, offers boating and swimming activities. Wild Horse Island is home to wild horses, which are popular attractions. Cherry orchards lining the shore make this lake a favorite summer getaway for locals and visitors alike.
The Bitterroot
The Bitterroot Valley blends historic charm with breathtaking scenery. Surrounded by the Bitterroot and Sapphire Mountains, it’s known for its outdoor activities, fly fishing, and welcoming small towns like Hamilton and Stevensville. The St. Mary’s Mission, Montana’s oldest settlement, also offers a peek into the area’s rich past.
The Bob Marshall
Some places feel untouched by time, and “The Bob” is one of them. No roads, no crowds—just 1.5 million acres of remote wilderness. It’s not for everyone, but for those who crave solitude and rugged beauty, it’s a dream destination. You will often find backpackers, horseback riders, and hunters venturing deep into this area for an unfiltered outdoor experience.
Makoshika State Park
Makoshika’s badlands reveal Montana’s ancient history, with dinosaur fossils and layered rock formations telling a story millions of years in the making. Although the name means “bad land,” for visitors, it’s anything but that. Scenic trails lead through unique sandstone structures and make it a one-of-a-kind hiking destination.
Gates of the Mountains
This stunning canyon along the Missouri River was named by Lewis and Clark. Towering limestone cliffs rise dramatically above the water, creating breathtaking views. Visitors experience Montana’s unspoiled wilderness by taking boat tours, kayaking, and hiking along scenic riverbanks rich with history and natural beauty.
Bighorn Canyon
Bighorn Canyon features towering canyon walls, emerald waters, and abundant wildlife. The Bighorn River is a top fly-fishing destination, while the canyon’s trails and boat tours offer incredible views of wild horses, bighorn sheep, and striking geological formations that make this area a true hidden treasure.
Mission Mountains
The Mission Mountains rise dramatically above the Flathead Valley. You can go on thrilling hikes here, which hold beautiful lakes and wildlife sightings. It houses the Jewel Basin Hiking Area, which remains a favorite for its stunning alpine scenery. With its rugged beauty and remote feel, this mountain range is one of Montana’s best-kept secrets.
