Here are the top 10 Best Things to Do in Montana:
1. Explore Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park is often considered one of the most beautiful places in the United States and is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Montana. Known for its dramatic landscapes, crystal-clear lakes, and majestic glaciers, this national park spans over a million acres.
Hike along the famous Highline Trail or enjoy the breathtaking Going-to-the-Sun Road, a scenic drive that offers panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and alpine meadows. Wildlife lovers can spot mountain goats, grizzly bears, and elk. With over 700 miles of hiking trails, Glacier is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Don’t forget to bring your camera—the views are absolutely stunning.
Whether you’re visiting in summer for hiking and camping or in winter for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, Glacier National Park offers year-round adventure. It’s a must-see for anyone planning to experience the best of Montana.
2. Visit Yellowstone National Park (Montana Entrance)
While most of Yellowstone lies in Wyoming, the Montana entrance to Yellowstone National Park provides easy access to the northern part of the park and is one of the top attractions in Montana. From Gardiner, Montana, visitors can explore iconic sites like Mammoth Hot Springs, a surreal landscape of steaming terraces formed by geothermal activity.
Yellowstone is famous for its geysers, wildlife, and dramatic landscapes. Bison roam freely, while elk and wolves can often be spotted in the Lamar Valley. This area is especially popular among photographers and wildlife watchers.
If you’re entering through Montana, you’ll experience fewer crowds compared to the southern entrances, giving you a more peaceful and intimate encounter with nature. The Montana entrance also offers charming accommodations, guided tours, and local eateries that make your trip even more memorable.
3. Discover the Beauty of Flathead Lake
Flathead Lake is the largest freshwater lake west of the Mississippi and one of the best places to visit in Montana for water activities. Located in northwestern Montana, the lake offers clear blue waters perfect for swimming, boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Surrounded by mountains and lush forests, Flathead Lake is a serene escape for nature lovers. The nearby town of Bigfork provides a charming base with art galleries, restaurants, and a vibrant local community. For a unique experience, visit Wild Horse Island, a state park only accessible by boat and home to wild horses and other wildlife.
Fishing is another big draw—Flathead Lake is teeming with trout, whitefish, and yellow perch. Whether you’re on a family vacation or a romantic getaway, a visit to Flathead Lake offers relaxation and outdoor fun in a picture-perfect setting.
4. Hike the Trails of the Bitterroot Mountains
For hiking lovers, the Bitterroot Mountains are among the top things to do in Montana. Stretching along the western border of the state, these mountains offer spectacular scenery and countless outdoor adventures.
One of the most popular hikes is Blodgett Canyon Trail, which offers breathtaking views of rugged cliffs and forested valleys. Other top trails include Lake Como Loop and Kootenai Creek Trail. These routes range from easy to challenging, making them perfect for all skill levels.
The Bitterroot Valley is also home to charming towns like Hamilton and Stevensville, where you can enjoy local food, historic sites, and cozy accommodations. Whether you’re hiking, mountain biking, or simply soaking in the views, the Bitterroot Mountains offer an authentic Montana experience.
5. Tour the Historic Town of Virginia City
Step back in time by visiting Virginia City, one of the most fascinating historical attractions in Montana. This well-preserved ghost town offers a glimpse into Montana’s gold rush days of the 1860s.
Stroll along wooden boardwalks, explore old saloons, and watch live reenactments of 19th-century life. The Nevada City Museum and Music Hall, just a short drive away, adds to the historical ambiance with authentic buildings and artifacts.
Virginia City also hosts seasonal events, like ghost tours, old-timey theatre productions, and arts festivals. It’s a great stop for families, history buffs, or anyone interested in Montana’s pioneer heritage.
6. Go Fishing in the Madison River
Montana is a fly-fishing paradise, and the Madison River is one of the best places to fish in Montana. Flowing through Yellowstone and into the Missouri River, the Madison is known for its abundance of trout, especially brown and rainbow trout.
With picturesque mountain backdrops and clean, cold waters, it’s a favorite spot for both beginner and experienced anglers. Guided fishing trips are available, or you can wade in yourself and test your skills against the river’s swift current.
The nearby town of Ennis is a great base for fishing adventures, offering fishing gear shops, cozy lodges, and local diners. Whether you’re casting a line at dawn or enjoying a sunset over the river, the Madison offers a peaceful and rewarding experience.
7. Explore the Museum of the Rockies in Bozeman
If you’re interested in dinosaurs and regional history, the Museum of the Rockies in Bozeman is a must-visit attraction in Montana. This world-renowned museum features one of the largest collections of dinosaur fossils in the United States, including a complete T. rex skeleton.
Interactive exhibits and hands-on displays make it fun for visitors of all ages. The museum also covers Native American history, pioneer life, and the natural history of the Northern Rockies. Don’t miss the Taylor Planetarium for an immersive astronomical experience.
Located on the Montana State University campus, the Museum of the Rockies is a perfect indoor activity, especially for families. It’s educational, engaging, and one of the top cultural experiences in Montana.
8. Drive the Beartooth Highway
Often called “the most beautiful drive in America,” the Beartooth Highway is a must-see for road trip lovers. Stretching from Red Lodge to the northeastern entrance of Yellowstone National Park, this 68-mile highway offers jaw-dropping mountain scenery.
Climbing to over 10,000 feet, the highway traverses alpine tundra, glacial lakes, and rugged peaks. Along the way, you’ll find scenic pullouts, picnic areas, and trailheads for short hikes.
In the summer, the wildflowers are in full bloom, creating colorful meadows that contrast with the snow-capped peaks. Fall brings brilliant foliage, while spring may still have snowbanks lining the road. It’s a seasonal experience, usually open from late May to early October.
If you love scenic drives and stunning landscapes, the Beartooth Highway is one of the best things to do in Montana.
9. Visit the Charming Town of Whitefish
Located near Glacier National Park, Whitefish, Montana is a delightful mountain town that blends outdoor adventure with small-town charm. In winter, it’s a ski lover’s paradise thanks to Whitefish Mountain Resort. In summer, it transforms into a hub for hiking, mountain biking, and boating.
Stroll through downtown Whitefish to discover local boutiques, cafes, and galleries. The Whitefish Lake offers swimming, fishing, and paddleboarding. For culture lovers, the Alpine Theatre Project and local art exhibits provide plenty of entertainment.
Whitefish is also a great base for exploring nearby natural attractions, including Flathead National Forest and Glacier National Park. It’s no wonder that Whitefish consistently ranks as one of the best places to visit in Montana year-round.
10. Experience Wildlife at the National Bison Range
For a truly unique wildlife experience, head to the National Bison Range near Moiese, Montana. Established in 1908, this 18,000-acre wildlife refuge is home to hundreds of bison, as well as elk, deer, antelope, and more.
Drive the Red Sleep Mountain Drive, a scenic loop that takes you through the heart of the range. You’ll have the chance to see bison up close, along with sweeping views of the Mission Mountains.
There are also short hiking trails and a visitor center with exhibits on the region’s ecology and Native American heritage. The National Bison Range is one of the top things to do in Montana for nature lovers and families alike.
