Nestled on the northern coast of the US, Montana is a wonderful state to explore. It's the kind of state that has a little something for every traveler, especially if you love the great outdoors. Not only that, there are many great places to see in Montana that can be found throughout the state.
This makes it one of the best US states to visit on a road trip, especially if you're already in the vast northern region of the US. Finally, you can include a trip to Montana as part of a visit to Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, and follow the Rockies to Alberta in Canada.
However, don't think you need to be a pro skier or hiker to enjoy Montana. There are also heaps of small towns that are worth visiting while you're driving around the state.
Take a look below at the best places to see in Montana when you visit. After all, you don't want to travel this way and miss out on some of the top spots. Have fun!
1.) Big Sky Resort
Big Sky is one of the most famous and largest winter resorts in all of the United States. Not only that, it is located on the southwest coast of Montana and is about 50 miles from Yellowstone International Airport (Bozeman).
With nearly 6,000 acres of skiable terrain and the most beautiful pistes, this is one of a kind place to visit if you are an avid skier. However, don't worry if you're not a pro! Big Sky has a range of slopes to suit all abilities. Honestly, it's huge and you could easily spend 2-3 days and not even come close to 'finishing' it.
Now, there are daily lift passes (which you can catch here) can be a little on the pricey side, so be sure to plan your days well to maximize your time on the slopes before booking any tickets.
Also, don't forget that Big Sky isn't just a resort for winter activities. During the warmer summer months, you can go on activities like horse riding, swimming and zip-lining which are great fun.
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2.) Bozeman
Yes, Bozeman may be relatively small compared to other US cities, but it's worth a visit while you're in the area.
About 1 hour from Big Sky, Bozeman is a great town to visit for an overnight stay after skiing. You see, it has heaps of restaurants and museums that really make it fun; Especially if you are visiting with family.
Once here, be sure to check out Museum of the Rockies. Now, don't be fooled, the museum not only showcases prehistoric artefacts and paleontological collections, but also comes with various sections that are incredible to look at. Exhibits of Japanese woodblock prints are quite popular as well as numerous Native American exhibits.
Afterwards, head to downtown Bozeman and explore Gallatin History Museum. It's a little smaller than the Museum of the Rockies, but well worth a visit if you're interested in the history of fighting in Montana.
Finally, head up Jam! For their epic brunch. Their eggs benedict and biscuits are delicious. Just be aware though, it gets busy on weekends, so be prepared to wait.
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3.) Earthquake Lake
Popularly known as Quake Lake, Earthquake Lake was created again in 1959 after a major earthquake. Located just west of Yellowstone National Park, it's worth a visit when exploring the wider area, especially driving the Jackson Road (Highway 287).
It is easily one of the best places to see in Montana and is well worth the drive through the area.
That being said, if you like to stretch your legs, then join Refuge point Hiking trail. It's an absolutely gorgeous way to explore Boat Mountain and more of the area around Quake Lake.
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4.) Glacier National Park
For me, Glacier National Park is a must-see when visiting Montana.
In fact, I would go as far as to say that it is one of the best national parks in the US to visit. The entire landscape is absolutely incredible to behold.
Surrounded by ancient forests, glacial valleys and carved mountains and lakes, it is a one-of-a-kind place that acts as a 'timestamp' of geological processes in the region.
You see, you can easily walk between valleys carved by massive glaciers, or around lakes formed by thousands of years of glacial melt.
Now, heads up, Glacier National Park is huge! This means you'll never actually see it all, but you can certainly give it a good try.
As you drive around the park, be sure to stop by Grinnell Glacier Which is incredible to see. You can drive to many areas around Glacier Route 1 Road; But be aware that it is closed in winter.
If you're hiking, make sure you're prepared and that you're a keen and advanced hiker. You see, the hike up to Grinnell Glacier is challenging to say the least. If you are considering this hike, the Garden Wall Trail would be best.
This will get you to the top overlooking the Grinnell Glacier itself.
Alternatively, join this Grinnell Glacier Trailhead Which will also take you past Lake Josephine.
Staying a few days? Be sure to also visit Swiftcurrent Lake in Glacier National Park. It is easily accessible by road and the views from here are spectacular.
Read more: Best things to do in the Grand Tetons
5.) Little Bighorn Battlefield
If you are interested in battles that took place in Montana, be sure to visit Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument.
It is a memorial ground for 7 of the United States Armym Cavalry and Native Americans. Here, you will learn more about the history leading up to this infamous battle on this site. It is one of the most famous battles in the country and is worth learning more about on a visit here.
From an international perspective, I can't say I knew much about it Little Bighorn Battlefield; But it's worth a visit while driving through Montana.
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6.) West Yellowstone
Yellowstone is not far from the airport Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center One of the best places to visit in Montana is West Yellowstone itself.
Open year-round, the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center is a perfect stop to stretch your legs and explore this non-profit center. It's amazing and you'll get to see grizzly bears, wolves and otters that can no longer be released into the wild or are temporarily housed while they recover or are orphaned.
His work is invaluable in the area and it is a beautiful place to visit. Be sure to give yourself about 90 minutes to fully enjoy the experience.
Afterwards, go up Bear Pancake House is running For some world-class pancakes. Also, be sure to try one of their homemade cinnamon rolls. They are incredible.
Read more: Best things to do in Wyoming
7.) Lewis and Clark State Park
Lewis and Clark State Park is the oldest in all of Montana and is located outside of Three Forks. This makes it one of the best places to visit in Montana when driving west from Bozeman to Glacier National Park.
Once here, be sure to explore the incredible caves on a guided tour and follow some of the magnificent hiking trails from the Cavern's Visitor Center.
The Middle View Trail is great for a stroll, but if you're short on time, the Greer Gulch Loop Trail can be a bit more accessible.
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8.) Great Falls
Located in the heart of Montana, Great Falls is a city worth stopping for an overnight stay.
Known locally as the Electric City, Great Falls (because of the energy it generates) has heaps of restaurants, bars and a downtown area that's great value.
Once here, be sure to check out Children's Museum of Montana. It is very beautiful and the exhibits are a throwback which is beautiful to look at. Oh, and stop by Tracy's For the best chicken and waffles in town.
If you have time, go anyway Malmström Museum and Air Park This is a great place to stop if you are interested in military history and worth visiting for a few hours in Great Falls.
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9.) Billings
If you want to slow things down a bit on your trip to Montana, be sure to head to Billings. You see, there's heaps to do and a great stopping point if you're heading east to North Dakota.
Once here, go to Moss Mansion Museum To visit the interior of a house that is over 100 years old. It is truly incredible to behold and the historical artefacts inside are priceless. Just be sure to check the opening hours; The Moss Mansion Museum is closed during some of the colder months.
Also, don't forget to visit Yellowstone Art Museum, too. It is a great place to explore both contemporary and historical exhibits. We loved it and it's worth a visit for the 45-minute trip. However, if you're not an overly avid art fan, you might want to give this one a miss.
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10.) Helena
Being the state capital, Helena is one of the best places to visit in Montana.
Now, it's not as big as other US cities like New York but that doesn't mean it's not worth a stop for a night or two. There's heaps to do when you're in town.
Once here, be sure to explore the area around the Montana State Capitol which is stunning.
Prefer to walk around the city? Then head around the trails of Mount Helena. This is very accessible during the summer months and you can get some of the best views from here.
Oh, and don't forget to pop in Steve's Cafe For their hearty breakfast. It's a messy place that's all about food. Just be sure to try their 'Big Bird' sandwich. It is huge and delicious.
11.) Hamilton
Not far from the Idaho border, Hamilton is one of the best places to visit in Montana as you travel down Highway 93 into Idaho.
Now, this is the kind of city you can visit for a few hours (you don't need to spend much time). That being said, you can use it as a base to explore some of the nearby peaks that mark the state border.
Once here, be sure to check out the Daily Mansion. It was once the home of copper king Marcus Daly who founded Hamilton. Inside, you'll be able to explore the building and learn more about Hamilton's establishment.
Oh, and for one of Montana's best brews, head on over Big Creek Coffee Roasters. Their coffee is the best in the state.
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