Montana is home to many of the United States’ most beautiful landscapes. It contains not one, not two … but seven national parks. The state is also famous for spectacular views, diverse wildlife, and one of the largest natural freshwater lakes in the U.S. Because Montana contains endless breathtaking scenery, we’ve narrowed down the top four locations you must see!
Glacier National Park
We recommend seeing this national park for several reasons. When you visit the park, you’re likely to see grizzly bears, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, lynx, and swift foxes. That’s a lot of animals … and those are just the big ones. Along with wildlife, there’s also an abundance of hiking trails that offer magnificent views. We’ve collected a list of the best hiking trails, roads, lakes, and lookout points. They’ll put you smack-dab in the middle of all the glory that Glacier National Park has to offer:
- Going-to-the-Sun Road. This road is the best way to see the park’s varying terrain, especially if you’re on a time crunch.
- Trail of the Cedars. This hike is the easiest and shortest. It’s only a mile long, and you stay on a flat boardwalk. It goes through a cedar grove and is known for its view of the beautiful Avalanche Gorge.
- Hidden Lake. This hike features a combination of boardwalks and dirt trails. It ends with a wide view of Hidden Lake. If you’re lucky, you may also see bighorn sheep or mountain goats on the way.
- Saint Mary Lake and Wild Goose Island. For a gorgeous panoramic look at the lake and its tiny island, visit the “Wild Goose Island Lookout” parking lot located on Going-to-the-Sun Road.
If you have the time, we recommend trying to fit in all of these amazing sights. If it isn’t already, Glacier National Park should definitely be on your bucket list. Visit this website for more information and scenes that’ll make you want to start packing right now.
Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone is home to a super-volcano, many geysers, and even more bison—tons of them. The bison population in Yellowstone ranges from 2,300 to 5,500. They can be seen most frequently in Lamar Valley and Hayden Valley.
Once you’ve checked out the bison, head over to the biggest and most consistent geyser in Yellowstone: Old Faithful. It erupts every 91 minutes (on average). An eruption expels anywhere from 3,700 to 8,400 gallons of boiling water, up to 184 feet in the air. As you can imagine, it’s quite a sight to behold.
Next, check out what is deemed the “Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.” There are various views of this landmark, but the most significant is probably of Lower Falls from Artist Point.
For more perspectives of the Yellowstone River, its “Grand Canyon,” and other essential Yellowstone Nation Park stops, visit this website.
Flathead Lake
Getting out on Flathead Lake’s chilly glacial water is a must. This is the most serene place to swim (brrr), boat, kayak, fish, and more. The lake also has many camping sites along its shores if you decide to stay overnight.
Boat launches, swimming holes, fishing spots, and watercraft rentals are also available. So, in other words, when you arrive at Flathead Lake—you can do whatever floats your boat!
If you’re not too keen on getting on or in the water, but you love looking at it … take a hike! No, really. There are several moderate-to-easy hikes around the lake’s perimeter. Are you looking for something more likely to raise your heart rate? Try the Jewel Basin Hiking Area for a truly elevated experience.
Bozeman
This destination is a fun time in the summer, but an even better time in the winter (if you like snow). Just 30 miles south of town is the biggest ski resort in Montana, Big Sky™. “Big” is an understatement for this massive resort. It has everything from sledding hills and beginner slopes to advanced runs and a self-designated “triple black diamond.”
For those who don’t enjoy winter sports, there’s one activity we’re sure you’ll prefer over freezing in the snow: a soak in the Bozeman hot springs. If you’re tired of Jack Frost nipping at your nose, you can look forward to 12 different pools (indoor and outdoor), a wet or dry sauna, and even an exercise room.
Bozeman, Montana, also has an amazing dinosaur and fossil museum, which boasts the first life-size bronze Tyrannosaurus Rex. The statue stands at the museum’s entrance and was made from a cast of the original fossil—found in Montana. The Museum of the Rockies might not be your first stop, but it should definitely be on your list. Where else can you stand under a bronze T. Rex?
Just a Glimpse
The previously listed activities and sites are just a fraction of what Montana has to offer. With these top options available, you can start planning your trip today. Whether you choose to stay a weekend or pack up and move, we’re sure you’ll love your time in Montana.
Looking for ways to have a free adventure? Read our blog “Four Ways to Have Great Adventures for Free”.
