When I craved majestic mountains and wide-open spaces, I knew I had to head to Montana! In this post, I’ll share the most awe-inspiring things I discovered—where endless skies, rugged peaks, and untamed wilderness created the ultimate adventure playground. If you're anything like me, you’ll fall in love with this wild, beautiful state the moment you arrive.
Montana Highlights:
- For Adventure Seekers: Explore Glacier National Park – I hiked the Highline Trail, drove Going-to-the-Sun Road, and spotted mountain goats by alpine lakes. You’ve got to see it to believe it.
- For Nature Lovers: Visit Yellowstone National Park – I stood in awe of Old Faithful and the Grand Prismatic Spring, and saw wildlife everywhere near Gardiner and West Yellowstone. You won’t stop snapping photos.
- For History Buffs: Discover Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument – I walked the grounds and learned about the powerful stories behind this pivotal battle. You’ll feel the history come alive.
- For Western Culture: Experience the town of Livingston – I browsed art galleries, sipped drinks in cowboy bars, and watched the Yellowstone River flow by. Trust me, it’s as authentic as it gets.
- For Fly Fishers: Cast a line in the Madison or Gallatin Rivers – I tried my hand at fly fishing and found peace and challenge in every cast. If you love the outdoors, this is your kind of paradise.
Best Time to Visit Montana
In my experience, the best time to visit Montana is from late spring through early fall (June–September) when the trails are open, the roads are clear, and the parks are at their peak. But if you’re into skiing or snowboarding like I am, winter (December–March) at Big Sky or Whitefish is absolutely worth it. I’ve also visited in May and October for fewer crowds and crisp weather—you might love that slower pace too.
How to Get to Montana
- By Air: I usually fly into Bozeman Yellowstone International (BZN), but Glacier Park (FCA), Missoula (MSO), and Billings (BIL) are great options depending on where you’re headed.
- By Car: I’ve driven across Montana via I-90 and US-2—and let me tell you, the scenic routes like the Beartooth Highway are absolutely unforgettable.
- By Train: I once took Amtrak’s Empire Builder across northern Montana. It’s a unique, slow-paced way to take in the views—perfect if you’re up for something different.
Where to Stay in Montana
- For National Park Access: Many Glacier Hotel – I stayed right on Swiftcurrent Lake, and waking up to Glacier National Park views is something I’ll never forget. If you can, book early—it’s worth it.
- For Urban Comfort: Lark Hotel (Bozeman) – This trendy spot in downtown Bozeman was my go-to for great food, shopping, and an awesome mountain-town vibe. You’ll feel right at home here.
Best Things to Do in Montana
Big Sky Resort - Go skiing or hiking at this top mountain destination with breathtaking views.
Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center, Montana - See rescued grizzlies and wolves up close in a natural habitat.
Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center - Explore exhibits detailing the legendary expedition through the American West.
Museum of the Rockies - Visit to discover dinosaurs, space exhibits, and Montana’s fascinating prehistoric history.
C.M. Russell Museum - See the largest collection of Western art by Charles M. Russell.
Little Bighorn Battlefield - Walk on historic grounds where General Custer made his last stand.
Conrad Mansion Museum - Explore an elegant, fully preserved 19th-century mansion with period furnishings.
National Bison Range - Drive along scenic routes to see herds of bison roaming Montana’s vast landscapes.
Montana Grizzly Encounter - Visit this sanctuary to see rescued grizzly bears in a safe environment.
Whitefish Mountain Resort - Go skiing or mountain biking on scenic slopes, perfect for a summer trip.
In Summary...
(and if you want to revisit my photo journey)