Montana isn’t called the Treasure State for no reason. This incredible place out west is simply jam-packed with some of America’s finest attractions. It’s no surprise at all that well over 12 million people enjoy Montana vacations each year!
With the Rocky Mountains, Glacier National Park and the Great Plains, Montana’s a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking, biking, kayaking, climbing and an annual marathon to run…you name it, you can get out there and do it.
In fact, with so much to see and do, choosing the perfect trip to Montana isn’t easy. Don’t worry, though, we’ve got you covered.
Wait ‘Til Winter
Montana is well-known for its mountainous terrain. Indeed, these peaks draw tourists in their droves each and every year.
And, in all honesty, it doesn’t matter when you go- you’ll find masses to do all-year-round. Each season brings with it a different atmosphere and set of alpine attractions.
Having said that, there’s no denying the alpine appeal of Montana in winter. The mountains come alive when the cold months descend and the snow starts to fall over the treasure state. As the peaks and valleys get covered in pristine powder, this place becomes a haven for skiers and snowboarders. Head to the Big Sky Resort to enjoy almost 6000 acres of unrivaled ski runs.
Head to the Lake
There’s no shortage of lakes in Montana. One that stands out is in the northwest of the state. It’s called Flathead Lake, and it’s a place of unprecedented natural beauty.
If you prefer to look at mountains as opposed to being immersed in them, then Flathead’s a good place to go. Here, the mountains provide a picture-perfect backdrop to the lake and surrounding cherry orchards. Few places in the world are as picturesque!
Tired of swimming, sunbathing, and reading in paradise? Get a group together and hire a boat to get out onto the water instead; fish and water-ski until your heart’s content.
Have an Outdoor Adventure
There are just a plethora of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Not quite sure if you fit that description? Don’t worry, you’ll find an unlimited supply of guides and operators (such as Swan Mountain Outfitters) who’ll kit you out and keep you safe.
Solo or with a guide, you’re spoiled for choice in terms of how you spend your time in the outdoors here. Glacier National Park is undoubtedly a focal point of the action though.
Head there for everything from rafting and kayaking to ice climbing and hiking. You’ll be blown away by both the scale of the place and the magnitude of the beauty.
Get a Dose of History
All that outdoor excitement can take its toll. Fancy a rest day, or two, or even an entire vacation away from the action? You’re in the right place. Montana’s got its fair share of more relaxing attractions as well.
The history and culture on offer is one such example. Head southwest to experience mid-19th century Montana at the height of the gold rush. Wander through the derelict ghost towns it’s become famous for, and see how different life was back then. You can sleep in haunted Inns, ride on classic railroads, pan for gold, and get stuck into a host of other cultural activities.
Chill Out in Missoula
Missoula might not have been on your list of possible Montana stops. But hear us out! This lively little place is on your way to Yellowstone National Park, making a top destination to stop and chill out for a few days.
Indeed, Missoula’s the sort of place that compels visitors to stay longer than they first intended. It’s got all the youthful energy you’d expect from a university town, and a mass of attractions too. There are restaurants, wineries, and breweries to frequent; the Big Sky film festival and an annual marathon to run (if that’s your idea of a good time!).
Not only that, you’ve got three rivers passing through town. Get ready for some quality fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Oh, and there’s a ton of top hiking to be done in the vicinity too.
Head to Yellowstone National Park
If/when you can finally drag yourself away from Missoula, it’s time to visit the world-famous Yellowstone National Park. It provides another incredible place to spend a vacation.
This place is unparalleled in terms of the wildlife on offer. Head out into the wild for the chance to see bighorn sheep, bears, mountain lions, and infamous American buffalo (aka bison).
Once upon a time, millions of bison roamed through Yellowstone National Park. These days, though, only a fraction remain; this magical destination is one of the last places you can go to see them in the wild.