Otherwise known as Big Sky Country, this is a seriously gorgeous place, home to a large wilderness preserves that cross into Canada. It’s a tough choice as pretty much all the scenery here is jaw-dropping, but here are my favorite spots…
1. Glacier National Park
Aptly called the “Coorown of the Continent,” Glacier National Park is home to over one million acres of beautiful, unspoiled terrain.
The scenic wilderness area encompasses jaw-dropping scenery, such as spectacular lakes, glacier-carved peaks, pristine forests, and alpine meadows.
It also forms part of the world’s first International Peace Park, perfect for both adventurous souls and solitude seekers. I would suggest gazing in awe at the huge glacier and spotting mountain goats amid the gorgeous scenery at Grinnell Glacier.
Drive along the breathtaking scenic mountain road of the Sun Highway, which passes through more than fifty miles of unique terrain, and then paddle across the pristine waters of Lake McDonald.
My favorite highlights…
- Driving to Logan Pass, the highest point in the park (that can be reached by car) and saw some seriously gorgeous panoramic views.
- Hiking to the Grinnell Glacier where I found stunning waterfalls, vibrant emerald lakes and beautiful scenery along the way.
- Taking a boat tour across the Lake McDonald Valley.
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2. American Prairie Reserve
The American Prairie Reserve is located on Montana’s Great Plains and is, I honestly think, one of the most stunning spots to explore in Montana.
Stretching north and south of the Missouri River, the massive conservation area preserves the natural mixed-grass prairie ecosystem and native wildlife, including deer, elk, pronghorn, burrowing owls, bison, and bighorn sheep.
The area is another beautiful gem in the Montana Tourism crown. Dive into the history at the Great Plains Dinosaur Museum or visit the restored Prairie Union Schoolhouse.
Wake up to the awesome free-roaming bison and chirping birds. This place will force you to slow down and observe the beauty of the prairie ecosystem. Roam around freely, hike, or bike. This is a truly magical place that nature lovers will adore.
My personal highlights…
- Stopping by the National Discovery Center and learning about the area and its history.
- Exploring by mountain bike, where trails include obstacles such as steep hills, soft sand, and ruts.
- Staying until it was dark to see the clear, starry skies, I even saw the Milky Way.
3. Rocky Mountains
Home to over a hundred ranges in Central Montana, the Rocky Mountains run along the western part of Montana. The rugged and rustic charm of the Rockies is the best place to seek both solace and outdoor adventures.
Snuggled in the Madison Range of Montana, the Big Sky ski resort is enveloped by mountains in every direction. It is definitely worth a visit, especially if you’re a fan of winter sports.
Another charming destination located at the doorstep of Glacier National Park is Whitefish Resort Mountain, home to a shimmering lake, lofty peaks, stunning trails, and a quirky downtown area.
My highlights…
- Watching a breathtaking sunrise at Dream Lake before heading to Emerald Lake.
- Visiting the Coffee on The Rocks café for beautiful views whilst enjoying an oat milk latte.
- Discovering cross-country skiing in the winter.
4. Yellowstone National Park
One of North America’s most loved national parks, the world-famous Yellowstone National Park sprawls over a 3,500-square-mile area. The beautiful landscapes sit atop a volcanic hot spot, which makes them extra special and offers some truly unique landscapes.
Home to many species of wildlife, dramatic canyons, rivers, hot springs, and gushing geysers, the park is mostly in Wyoming but crosses over to Montana and Idaho.
My personal highlights…
- Driving to the Northeast Entrance road and looking out at the incredible scenery.
- Rafting ride down the river.
- Hiking the scenic Fairy Falls Trail and seeing one of the best waterfalls in the park.
5. Bozeman
Located in Gallatin County in southwest Montana, Bozeman is ranked among the most livable places in the US, and for good reason.
I love the dramatic mountains, impressive wildlife and cultural scenes here, and the opportunities to go hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, skiing, and backcountry exploring.
Ski in the Bridger Bowl area, raft on the Gallatin River, or witness the stunning fall colors of nearby Yellowstone Park. The city of Bozeman is a true Montana treasure!
My highlights…
- Learning how to rock climb on a climbing indoor wall.
- Going on a scavenger hunt which was a fun way to explore the city.
- Soaking in Bozeman Hot Springs which was the perfect way to end a long day of sightseeing.
6. West Yellowstone
West Yellowstone is one of the best small towns in southern Montana. It’s a gateway to the world-famous Yellowstone National Park, but it is also a wonderful tourist attraction and a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts in both summer and winter.
The charming Montana town is quaint and easy on the eye. It is home to some interesting independent shops and restaurants, a theatre, and plenty of places to stay.
Highlights of West Yellowstone include the Yellowstone River (the country’s last “free-flowing” river), the popular Playmill Theatre, the beautiful Earthquake Lake, and The Museum of Yellowstone. During the winter, I would recommend snowmobiling as a fun Montana activity!
My favorite highlights…
- Visiting the Museum of Yellowstone located in the old train station and learning all about the area’s history.
- Going on a thrilling adventure on a snowmobile during the winter season months.
- Enjoying hearty homestyle food at the Western-style Outpost Restaurant.
7. Paradise Valley
It is close enough to Yellowstone yet far away from the crowds; the Paradise Valley is dwarfed by the towering Absaroka Range on the east and Gallatin Range on the west.
Located in southwest Montana, Paradise Valley is Montana’s premier vacation destination. With the gushing waters of the Yellowstone River, snow-capped mountains, a crisp blue sky, and beautiful ranch land, It deserves a place on this list!
I highly recommend soaking in the naturally warm waters at the Chico Hot Springs or La Duke Hot Springs or hiking along the breathtaking trails!
My personal highlights…
- Watching and videoing the magnificent eruption of the Old Faithful.
- Relaxing at the Chico Hot Springs which was surrounded by lush greenery.
- Having a go at frisbee golf!
8. Livingston
This lovely town in SouthWestern Montana enjoys a truly gorgeous position nestled on the banks of the Yellowstone River between the rugged Crazy and Absaroka mountain ranges. The town dates from the late 1880s and is quiet and charming, but its striking mountain backdrop is truly jaw-dropping.
The main focus here is on outdoor activities. Still, its historic buildings have drawn many notable visitors over the years and have even been featured in popular films A River Runs Through It, The Horse Whisperer, and even Marlboro advertisements.
There are some good accommodation options, museums, art galleries and restaurants to explore. Popular things here include cross-country skiing, river rafting, hiking, or just kicking back and enjoying the wonderful scenery!
My favorite highlights…
- Watching live music at the cool venue, The Attic which is housed in a restored historic building.
- Taking a picnic to enjoy at Sacajawea Park after having a stroll through the gardens.
- Checking out the art galleries throughout the town filled with vibrant pieces, and the art walk during summer.
9. Beartooth Highway
On the Beartooth Highway, you can experience one of Montana’s most beautiful road trips. Located on the northeast entrance of the Yellowstone National Park, this highway offers some truly wonderful scenery.
The mesmerizing views include the majestic Absaroka and Beartooth Mountains, countless glacial lakes, pristine waterfalls, and high alpine plateaus.
Camp around the wide wilderness or hike across the broad plateaus. The Beartooth Highway offers a rare opportunity to explore the untouched landscapes of Montana’s alpine country. Every wilderness lover’s dream, this 68-mile panoramic drive is a spectacular journey of a lifetime!
My favorite highlights…
- Soaking up the picturesque scenery and taking photographs of the views along the way.
- Browsing souvenirs at the Top of The World Store.
10. Montana State Capitol
Montana’s state capital is on a gentle slope and surrounded by beautiful lawns. One of the best things to see in Montana is the majestic state capitol, completed in 1902 and resides in Helena, the capital of Montana and one of the best cities to explore in the state.
Outside, the building comprises granite and exquisite sandstone; inside, it houses the Montana state legislature. The prominent feature of the Capitol includes the attractive rotunda with four circular paintings depicting the people of Montana’s early history.
The Lady Liberty, or the Montana statue, sits atop the copper-based Capitol dome. Visit and enjoy viewing the beautiful murals, stained glass, and marble preserving the early history of the Treasure State.
My favorite highlights…
- Taking an interesitng self-guided tour around the building.
- Admiring the stunning murals, stained glass and historic marble.
- Being in awe of the beautiful art displays.
11. City Beach
Located in Whitefish, this wonderful place offers seven miles of sandy shorelines that surround the south end of Whitefish Lake. It’s a much-loved hang-out area with a designated swimming area, kayak and paddleboard rentals (during the summer), picnic tables, and gazebos.
I recommend swimming in crystal clear water or just lazing around on the beach, all with the amazing backdrop of beautiful mountains.
My favorite highlights…
- Taking a dip in the refreshing crystal-clear water and cooling off on a hot day.
- Renting a kayak.
- Enjoying a picnic on the sandy shores.
12. Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park
The Waterton Glacier International Peace Park is a World Heritage Site and a wonderful example of friendly Canada-USA relations. A union of Glacier National Park and Waterton National Park of Canada, it is the first-ever global peace park.
Here, you can expect exceptional mountain scenery, glacial landforms, crystal clear lakes, abundant wildlife, and a distinctive climate, which make both national parks wonderful places to explore. A little slice of paradise, the park is home to travelers seeking solitude and adventure.
The park also features dark night skies free from light pollution and has even received a Gold Tier Designation with provisional status from the International Dark Sky Association.
My highlights…
- Renting a bike from the town exploring the roads that wind through the scenic park.
- Hiking up to Bertha Falls and witnessing the stunning views.
- Going on a boat tour and cruising down Waterton Lake which was a very relaxed way to admire the surroundings.
13. Conrad Mansion
A beautifully preserved mansion in Kalispell, the Conrad Mansion Museum reflects the luxurious Norman-style architecture and the lifestyle in the Pacific Northwest. Built in 1895, the Conrad Mansion was the home of renowned businessman Charles E. Conrad.
A dreamy mansion in the backdrop of Montana wilderness, the Conrad Mansion overlooks the flathead valley and Swan mountain range. Tour the 26 rooms with diamond-paned, Tiffany stained glass windows with the original family furnishings, landscaped gardens, and a drystone fence.
My highlights…
- Taking a guided tour of the 26-roomed mansion and discovering the history of how the Conrad family impacted Montana.
- Strolling through the gorgeous gardens surrounding the property which feature six large flower beds filled with different colors.
14. Helena National Forest
This stunning natural area is located in west-central Montana. The wonderful Helena National Forest covers a vast expanse of 984,558 acres.
The Big Belt Mountains dominate the eastern region, which is broken into several separate sections. The Scapegoat wilderness and the Elkhorn Mountains form the national forest’s west and south borders.
A mix of grass, sagebrush lowlands, and shaded groves, the park also offers camping in designated areas. Covering the Gates of the Mountain Wilderness Area and a portion of the Scapegoat Wilderness Area, the National Forest is a little slice of paradise for naturalists and photographers.
My highlights…
- Spending the night in one of the rentals available at the campgrounds located throughout the forest.
- Having fun on the water with jet skiing, tubing and water skiing.
- Hiking the scenic and easy Willard Creek Trail which was filled with pretty scenery and a creek at the end.
15. Wild Horse Island State Park
The largest primitive island on Flathead Lake, Wild Horse Island State Park, is only accessible by water. For centuries, the Salish-Kootenai Indians used this beautiful island as pasture land to keep horses from being stolen.
Full of pine forests, incredible trails, and wildlife watching, you can catch a glimpse of the wild horses still inhabiting this park. A designated state park since 1987, Horse Island’s 2,200-acre beautiful state park offers swimming, hiking, boating, and kayaking.
My highlights…
- Admiring the picturesque landscapes as I sailed to the island by boat.
- Going for a refreshing swim on a hot summer’s day.
- Walking through the picturesque pine forests via the Trail #2 Loop.
16. Gates of the Mountains Wilderness
In the lofty hills, the legendary Missouri River carves a path through towering sandstone cliffs once named the Gates of the Mountains by Meriwether Lewis (an American explorer, soldier, and politician).
Encompassing a wide area of 28,465 acres, the Helena National Forest manages the wilderness.
The Montana beauty spot is known for its prominent grey cliffs, an ancient lake, high meadows, narrow gorges, and open forests. It also offers an excellent opportunity to spot bighorn sheep and mountain goats up close.
Hike along Refrigerator Canyon or camp on Bear Prairie. The scenic gates promise pristine natural beauty galore!
My favorite highlights…
- Visiting the unique point of Refrigerator Canyon which also acts like a wind funnel!
- Paddleboarding on Holter Lake.
- Camping overnight near the river at White Bridge Lane Private Campsite.
17. Blodgett Canyon
If you’re anything like me, when traveling in Montana, you will want to find the best hiking spots, and I honestly think this one is one of the best.
Nestled in southwestern Montana, the Blodgett Canyon – carved out by ice age glaciers – is beautifully positioned in the middle of the Bitterroot Mountain Range.
It features over two dozen scenic canyons, steeply carved granite mountains, meandering valleys, and moraines. Known for its wall climbing spots and excellent hiking trails, the Blodgett Canyon provides one of the best scenic hikes in Montana, surrounded by truly spectacular landscapes.
My highlights…
- Hiking to the magnificent overlook for dramatic views of the canyon.
- Going on a rock climbing lesson.
- Going mountain biking along the 6-mile round trail.
18. Moss Mansion
Head to the Montana city of Billings and seek out this wonderful red-stoned Moss Mansion Museum. I’m a big fan of this place, once home to the wealthy Moss family. The stunning mansion was designed by Henry Janeway Hardenbergh in 1905.
The high-end interiors, with walls with gold threading, a marble fireplace, and beautiful paintings, are a perfect example of early American residential architecture.
Still intact with the original items of the home, the mansion is a doorway to the unique architecture of the past. Listed as a National Historic Place, the mansion has appeared in many period films.
Today, the Billings Preservation Society manages it, and the museum hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year.
My personal highlights…
- Admiring the gorgeous and upscale interiors within the property.
- Going on a Historian Walking Tour event.
- Taking a private tour to learn about the history.
19. Lolo Trail
Described by Lewis and Clark as the most challenging yet majestic portion of their journey, the Lolo Trail is not only of immense significance in US history, but it is also one of the top places to visit in Montana. Go hiking or mountain biking for miles on one of the most famous trails in the United States.
You can visit the Lewis and Clark camps, such as 13-Mile, Sinque Hole, Lonesome Cove, and others, and stop at the visitor center to get practical information and historical insight into the Lewis and Clark and Native American trails.
My favorite highlights…
- Enjoying the trail by mountain bike .
- Taking a picnic whilst being surrounded by the tranquil nature.
- Exploring this location on foot and discovering the beautiful forests.
20. Whitefish Mountain Resort
Big Mountain in northwestern Montana is home to one of the top destinations in the state. Whitefish Mountain Resort has hosted its fair share of championships and has provided training slopes for many US Olympic athletes such as Andrea Mead, Tommy Moe, and others.
Located in Flathead County, near Going-to-the-Sun Road and Glacier National Park, the town of Whitefish is famous for its world-class skiing. It also boasts a freshwater lake, a popular Montana travel destination for those who like boating or simply taking in spectacular views.
My personal highlights…
- Going on Montana’s longest zipline tour.
- Going skiing in the winter, the snowy landscapes are magical!
- Enjoying the scenic chair lift over the gorgeous landscapes.
