things to do in montana
Montana is a beautiful state with a wide range of outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and natural wonders. Here are some things to do in Montana:
Outdoor Activities:
- Hiking and Backpacking: Explore Montana’s many national forests, wilderness areas, and parks, such as Glacier National Park, Beartooth Mountains, and the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness.
- Fishing: Montana is famous for its trout fishing, with many world-class streams and lakes, including the Missouri River and Flathead Lake.
- Skiing and Snowboarding: Hit the slopes at one of Montana’s many ski resorts, such as Big Sky, Bridger Bowl, and Whitefish Mountain Resort.
- Camping: Enjoy camping in Montana’s beautiful national parks and forests, or try glamping in a luxury yurt or cabin.
- Horseback Riding: Explore Montana’s countryside on horseback, with many stables and ranches offering guided rides.
Cultural Attractions:
- Glacier National Park: Visit this stunning national park, known for its glaciers, alpine lakes, and towering mountain peaks.
- Big Sky: Explore this charming mountain town, with its upscale shops, restaurants, and outdoor recreation opportunities.
- Missoula: Visit this vibrant college town, with its rich cultural scene, historic downtown, and nearby natural attractions.
- Museum of the Rockies: Learn about Montana’s natural and cultural history at this world-class museum in Bozeman.
- Fort Benton: Explore this historic fur trading post, which dates back to the 19th century.
Natural Wonders:
- Yellowstone National Park: Visit Montana’s western corner to explore America’s first national park, with its geysers, hot springs, and wildlife.
- Beartooth Mountains: Hike, bike, or ski in these stunning mountains, with their glaciers, alpine lakes, and towering peaks.
- Flathead Lake: Enjoy boating, fishing, or simply taking in the views of this beautiful lake, the largest natural freshwater lake in the western United States.
- Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument: Visit this historic site, which commemorates the Battle of Little Bighorn, where the U.S. 7th Cavalry Regiment clashed with the Lakota, Cheyenne, and Arapaho tribes.
- Virginia City: Explore this historic town, with its preserved 19th-century architecture, museums, and historic train rides.
Food and Drink:
- Montana Beef: Try some of the state’s famous beef, raised on ranches throughout the state.
- Huckleberries: Enjoy Montana’s famous huckleberries, which are used in jams, pies, and other desserts.
- Craft Beer: Montana is home to a thriving craft beer scene, with many breweries offering tours and tastings.
- Farm-to-Table: Visit Montana’s many farm-to-table restaurants, which showcase the state’s fresh produce and local ingredients.
- Montana Wine: Explore Montana’s wine country, with many wineries and vineyards offering tastings and tours.
Events and Festivals:
- Montana Folk Festival: Celebrate Montana’s folk music and culture at this annual festival in Butte.
- Big Sky Documentary Film Festival: Attend this festival, which showcases documentaries from around the world.
- Montana Shakespeare in the Parks: Enjoy outdoor productions of Shakespeare’s plays in Montana’s beautiful parks and forests.
- Yellowstone Art Museum: Visit this museum, which features a collection of art from Montana and the American West.
- Montana State Fair: Attend this annual fair, which showcases Montana’s agriculture, livestock, and crafts.
These are just a few of the many things to do in Montana. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, or natural wonders, Montana has something for everyone.