Welcome to Montana, where endless skies meet rugged wilderness and adventure calls from every corner! Big Sky Country isn’t just a nickname – it’s a promise of boundless experiences waiting for you. From glacier-carved peaks to pristine alpine lakes, historic battlefields to charming mountain towns, Montana offers an incredible tapestry of natural wonders and cultural treasures. Whether you’re seeking heart-pumping outdoor adventures, peaceful nature escapes, or fascinating glimpses into the American West, our comprehensive guide to things to do in Montana will help you discover why this magnificent state captures the hearts of every traveler who ventures into its wild embrace.
1. Going-to-the-Sun Road: Montana’s Most Scenic Drive
Going-to-the-Sun Road is arguably one of America’s most breathtaking mountain drives, offering an unforgettable 52-mile journey through the heart of Glacier National Park that crosses the Continental Divide at Logan Pass.
This engineering marvel winds through pristine wilderness, past towering peaks, cascading waterfalls, and alpine meadows bursting with wildflowers. You’ll witness dramatic glacier-carved valleys, spot wildlife like mountain goats and bighorn sheep, and enjoy stunning vistas at every turn. The road’s highlight is Logan Pass, where you can explore visitor centers and hiking trails with panoramic mountain views.
Essential travel information:
- Time needed: 2-4 hours for the drive, full day with stops
- Best for: Families, couples, nature photographers, and adventure seekers
- Cost: $35 for 7-day park pass or $70 annual America the Beautiful pass
- Location: Glacier National Park, connecting West Glacier to St. Mary, Montana
- Pro tip: Visit early morning or late afternoon for best lighting and fewer crowds; road typically fully open June-October due to snow
This iconic alpine route delivers some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in North America, making it an absolute must-do experience for any Montana adventure.
2. Beartooth Highway: Montana’s Most Spectacular Mountain Drive
The Beartooth Highway stands as one of America’s most breathtaking scenic drives, offering an unforgettable journey through Montana’s rugged mountain landscapes with stunning 360-degree views that will leave you speechless. This engineering marvel winds through challenging switchbacks and dramatic hairpin turns, taking you across diverse altitudes from alpine meadows to snow-capped peaks.
The highway showcases Montana’s pristine wilderness at its finest, with opportunities to spot wildlife, capture incredible photographs, and experience the raw beauty of the Rocky Mountains. Each twist and turn reveals new vistas of glacial lakes, towering peaks, and vast wilderness areas that seem to stretch endlessly.
- Best time to visit: Late May through October (weather dependent)
- Drive time: 2-4 hours depending on stops
- Perfect for: Photography enthusiasts, nature lovers, and adventurous travelers
- Cost: Free to drive (fuel and potential parking fees only)
- Pro tip: Start early morning for best lighting and fewer crowds; bring layers as temperatures vary dramatically with elevation
The Beartooth Highway delivers an unparalleled mountain driving experience that transforms a simple road trip into an epic adventure through some of the most spectacular scenery in North America.
3. Museum of the Rockies
The Museum of the Rockies in Bozeman is a world-class destination that brings Montana’s prehistoric past to life, making it an essential stop for anyone fascinated by dinosaurs and natural history. This interactive museum houses one of the most impressive collections of dinosaur fossils in North America, including the largest T-Rex skull ever discovered and numerous other specimens that tell the story of life millions of years ago.
Beyond the spectacular dinosaur exhibits, visitors can explore engaging Native American cultural displays that showcase the rich heritage of Montana’s indigenous peoples. The museum’s state-of-the-art planetarium offers breathtaking shows featuring Montana’s pristine night skies, perfect for stargazing enthusiasts.
- Duration: Plan 3-4 hours for a comprehensive visit
- Perfect for: Families with children, science enthusiasts, and history buffs
- Admission: Adults $14.50, Children (5-17) $9.50, Under 5 free
- Location: 600 West Kagy Boulevard, Bozeman, MT
- Pro tip: Visit on weekday mornings to avoid crowds, and don’t miss the hands-on fossil dig area
This museum transforms learning into adventure, making it an unforgettable experience that will leave visitors of all ages with a deeper appreciation for Montana’s incredible natural and cultural legacy.
4. Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center
The Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center in West Yellowstone offers an extraordinary opportunity to observe North America’s most iconic wildlife up close in a safe, educational environment. This accredited wildlife sanctuary provides refuge for grizzly bears, gray wolves, and playful otters while delivering unforgettable encounters that bring you face-to-face with these magnificent creatures.
Visitors can witness daily enrichment activities where bears demonstrate their incredible problem-solving abilities, watch wolf pack dynamics unfold, and enjoy the entertaining antics of rescued otters. The center’s knowledgeable staff shares fascinating insights about animal behavior, conservation efforts, and the vital role these species play in Montana’s ecosystem through engaging educational programs.
- Visit duration: 2-3 hours
- Perfect for: Families with children, wildlife enthusiasts, and photography lovers
- Admission: Adults $14, Children (5-15) $8, Under 5 free
- Location: 201 S Canyon St, West Yellowstone, MT
- Pro tip: Visit during feeding times (posted daily) for the most active animal behavior, and bring a camera with zoom lens for stunning wildlife photography
This center offers an unparalleled chance to connect with Montana’s wild heritage while supporting crucial conservation work.
5. Grinnell Glacier: Montana’s Stunning Alpine Wonder
Grinnell Glacier stands as one of Glacier National Park’s most breathtaking destinations, offering visitors a chance to witness 300 acres of pristine glacial beauty nestled in a dramatic alpine cirque. This accessible glacier provides an unforgettable experience for those seeking Montana’s raw natural splendor.
The moderate 5.5-mile round-trip hike takes you through diverse ecosystems, past turquoise lakes, and up to stunning viewpoints where you can observe the glacier’s impressive ice formations and surrounding peaks. The trail offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, including mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and various bird species.
Essential visitor information:
- Best time to visit: July through September when trails are snow-free
- Duration: 4-6 hours for the complete hike
- Difficulty: Moderate, suitable for families with older children and active adults
- Entry: Glacier National Park pass required ($35 for 7 days)
- Tips: Start early to avoid crowds, bring layers and plenty of water, and pack a lunch for the scenic overlook
Grinnell Glacier offers one of Montana’s most rewarding day hikes, combining accessibility with truly spectacular alpine scenery that will leave lasting memories.
6. Lake McDonald: Glacier National Park’s Pristine Alpine Gem
Lake McDonald stands as Glacier National Park’s largest and most accessible lake, offering visitors a perfect blend of tranquil beauty and outdoor adventure that captures the essence of Montana’s wilderness. This pristine alpine lake stretches for 10 miles, surrounded by towering mountains and dense forests that create a breathtaking natural amphitheater.
The lake’s crystal-clear waters reveal a stunning collection of multi-colored rocks beneath the surface, creating a kaleidoscope effect that’s particularly mesmerizing during calm mornings. Visitors can enjoy kayaking and paddleboarding on the serene waters, take scenic boat tours, or simply relax along the shoreline while watching for wildlife including mountain goats, deer, and various bird species. The sunrise and sunset views from the lake are absolutely spectacular, with the surrounding peaks reflected perfectly in the still water.
- Best time to visit: 2-4 hours, ideally early morning or late afternoon
- Perfect for: Families, couples, photographers, and nature enthusiasts
- Cost: Glacier National Park entrance fee ($35 per vehicle for 7 days)
- Location: Going-to-the-Sun Road, West Glacier, Montana
- Pro tip: Arrive early to avoid crowds and catch the best lighting for photos; bring layers as mountain weather can change quickly
Lake McDonald offers an unforgettable introduction to Glacier’s majestic beauty, making it an essential stop for anyone seeking to experience Montana’s most iconic wilderness destination.
7. Flathead Lake
Flathead Lake stands as the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi River, offering visitors pristine waters surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery in northwestern Montana. This glacial gem provides the perfect blend of relaxation and outdoor adventure, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Big Sky State.
The lake’s crystal-clear waters are ideal for swimming, boating, fishing, and paddleboarding, while the charming lakeside communities of Bigfork and Lakeside offer welcoming atmospheres with excellent dining options and comfortable accommodations. Visitors can explore numerous state parks along the shoreline, enjoy cherry orchards in season, or simply relax on sandy beaches with stunning mountain backdrops.
- Ideal visit duration: 2-3 days
- Perfect for: families, couples, outdoor enthusiasts, and photographers
- Cost: Free access to public areas; state park day-use fees around $6
- Location: Northwestern Montana, accessible via Highway 35 and Highway 93
- Pro tip: Visit during summer months (June-August) for warmest weather and best swimming conditions; book accommodations early as lakeside rentals fill quickly
With its combination of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and charming small-town hospitality, Flathead Lake delivers an unforgettable Montana experience that captures the essence of the American West.
8. Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument
Step into one of America’s most significant historical battlegrounds at Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument, where the famous Battle of Little Bighorn (Custer’s Last Stand) took place in 1876. This sacred site offers visitors a profound glimpse into the clash between the U.S. 7th Cavalry and the Lakota, Northern Cheyenne, and Arapaho tribes.
Explore the visitor center’s compelling exhibits, walk the battlefield trails marked with monuments, and visit the cemetery where soldiers are buried. The monument features interpretive programs that present multiple perspectives of this pivotal moment in American history, honoring both the Native American warriors and the fallen soldiers.
- Visit duration: 2-3 hours
- Best for: History enthusiasts, families with older children, educational groups
- Admission: $25 per vehicle (7-day pass)
- Location: Crow Agency, Montana (I-90 Exit 510)
- Pro tip: Visit during spring or fall for comfortable weather; arrive early morning to avoid crowds and heat
This monument stands as a powerful reminder of American frontier history, offering visitors an emotionally moving and educational experience that brings the past vividly to life.
9. Avalanche Lake Trail
Avalanche Lake Trail offers one of Glacier National Park’s most rewarding moderate hikes, leading you through enchanting cedar forests to a pristine alpine lake surrounded by towering peaks and cascading waterfalls. This scenic 6-mile round-trip journey takes you along a well-maintained boardwalk through the Trail of the Cedars before opening up to spectacular mountain vistas.
The trail features stunning highlights including Avalanche Gorge’s dramatic rock formations, multiple waterfall viewpoints, and the breathtaking lake itself, where waterfalls tumble directly from the surrounding cliffs. Wildlife enthusiasts might spot mountain goats, black bears, or various bird species along the way.
- Duration: 3-4 hours round trip
- Best for: Families with older children, couples, and moderate-level hikers
- Cost: Glacier National Park entrance fee ($35/vehicle for 7 days)
- Location: Going-to-the-Sun Road, Glacier National Park, Montana
- Pro tip: Start early morning (7-8 AM) to avoid crowds and bring layers as temperatures can vary significantly
With its perfect blend of accessible hiking and spectacular alpine scenery, Avalanche Lake Trail delivers an unforgettable Montana wilderness experience that showcases the raw beauty of Glacier National Park.
10. Flathead Lake Alpine Coaster: Montana’s Thrilling Year-Round Adventure
The Flathead Lake Alpine Coaster offers Montana’s first and only alpine coaster experience, making it a must-visit destination for thrill-seekers looking to add excitement to their Flathead Valley adventure. This unique attraction combines the beauty of Montana’s landscape with an exhilarating ride that winds through scenic terrain.
What sets this coaster apart is its year-round operation and thoughtful design features like windshields that protect riders from the elements, ensuring comfort in any weather. The track offers controlled speeds, allowing you to customize your ride experience from leisurely scenic cruise to heart-pumping adventure as you navigate curves and dips through the beautiful valley setting.
- Duration: 10-15 minutes per ride
- Perfect for: Families with children 8+, couples, and adventure enthusiasts
- Estimated cost: $15-25 per ride
- Location: Flathead Valley area near Flathead Lake
- Pro tip: Visit during weekdays or early morning to avoid crowds, and dress in layers for changing mountain weather
This alpine coaster delivers an unforgettable Montana experience that perfectly blends outdoor adventure with stunning natural beauty, making it an essential stop for anyone exploring the treasures of Big Sky Country.
11. Highline Trail: Montana’s Most Spectacular Hiking Experience
The Highline Trail in Glacier National Park stands as one of Montana’s most breathtaking hiking experiences, offering unparalleled alpine views that will leave you speechless. This iconic trail follows the Continental Divide, providing hikers with stunning panoramic vistas of pristine wilderness, towering peaks, and glacial valleys.
The trail features dramatic cliff-side paths, wildflower meadows, and opportunities to spot mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and even bears in their natural habitat. The relatively flat terrain makes it accessible to most hikers, despite its high-altitude location at over 6,000 feet.
Essential visitor information:
- Duration: 4-6 hours for the full 11.8-mile trail
- Best for: Experienced hikers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts
- Cost: Glacier National Park entrance fee ($35 per vehicle)
- Location: Logan Pass, Going-to-the-Sun Road, Glacier National Park
- Pro tip: Start early (6-7 AM) to avoid crowds and afternoon thunderstorms; bring layers as weather changes quickly
The Highline Trail delivers an unforgettable Montana adventure that perfectly captures the raw beauty and grandeur of the American West.
12. Logan Pass: Gateway to Glacier’s Alpine Wonders
Logan Pass stands as the crown jewel of Glacier National Park’s Going-to-the-Sun Road, offering visitors an unforgettable alpine experience at 6,646 feet elevation. This scenic mountain pass serves as the perfect launching point for discovering pristine wilderness, abundant wildlife, and some of Montana’s most breathtaking panoramic views.
The area is renowned for its incredible wildlife viewing opportunities, where mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and marmots roam freely across the alpine meadows. The famous Hidden Lake Overlook Trail begins here, providing a relatively easy 1.5-mile boardwalk hike through wildflower-filled meadows to stunning lake views. During peak summer months, visitors can witness spectacular displays of alpine wildflowers painting the landscape in vibrant colors.
Essential visitor information:
- Best time to visit: Early morning (before 8 AM) or late afternoon to avoid crowds and secure parking
- Duration: 2-4 hours depending on hiking activities
- Suitable for: Families, nature photographers, and outdoor enthusiasts of all ages
- Cost: Glacier National Park entrance fee ($35 per vehicle for 7 days)
- Location: Going-to-the-Sun Road, Glacier National Park, Montana
- Pro tip: Parking fills up quickly by 9 AM in summer; arrive early or consider using the park shuttle system
Logan Pass offers an accessible taste of true alpine wilderness that transforms even casual visitors into devoted mountain lovers.
13. Gates of the Mountains Boat Tours
Gates of the Mountains offers one of Montana’s most spectacular boat tours through the dramatic limestone cliffs that once awed Lewis and Clark during their historic expedition. This scenic cruise along the Missouri River provides an unforgettable journey through towering canyon walls rising up to 1,200 feet above the water.
The 2-hour narrated tour showcases breathtaking geological formations while guides share fascinating stories about the area’s rich history and wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and various bird species that call these cliffs home. The boat glides through pristine waters, offering perfect photo opportunities at every turn.
Practical information for visitors:
- Duration: 2-hour round trip tour
- Perfect for: Families, nature lovers, history buffs, and photographers
- Ticket prices: Adults $23, Children (4-17) $15, Under 4 free
- Location: Gates of the Mountains Marina, 4 miles north of Helena
- Best time: Morning tours for cooler weather and better wildlife viewing
- Tips: Bring sunscreen, hat, and camera; dress in layers as it can be cooler on the water
This remarkable boat tour combines Montana’s natural beauty with captivating history, making it an essential experience that connects you to both the landscape and the legendary explorers who first navigated these waters.
14. Big Sky Resort – Montana’s Premier Mountain Destination
Big Sky Resort stands as Montana’s crown jewel for mountain recreation, offering world-class skiing and year-round adventure that attracts visitors from around the globe. This expansive mountain resort boasts over 5,800 acres of skiable terrain, making it one of the largest ski areas in the United States with something for every skill level.
The resort features peaceful beginner slopes, challenging expert runs, and everything in between, ensuring families and solo adventurers alike find their perfect mountain experience. The scenic Lone Peak Tram provides breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding Yellowstone ecosystem, while the diverse terrain keeps even the most experienced skiers engaged.
- Ideal visit duration: 3-5 days for skiing, 1-2 days for summer activities
- Perfect for: Families, couples, skiing enthusiasts, and nature lovers
- Lift tickets: $150-200+ per day (varies by season)
- Location: 50 Big Sky Resort Road, Big Sky, MT 59716
- Pro tip: Visit mid-week for smaller crowds, book accommodations early for peak winter season
Big Sky Resort delivers an unparalleled Montana mountain experience that combines world-class amenities with the raw beauty of the American West.
15. Palisade Falls: Montana’s Family-Friendly Waterfall Adventure
Palisade Falls offers one of Montana’s most accessible waterfall experiences, featuring an easy paved trail that leads to a stunning 80-foot cascade perfect for visitors of all ages and abilities.
The moderate 1.2-mile round-trip hike takes you through beautiful forest scenery before revealing the dramatic waterfall plunging down rocky cliffs. Beyond the main attraction, adventurous visitors can explore rock climbing opportunities on the surrounding granite walls, while photographers will find countless angles to capture the falls’ natural beauty. The spacious viewing area at the base provides comfortable spots for picnicking and relaxation.
- Visit Duration: 2-3 hours including hiking and sightseeing
- Best For: Families with children, elderly visitors, photographers, and casual hikers
- Cost: Free access
- Location: Hyalite Canyon Road, Bozeman, Montana
- Pro Tip: Visit in late spring or early summer for peak water flow, and arrive early morning to avoid crowds and capture the best lighting
With its combination of accessibility, natural beauty, and diverse activities, Palisade Falls stands out as Montana’s perfect introduction to the state’s magnificent waterfall landscapes.
16. Glacier National Park: Montana’s Crown Jewel
Glacier National Park stands as Montana’s most spectacular natural wonder, offering visitors an unparalleled wilderness experience where pristine alpine lakes mirror towering peaks and wildlife roams freely across over one million acres of protected land.
The park’s crown jewel is the Going-to-the-Sun Road, a breathtaking 50-mile scenic drive that winds through dramatic mountain passes and offers access to countless hiking trails. Crystal-clear lakes like Lake McDonald and Saint Mary Lake provide perfect spots for boat excursions, while the park’s 700+ miles of trails cater to everyone from casual walkers to serious backpackers. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot mountain goats, black bears, and if lucky, the elusive grizzly bear.
- Best time to visit: July through September when most roads are snow-free
- Duration: 3-5 days minimum to explore major highlights
- Entry fee: $35 per vehicle (7 days) or $70 annual park pass
- Perfect for: Families, photographers, hikers, and nature lovers
- Pro tip: Book accommodations well in advance and start early to avoid crowds on popular trails
With its dramatic landscapes and abundant recreational opportunities, Glacier National Park delivers an unforgettable Montana adventure that will leave you planning your return visit before you’ve even left.
17. Downtown Bozeman
Downtown Bozeman is Montana’s charming cultural heart, where historic brick buildings house eclectic shops, cozy cafes, and local galleries, making it a perfect destination for those seeking authentic Western charm combined with modern sophistication.
Stroll along Main Street to discover unique boutiques, antique stores, and local art galleries where you can window shop or hunt for genuine treasures. The area buzzes with locally-owned restaurants serving everything from farm-to-table cuisine to craft breweries offering Montana-made beers. Street festivals and farmers markets add seasonal vibrancy to this walkable downtown core.
- Duration: 2-4 hours for leisurely exploration
- Perfect for: Couples, families, and culture enthusiasts
- Cost: Free to walk around; shopping and dining budget varies
- Location: Main Street, Bozeman, MT 59715
- Pro tip: Visit during weekday mornings for quieter shopping, or weekends for the lively atmosphere and street events
Downtown Bozeman perfectly captures Montana’s blend of rugged heritage and contemporary culture, offering visitors an authentic taste of Big Sky Country hospitality.
18. Montana Grizzly Encounter
Montana Grizzly Encounter offers a rare opportunity to observe rescued grizzly and black bears up close while learning about wildlife conservation in an educational sanctuary setting. This unique facility provides intimate encounters with these magnificent creatures that have been rescued from various circumstances and now serve as ambassadors for their species.
Visitors can watch feeding demonstrations, learn about bear behavior from knowledgeable staff, and gain insights into conservation efforts. The sanctuary houses several bears with fascinating backstories, and guided tours provide detailed information about each animal’s journey to the facility.
Practical information for your visit:
- Visit duration: 1-2 hours for the full experience
- Best for: Families with children, wildlife enthusiasts, and educational groups
- Admission: Approximately $15-20 for adults, $10-15 for children
- Location: Bozeman, Montana area
- Tip: Visit during feeding times (usually morning and afternoon) for the most active bear behavior, and bring a camera with good zoom capability
Montana Grizzly Encounter provides an unforgettable educational experience that combines wildlife observation with meaningful conservation messaging, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to connect with Montana’s iconic wildlife.
19. Iceberg Lake Trail
Iceberg Lake Trail offers one of Glacier National Park’s most rewarding alpine adventures, leading hikers through pristine wilderness to a stunning glacial lake surrounded by towering peaks and floating icebergs even in summer. This moderate 9.7-mile round-trip hike showcases Montana’s raw beauty at its finest, winding through wildflower meadows, dense forests, and dramatic mountain terrain.
The trail is famous for its wildlife encounters – hikers often wear bells and engage in loud conversations to avoid surprising bears along this backcountry route. The destination itself is breathtaking: a crystalline lake nestled in a natural amphitheater where ancient ice chunks drift lazily across the surface, creating an otherworldly scene.
- Duration: 5-7 hours round trip
- Best for: Experienced hikers and adventure seekers (not recommended for young children)
- Cost: Glacier National Park entrance fee ($35 per vehicle for 7 days)
- Location: Many Glacier area, Glacier National Park, Montana
- Pro Tips: Start early (7-8 AM) to avoid crowds, bring bear spray, and dress in layers as weather changes quickly at elevation
This trail perfectly embodies Montana’s untamed wilderness spirit, offering an unforgettable encounter with glacial landscapes that few places on Earth can match.
20. Ousel Falls Trail: A Perfect Family-Friendly Hike
Ousel Falls Trail offers one of Montana’s most accessible and rewarding hiking experiences, combining stunning waterfalls with breathtaking views of the Gallatin River canyon. This scenic 1.6-mile round-trip trail features gentle elevation changes and well-placed resting benches, making it perfect for hikers of all skill levels.
The trail winds through beautiful forest terrain before revealing the spectacular 40-foot Ousel Falls, where you can enjoy panoramic mountain views and the soothing sounds of cascading water. Along the way, you’ll cross charming wooden bridges and catch glimpses of the rushing Gallatin River below.
- Duration: 1-2 hours round trip
- Perfect for: Families with children, couples, beginner hikers, and photographers
- Cost: Free
- Location: Near Big Sky, Montana (trailhead off Ousel Falls Road)
- Pro tip: Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds, and bring a camera for the waterfall views
With its combination of natural beauty, easy accessibility, and rewarding destination, Ousel Falls Trail represents the perfect introduction to Montana’s incredible outdoor adventures.
Montana truly lives up to its reputation as one of America’s most spectacular destinations, offering experiences that will stay with you long after you’ve returned home. From the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road to hidden alpine gems like Iceberg Lake, every adventure on this list showcases the raw beauty and untamed spirit that makes Big Sky Country so special. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or an extended exploration, these incredible things to do in Montana promise memories that will inspire your next return trip to this magnificent wilderness playground. Pack your sense of adventure and prepare to fall in love with Montana’s endless possibilities!