5 ways to experience the best of Montana
Photo: Montana Office of Tourism
You might picture the Rocky Mountains when you think of Montana. And you should — they’re incredible. But with 147,040 square miles, the fourth-largest state in the USA has much more to see than snowy peaks. So come for the mountains, but stick around and explore what the rest of state has to offer.
Whether you’re interested in sunrise bird watching, hiking, or sampling locally crafted whiskey made with handpicked sweetcorn, it’s all here. Then there are the powwows, the horseback adventures, and the scenic drives that will have you slowing to a crawl to take in the nonstop views.
There are a lot of great ways to experience Montana — so let’s get started.
This guide is proudly produced in partnership with the Montana Office of Tourism and Brand USA. All photos provided by the Montana Office of Tourism, except where noted.
The National Parks
Photo: Montana Office of Tourism
Montana is home to Glacier National Park and is a gateway to Yellowstone National Park, both among the finest parks in America. Take on a challenging hike or sip a drink in a historic hotel while looking out over a glacial lake — whatever your travel style, you need to experience the protected wilds of Montana.
Road Trip Musts
Photo: Montana Office of Tourism
With its famously “big” skies and roads reaching to the horizon, Montana is perfect for road trips. Some of these routes will take you up and over dizzying mountain passes; others meander through meadows of wildflowers. All will have you pulling over and reaching for your camera.
History & Culture
Photo: Montana Office of Tourism
Indigenous peoples have lived in this part of the USA for thousands of years — and they still do; Montana has seven reservations and 12 different tribes. Add to that the more recent cowboy traditions, historic battles, and the countless tales of boom-and-bust life on the plains, and you have no shortage of history and culture to explore in Montana.
Wildlife
Photo: Montana Office of Tourism
Montana has a greater variety of wildlife than anywhere else in the continental US, so keep your eyes peeled. All you need is a bit of patience and a few good tips to plan your own wildlife-viewing adventure. Those over-eager people who leave the hotel at 5am with their binoculars? They’re on the right track.
Food & drink destinations
Photo: Montana Office of Tourism
Want to grab a quick burger with the locals? No problem. How about an elegant, organic farm-to-table meal with ingredients so locally sourced you probably drove past them on your way to the restaurant? You can find that here, too. Montana has long been known for its farming heritage, so it’s no surprise that it also has a delicious dining scene.
This guide is proudly produced in partnership with the Montana Office of Tourism and Brand USA. All photos provided by the Montana Office of Tourism, except where noted.