places to visit in montana in october

Best Places in Montana to Visit in October

If you’re seeking a chance to immerse yourself in the unparalleled beauty of nature in October, then Montana won’t disappoint you.

With its world-renowned national parks like Glacier and Yellowstone, Montana offers an abundance of opportunities for wildlife viewing, scenic drives, and outdoor adventures.

October, the shoulder season between the summer season tourist rush and the onset of winter, is an ideal time to visit.

The autumn months offer a splendid display of colors, with snowcapped peaks and pumpkin patches blending harmoniously into the landscape.

I’ll guide you to the perfect places for wildlife encounters, introduce you to the activities you can do in the national parks, walk you through the places where you can fish, and share the most stunning hiking trails.

• Related article: What Are the Best Months to Visit Montana

So, pack your hiking boots, grab your bear spray, and let’s uncover the secrets of Montana in October.

Montana in October: Reasons to Visit

Montana in October is an absolute bucket list for travel enthusiasts. Let me tell you why this is the perfect time to embark on an adventure in the Big Sky Country.

First and foremost, affordability is a key factor. October brings the joy of affordable ticket prices, making it easier on your wallet to plan an amazing trip to Montana.

Plus, the weather is just right – not too hot, not too cold. With moderate temperatures and pleasant autumnal breezes, you can enjoy exploring the stunning landscapes.

Another reason to visit Montana in October is the accessibility of the roads. The shoulder season means fewer tourists and less traffic, which results in smoother journeys and easier navigation.

You can take advantage of the empty roads and plan an epic road trip, stopping wherever your wandering spirit takes you.

Experience the local towns and their rich culture, their delicious seasonal treats, and witness their traditional October celebrations.

Visiting Montana in October is a great opportunity to create lasting memories with its breathtaking landscapes and the welcoming spirit of autumn.

Montana in October: Weather Conditions

Weather conditions in Montana in October are simply delightful.

The moderate temperatures and pleasant autumnal breezes create the perfect atmosphere for exploring stunning landscapes.

However, if you’re exploring the great outdoors, it’s essential to remain well-prepared, given the potential for fluctuating weather conditions during October.

Average Temperatures During October

October in Montana brings a mix of crisp autumn air and vibrant colors of fall foliage. 

While temperatures can vary across the state, let’s explore the range of temperatures in some well-known cities and towns.

In October, the various locations in Montana offer distinct temperature experiences.

West Yellowstone, near Yellowstone National Park, tends to be the coolest among them all. Helena follows as the next coolest destination.

Meanwhile, Billings, Livingston, and Miles City enjoy comparatively warmer temperatures, making them the coziest places to visit in October.

Each of these locations provides its own unique charm, making Montana an ideal destination for exploring the beauty of the season.

Montana in October: Things To Do

As the peak season’s crowds disperse and the tranquil beauty of this untamed land takes center stage, there’s no shortage of breathtaking activities to indulge in.

From exploring the iconic Glacier National Park and Yellowstone National Park to embarking on scenic drives through the Beartooth Highway, there’s something for every outdoor adventurer.

Below are some things that you can do when visiting Montana in October.

1. Tour Yellowstone National Park

Touring Yellowstone National Park in October is a must-experience.

The decrease in crowds instantly creates a sense of tranquility and allows for a more immersive journey through this exceptional landscape.

As you explore the park, you’ll be greeted by vibrant fall foliage, painting the surroundings with hues of red, orange, and gold.

It’s a photographer’s dream, with the warm lighting casting a magical glow over everything you capture.

And speaking of photos, the wildlife sightings in Yellowstone National Park in October are nothing short of amazing. Bison, elk, bighorn sheep, deer, and even bears are out and about, either migrating or preparing for winter.

With fewer visitors, you have a much better chance of spotting these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

Yellowstone National Park also offers 2 popular walking trails that showcase its geothermal features and stunning vistas.

The Upper Geyser Basin trail takes you through a captivating landscape of geysers and hot springs, with Old Faithful as the highlight.

The Old Faithful Observation Point Loop on the other hand provides an elevated view of Old Faithful eruptions against a backdrop of natural beauty.

Both are beautiful trails that offer a unique experience but be prepared for changing weather conditions during this time of year.

2. Explore Glacier National Park

Visiting Glacier National Park in October is a great time to avoid the summer crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.

In October, Glacier National Park’s fall colors and warm lighting provide an ideal setting for photographers to capture the park’s glaciers, mountains, waterfalls, and wildflowers.

One of the popular nearby hikes in Glacier National Park is the Hidden Lake Trail. This trail offers stunning views of the park’s mountains and lakes.

However, it’s important to note that the west side of Going-to-the-Sun Road is closed in October due to snow.

But fear not, the closure doesn’t limit your hiking options. Hikers should not miss the opportunity to embark on a highline trail hike at Logan Pass, located at the peak of Going-to-the-Sun Road.

Highline trail provides a thrilling adventure with amazing views of the pristine wilderness below.

October is considered a shoulder season in Glacier National Park, which means that you’ll find lower ticket prices and less crowded trails.

It’s the perfect time to immerse yourself in the stunning beauty of the park and take advantage of the quieter, more serene atmosphere.

3. Take a Scenic Drive on Beartooth Highway

As an avid road tripper, I can confidently say that taking a scenic drive on Beartooth Highway is an absolute must-do when visiting Montana in October.

The 68-mile Beartooth Highway, straddling the border of Montana and Wyoming, is hands down one of the most stunning roads in the entire United States.

Imagine cruising along this picturesque highway, with snow-capped peaks towering above you, glacial lakes shimmering in the distance, and vibrant autumn colors painting the landscape.

Beartooth Highway is especially popular during the fall season when the wildlife comes out to play and the foliage puts on a spectacular show.

So not only will you be treated to jaw-dropping vistas, but you might also spot some of Montana’s iconic wildlife, like grizzly and black bears, elk, moose, and bighorn sheep.

Make sure to take advantage of the various stops along the way, like the Top of the World Store, Beartooth Pass Overlook, and Vista Point Observation Site.4

These spots offer perfect opportunities to soak in the stunning views, stretch your legs, and of course, capture some envy-inducing photos.

It’s the perfect way to experience Montana’s natural beauty while driving and chilling in your car. Trust me, you won’t regret it.

4. Visit Lake McDonald

Nestled in the heart of the majestic Rocky Mountains, Lake McDonald in Glacier National Park is a natural freshwater lake that beckoned me with promises of tranquility and gorgeous vistas.

With Montana’s autumn break in full swing, the landscape around Lake McDonald is alive with vibrant autumn colors.

The trees appear to be ablaze with fiery reds, oranges, and yellows, creating a kaleidoscope of hues that mirror the beauty of the surrounding mountains.

To fully experience the natural beauty of the area, visitors can opt to rent a boat from Glacier Park Boat Co., which provides an array of water vessels, including paddleboards, kayaks, canoes, rowboats, and motorboats.

Enthusiasts can enjoy gliding across the clear waters of this alpine lake, reveling in the serene and tranquil ambiance of this peaceful oasis.

For those who prefer a more leisurely adventure, Flathead Outdoors provides kayak rentals for two people, allowing you to bask in the beauty of this amazing lake in comfort and ease.

With rental prices starting at just $32 per hour, it’s an affordable way to experience the magic of this enchanting place.

Fishing enthusiasts will also find delight in Lake McDonald. The lake is home to a variety of fish species, including cutthroat trout, rainbow trout, and lake trout. 

Lake McDonald is a perfect escape from the bustling world, where you can lose yourself in the beauty of nature and find peace in the simplicity of the present moment.

5. Tour the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center

Touring the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center is a fun experience that truly connects you with nature and wildlife.

Located in West Yellowstone, Montana, this non-profit wildlife park offers the perfect opportunity to observe and learn about magnificent wild animals in a safe and controlled environment.

Upon entering the visitor center, tourists are immediately captivated by the majestic grizzly bears and gray wolves residing in their naturalistic habitats.

It’s an incredible opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures up close and witness their behaviors and interactions.

The center’s commitment to animal welfare is apparent in the careful design of each habitat, creating an environment that closely mimics the animals’ natural surroundings, ensuring their comfort and enrichment.

The Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center provides a range of family-friendly programs and activities, allowing visitors of all ages to learn about these remarkable animals and how to coexist with them.

From engaging activities like Keeper Kids and Bird-of-Prey demonstrations to informative sessions on safety in bear country and living with bears, there is something for everyone to enjoy and learn.

Visiting the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center is not only an opportunity to observe wildlife but also an opportunity to contribute to their conservation efforts.

As an accredited not-for-profit wildlife park, every visitor plays a part in supporting the center’s mission and ensuring the well-being of these beautiful creatures.

Whether you are a wildlife enthusiast or looking for a family-friendly attraction, the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center is a must-visit destination.

6. Take a Hike at the Bighorn National Forest

Embarking on an adventure at Bighorn National Forest reveals an awe-inspiring landscape with towering trees and vibrant foliage, creating a perfect backdrop for hiking.

The forest offers a range of hiking trails, allowing visitors to explore the wilderness at their own pace.

The Bighorn National Forest boasts an array of hiking trails for all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting out, there’s a trail for you.

From the challenging Medicine Wheel Trail to the peaceful Shell Falls Trail, each path offers a unique and fun experience.

And with the convenience of adjacent trails, it’s easy to explore even more of the forest’s natural wonders.

Hikers exploring Bighorn National Forest often have the opportunity to encounter a rich variety of amazing wildlife. The forest is home to majestic elk, graceful deer, and, for the fortunate, the elusive black bears.

Outdoor enthusiasts can also enjoy fishing in Bighorn National Forest, which boasts numerous lakes like Mirror Lake and Lost Twin Lake teeming with trout, providing a tranquil setting for fishing.

7. Fly Fish at Madison River

The Madison River is renowned among avid fly fishermen as a blue ribbon trout stream, making it one of Montana’s premier fly fishing destinations.

This iconic river is especially popular for fly fishing in the month of October.

What sets the Madison River apart is its crystal clear water, providing an ideal setting to spot fish and take in the beautiful scenery of fall.

Madison River is home to a large population of brown and rainbow trout, making it a paradise for fly fishing enthusiasts.

October is no ordinary month for the Madison River; it’s “trophy trout season.” Brown trout become more aggressive as they begin to spawn, making it the ideal time to try your luck at catching some sizable trout.

But the excitement doesn’t end there. October on the Madison River also brings famous fall caddis and Baetis hatches, creating perfect conditions for dry fly fishing.

An abundance of these aquatic insects attracts hungry trout to the surface, providing thrilling opportunities to test your skills and land that trophy catch of a lifetime.

Montana in October: Best Places to Stay

When it comes to finding the best places to stay in Montana in October, you’ll be spoiled for choice.

From the vibrant town of Bozeman to the enchanting communities in Whitefish, you’ll find the perfect spot to rest your head after a day of exploring the stunning autumn landscapes and taking in the vibrant colors of the season.

1. Stay in Bozeman

When staying in Bozeman, Montana, you’ll find yourself immersed in a vibrant town full of charm and captivating attractions.

Here are places that you can visit during your stay in Bozeman:

• Bozeman’s Historic Downtown Area – The historic downtown area is a beautiful adornment to the city, with a number of retail shops, galleries, pubs, and restaurants lining the streets.
• The Museum of the Rockies – This museum is a world-class museum in Bozeman that explores cultural and natural history, and astronomy.
• The Bridger Mountains – The Bridger Mountains are located near Bozeman and offer scenic hiking and mountain biking trails.

Bozeman offers diverse lodging options, from luxury hotels like the Kimpton Armory Hotel to affordable short-term rentals around the town, ensuring visitors can find accommodations that match their preferences and budget.

No matter your reason for visiting Bozeman, staying in this captivating town will undoubtedly create memories that will last a lifetime.

2. Stay in Helena

Staying in Helena during October is a delightful experience that immerses you in the vibrant atmosphere of the state capital.

With its lively energy and bustling streets, Helena offers a unique blend of city vibes and small-town charm.

One of the highlights of Helena is its vibrant art scene. The city is home to numerous galleries and museums, showcasing the works of talented local and regional artists.

From contemporary masterpieces to traditional crafts, you’ll find a diverse range of artistic expressions to admire and appreciate.

Helena’s historic downtown area is a beautiful adornment to the city, with a number of retail shops, galleries, pubs, and restaurants lining the streets.

During your stay in October in Helena, I highly recommend the Best Western Premier Helena Great Northern Hotel.

This hotel is a fantastic choice due to its prime location in the heart of downtown Helena. With easy access to the city’s attractions and activities, you’ll be able to make the most of your time in Helena.

Spend your October in Helena, where the lively atmosphere and vibrant art scene will captivate your senses.

3. Stay in Missoula

Missoula, located in Western Montana is a lively college town with a youthful vibe that offers a variety of attractions and activities, and you won’t be disappointed.

During October, Missoula truly comes alive with an array of entertainment options, from live music to theater performances to exciting sports events.

Looking for some autumn-themed fun in October? Make your way to the Missoula Maze, where you can get lost in a cornfield maze, visit a petting zoo, and choose the perfect pumpkin from their patch.

Missoula is located near several outdoor attractions, including the Clark Fork River, which offers opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and rafting.

Visitors can also explore the nearby Rattlesnake National Recreation Area, which offers hiking and mountain biking trails.

When it comes to accommodations, I personally recommend the AC Hotel by Marriott Missoula Downtown.

With its prime location near the University of Montana and artisan dining options, this hotel is the ideal base for your stay in Missoula.

Missoula is a hidden gem with its college town atmosphere, thriving arts scene, and a plethora of outdoor adventures to embark on.

4. Stay in Whitefish

Whitefish is located in North-western Montana during the autumn months and experience the charm and beauty of this incredible mountain town.

With its breathtaking views and a myriad of outdoor adventures, Whitefish is the perfect spot for an unforgettable October getaway.

Downtown Whitefish is a bustling hub with a vibrant atmosphere. The village center is also a must-visit, offering a delightful mix of charming boutiques and eateries that will satisfy all your cravings.

For outdoor adventurers, Whitefish Mountain Resort is a dream come true. With its snowcapped peaks and scenic drives, this ski resort offers a range of activities to suit every preference.

Whether you’re skiing or snowboarding down the slopes or hiking through the stunning fall foliage, the resort provides the perfect setting for adrenaline-fueled fun and relaxation.

When it comes to accommodations, my recommendation is the Lodge at Whitefish Lake. This top-notch hotel boasts a prime location near downtown and the resort, ensuring easy access to all the attractions.

With amenities such as shuttle service, boat rentals, award-winning dining, and a luxurious day spa, you’ll be pampered and well taken care of during your stay.

Your October in Whitefish experience wouldn’t be complete without attending the Great Northwest Oktoberfest.

The Great Northwest Oktoberfest is a celebration of all things autumn, with live music, traditional German cuisine, and beer gardens galore. It’s the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the local festivities and create lasting memories.

Don’t miss the opportunity to make Whitefish your ultimate destination to stay during your October vacation.

Montana in October Final Thoughts

Visiting Montana in October is a truly incredible experience. The state offers a myriad of highlights and attractions during this time, making it the perfect month to explore.

With fewer crowds and moderate weather conditions, it’s an excellent opportunity to embark on a vacation trip and discover the beauty of this stunning state during October.

One of the major draws of October in Montana is its vibrant fall foliage. The landscape transforms into a kaleidoscope of colors, providing a stunning panorama for outdoor activities.

Touring Yellowstone National Park or Glacier National Park to witness nature’s awe-inspiring display firsthand is a must-experience.

Exploring Beartooth Highway on a scenic drive is another must-do for any avid road tripper visiting Montana in October.

The view of snow-capped peaks, glacial lakes, and vibrant autumn colors along the way will leave you in awe.

Fly fishing at the Madison River is also a popular activity during this season, offering a peaceful and serene escape.

If you are searching for a place to stay for your October trip, then Montana also offers a wide range of accommodations in various towns such as Bozeman, Helena, Missoula, and Whitefish.

Besides the range of accommodations, Montana specifically in Whitefish, hosts autumn festivities such as the Great Northwest Oktoberfest.

Experience the Great Northwest Oktoberfest, featuring live music, authentic German food, and vibrant beer gardens.

The charm and beauty of Montana in October cannot be overstated. The stunning fall colors, affordable prices, pleasant weather, and the abundance of activities all make it the ideal month to visit.

Montana in October FAQs

1. does it snow in october in yellowstone.

October is part of the fall season and according to the National Park Service, snow is common in the spring and fall, with regular accumulations of 12 inches (30.5 cm) in a 24-hour period.

2. What to Wear in Montana in October?

Montana in October can be chilly. Visitors should pack for a variety of temperatures and conditions, as the weather can change quickly

Layers, including long-sleeve shirts, flannels, and sweaters, and a medium-weight jacket are essential during fall.

It’s important to note that Montana’s style is casual, and visitors should pack comfortable, casual clothes and shoes.

Visitors should also pack for the activities they plan to do, such as hiking or fishing, and bring a daypack with adjustable shoulder straps and a hip belt or strap to help carry the load.

3. When Can You See Fall Colors in Montana?

Fall colors in Montana can be seen from mid-September to late October, depending on the location and elevation.

The peak time for fall colors in Montana is usually around the first week of October.

Visitors can expect to see a variety of colors, including bright red, orange, and yellow hues.

4. Is October Too Late for Glacier National Park?

Visiting Glacier National Park in October is not too late, but visitors should be aware of the park’s operating hours and seasonal changes.

While some services are closed in October, visitors can still enjoy the park’s beautiful trails, wildlife, and changing foliage.

The Going-to-the-Sun Road is generally closed for the season by the 3rd weekend of October, regardless of the weather. It is always best to plan your day trips in the early days of the Month.

5. What Is the Cheapest Time to Go to Montana

Here are some of the cheapest times to visit Montana:

• Late January
• April to June
• September to November
• October to November

Visitors should be aware that the cheapest time to visit Montana may also mean limited services and activities, as well as unpredictable weather conditions.

Did you enjoy reading this article? We have some great reads on Montana just for you:

• Discovering May in Montana
• Discover Montana in November
• Visit Montana in September
• Holiday Spirit in Montana
• https://www.weather.gov/byz/Oct2022WxSum
• https://prism.oregonstate.edu/explorer/
• https://www.nps.gov/yell/planyourvisit/weather.htm
• https://www.fs.usda.gov/detailfull/bighorn/specialplaces/?cid=stelprd3812567&width=full
• https://www.nps.gov/glac/learn/news/going-to-the-sun-road-closes-october16.htm
• https://www.ncei.noaa.gov/access/monitoring/climate-at-a-glance/statewide/time-series/24/tavg/1/10/2022-2022?base_prd=true&begbaseyear=1901&endbaseyear=2000
• https://www.nps.gov/yell/learn/news/17053.htm
• https://www.flickr.com/photos/cedwardbrice/52480258211
• https://www.flickr.com/photos/yellowstonenps/32984013743
• https://www.flickr.com/photos/locosteve/7917415776

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25 Best Places to Visit in Montana: A Local’s 2024 Guide

Best Places to Go in Montana for Nature, Skiing, Downtown Fun & Much More!

The best places to visit in Montana differ for everyone, but that is what makes Montana so special. There is something for every type of traveler!

25 Best Places to Visit in Montana

• Bitterroot Valley
• Glacier National Park
• Yellowstone National Park
• Montana Dude Ranch
• Montana Badlands
• Bighorn Canyon
• Flathead Lake
• Holter Lake / Gates of the Mountains
• Big Sky Resort
• Red Lodge / Beartooth Highway
• Hot Springs
• Great Falls
• St. Ignatius / Mission Mountains
• Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument
• Bannack State Park
• Virginia City
• Butte’s Mining Past
• First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park

If you’re looking to get away and get outside this year, then Montana is the perfect destination for you. However, as the fourth largest state in the United States, it can be hard to narrow down the best places to visit in Montana during your trip. We’re here to help!

We’re Montanans who have explored every part of this state. In this article, we’ve listed out the best places to go in our beloved state. These places are broken into different categories: Nature, Water, Cities, Skiing, History, and Wildlife Viewing.

Of course, most places you can visit in Montana are going to fall into numerous categories. For example, we put Yellowstone National Park under Best Places in Montana for Wildlife Viewing, but let’s face it — Yellowstone could go under practically all of these categories! It’s easily one of the best places to visit in Montana.

So with that out of the way (woo-hoo, we love our national parks, but there’s so much more to Montana!) let’s move onto the best places to visit in Montana, for every type of travel personality.

Top 25 Must-See Places in Montana

Montana has quickly become a coveted travel destination. The state provides epic scenery, crowd-free terrain, a burgeoning food and drink scene, and some of America’s most breathtakingly stunning national parks.

We love all of Montana! Still, there are some spots that stand out. Read on for our top 25 places to visit in Montana.

Best Places to Visit in Montana for Nature Lovers

It’s the beauty of the Montana mountains and plains that draws most people to the state. So let’s start with the best places to visit in Montana for nature… 

1. Bitterroot Valley

One of the main attractions of the Bitterroot Valley is its natural beauty. With the Bitterroot Mountains to the west and the Sapphire Mountains to the east, visitors are surrounded by breathtaking scenery and a variety of outdoor activities to explore.

The valley is home to several national forests and wilderness areas, including the Bitterroot National Forest and the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness, which offer miles of trails for hiking and backpacking.

In addition to the natural beauty of the area, the Bitterroot Valley has a variety of cultural and historical attractions. Visitors can explore the small towns and communities that dot the valley, each with its own unique character and charm. You’ll find a historic, must-see chapel in Stevensville, art galleries in Hamilton, and a Main Street with a wild west feel in Darby (this is also where the ranch scenes in Yellowstone are filmed ).

2. Glacier National Park

It’s probably no surprise this national park ended up here. Glacier National Park is known for its epic, gravity-defying scenery punctuated by towering mountain peaks, turquoise glacial lakes, and miles upon miles of stellar hiking trails.

Are You Looking For The Best Activity in Glacier National Park? Here are some top-rated tours that make it easy to explore the park and have memorable adventures:

• Experience the quieter side of Glacier National Park with this Glacier National Park Scenic Float .
• Have a thrilling day on a Half-Day Glacier National Park Whitewater Rafting Adventure
• Spot wildlife in its native habitat with a Half Day Scenic Float on the Middle Fork of the Flathead River

Glacier National Park is best experienced when you hit the trail, making this an easy spot on our best places in Montana for nature lovers. It’s also one of the most likely areas to spot a grizzly bear or moose.

Read More: The Best Things to Do in Glacier National Park

3. Yellowstone National Park

With drives, hiking trails, and wide, open plains that make it easy to see wildlife, Yellowstone National Park is one of the best places to visit in Montana for many reasons. However, for many visitors it’s the wildlife that stands out.

While driving through Yellowstone you’re bound to see bison roaming the plains. Wolves, moose, bears, elk, mountain lions, and other animals are also possible to see.

One of the best places to see wildlife in the park is the Lamar Valley, which is located by Yellowstone’s northeast entrance. The gateway to this entrance is Cooke City, MT. And an epic way to get to Cooke City is via the Beartooth Highway – more on that under the Red Lodge entry!

Read More: Best Things to See in Yellowstone National Park

Bonus Place to Visit: West Yellowstone

To maximize your time in the great outdoors and proximity to wildlife when visiting Yellowstone, we recommend staying in West Yellowstone (if you can’t or don’t want to get a lodge within in Yellowstone’s boundaries , of course).

West Yellowstone is a small Montana town right by the west entrance to Yellowstone National Park , which makes it a gateway to some of the best natural wonders in the world. But West Yellowstone also has its own outdoor fun and animal adventures. 

West Yellowstone is home to the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center. Visit to see these majestic and often elusive creatures (all rescues) in their natural habitat.  We wrote more about our visit to the center here.

In West Yellowstone , you’ll find the Museum of the Yellowstone, where you can learn more about the flora and fauna inside the park.

West Yellowstone is also close to Big Sky where you can find seemingly endless adventures in every season!

4. Montana Dude Ranch

Experience the land and its animals the Montana way — or at least the Montana cowboy way — with a stay at a dude ranch.

You can choose to stay at a small family-run ranch where you’ll get to know the family well. Participate in day to day tasks that will truly give you a taste of what it’s like to live on a working ranch.

Want some pampering? Choose one of the luxury dude ranches like Triple Creek Ranch . You’ll dine on exquisite food, can get spa treatments after horseback rides, and do one-of-a-kind guided adventures.

Read More: The Best Dude Ranches in Montana

5. Montana Badlands

The Badlands are located in eastern Montana and consist of miles upon miles of flat sandstone rocks stacked upon each other. This forms incredible rock stacks and structures against the background of the plains.

Many of the rocks look precariously stacked on top of each other. That combined with the barren surroundings, give the badlands an almost otherworldly appearance in parts. 

For some of the most scenic views of Montana’s badlands, head to Makoshika State Park off of Interstate 94 near Glendive. While you’re there, also make sure to check out the fun dinosaur museums in the town and park. Some of the world’s most incredible dinosaur fossils are from this area.

Read More: The Ultimate Glendive Travel Guide

The Terry Badlands near Terry, MT (a short drive southwest of Glendive) are also known for mesmerizing hoodoos and other rock formations.

Fun Water Destinations in Montana

Love water sports or gazing at serene water framed by gorgeous vistas? Montana is definitely the place for you then. Usually known for its mountains, Montana also has incredible water features, from glistening alpine lakes to rushing river wonders. Next up are our favorite outdoor spots to visit in Montana for some water fun.

6. Bighorn Canyon

Bighorn Canyon is easily one of Montana’s best hidden gems . This massive water reservoir is home to some of the most mesmerizing boating around.

The Yellowtail Dam created this massive canyon. The sheer size of the red-tinged cliffs that surround you as your boat or pontoon slices through the calm water is awe-inspiring.

You can easily find parts of Bighorn Canyon that you’ll have pretty much all to yourself. Waterski on calm water without worrying about wakes from other boats, or just relax on your pontoon and enjoy the peace and quiet. 

Read More: Insider’s Guide to Montana’s Best Kept Secret: Bighorn Canyon

7. Flathead Lake

Flathead Lake is located in northwestern Montana, about 70 miles north of Missoula. It’s considered one of the most picturesque lakes in Montana, with mountain peaks visible in the distance. Around the lake are charming little towns and cherry tree orchards producing famously sweet, delicious cherries. 

A good base for starting your Flathead adventures is either Polson on the south end of the lake or Bigfork on the northeast end. There are boat and watersport outfitters located around the lake where you can rent equipment. You can also bring your own and use the public dock and boat launch in one of the six Flathead Lake State Parks .

A boat ride or paddle over to Wild Horse Island is also an enchanting way to spend a day on Flathead Lake. This unique state park has a loop trail that takes you through island woods with water vistas and the chance to see the five wild horses who live on the island.

When we were there we didn’t see the horses on our hike, but did see the herd of bighorn sheep that also lives on the island.

Read More: Guide to the Best Flathead Lake Activities to Do on Your Trip

8. Swan Lake

If Flathead Lake is too big and busy for you, head to sleepy Swan Lake, less than thirty minutes from Bigfork on the northeast corner of Flathead Lake.

Swan Lake has an excellent day use area that is easy to access. It also has a low fee to visit for the day. Park and be at at a peaceful beach and picnic table in mere moments. Relax by the shore or head out on your paddle board or kayak.

Or simply go for a swim or sit on the shoreline and enjoy the beauty of this peaceful lake nestled against the backdrop of Flathead National Forest. My kids especially enjoyed splashing around by the beach even though the water was pretty cold! We brought wetsuits for them to wear.

9. Holter Lake / Gates of the Mountains

Follow in the canoe path of the Lewis and Clark expedition with a boating adventure in Holter Lake. Holter Lake is surrounded by the pristine Holter Wilderness Area. Part of the Holter Reservoir was created by a dam erected in the Missouri River.

You can boat and dock by campgrounds and trailheads after you glide through the infamous Gates of the Mountains. It’s called “Gates of the Mountains” because that is what Lewis said as they were going through the water pass.

No boat of your own? Sign up for a boat tour that takes you through this part of the reservoir. The tour is also a great way to learn about the area’s history.

Read More: Ultimate Guide to Visiting Holter Lake and the Gates of the Mountains

Love racing down the mountainside in the middle of winter? Us too! Next up are a couple of our favorite places in Montana to visit in winter for snow adventures.

10. Big Sky Resort 

The preeminent ski resort in Montana is massive Big Sky Mountain Resort. It’s home to a number of challenging runs that make Big Sky Mountain a ski destination exciting for experienced skiers and snowboarders. Yet it also has plenty of trails for beginners and is home to an excellent ski school.

Plus, the views you’ll get from the top of the ski runs are stunningly gorgeous.

You can stay right in Big Sky Resort at one of the ski-in, ski-out condos and townhomes, or rent a nearby vacation rental. Another popular option is to stay in Bozeman, which is about an hour’s drive away.

Read More: Insider’s Guide for All the Best Places to Ski in Montana

11. Red Lodge / Beartooth Highway

If you want to ski where the locals ski (at least those who live in Billings and eastern Montana), head to Red Lodge instead of Big Sky in 2023.

You won’t find any of the pomp and circumstance Big Sky is sometimes known for due to it glitzy clientele. Instead you’ll find a laidback mountain town with one Main Street of restaurants and bars and a smattering of hotels. 

Summer in Red Lodge Tip: Red Lodge is also a popular destination in non-ski seasons. Mostly because it’s the start of the incredible Beartooth Highway Drive. This scenic drive leads to the northeast entrance of Yellowstone National Park and has some of the best mountain views in the country. You might see some mountain goats, too!

Plus, even is summer there’s a good chance you’ll see snow at the top of the pass. There’s even a ski run there in the summer, Beartooth Basin , that operates two platter lifts. We only recommend skiing here for advanced skiers, but even if you’re not skiing, it’s cool to watch people gliding down the mountainside seemingly in the middle of nowhere during the height of summer.

Read More: Winter Guide for Red Lodge Mountain

12. Hot Springs

Soak outside in one of Montana’s blissful hot springs. Montana makes it easy to do so at various hot spring resorts and facilities. Our favorites are:

• Quinn’s Hot Springs
• Chico Hot Springs
• Bozeman Hot Springs

Read More: Best Hot Springs in Montana

Must-Visit Cities in Montana

Montana is known for nature and wildlife, but it also has a cosmopolitan side, which you can experience in these cities. All of which are still located close to gorgeous scenery and outdoor activities.

A visit to Helena takes you to Montana’s state capital, a gorgeous city located right in the mountains. It’s home to a university, the stately capitol building, and a downtown area brimming with historic homes and buildings. 

Our favorite place to hang out in Helena is along the Walking Mall. This is a pedestrian-only street in downtown that has an actual creek running through it. My kids love playing in it, while I enjoy watching them play in it from the patio of Windbag Saloon & Grill with a local beer in my hand. 🙂

Cross the road at the end of the Walking Mall and you’re at Reeder’s Alley, which is a really cool historic area that has been preserved to reflect the turn of the 20th century. It’s also where the visitor center is so you can get more ideas on what to do in and around Helena while there, such as going to the nearby Flathead National Forest or other local hiking trails.

Read More: Ultimate Guide for Things to Do in Helena

14. Billings

Billings doesn’t get enough clout as a tourist destination, in our opinion. It’s situated right in between Montana’s massive mountains to the west and the rolling farmland to the east.

(In fact, we love Billings so much we wrote a book about it, 100 Things to Do in Billings Before You Die , which you can get at local booksellers and from Amazon, Target, or Barnes & Noble.)

Billings often gets earmarked as just a starting off point or ending point if accessing Montana via the Billings International Airport. 

However, it would be a shame to overlook Billings on your trip since it has a burgeoning food and craft beer scene plus historic attractions. Despite being Montana’s largest city, it has still retained a small town vibe, making it a welcoming place to explore while in Montana.

Some of the top attractions in Billings include the Billings Beer Trail , the Yellowstone Kelly Memorial atop the rims (rocky cliffs on the north end of Billings that gives the city a beautiful frame) and the Old Town Historic District where you’ll find a number of old homes and museums. 

Read More: All the Top Things to Do in Billings, Montana

15. Bozeman

Beautiful Bozeman is nestled in the gorgeous Gallatin Valley in southern Montana and is surrounded by mountains. It’s home to Montana’s busiest airport and provides easy access to Big Sky Resort for skiing and snowboarding. Bozeman is also a short drive down to Yellowstone National Park. 

Bozeman is a great city in its own right, though, and shouldn’t just be used as a gateway to the rest of Montana. Dedicate a day or two (or more) to spend in Bozeman and get a feel for why it’s one of the best places to live in Montana — and some say, all of the USA! 

Bozeman has a number of craft breweries and distilleries, delicious restaurants that focus on local ingredients, and a fun downtown area with bars and nightlife. It’s also close to epic hiking at Hyalite Canyon which you can follow up with a relaxing soak at Bozeman Hot Springs.

In addition, Bozeman is the location of the esteemed Museum of the Rockies , which is one of the best dinosaur museums in the whole country.

Museum of the Rockies is a must-see for anyone who thinks dinosaurs are cool (and isn’t that pretty much everyone??). You’ll see a massive skeleton of a Tyrannosaurus Rex and a Triceratops plus learn about the paleontology work done in Montana that unearths these prehistoric dinosaur bones. 

Read More: Best Things to Do in Bozeman

16. Whitefish

Whitefish is a beautifully situated town located in the northwestern part of the state, nestled at the base of the impressive Whitefish Mountain Resort with the gorgeous alpine Whitefish Lake flanking the north edge of the town. With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture, Whitefish is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Montana.

One of the top attractions in Whitefish is the aforementioned Whitefish Mountain Resort, which offers a wide variety of outdoor activities year-round. In the winter, visitors can enjoy skiing and snowboarding on the resort’s world-class slopes. When visiting Whitefish in the summer , visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and zip-lining up at the mountain resort, or swimming and paddle boarding down the mountain at Whitefish Lake.

The town itself is also full of unique shops, delicious restaurants, and lively bars, making it the perfect place to unwind after a day of adventure. Whitefish is also home to a thriving arts and culture scene. The local community is known for its support of the arts, with numerous galleries and theaters showcasing the work of local artists and performers.

Read More: Best Things to Do in Whitefish

17. Missoula

Missoula is one of the most beloved cities in Montana for a number of reasons. Its beauty is what first pulls people in.

Surrounded by towering mountain peaks, Missoula is breathtaking to behold. The city is a short drive from Lolo National Forest and Flathead Lake. Just a bit farther north and you’ll find yourself in Whitefish and Glacier National Park. 

Top things to do in Missoula include taking a ride around the hand-carved Carousel for Missoula , going for a stroll along the River Walk, dining at the hearty restaurants and craft breweries in town. Beyond downtown, you can escape to the Clark Fork River for some whitewater rafting, fly fishing, or kayaking. 

Read More: Top 10 Things to Do in Missoula

18. Lewistown

Lewistown is a charming small town located in the heart of the state, surrounded by rolling hills, sprawling ranches, and endless natural beauty. Visitors to Lewistown are drawn to its laid-back atmosphere, friendly locals, and abundance of outdoor activities.

One of the top attractions in Lewistown is the Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument, which offers stunning views of the rugged landscape and opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, and boating. History buffs will also appreciate the town’s rich heritage, with several historic sites and museums showcasing the area’s Native American and pioneer past.

In addition to its natural and cultural attractions, Lewistown also boasts a thriving arts scene, with galleries, studios, and annual events like the Montana Winter Fair and the Chokecherry Festival. Whether you’re in the mood for adventure, relaxation, or inspiration, Lewistown is a great place to visit and experience the best of Montana.

Read More: Best Things to Do in Lewistown

19. Great Falls

Great Falls is a hidden gem surrounded by stunning natural beauty including the Missouri River, the Rocky Mountains, and the vast prairie lands of Montana. Visitors to Great Falls can experience the best of both worlds, with easy access to outdoor adventures and city amenities.

One of the top attractions in Great Falls is the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center, which tells the story of the famous explorers who passed through the area on their expedition to the Pacific Northwest. The center features interactive exhibits, artifacts, and a replica of the boat used by the expedition.

Another must-see attraction is the C.M. Russell Museum. C.M. Russell is arguable Montana’s most famous artist. He’s one of the world’s most beloved Western painters, known for his paintings depicting the frontier and Native American life in the late 1800s and early 1900s. An extensive collection of his works are housed in the museum in Great Falls. His old log home is also located on the grounds.

Outdoor enthusiasts will also find plenty to do in Great Falls, with hiking, fishing, and boating opportunities available in the nearby mountains and rivers. The Giant Springs State Park is an especially popular spot for picnicking, bird watching, and fishing. The park features a natural spring that produces over 156 million gallons of crystal-clear water every day, making it one of the largest freshwater springs in the country.

Read More: Complete Guide to the Best Things to Do in Great Falls

By the way…

Before we get to the rest of this list, quick break to make sure you know about our First Timer’s Guide to Montana travel guidebook. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or want some expert advice for Montana trip planning all in one place, this 139-page guidebook is for you! Click here to learn more about it!

…and now back to the best places to visit in Montana list!

Historic Places to Visit in Montana

History abounds in Montana, and here are some of the historic places that stand out that you should add to your Montana bucket list.

20. St. Ignatius / Mission Mountains

A historic place to visit between Missoula and Flathead Lake is the town of St. Ignatius on the Flathead Indian Reservation.

St. Ignatius is home to the similarly named St. Ignatius Mission, which is a popular tourist attraction in this area.

St. Ignatius Mission is a Catholic Church that dates back to the 1890s. When visited, it must be seen from the inside. That’s where you’ll see the 58 original paintings on the ceiling painted by Brother Joseph Carignano. There is also a museum next to the mission.

To learn more about the history of the area, head to the Ninepipes Museum of Early Montana in St. Ignatius where you can learn more about the importance the land has played to the native people of Montana throughout the past centuries. 

St. Ignatius is also near the Mission Mountains, which provides visitors with opportunity to partake in a number of outdoor activities. Popular ones include rock climbing, ice climbing, river rafting, and boating.

21. Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument

Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument is a historic site located in Southeast Montana. The site is dedicated to preserving the memory of the Battle of Little Bighorn, which took place in 1876. This battle is also known as Custer’s Last Stand, as it saw the defeat of General George Custer and his troops by the Lakota Sioux and Cheyenne warriors. The battlefield is a somber, yet interesting place to visit because of its historical significance and natural beauty of its surroundings.

Visitors to Little Bighorn Battlefield can explore the site and learn about the events leading up to the battle, the battle itself, and its aftermath. The visitor center features exhibits and artifacts that give insight into the lives of the soldiers and Native Americans who fought in the battle. Guided tours are also available, led by knowledgeable rangers who can provide more in-depth information about the site and its history.

In addition to its historical significance, Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument is also a beautiful natural area. The site is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer and prairie dogs. The landscape is dotted with rolling hills and wide open spaces, offering visitors a chance to experience the beauty of the American West.

The 1-mile Deep Ravine Trail is a good hike to do to soak in these views while learning more about the battle and the Native American history in the area. The site is also a great place for hiking, with several trails that offer stunning views of the battlefield and surrounding area. 

Bonus Site: While in this region, also head to Pompeys Pillar, a large sandstone rock tower that has a visitor center about the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Why here? It’s the only known spot where one of the explorers left a mark of their identity: William’s signature etched into the rock face. Read more about Pompeys Pillar here.

22. Bannack State Park

Located in the southwest corner of Montana, Bannack State Park offers visitors a unique glimpse into the past. The park is home to the ghost town of Bannack, which was once a bustling gold rush town in the late 1800s. Today, visitors can explore the well-preserved buildings and artifacts of this historic town, giving them a glimpse into what life was like in the Old West.

Aside from its fascinating historical significance, Bannack State Park also offers plenty of outdoor recreational opportunities. Visitors can hike or bike on the park’s trails, fish in the nearby streams, or camp overnight in the park’s campground. The park is also home to a number of special events throughout the year, including living history days, ghost tours, and gold panning demonstrations.

23. Virginia City

While Bannack is cool and spookily deserted, if you want to really feel what it was like to live during the mining boom period, head to Virginia City. Located about 90 minutes east of Bannack State Park, Virginia City is also an old mining town that was once deserted…but this time an initiative in the 1960s refurbished many of the buildings along Virginia City’s Main Street. The buildings now reflect almost exactly as they would have been set up in 1890. Their is a bank, carpenter, hat store, general store, pharmacy, and many more shops all available for you to peer into and glimpse the past.

Virginia City is also where Montana’s oldest bar is located, which you can still sidle up to and order a beer or stiffer cocktail.

Just a couple minutes down the road from Virginia City is Nevada City, MT. This is another little ghost town has abandoned old buildings and homes with informational signs about what the town was like back during the gold rush.

24. Butte’s Mining Past

Located in Central Montana, Butte is located between Missoula and Bozeman right off I-94. As a result, most road trippers drive right through this historic city or just stop to get gas.

This is definitely doing yourself a disservice!

Butte has an incredible history and was once nicknamed the “Richest Hill on Earth.” This moniker was due to the extensive minerals (and resulting riches) its massive mining industry unearthed in the early 1900s.

Today, the mining industry is gone, but you can still see remnants of it, both in downtown Butte and on the outskirts of town.

In downtown Butte, tour the gorgeous Victorian homes from the mining town’s heyday. Beyond the town, you can see the Anaconda Smelter Stack jutting up into the sky. Drive up the hill to view acidic Berkeley Pit, a sad reminder of the toll mining has on the earth.

Read More: The Best Things to Do in Butte

25. First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park

First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park is a fascinating and historically significant site located in Montana. It was once used by Native American tribes as a hunting ground for bison. The bison would be driven over the edge of the cliff, providing an abundant source of food and supplies for the tribes.

Today, visitors to the park can explore the area and learn about its history through informational signs and plaques. The park also features an interactive visitor center, which provides additional information about the site and its significance. Visitors can even watch a short film that explores the history of the buffalo jump and its importance to Native American culture.

One of the highlights of First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park is the hiking trail that leads to the top of the cliff. This trail offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, and it is a great way to experience the site from a unique perspective. Along the way, visitors can explore the remnants of ancient hunting structures and learn more about the history of the site.

First Peoples Buffalo Jump Park is located in the town of Ulm, a short drive southwest of Great Falls. If you’re sticking to southwest Montana, there’s also a buffalo jump site in the small town of Three Forks called Madison Buffalo Jump State Park.

No matter what type of vacation you’re looking for, these best places in Montana to visit are epic. Each place will have you experiencing Montana in an epic way with gorgeous scenery.

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Things to do in Montana in October

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Looking for a different month?

October is a good time to visit Montana .

Montana has plenty to offer for visitors of all ages and interests. In this article, we tell you the top things to see and do for your October trip to Montana. Get inspired by the events, activities, attractions, and experiences unique to October. We’ll let you know where to explore events based on your interests, whether that’s food, culture, art, music, sport or others.

Table of contents

• Experiences
• Attractions

Best events and things to do in Montana in October

Top experiences in october, holidays in montana in october.

There are no holidays in Montana in October

Other notable holidays

• Labor Day ( September 2 )
• Patriot Day ( September 11 )
• Constitution Day and Citizenship Day ( September 17 )
• American Indian Heritage Day ( September 27 )

Best attractions for Montana in October

What's the weather like in Montana?

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Montana for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Montana in January
• Weather in Montana in February
• Weather in Montana in March
• Weather in Montana in April
• Weather in Montana in May
• Weather in Montana in June
• Weather in Montana in July
• Weather in Montana in August
• Weather in Montana in September
• Weather in Montana in October
• Weather in Montana in November
• Weather in Montana in December

Explore nearby places

• Martinsdale
• Fort Benton
• White Sulphur Springs
• Pompeys Pillar

All related maps of Montana

• Map of Montana
• Map of Lewistown
• Map of Hobson
• Map of Judith Gap
• Map of Winifred
• Map of Harlowton
• Map of Roundup
• Map of Lavina
• Map of Geraldine
• Map of Martinsdale
• Map of Zortman
• Map of Neihart
• Map of Molt
• Map of Belt
• Map of Shepherd
• Map of Loma
• Map of Fort Benton
• Map of White Sulphur Springs
• Map of Worden
• Map of Huntley
• Map of Big Timber
• Map of Ringling
• Map of Greycliff
• Map of Billings
• Map of Pompeys Pillar
• Map of Columbus
• Map of Laurel
• Map of Harlem
• Map of Absarokee
• Map of Havre

Montana throughout the year

• Montana in January
• Montana in February
• Montana in March
• Montana in April
• Montana in May
• Montana in June
• Montana in July
• Montana in August
• Montana in September
• Montana in October
• Montana in November
• Montana in December

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Montana's Best-kept Secret Is Its Shoulder Season — Here's How to Plan the Perfect Visit

Summertime is for the crowds — here's why Montana is best experienced in the fall and spring.

Montana is most commonly known as Big Sky Country . It's an apt nickname referring to the vast horizon lines that characterize much of the landscape. Travel westward and those lines will increasingly be met with mountains as they trace the distant edges of your field of view. Speckled throughout is a kaleidoscope of wonder: national parks , natural phenomena, and unspoiled forests filled with wildlife. All of it makes the official motto of this place — the "Treasure State" — far more suitable of a moniker. And if you venture here during shoulder season, the greatest treasure is getting it all to yourself.

"Fall is my favorite season in Montana," says Paul Makarechian, Bozeman native and owner of Lone Mountain Ranch , a luxury property seated on 148 acres of secluded farmland in the rugged southwestern part of the state. "Crowds are less, the trees turn colors, the wildlife is active, the rivers are teeming with fish, and the air quality is perfect."

Lone Mountain's 27 standalone cabins are easier to secure this time of year, too. Come Christmas, its proximity to Big Sky ski resort makes reservations more scarce (and much costlier), as does the property's access to ample Nordic adventure, along with horse-drawn sleigh rides. Some of that burden will now be lessened thanks to the opening of the Montage in 2021.

The 139-room hotel stands out as the largest lodge of its kind in a town that has approximately 3,000 year-round residents. Guests can enjoy ski-in/ski-out access to its myriad amenities, including spa services and six separate food and beverage concepts. Rates will start at $2,291 per night during the Christmas holiday.

Not to be outdone, Lone Mountain has completely revamped and upgraded the dining experience at its Horn & Cantle saloon. Diners can choose from a litany of locally sourced proteins rendered in a decidedly cosmopolitan fashion.

Arrive in the summer, and the masses are mostly drawn to Yellowstone . The western entrance to one of the most visited national parks in the U.S. is just an hour away from Big Sky . But in early fall and late spring, the splendor of this backcountry is hardly lessened. Thousands of hydrothermal features, including geysers, fumaroles, and hot springs , are going strong and still accessible — some even by snowcoach . By early November, the park's 5,000-strong population of bison has begun a mass migration to lower elevations. The wildlife viewing is in full swing and the only thing missing is the traffic.

Although most of the famed lodges and inns of Yellowstone shutter at the end of October, the historic Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel and Cabins is open until the end of November. The circa 1936 standout, constructed by architect Robert C. Reamer, recently completed a massive renovation and refurbishment.

But many will opt to roll into this part of the country riding their own lodging — in RV form . This is especially so in the early spring, when most of the seasonal inns have yet to open. It's a great way to get an early jump on sightseeing, and nowadays you don't even have to own a recreational vehicle to operate one. Startups such as RVshare are bringing the Airbnb model to mobile homes, and they're especially useful in western Montana, with its bounty of RV parks at your disposal.

"Montana and the Intermountain West are by far the most popular areas to discover by RV," says Jon Gray, CEO of RVshare. "There are endless opportunities for exploration among state and national parks and scenic highway routes. This time of year, the parks are less crowded and there is more RV inventory available than in the peak summer months."

Ideal for families and group travel, you can reserve well-appointed examples that sleep up to six people for as little as $200 a night. And there are plenty of sleek and stylish models to choose from in hip boomtowns like Bozeman and Missoula — ideal locales to start and end your road trip adventures . The former just expanded its Main Street to the Mountains trail system, affording direct access from downtown to more than 80 miles of surrounding hikes. The latter is Montana's undisputed gastronomic mecca, with dozens of new eateries, craft breweries, and distilleries popping up along the banks of the Clark Fork River in the past decade.

In either town, businesses are ready to receive you in spring and fall, often at discounted rates for everything from dining to overnight stays. "Shoulder season is especially great for those who can work remotely and take advantage of low prices and dissipated crowds," adds Gray.

Sure, for the outdoor adventurers, packing extra layers is advisable. But they're rewarded with vivid foliage in the fall (along with a relatively dry climate). The spring thaw, conversely, bestows backwood trekkers with an abundance of waterfalls . Glacier National Park holds hundreds of them, many of which you can hike to even when Going-to-the-Sun Road is closed to vehicular traffic. In fact, late May and mid-October are great times to rent an e-bike and pedal along the famed scenic route. You'll enjoy the views sans the stress of having to share a high-altitude active motorway. Plus, you'll work up a nice sweat to fend off afternoon temperatures, which often dip below 40 degrees Fahrenheit.

"It can get crisp quickly on either side of the summer," says Makarechian. "But you really can't go wrong visiting during shoulder season. This is nature's playground. Even if it's a bit chilly, you can always admire it from a hot spring — with a glass of wine in hand." A state worth treasuring, indeed.

21 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Montana

Written by Brad Lane Updated Jan 24, 2024

Montana is the American West at its best. This rugged state still has a touch of its wild past brimming from its cities and small towns and its massive unaltered natural spaces. National forest acreage outnumbers residents in Montana, the country's 4th largest state by land size and one of the least populated. These uncrowded spaces have enticed explorers, writers, and Big Sky enthusiasts to Montana over the last 100 years.

Adventure and the outdoors dominate many of the things to do in Montana. And adventures in Montana always come with remarkably beautiful and vast landscapes. From mountains glistening in Glacier National Park to the many wild rivers teeming with trout, the state is a foreign land to some, its wild places unmatched anywhere else in the country.

But it's more than just the opportunities for adventure that make the state worthy of a visit or long stopover. There's also a wild sense of the Old West that still lingers. The state capital, Helena, exemplifies this Western aura with its gold-digging past woven throughout its downtown district. This frontier history of Montana evokes a sense of exploration that feels like something new is around every corner.

Find out why the state is known as the Last Best Place with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Montana.

1. Glacier National Park

2. explore a national forest, 3. hit the slopes at big sky resort, 4. fly fish blue ribbon waterways, 5. meet the residents at the grizzly and wolf discovery center, 6. unearth history at the museum of the rockies, 7. visit yellowstone national park, 8. discover the richest hill on earth at the world museum of mining, 9. tour the state capitol in helena, 10. explore the shore of flathead lake, 11. go underground at lewis and clark caverns state park, 12. soak in one of montana's hot springs, 13. get inspired at the c.m. russell museum complex, 14. spot the smelter stack in anaconda, 15. drive the beartooth highway, 16. visit the moss mansion in billings, 17. indulge at the sweet palace in philipsburg, 18. ross creek cedars scenic area, 19. pay respects at the little bighorn battlefield national monument, 20. dive deep into the western heritage center, 21. bike on the route of the hiawatha.

Glacier National Park stands proudly as the Crown of the Continent in Northwest Montana. This outstanding scenic area comprises mountain ranges, alpine meadows, thick forests, tall waterfalls, countless sparkling lakes, and numerous glaciers. It's a real adventure paradise with iconic landscapes enticing repeat visitors for years to come.

The 50-mile-long Going-to-the-Sun Road is a marvel of engineering and the only paved route that navigates across the park. It crosses the Continental Divide at the 6,646-foot-high Logan Pass, connecting St. Mary to Apgar Village and West Glacier. This automobile route is worth a visit alone.

The national park is a magnet for adventure tourists, with over 700 miles of hiking trails. Some of the most iconic hiking routes include Grinnell Glacier, Ptarmigan Tunnel, and the incredible Highline Trail. While day hiking is the most common way to explore, overnight adventures are also popular within the park's extensive backcountry.

Accommodation: Best Places to Stay near Glacier National Park

• Top-Rated Things to Do in Glacier National Park, MT
• Best Campgrounds in Glacier National Park

Montana is home to a remarkable seven national forests comprising nearly 20 million acres. This vast, wide-open space has come to define the Montana experience, and no visit is complete without trekking through these public lands. From the Kootenai to the Custer-Gallatin , the western half of the state is home to many of these national treasures.

At least five national forests are within a short drive of Missoula , home to the University of Montana. And Lolo National Forest surrounds the city. This proximity to public lands offers residents and visitors backyard access to adventure hot spots like Rattlesnake and Blue Mountain National Recreation Areas.

Bozeman, home to Montana's other state university, is also an excellent jumping-off point for exploring national forests. While several public lands are within reach, the Custer-Gallatin National Forest draws the most interest. South of Bozeman, the Custer-Gallatin reaches past the adventurous town of Big Sky and connects to Yellowstone National Park.

Read More: Best Hiking Trails in Montana

Big Sky Resort, home to some of the "Biggest Skiing in America," is approximately an hour's drive south of Bozeman. The slopes are known for their abundance of snow, with an average of 400 inches per year. Thousands of skiers and snowboarders descend onto the resort come winter. Still, with 5,750 skiable acres, there's plenty of room to make some turns.

Visiting Big Sky provides the full resort experience. From the heated eight-person lifts to the energetic base of the mountain filled with events, restaurants, and après-ski entertainment, Big Sky offers the crème da la crème of a Montana downhill experience. The resort recently upgraded their iconic Lone Peak Tram for the 2023/24 season, offering a breathtaking and sightseeing adventure to the top of its namesake peak and an adventurous black-diamond ride down for those comfortable with steep terrain. Down rides are also available.

But Big Sky isn't the only ski destination worth visiting in the state – several of Montana's best ski resorts offer similar landscapes for downhill endeavors. Lost Trail Powder Mountain is a local favorite near the Idaho border. And up north, Whitefish Mountain Resort offers excellent views of the adjacent Glacier National Park. Other popular spots like Montana Snowbowl and Bridger Bowl are within easy reach of Montana's university cities.

Address: 50 Big Sky Resort Road, Big Sky, Montana

Official site: https://bigskyresort.com/

Read More: Top Things to Do in Big Sky, Montana

The 1992 movie, A River Runs Through It , starring Brad Pitt and directed by Robert Redford, made Montana synonymous with fly fishing. But anglers have been casting lines in the state for years prior, already aware of the surplus of mountain streams and rivers primed for a fly.

The movie, adapted from an iconic 1972 novella by Norman Maclean, takes place primarily on the Blackfoot River . But many of the most mesmerizing river scenes were filmed on the Gallatin River . These two rivers both offer productive seasonal hatches and some of the best mountain scenery in the sport.

And world-renowned fly fishing takes place throughout the state. Besides other major rivers like the Madison , Missouri , and Yellowstone Rivers , the state has thousands of mountain streams and creeks with plenty of action. One of the best ways to enjoy Montana fly fishing is by connecting with a local guide shop.

Undoubtedly the only time you'll be happy to see a bear or wolf up close, the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center is a must-see excursion when visiting Montana. It's in the town of West Yellowstone , near the western entrance of Yellowstone National Park.

Opened as a sanctuary for animals otherwise not fit to live in the wild, the center offers a chance to see giant grizzly bears and gray wolves in a natural habitat. It also encourages learning about their behavior, history, and population decline. Highlights include watching the bears forage for food, play in their ponds and with each other, as well as the chance to hear the haunting howls of the wolf packs (best in the mornings and evenings).

The facility also features an engaging Banks of the Yellowstone indoor exhibit, with a dynamic riparian display with cutthroat trout and river otters.

Address: 201 S. Canyon Street, West Yellowstone, Montana

Official site: www.grizzlydiscoveryctr.org

Read More: Top Things to Do in West Yellowstone, MT

The Museum of the Rockies adds to Bozeman's status as one of Montana's best cities . Along with its planetarium, the museum – part of the Smithsonian Institution – is renowned for its excellent displays of dinosaurs and dinosaur eggs . The collection includes skeletons and realistic models of numerous species found in the state.

The museum's dinosaur collection is one of the largest in the US and includes the world's biggest Tyrannosaurus skull. Other highlights include a T-Rex thighbone with soft-tissue remains and the T-Rex skeleton at the museum entrance known as "Big Mike." All these prehistoric monuments help share the region's history.

It's not all dinosaurs, however. The museum also features a dynamic display welcoming people to Yellowstone Country, illustrating the region's evolution into a tourism magnet. Other subject matters include native peoples of the region, Western art exhibits, and the Tinsley House – an original pioneer log home from the late 1800s.

Address: 600 W. Kagy Blvd, Bozeman, Montana

Official site: https://www.museumoftherockies.org/

Read More: Top Attractions and Things to Do in Bozeman, MT

Montana has two main entrances into Yellowstone National Park, the nation's first national park. These two openings, the West Entrance and the North Entrance , also feature gateway communities that are fun places to visit on their own. And it's a world of adventure once you're inside the park, with over two million acres to explore.

From the aptly named town of West Yellowstone , the West Entrance of Yellowstone dives deep into geyser country. After reaching the iconic Madison Junction 14 miles from the entrance, the road diverges, with top Yellowstone attractions either way. North of the Madison Junction is Norris Geyser Basin , home to Steamboat Geyser . The Lower, Midway, and Upper Geyser Basins are to the south, with big-name sights like Grand Prismatic and Old Faithful .

The North Entrance of Yellowstone is in Gardiner, Montana. This entrance is accessible via a beautiful 90-minute drive through Paradise Valley from Bozeman. Shortly after the park's gates, the Boiling River , another top attraction of Yellowstone, invites immediate exploration. Farther into the park, the Mammoth Hot Springs area offers stunning travertine terraces and a touch of the park's history.

Read More: Top Hiking Trails in Yellowstone National Park

Butte, once known as the Richest Hill on Earth, is Montana's most historic city. It began in the late 1800s and flourished in the copper mining industry. It grew to be Montana's first major city and the biggest city between Chicago and San Francisco for a period in history.

Mining operations continued into the 1980s in Butte, though never reaching their early 1900s heydays ever again. Today, this history and culture are still on full display, making Butte one of Montana's best places to visit. One of the best places to dig into the city's mining history is the World Museum of Mining.

The museum centers around a restored mining camp with more than three dozen historic buildings and structures on display. It was part of the old community known as Hell Roarin' Gulch at the base of a now inactive silver and zinc mine. A highlight is the huge headframe – the winding tower at the mineshaft's head – along with underground tours of the mines.

Other mine-related highlights in Butte include the Copper King Mansion , constructed in 1888. This 24-room Victorian mansion features many of the original artifacts that reflect the prosperity of the Richest Hill on Earth. The Mineral Museum is also a fun place to visit, featuring more than 1,300 specimens, like a 27-and-a-half-troy-ounce gold nugget.

Address: 155 Museum Way, Butte, Montana

Official site: https://miningmuseum.org/

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Butte, Montana

Montana's capital, Helena, once known as Last Chance Gulch after a group of disheartened gold-diggers decided to have one final dig before striking gold, possesses one of the most attractive state capitol buildings in the US.

The building reflects a Greek Renaissance-style of architecture with sandstone and granite composing much of the facade. It's topped with a copper dome and houses several eye-catching murals featuring themes of Montana's past. The iconic Montana artist, Charles M. Russell, has a mural in the building depicting Lewis and Clark meeting the Salish Indians.

It's not just the state capitol that makes Helena a pleasure to visit. The city has a distinct and vibrant culture tied to its gold-digging days of the past. Historical places like Reeder's Alley co-mingle with the modern art galleries and hip storefronts nearby.

Helena is also a great base camp for exploring the Montana countryside. The two-million-acre Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest surrounds the entire city. Popular things to do in the forest include fishing, hiking, backpacking, and big game viewing. For an even closer adventure, the expansive Mount Helena City Park is within walking distance of downtown.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Helena, MT

Flathead Lake is the largest natural freshwater lake in the American West outside of Alaska. It's in the northwest part of the state, approximately 25 miles south of Whitefish. The lake has over 160 miles of shoreline, meaning it takes a while to drive its length.

Boating and boating activities tend to reign supreme at Flathead Lake. The lake is known for its crystal-clear water alongside its icy depths. And adventure extends from the shoreline, too, with hiking trails and parks operated by either Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks , or the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes .

Like Polson and Bigfork, small towns punctuate the shoreline with services like restaurants and boat rentals. Less than 15 miles north, Kalispell is another Montana city worth checking out, and a great spot to find a hotel to spend the night near Flathead Lake.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do near Flathead Lake, Montana

Lewis and Clark Caverns is between Butte and Bozeman. It's Montana's first state park and a popular spot to explore underground. And the only way to experience its depths is as part of a guided tour led by park staff . Three different tours are available during the summer that cater to different ability levels. And a special Winter Holiday Candlelight Tour occurs throughout the colder months.

Lewis and Clark Caverns are one of the largest limestone caverns in the world. They host colossal cave features, handrails, and resident bats. Tours follow a concrete walkway the entire way and never navigate through tight spaces. For those not affected by claustrophobia, the state park does offer a unique three-hour Wild Cave Tour that does include some crawling.

Outside the cavern, the park's aboveground area has hiking trails and a visitor center with interpretive information about the caves. The cavern's campground is also above ground, with cabins, tipis, and group campsites available. Reservations are recommended for campsites and cave tours.

Address: 25 Lewis & Clark Caverns Road, Whitehall, Montana

Official site: https://fwp.mt.gov/stateparks/lewis-and-clark-caverns/

Among its many natural features, Montana has several hot spring facilities that inspire a soak. Many of Montana's mainstream hot springs are developed, meaning it's usually a pool of some sort with natural hot water piped in. These hot springs vary in size and are mostly found in the state's western half.

One of the best hot springs in Montana is Quinn's Hot Springs Resort , located next to the Clark Fork River in Paradise, Montana, an hour's drive northwest of Missoula. This beautiful hot spring resort recently added more natural outdoor pools to its landscaped grounds. The resort also offers lodge rooms, cabins, and the decadent Hardwood House Restaurant.

The most historic hot spring, Chico Hot Springs , is another fun one to visit. Alongside a large open-air pool, it's the ambiance of this historic resort, established in 1900, that makes for a memorable visit. That and its prime location within Paradise Valley , close to the Yellowstone River and a short scenic drive to Yellowstone National Park.

Other notable soaking spots include Lolo Hot Springs near the Idaho border and Elkhorn Hot Springs in the Pioneer Mountains. And Yellowstone Hot Springs , 30 miles south of Chico Hot Springs, is a relatively new hot spring with one of the state's best outdoor pools.

In Great Falls , the C.M. Russell Museum celebrates the life and work of famed US artist Charles M. Russell, perhaps best known as the Cowboy Artist. The museum includes numerous documents and artifacts relating to the artist's career spanning the end of the 19th and early 20th centuries and an extensive collection of original paintings .

A highlight is visiting the original Russell House and Studio , now designated a National Historic Landmark. Also of interest is the museum's Russell Riders Sculpture Garden with its statues of area wildlife. The museum also has entire wings dedicated to Russel's many contemporaries, offering a vast and varied collection of Western artworks.

The city of Great Falls itself offers several other things to do to tack onto a long weekend. The Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center is a great place to learn about a different slice of regional history. Natural spaces also line the city, like Giant Spring State Park and Gibson Park, many of which connect to the River's Edge Trail .

Address: 400 13th Street N., Great Falls, Montana

Anaconda is a historic town in Western Montana, dating back to the copper mining days of the late 1800s. This history is on display throughout the town, including a preserved smelter stack towering on the horizon. Today, it's a vacation destination for its modern but rustic attractions and its easy access to the great outdoors.

A few fun things to do in Anaconda include hot spring adventures and skiing at the nearby Discovery Ski Area . Anaconda is also home to the Jack Nicklaus Old Works Golf Course . This unique 18 holes sits upon an old refinement site and features black "slag" bunkers – a byproduct from the smelting days.

Anaconda sits near the end of the Pintler Veteran's Memorial Scenic Highway. This 64-mile route offers a beautiful alternative for I-90 and a recommended course for adventure when traveling from Yellowstone to Glacier. The Scenic Highway is also a launching point for adventures into the surrounding Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest.

The Beartooth Highway is in southwest Montana and leads into Wyoming. It is an All-American Road and a true marvel of engineering. Comparable to the Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park, but less crowded, this 68-mile route switchbacks up and over a mountain pass for fantastic views.

The route begins south of Red Lodge , one of Montana's best small towns . The road then climbs over 5,000 feet to reach Beartooth Pass (elevation 10,947 feet) on the other side of the Wyoming border. The highway then proceeds west throughout Shoshone National Forest to the northeast entrance of Yellowstone National Park .

It's truly a bucket-list drive, even though it's not as well-known as some other Montana adventures. The highway is typically open between Memorial Day and Columbus Day (May through October), weather dependent. And with hiking trails, campgrounds, and stunning landscapes lining the way, plan for ample time driving the 68-mile route.

Read More: Top Things to Do in Red Lodge, Montana

The Moss Mansion Historic House Museum is one of the most important landmarks in Billings, comprising a large red sandstone manor that dominates its neighborhood. Renowned New York architect Henry Janeway Hardenbergh designed the 28-room mansion in 1903. His previous works included the Waldorf Astoria, Plaza, Willard, and Copley Plaza hotels.

The mansion features original draperies, fixtures, furniture, Persian carpets, and artifacts. It's like stepping back in time when going inside. Guided and self-guided tours are available . The site also hosts temporary displays and exhibits, including seasonal events and festivals.

Billings is Montana's most populated city with over 100,000 residents. Alongside the fascinating history at the Moss Mansion, the city has several notable tourist attractions and things to do . It's also surrounded by a fantastic landscape, well represented by the massive Rimrocks jutting throughout the center of town. Billings is also home to ZooMontana, the Yellowstone Art Museum, and Pictograph Cave State Park.

Address: 914 Division Street, Billings, Montana

Official site: www.mossmansion.com

In Phillipsburg, on the Pintler Veteran's Memorial Scenic Highway , the Sweet Palace is a candy lover's dream come true. Rows and rows of candy jars line this old-fashioned candy shop, offering all types of flavors and confectionary styles. Visitors add to their bags as they are shopping, with most candies costing the same per pound.

The Sweet Palace is only one of many things to do in Philipsburg . The main drag, where the Sweet Palace is centrally located, has several other local shops and attractions worth a full afternoon of perusing. This includes places to shop for and sluice out the city's most precious resource: Montana sapphires.

Ross Creek Cedars Scenic Area is a notable point of interest in Kootenai National Forest. This ancient grove is in the far northwest part of the state, near the border with the Idaho Panhandle. And within its approximately 100 acres, a tall world awaits.

Some of the cedars in this scenic area have been growing for over 1,000 years. Today, visitors crane their necks at these long-living hardwoods along a 0.9-mile interpretive path. Take some time on this wide and accessible path, listening to the sounds of Ross Creek rumbling nearby.

Expect some crowds on the weekends and throughout summer at Ross Creek. It's a bit of a drive on a dirt road to access the scenic area. Downloaded GPS coordinates are helpful when visiting for the first time. Visitors can also extend the hike for up to four miles along the Ross Creek Trail, where it's easy to ditch the crowds and connect with nature.

The Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument commemorates the 1876 clash between the US Army and Sioux and Cheyenne Indians. It is one of the best-known historical landmarks in the US – and one of the most important in terms of the reconciliation that has taken place since. This must-see attraction includes a visitor center, museum, the Custer National Cemetery , the 7th Cavalry Memorial, and the Reno-Benteen Battlefield.

For the most in-depth experience at the battlefield, book an Apsaalooke Tour , available throughout the summer between Memorial Day and Labor Day. The Crow Nation of Tourism offers this one-hour, air-conditioned bus tour across the battlefield, providing perspectives on this significant historic landmark.

Address: Interstate 90 Frontage Road, Crow Agency, Montana

Official site: https://www.nps.gov/libi/index.htm

Another Billings attraction worth a visit is the Western Heritage Center, housed in the old Parmly Billings Memorial Library built in 1901. The center features a diverse collection of more than 17,000 artifacts . Highlights include more than 6,000 photos covering the history and culture of the Yellowstone River region .

Opened in 1971 and now affiliated with the Smithsonian Institution, the museum also houses a broad collection of materials focusing on the history of the Northern High Plains and Yellowstone River Valley. It also has a special focus on the preservation of the histories of the Cheyenne and Crow Indians . Other highlights include lectures, educational programs, and workshops.

Address: 2822 Montana Ave, Billings, Montana

Official site: www.ywhc.org

The Route of the Hiawatha is one of the most scenic rail-to-trail conversions in the country, departing from Lookout Pass at the Idaho/Montana border . It spans approximately 15 miles and primarily follows a downhill grade, meaning riders can coast most of the route. Along the way are 10 scenic tunnels and seven trestle bridges that span high above the mountainous environment.

Lookout Pass operates the shuttles and bike rentals that make this scenic bike ride a breeze. The route and rentals are only available throughout the summer season, approximately between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Trail passes are required to ride, and most finish the bike ride within approximately two hours .

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7 Things to Do in Western Montana This Fall

You know that feeling when the leaves begin to change color and sweater weather is in the air? In Western Montana we feel equal parts “let’s get cozy” and “let’s find some fall fun.” Autumn is one of the most unique times to visit Glacier Country—the landscape is intensely gorgeous, from snowcapped peaks in the distance to golden tamarack trees and falling leaves. Daytime temperatures are ideal for outdoor adventure and trails are less busy. There are many things to do in fall in Western Montana, but here are seven of our favorites.

No 1. Take a Scenic Drive

There’s no denying Glacier Country is easy on the eyes, which means scenic drives are a dime a dozen around here. Add in the bounty of autumn and you’ve got yourself a real adventure. Western Montana boasts nine  scenic travel corridors , where you can find your perfect mix of fall colors, snowcapped peaks, watchable wildlife and small-town charm. Want a recommendation? Head to the Bison Range on the Flathead Reservation and drive one of the three loops. Visit the newly renovated visitor center, which tells the history of the Bison Range and bison in American Indian culture. The Bison Range is home to more than 350 bison, plus antelope, deer and elk, which can be heard bugling in fall.  

No 2. Hike in Glacier National Park 

Fall might be the best time to hike  Glacier National Park . This year, due to construction, the west side of Going-to-the-Sun Road will close on October 1 from Apgar to Logan Pass and remain closed through May 15, 2023. The east side will remain open from St. Mary to Logan Pass through Sunday, October 16, weather dependent. Plan accordingly with hiking trail locations. Make your trip easier by renting backpacking gear from Right on Trek in Columbia Falls.

No 3. Fish a Lake or River 

Autumn offers an incredible angling experience—we may as well call it “trophy trout season.” If casting a line in a river or stream, meandering peacefully through fall’s golden landscape, breathing in the cool mountain air and hearing the bugle of a bull elk sounds like paradise to you, then grab your waders and come on over to  fish Western Montana . If you’re unfamiliar with our rivers, find the perfect spot on a guided fishing trip .

No 4. Visit a Mansion 

Visiting a historic mansion in the fall just feels festive. The Daly Mansion  in  Hamilton , once home to copper king Marcus Daly, has more than 50 varieties of trees in its arboretum, a sight to see in the fall. Sign up for a Murder Mystery dinner October 20, 21 or 22. In Kalispell, take a docent-guided tour at the Conrad Mansion , the historic home of Kalispell’s founder, before walking the grounds, which are beautiful year-round. Time it right for a ghost tour October 28 or 29.

No 5. Visit the Blackfeet Nation

Located on the east side of Glacier National Park, fall on the Rocky Mountain Front is pretty incredible. Just off State Highway 89, less than 2 miles south of  St. Mary , walk the teepees—a piece of public art—at St. Mary’s Overlook. Take a Tribal Traditional Stories Hike with Iron Shield Creative ; contact for private tours. Then head into Browning and visit The Museum of the Plains Indian , before shopping at Western Curious and  Faught’s Blackfeet Trading Post . Need a ride? Backpacker’s Ferry can assist with transportation or guided sightseeing tours on the east side of Glacier National Park.

No 6. Mountain Bike in the Crisp Mountain Air

With fewer people on the trails, fall is an ideal time to mountain bike in Western Montana . Overnight at the Whitefish Bike Retreat for trail-side lodging and on-site bike rentals. Warm up for the day by taking the loop around the 19-acre property, navigate berms on the pump track or weave through obstacles in the skills park. When you’re ready to venture farther, the Whitefish Bike Retreat connects directly to  The Whitefish Trail , featuring more than 42 miles of single-track trails. 

No 7. Paddle the Clearwater Canoe Trail

There are several reasons to paddle this peaceful canoe trail (located a few miles north of Seeley Lake) in autumn, most notably that the  Seeley Swan Valley  is painted in golden hues from changing tamarack trees lining the mountainside, and wildlife is in abundance. You don’t even need to bring your own canoe. Tamaracks Resort in Seeley Lake rents canoes, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards. 

Discover Montana’s golden season and find more things to do in the fall in Glacier Country.

Please note:  We ask that all our visitors and residents  Recreate Responsibly  by being mindful of the following: practice physical distancing; know before you go; plan ahead; play it safe; leave no trace; tread lightly; and build an inclusive outdoors.

October 3, 2022

Related: American Indian , Biking , Bison Range , Bitterroot Valley , Blackfeet Indian Reservation , Blackfeet Nation , Boating , Fall Fun , Family Fun , Fishing , Hiking , Lakeside , Missoula , Montana , Museums , Outdoor Fun , Road Trips , Seeley Lake , Vacation

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The 15 best montana vacations.

Plan your next getaway to one of these scenic locales or combine several itineraries to create your own amazing Montana vacation.

The Best Montana Vacations

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Breathtaking landscapes and year-round outdoor adventures will inspire you to visit Big Sky Country.

Montana's spectacular scenery makes it the perfect destination for year-round outdoor adventures. The state is famous for its mountainous terrain yet only one-half to one-third of the state has mountains. The rest is made up of prairies, badlands and rivers. Each season's landscape offers an entirely different playground. Plan your trip in the winter when snow blankets everything and Montana becomes a wintry wonderland. When the ice and snow have melted, the warm weather brings flowing rivers and blooming pastures. From world-class skiing, fly-fishing and Old West ghost towns to luxury dude ranches and Native American history and culture, there's something for everyone in Montana. No matter which season you choose to travel, these vacation ideas will inspire your visit to Big Sky Country.

Big Sky Resort: Big Sky

Jeff Engerbretson | Courtesy of Big Sky Resort

Located approximately 45 miles southwest of Bozeman, Big Sky Resort is one of the largest ski resorts in the U.S. , encompassing more than 5,850 acres of world-class ski runs. The vertical drop is 4,350 feet and the summit, Lone Peak, measures at 11,166 feet above sea level. Accommodations range from luxury hotels and ranches to individual vacation homes. Spend winter days snowboarding or skiing or try something new like dog-sledding through the mountains with a team of huskies. In the winter – or in the summer – ride the longest zip line in the Yellowstone area, Adventure Zipline. For a challenging hike, take the scenic lift where you can venture to the top of Lone Peak for unforgettable views of the surrounding scenery.

Flathead Lake

Located in northwestern Montana, Flathead Lake is the largest freshwater lake west of the Mississippi, covering almost 200 square miles – and with 185 miles of shoreline. The scenery here is truly awe-inspiring: Snow-dusted mountains serve as the lake's backdrop, while verdant forestry and cherry orchards line its calm shores. Spend your days here with family or friends swimming, water skiing, fishing or boating. Make sure to take time to visit Wild Horse Island, which is only reachable by boat and is home to bighorn sheep, mule deer and a small band of wild horses. For accommodations, reserve a rustic room or cabin at Flathead Lake Lodge, an all-inclusive 2,000-acre dude ranch situated along the lake.

Glacier National Park via the West Glacier Gateway

The majestic beauty of this region in Glacier Country is unparalleled. Take a week off to explore the 1,600 square miles of pristine landscapes and rugged beauty that make up Glacier National Park . Guides and outfitters are available year-round for activities like hiking, rafting, snowshoeing or even ice climbing. While here, don't miss one of the most scenic drives in the U.S., the Going-to-the-Sun Road . This 50-mile drive crosses the Continental Divide at 6,646 feet at Logan Pass. After long days of adventuring, relax in the nearby town of Whitefish at The Lodge at Whitefish Lake. This chic resort town located approximately 30 miles southeast of the West Glacier gateway to the park features excellent restaurants, nightlife and boutique shopping. If you want to stay a little closer to the park, Columbia Falls – about 20 miles from the gateway at West Glacier – offers several types of lodging and vacation rentals. During your visit to Columbia Falls, Backslope Brewing is a great spot to grab casual fare and a cold brew – and you can hire a local guide for a customized tour of the park with Glacier Adventure Guides.

[See more of Glacier National Park: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

The Blackfeet Indian Reservation: Browning

For another option to enter the park, check out the eastern gateway entrance from the town of Browning. This entrance is approximately 70 miles east of West Glacier – and Browning is home to the Blackfeet Indian Reservation. Encompassing 1.5 million acres of land on the eastern side of the park, these lands have been home to the Blackfeet Tribe (and many other tribes) for thousands of years. If you're visiting the area in early July, don't miss Browning's North American Indian Days, a celebration of the Blackfeet traditions and one of the largest gatherings of U.S. and Canadian tribes.

In the park, you can learn about the Blackfeet, Kootenai, Salish and Pend d'Oreille tribes during Native America Speaks. This series of programs, started in 1982, takes place during the summer – and it's the longest running Indigenous speaker series in the National Park Service. You'll find these programs at various locales throughout the park, including the St. Mary Visitor Center, and the historic lodges and park campgrounds. There are also cultural presentations along Two Medicine Lake, at the 193 Ranger Station and at Logan Pass during what's known as "star parties." These events are hosted by the Big Sky Astronomy Club and feature evenings of stargazing under the Montana's big dark sky.

Virginia and Nevada cities

Take a step back into 1864 and the days of Montana's gold rush with a trip to these famous ghost towns in southwest Montana. Here, families can spend long summer days exploring the second most extensive collection of Old West artifacts and buildings in the U.S. (behind the Smithsonian). Kids can learn about the art of blacksmithing during Living History events or go panning for gold. And you can take a ride on the seasonal Alder Gulch Shortline Railroad, which connects the two old towns that are located just 1.5 miles apart – or even take a tour by stagecoach. Then, plan to spend a spooky night at the rumored-to-be haunted Fairweather Inn in Virginia City.

Helena, Montana's capital, is located halfway between Glacier and Yellowstone national parks in southwest Montana. This old prospecting town offers activities and attractions perfect for family vacations. The Gates of the Mountain boat tours take visitors along Lewis and Clark's exploration on Holter Lake. And The Last Chance Tour Train highlights Helena's Old West history, traveling through gold rush-era neighborhoods such as Reeder's Alley. Adventure-seekers will appreciate Helena's world-class fly-fishing, mountain biking, rock climbing, horseback riding and 80 miles of hiking trails that are accessible from downtown. No matter what you decide to do, save time for a relaxing dip in the invigorating mineral waters at Broadwater Hot Springs.

Located along the Yellowstone River in southeast Montana, Billings is the most populated city in the state. It's also the gateway to Yellowstone National Park, the first national park in the U.S., via the Beartooth Highway. Known as Yellowstone's Most Scenic Route, the nearly 70-mile-long drive to the northeast entrance of the park offers unparalleled views, especially at the summit of 10,977 feet elevation through Beartooth Pass. You'll also find more than 20 mountains with peaks reaching over 12,000 feet high along the route. Back in town, check out Montana's only walkable brewery trail, the self-guided Billings Brew Trail. Culture and history buffs can peruse several museums, including a Western Heritage Center, which is affiliated with the Smithsonian and highlights the history of Billings and the surrounding area.

If you're visiting in mid-August, you won't want to miss nine days of fun at the annual MontanaFair, the largest event in the region. There's also plenty of year-round adventure for outdoor enthusiasts, including rock climbing, horseback riding, hiking, biking, boating, paddleboarding, kayaking and windsurfing. In the winter months, you can bundle up and head outdoors for cross-country skiing , ice fishing and spectacular views of the town's winter wonderland. For accommodations in the heart of Billings, close to the city's top restaurants and bars, reserve a room at the historic boutique property, the Northern Hotel.

Warrior Trail Highway

Discover the history of the Native American warrior on this storied route in Indian Country. Warrior Trail Highway is one of three road trip routes through Indian Country, and it takes travelers from Billings through southeast Montana. Along the way, you'll hear stories of the tribal war chiefs and visit the fields where famed battles once happened. Take a guided tour of the former site of Sitting Bull's camp on the Little Bighorn River at the Custer Battlefield Museum on the Crow Reservation. Afterward, stop at the Custer Battlefield Trading Post and Café for a buffalo burger or an Indian taco. And at the Medicine Turtle and River Crow Trading Post, you'll find souvenirs of Crow-designed handcrafted artwork and jewelry. If you're continuing on the trail, plan an overnight stay where you can stargaze outside your luxury tent provided by the Apsaalooke Glamping Company.

Situated in southwest Montana, Bozeman is regarded as a home base for many visitors to Yellowstone National Park. The city sits between the park's north entrance – 91 miles away in Gardiner – and the west entrance (78 miles away) in West Yellowstone. Bozeman is also an outdoor adventurer's paradise. Anglers will want to fly-fish for several species of trout and other fish, like white sucker and mountain whitefish, on the 97-mile-long Gallatin River, which has seven access points for fishing. Hyalite Canyon Recreation Area, the most visited recreation area in the state, is another draw for active outdoor enthusiasts. Located just 15 miles south of Bozeman, the popular spot features several campgrounds, trails for hikers and bikers, and a reservoir for canoeing and fishing. In the winter, thrill-seekers can go ice climbing, while less adventurous visitors can head out for cross-country skiing. After a long day of exploring, visitors can head back to explore Bozeman's exciting culinary and bar scene. You can kick back and relax over craft beers, casual bites and steaks at Montana Ale Works or, if you prefer to sip a glass of wine and people-watch outdoors, grab a seat with a view at Plonk. And for accommodations, the historic Kimpton Armory Hotel downtown is an excellent choice for your stay.

Yellowstone National Park

Montana is one of the best spots in North America for seeing wildlife. As the first national park in the U.S., Yellowstone National Park (which stretches across parts of Montana, Wyoming and Idaho) is home to grizzly bears, elk, mountain lions, gray wolves, bighorn sheep, bison, pronghorn, bald eagles, and many more species of mammals and birds. At one time, as many as 60 million bison roamed the Great Plains, and now Montana is one of the last places where you'll find them in the wild. You can even take a private safari-style tour to view the animals year-round with Safari Yellowstone. If you want to stay close to the park, West Yellowstone is the closest town – located just minutes from the West Entrance. Here, you'll have access to a variety of accommodations, restaurants and fun activities like ice fishing, dog-sledding, sleigh rides and cross-country skiing in the winter. In the summer months, head out on the hiking and biking trails, take a ride on 3,000 feet of zip lines at Yellowstone Aerial Adventures, or check out the action at the Wild West Yellowstone Rodeo.

[See more of Yellowstone National Park: Things to Do | Tours | When to Visit | Photos ]

The Ranch at Rock Creek: Philipsburg

Courtesy of The Ranch at Rock Creek

For romance and adventure combined with a five-star luxury experience, plan a getaway to western Montana at The Ranch at Rock Creek . This all-inclusive Relais & Châteaux resort is set on a 6,600-acre working cattle ranch. Choose from 29 distinct accommodations, which include upscale Western-themed rooms with a view of the grasslands at Granite Lodge to glamping under the stars in hybrid canvas-covered cabins situated along the banks of Rock Creek. Fill your days with invigorating outdoor activities such as fly-fishing on Blue Ribbon Rock Creek, horseback riding in the wilderness, or try your hand at sporting clays at Rimfire Range. When you're ready to relax, unwind with a signature treatment at The Spa at Rock Creek or grab a drink on a seat with a saddle at the Silver Dollar Saloon.

Central Montana's Scenic Byway motorcycle ride

Hop on a motorcycle or put the top down for this 265-mile road trip through central Montana. The route begins 25 miles east of Great Falls on U.S. Route and includes 71 miles of the Kings Hills Scenic Byway before circling back to Great Falls. Take a break for a locally brewed Pig Ass Porter or Get Lost Ale at Harvest Moon Brewery in Belt or take a dip in the hot springs at White Sulphur Springs. Between Helena and Great Falls, explore sections along Interstate 15 and the frontage road with its picturesque scenery along the Missouri River. And at First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park in Ulm, visit an archeological site and educational center that pays tribute to the bison and the Native American people that honor this magnificent animal. Before heading back, dine with the locals at The Angus Bar in the small town of Cascade.

Missoula – then take a road trip to Kalispell

Take several days – or even a week – to make the 120-mile trip from Missoula to Kalispell. Start your adventure with a few days in Missoula at the AC Hotel Missoula Downtown, which is convenient to some of the town's best dining and imbibing spots, including The Camino Mexican restaurant and Bar Plata, a Spanish-inspired cocktail bar and eatery. If you're an angler, you'll want to head out on the Bitterroot, Blackfoot, Clark Fork or Missouri rivers for some of the best trout fishing in the U.S. with local outfitter Grizzly Hackle Fly Shop. And don't miss attractions like the Missoula Art Museum, Radius Gallery, a hike on the short M Trail to the top of Mount Sentinel and live music performances at the KettleHouse Amphitheater, situated along the Blackfoot River. When it's time for a sweet treat, get in line at Big Dipper Ice Cream to choose from tasty, handcrafted flavors like huckleberry, a local favorite.

On the way to Kalispell, make sure to plan a quick stop in Bigfork. This charming community, located at the convergence of the Swan River and Flathead Lake, about 100 miles north of Missoula, features boutiques and galleries with artwork and pieces from western Montana artists. While in town, grab breakfast at Pocketstone Café (be sure to order a cinnamon roll) and have lunch and a cold beer at Flathead Lake Brewing Co.

Courtesy of The Kalispell Grand Hotel

During your visit to Kalispell – approximately 15 miles south of Whitefish, the gateway to Glacier National Park – plan to stay at The Kalispell Grand Hotel, a historic property located on Main Street. From here you can walk to three legendary favorites in town. A visit to Kalispell wouldn't be complete without a trip to Norm's Soda Fountain for huckleberry ice cream; pizza and a cold beer at Moose's Saloon; and shopping for a pair of Western boots (with more than 2,500 pairs to choose from) at Western Outdoor.

When you're ready for outdoor adventure, local outfitter Sea Me Paddle offers year-round kayaking excursions. Horseback riding is also available year-round on trails in the Salish Mountains with Artemis Acres Guest Ranch. You can also take a 2-mile walk or go biking on the new Parkline Trail, which sits along the tracks of the Great Northern Railway running through the downtown area. And for a unique way to explore northwestern Montana's beautiful scenery, book a shorter three-hour evening trek or an extended multiday excursion with Swan Mountain Llama Trekking. After working up an appetite, check out the culinary and beverage scene featuring locally sourced meats and produce. Some not-to-miss spots include Mercantile Steak, KM Bar, Waters Edge Winery & Bistro and Big Mountain Ciderworks.

Fort Peck, Montana

Northeastern Montana's section of the Missouri River is home to the largest body of water in the state, the Fort Peck Reservoir. There are 1,520 miles of shoreline and 50 species of fish, including the prized walleye, small mouth bass and chinook salmon. Spend time fishing and hiking in the Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge, which offers more than 1 million acres of public land. Then, visit the Fort Peck Power Plant Museum to learn about the "largest hydraulically filled earth dam in the world." In the evenings, return to The Historic Fort Peck Hotel, built in the 1930s, to experience an earlier slice of Montana life.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Weekend Getaways in the Midwest
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• The Top Restaurants in Colorado Springs

Tags: Travel , Mountain Vacations , Montana Vacations , U.S. West Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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Montana in October in 2023: Everything You Need to Know

Are you looking to plan a visit to montana in october.

Montana in October is simply breathtaking. Montana is known for its delightful towns, mountainous landscape, endless sights and activities to explore, and for its wildlife encounters. 

As the fall temperatures begin to sweep through the state and the leaves begin to change, Montana in October is vibrant, picturesque, and the perfect place to visit for those looking for a tranquil fall getaway.

We have traveled to many places during the month of October, all throughout the United States. We truly believe there is something so special about visiting Montana in October.

Whether you are looking for outdoor adventures, to enjoy the peace and simplicity of nature, or to explore one of Montana’s bustling towns or cities, Montana in October is unmatched and the perfect place to vacation on an autumn vacation.

Trekking Price’s contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. If you make a purchase using one of these Amazon links, I may receive compensation at no extra cost to you.

Montana in October Weather

You can typically expect highs to be in the mid 60’s and lows to be in the mid 40’s when visiting Montana in October. 

Be sure to keep in mind that temperatures will be colder when visiting mountain towns and cities with higher elevations. 

Additionally, many places will experience their first big snow during the month of October so be sure to check the weather forecast in advance and pack accordingly!

The Best Things to Do in Montana in October

1. discover all that bozeman has to offer.

Bozeman is located in southwestern Montana and known for its delightful downtown area filled with restaurants, breweries, bars, and local shops. 

Due to its close proximity to the mountains, Bozeman is a great destination to visit for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers. 

For those looking to explore a city that has a lively atmosphere, vibrant art scene, delicious food, and endless outdoor recreational activities to embark on, Bozeman is the place for you!

Be sure to check out this article on the best free things to do in Bozeman so that you can explore all that the city has to offer and maybe save a little money while you are it!

2. Explore Glacier National Park

We adore visiting National Parks throughout the U.S. and the autumn season is the perfect time to visit Glacier!

One of the best things to do when visiting Montana in October is exploring Glacier National Park. 

This famous park is known for its incredible alpine lakes, rugged mountainous landscape, immense wildlife, and countless outdoor recreational activities to embark on. 

Be sure to check out one of the most epic drives in the United States, the Going-to-the-Sun Road located in Glacier National Park.

This road is typically open from July to October and one of the most spectacular road trips to embark on with endless mountain views and the beautiful Montana landscape surrounding you. 

For those looking to hit the trails when visiting the area, be sure to check out the Hidden Lake Trail .

This hike is roughly 5 miles out and back and considered to be a moderately challenging route. This is the perfect trail for those looking to get a little exercise in and to take in the incredible mountain views within Glacier National Park. 

3. Go Horseback Riding

One of the most epic adventures to embark on when visiting Montana in October is to go horseback riding! This is a great opportunity to spend some time in nature and experience the fall foliage and landscape from a new perspective. 

4. Visit Yellowstone National Park

Another fabulous place to visit when exploring Montana in October is Yellowstone National Park. 

Visiting Yellowstone in October is incredible because the crowds begin to die out, the fall foliage begins to burst with vibrant colors, and you may be able to see quite a few animals roaming around the park such as elk, bear, or moose! 

Additionally, hiking in Yellowstone National Park during the fall months is truly unmatched. The temperatures are perfect for spending a few hours out on the trails, the views are breathtaking due to the fall foliage, and the trails are a bit less crowded than during the summer season. 

For those looking for a great hike in the area, we recommend checking out the Upper Geyser Basin and Old Faithful Observation Point Loop .

This hike is a roughly 5 mile loop and gives you some incredible views of geysers and Old Faithful. Be sure to bring along your favorite electrolytes , energy food , or energy bars for hiking so that you stay healthy and happy while on the trail!

Yellowstone National Park is one of the best day trips in Montana and you must check it out for its unbelievable scenery and endless things to do!

5. Head Up to Big Sky

One of the most pristine towns in the state of Montana is Big Sky. This town is known for its incredible skiing in the winter and for being one of the best resorts to snowboard in the United States . 

Although this town is typically known for being an epic winter destination, Big Sky has so much to offer during fall in Montana! 

Whether you would like to hit the trails and go on a trek or soar through the mountains on a bike, you can embark on some truly incredible outdoor adventures in Big Sky in October. 

6. Get Outdoors While Visiting Missoula 

Missoula is home to the University of Montana, the Missoula Farmers Market, a lively college town atmosphere, and an abundance of outdoor recreational activities. 

Whether you would like to visit the area to discover all that the college town has to offer or you would like to plan a visit to discover some of the hikes, camping, and mountain biking in the area, Missoula has so much to offer and is a great place to visit when exploring Montana in October. 

7. Go Fishing at Flathead Lake

Flathead Lake is the largest natural freshwater lake in the western part of the United States. This is a great place to visit for those looking to cast a line and reel in some incredible trout. 

Be sure to bring your favorite fishing gear including your go-to tackle box and favorite long sleeve fishing shirt so that you are prepared to have the most ideal experience fishing on this gorgeous lake in Montana. 

8. Head to the Capital of Helena and Explore Montana City Life

For those looking to explore one of the most lively cities within the state of Montana, look no further. Helena is the state capital of Montana and is known for its rich history, great restaurants and shopping, and close proximity to the mountains. 

9. Discover the Small Town of Red Lodge

Red Lodge is located right near the Beartooth Highway and is a great place to stay for those looking to embark on scenic drives, incredible hikes, or for those looking to discover some of Montana’s best hidden gems . 

10. Relax at Quinn’s Hot Springs Resort

For those looking for a unique and relaxing experience when visiting Montana in October, be sure to check out Quinn’s Hot Springs Resort . 

This is the perfect place to soak in the natural hot spring water and take in the surrounding Montana scenery. 

Not only is this a great place to visit on a day trip for its hot springs but you can also stay at one of the lodges or cabins onsite if you would rather spend a few days exploring and rejuvenating! 

What to Wear in Montana in October

Montana in October weather can be pretty chilly so we recommend wearing plenty of layers! In general we recommend wearing long pants and a sweater or long sleeve shirt. 

Additionally, we recommend carrying a jacket with you so that you stay warm and toasty while exploring the great outdoors of Montana. 

Festivals in Montana in October

• Stevensville Scarecrow Festival – For those looking for a unique autumn festival to attend when visiting Montana in October, look no further. The Stevensville Scarecrow Festival is the perfect way to jump into the fall festivities and get excited for Halloween around the corner! This event will be held October 6th-7th through October 15th of 2023 .
• The Great Northwest Oktoberfest – This is the perfect event for craft beer lovers and Oktoberfest enthusiasts. Be sure to head to Whitefish, Montana where you can eat delicious Barvarian inspired foods, drink delicious beer, and celebrate with locals and visitors alike. This event will be held September 28th-30th and October 5th-7th of 2023 .

Where to Stay in Montana in October

There are countless places to stay in Montana in October! Below is a list of our favorite places to check out during the autumn months. 

Known for its lively downtown, close proximity to the mountains, and delicious restaurants and breweries, Bozeman is a great place to stay when visiting Montana in October.

We recommend staying at the Kimpton Armory Hotel Bozeman due to its unbelievable location, beautiful aesthetic, and great amenities.

👉🏼 Book your stay at the Kimpton Armory Hotel Bozeman here!

Often known for its fabulous skiing, Big Sky is an incredible mountain town to visit during October because of its outdoor recreation activities including hiking and mountain biking! 

Be sure to check out the Big Sky Resort for one of the best hotels in the area. The location is great right in the village center and the resort has a beautiful mountain vibe!

👉🏼 Check out this link to book your stay at the Big Sky Resort !

Helena is the state’s capital and known for its lively atmosphere, vibrant art scene, and city vibes. This is a great place to visit for those looking for a city experience in Montana.

We recommend staying at the Best Western Premier Helena Great Northern Hotel because of its great location and amenities.

👉🏼 Be sure to check out this link to learn more about rates and availability at the Best Western Premier Helena Great Northern Hotel !

For those looking to explore one of Montana’s college towns with a close proximity to the mountains and outdoor adventures, look no further. Missoula is a great place to visit for those looking to get outside and hang with the locals. 

Be sure to check out the AC Hotel by Marriott Missoula Downtown ! The location is great right in the heart of downtown and the rooms are modern and chic.

👉🏼 Click here to book your stay at the AC Hotel by Marriott Missoula Downtown !

How to Get Around Montana

The easiest way to get around Montana is by driving your own vehicle! If you are traveling from nearby, it is definitely the best option to drive your own car.

For those traveling from far away, the best option is to fly into one of Montana’s larger cities and then rent a vehicle from there. 

For one of the best and easiest airports to fly into in the state, we recommend flying into the Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport.

Additionally, be sure to grab our favorite travel insurance from SafetyWing before embarking on your journey to Montana!

Things to Know Before Visiting Montana in October

• Wear Layers – Montana’s weather can be pretty chilly during October so be sure to wear plenty of layers! Wearing layers is essential so that you can take them off when it is warm and you are spending time in the sun but they are also incredible for when it is chilly outside and you can pile on layers to stay toasty and comfortable.
• Enjoy the Great Outdoors – Montana is known for its gorgeous rugged landscape and endless outdoor adventures. Be sure to spend a significant amount of time in the great outdoors enjoying all that Montana has to offer from hiking to mountain biking and pretty much anything in between!
• Try Fly Fishing – Whether you are a beginner or an expert, be sure to try one of Montana’s most popular outdoor recreational activities, fly fishing! This is a great way to get outside and learn a new hobby.
• Plan Ahead – Montana is rising in popularity and many people are starting to plan vacations to this gorgeous state. Be sure to plan ahead and book flights, accommodations, excursions, and dinner reservations in advance. 
• Visit a National Park (or several) – One of our favorite things about Montana is the beautiful national parks within the state! Make sure to plan a visit to one or multiple of these jaw dropping national parks for an experience you are sure not to forget!

FAQs About Montana in October

Is october a good time to visit montana.

October is a fabulous time to visit Montana. The summer crowds have begun to die out, the weather is perfect for autumn activities, and it is the perfect time to embark on outdoor adventures. 

What is the weather in Montana like in October?

You can typically expect weather in Montana in October to be in the highs of mid 60’s and in the lows of mid 30’s.

Is Montana cold in October?

Montana has the perfect fall temperatures for enjoying autumn festivities and spending time in the great outdoors. 

It is important to note that Montana can get pretty cold in the evenings during the month of October and it is not uncommon for Montana to experience its first big snow in the month of October so be sure to check the forecast in advance and pack accordingly! 

What is the best time of year to visit Montana?

We believe the best time to visit Montana is during the autumn months! The crowds begin to diminish, the fall foliage is in full swing, the temperatures are perfect for outdoor adventures, and there is so much to see and do!

Final Thoughts on Montana in October

Montana in October is truly magical and a great time to plan a visit to this mountainous state. You are able to spend time in the great outdoors, enjoy fall festivals and celebrations, and experience Montana in all of its glory!

Abby and Sam Price are the founders of Trekking Price's. They are travel experts and outdoor enthusiasts passionate about sharing their travels, hobbies, tips, and recommendations with others. They primarily focus on United States travel and their outdoor adventures and hobbies. Their favorite hobbies are hiking, skiing and snowboarding, scuba diving, fishing, and pretty much any outdoor recreational activity. They are on a mission to help other couples and families see more of the world without having to quit their 9-5 jobs and love sharing their travels, reviews, and hobbies with others.

41 Fun Things To Do & Places To Visit In Montana

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: June 28, 2021  - Last updated: October 17, 2023

With its craggy cliffs and wide open spaces, Montana is one of the most beautifully remote places in the US.

Its nickname is “Big Sky Country,” and its blue horizons stretch over all kinds of caves, canyons and caverns.

It’s a state known for its stunning natural beauty as well as its many opportunities for outdoor adventure.

If you’re into hiking, biking, climbing, camping, ziplining or stargazing, this is the destination for you!

A common misconception about Montana, however, is that it has nothing to offer besides its mountains.

The Rockies only take up part of the state, and the rest has plenty of big, bustling cities with restaurants, malls, museums and movie theaters.

There are also a number of ski resorts where you can enjoy five-star amenities such as spas and steakhouses even as you take in the gorgeously rugged scenery outside.

Whether you’re looking for outdoor thrills or indoor luxuries, Big Sky Country has a little something for everyone.

Here are just a few things to do in Montana on your next getaway!

Table of Contents

1. Glacier National Park

Vaclav Sebek / Shutterstock

Trekking through the Rocky Mountains is one of the most amazing things to do in Montana, and there are numerous parks where you can scale cliffs, dive into lakes, clamber over rocks and hike to the tops of hills and summits.

If you’re looking for the best of the best, however, you’ll want Glacier National Park .

Hailed as a “hiker’s paradise,” Glacier National Park offers stunning vistas as far as the eye can see.

Many of them are at great heights, including Logan Pass at 7,700 feet and Reynolds Peak at 9,100 feet, but there are also beginner-friendly trails around ponds, plains, tree groves and mountain valleys.

Native species include everything from goats to grizzly bears.

Flowers bloom in all directions.

If you’re looking to fill your scrapbook with amazing photos, Glacier National Park is the place to take them.

There’s nothing like a sunrise over a snow-tipped mountain to make you glad that you traveled to Montana!

Address: Montana, United States

2. Montana State Capitol

Mihai_Andritoiu / Shutterstock

With its large dome overlooking beautifully manicured lawns and other stately buildings, the Montana State Capitol is one of the nicest places to visit in Helena.

The city has historic significance, too: It was only founded after diggers literally struck gold during one of their final excavations of the surrounding era.

For this reason, it’s sometimes called the “Last Chance” city.

What can you do at the state capitol?

It depends on what you’re interested in.

It’s one of the most famous places in Montana, so there’s a certain prestige in simply being there.

You can also take tours, marvel at artwork and artifacts, and participate in scavenger hunts inspired by Lewis and Clark.

When you’re done at the capitol, you might consider exploring the rest of Helena as well.

It boasts many tourist attractions in the form of shops, restaurants, theaters, museums and cathedrals.

If you want to know what Montana is all about, start with a visit to the Montana State Capitol.

It’s one of those genuinely cool places that you’ll want to put on your bucket list, especially if you’re trying to hit all of the major landmarks of the state.

Address: Montana Ave. and 6th St Montana Ave & 6th St, Helena, MT 59601, United States

3. Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center

Teresa Otto / Shutterstock

Located in Great Falls, Montana, the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center is one of the major points of interest of the mountain states.

Like its name suggests, it’s dedicated to the explorers Lewis and Clark, and it offers everything from artifacts to informative videos about their story, their journey and their impact on American history.

The first thing that you’ll notice when you step into the museum is its two-story diorama of the Missouri River.

It’s hugely colorful as well as surprisingly educational about nature.

From there, you can take a self-guided tour through the exhibits that line the halls, or you can sign up for an audio tour that features actors portraying Lewis and Clark as they reminisce about the past.

There are other forms of entertainment as well.

For example, you can test your strength by pulling a tugboat against a river current.

Kids will love it!

Ultimately, however, the true value of the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center lies in its historical preservation.

If you’re at all interested in the explorations of the colonial west, this is the museum for you.

Address: 4201 Giant Springs Rd, Great Falls, MT 59405, United States

4. Museum of the Rockies

Hugh K Telleria / Shutterstock

Another place that celebrates the breathtaking beauty of the Rocky Mountains, the Museum of the Rockies goes even further with its educational programs dedicated to equality, cultural awareness and environmental conservation.

Located in Bozeman , permanent exhibits include everything from “Enduring Peoples,” which chronicles the lives and times of Native American and Northern Plains tribes, to “The Living History Farm” with costumed actors roleplaying Montana’s frontier days and teaching kids about things like fur trading and butter churning.

Temporary exhibits have been devoted to plants, animals, architecture, music and major historical events such as the gold rush of the 1800s.

Other points of interest include the planetarium for stargazing and the paleontology collection for marveling at dinosaur bones.

Fun fact: The museum boasts the largest T-Rex skull in the entire country!

If you’re looking to combine education and entertainment in Montana attractions, swing by the Museum of the Rockies and learn a little something.

Address: 600 W Kagy Blvd, Bozeman, MT 59717, United States

5. Yellowstone National Park

VarnaK / Shutterstock

Yellowstone National Park is the most famous of Montana attractions.

Though it’s primarily located in Wyoming , it covers so many miles that it also stretches into Montana and Idaho as well.

There are many places of interest in this world-famous park, including mountains, cliffs, canyons, rivers, forests and lakes.

Waterfalls thunder over rocks.

Geysers erupt with spray and steam.

Hot springs are everywhere.

There’s even a supervolcano!

Activities at Yellowstone include traditional fare such as hiking and camping as well as more unique experiences such as horseback riding in the backcountry.

Though summer is the most popular time for tourists, there’s also plenty of stuff to do in the winter, including skiing.

If you’re looking for the must see destinations of Montana, make time for Yellowstone National Park.

The alpine scenery is so wondrous that it’s literally used for postcards, and it offers endless adventure for visitors of all types.

Address: United States

6. Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center

Montana is known for its diverse range of wildlife, especially in the mountain regions where bears, coyotes, moose, wolverines and elks roam freely.

But have you ever wondered what happens when these animals get sick or hurt?

The Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center is a rescue and rehabilitation center for many types of wildlife.

Despite the name, it isn’t just devoted to bears and wolves; it also welcomes everything from tiny ground squirrels to gigantic swooping birds of prey.

The mission of the nonprofit is to help these critters while also educating the public about the important roles that they play in local ecosystems.

In addition to observing the wildlife, visitors can also check out educational exhibits and watch videos and demonstrations by the staff.

There are even livecams posted online so that folks can watch the animals anywhere and anytime!

If you want to support a good cause and have a good time while in Montana, schedule a visit to the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center.

It’s open 365 days per year, so whether you’re headed there tomorrow or next summer, the grey wolves will be waiting for you.

Address: 201 S Canyon St, West Yellowstone, MT 59758, United States

7. Rimrock Mall

Rimrock mall

Looking at the stylish white frame and square-cut glass windows of the Rimrock Mall , you’d never guess that it was originally the site of a beet farm, but that’s Montana for you.

Rimrock Mall is the largest mall in the state, and it’s also one of the most diverse in terms of goods and services.

There are luxury fashion boutiques; there are cheap kiosks for jewelry and body art.

You can get your nails done or your dog groomed.

You can watch something in the movie theater.

You can enjoy a meal at the food court.

You can even get a check-up at the medical center!

Additionally, since the mall plays host to many special events in Billings, its hometown, you can always find book signings or musical acts to enjoy on the weekends.

If you’re in need of an “I Heart Montana” t-shirt, stop by the Rimrock Mall.

You’ll get your shirt, and you’ll probably walk out with bagfuls of other gifts and souvenirs, too.

Address: 300 S 24th St W, Billings, MT 59102, United States

8. Montana Chocolate Company

Montana Chocolate Company

Everything about the Montana Chocolate Company is old-fashioned.

Not only is it located in the tiny, sleepy mountain town of Stevensville, but it’s right on Main Street, and it’s a small shop that does everything by hand.

The truffles are sculpted by hand.

The nuts, creams and caramels are dipped by hand.

Even the fudges and the brittles are drizzled and decorated by hand.

Another fun thing about the shop is that they embrace their Montanan roots with creative twists on old favorites.

For example, they sell “Grizzly Paws,” “Elk Tracks” and even “Road Kill” chocolates.

They also utilize many of Montana’s signature ingredients, including huckleberries, for their bars and pastries.

Other things to buy at the shop include Montana-themed souvenirs like mugs, magnets and t-shirts as well as locally-made crafts and jewelry.

Do you have a sweet tooth?

Do you like supporting local businesses while you travel?

Swing by the Montana Chocolate Company for delicious treats just like mama used to make!

Address: 755 Main St, Stevensville, MT 59870, United States

9. Hyalite Canyon

Leigh Anne Meeks / Shutterstock

If you like the night sky, Hyalite Canyon is one of the best places to visit in Montana for stargazing.

It’s close enough to civilization that you don’t have to trek for days into the wilderness to get a good view, but it’s also far enough from the lights of the big cities to offer stunning skyscapes filled with stars, galaxies and nebulae.

There are fun things to do in the daytime as well.

Known for its misty peaks, the Hyalite Canyon Recreation Area is a popular place for hiking, biking and camping.

The lakes offer fishing and canoeing opportunities.

You can rock climb in the summer and ice climb in the winter.

Ultimately, however, the biggest appeal of Hyalite Canyon is its views.

You can’t visit Big Sky Country without gazing upwards at least once!

Make a trip to Hyalite Canyon for incredible site seeing both night and day.

10. Pictograph Cave State Park

Jacob Boomsma / Shutterstock

Montana’s history stretches back thousands of years, and nowhere is this more apparent than Pictograph Cave State Park .

The drawings carved into its rocks are more than two millennia old!

To see these drawings for yourself, you’ll need to hike a trail that leads to the pictograph caves.

Along the way, you’ll pass a number of signs about the geology, vegetation and indigenous cultures of the area, and you can take breaks at designated picnic areas.

The birds and the reptiles of the rocks might keep you company as you eat.

Once you reach the pictographs, you’ll want to whip out your camera right away.

Their history can be felt in every jagged and faded line.

The oldest drawing is a turtle, but others include warriors, glyphs, mythical creatures and even rifles and other modern weapons that suggest the arrival of Europeans to the area.

You don’t have to be a history buff to be awed by Pictograph Cave State Park.

With the weight of 2,000 years behind it, it’s impressive all on its own.

Address: 3401 Coburn Rd, Billings, MT 59101, United States

11. Flathead Lake

tusharkoley / Shutterstock

One of the best vacation spots in Montana is only accessible by boat.

It’s called Wild Horse Island, and it’s a place where indigenous tribes used to breed their mares and stallions to keep them from being stolen.

Today, Wild Horse Island is a tourist destination located in the middle of Flathead Lake , which has also become one of the state’s most popular places to go.

It offers stunning natural beauty as well as ample outdoor activities in the form of hiking, swimming, sailing, fishing, camping and picnicking.

Parts of the lake are on tribal land and will require a permit from visitors; others are open to any member of the public.

Flathead Lake also happens to be one of those locations that’s fun to visit year round.

In the summer, you can hike hills and flower-covered valleys that are dazzling in the sunshine.

In the winter, you can rent a cabin in the trees for warm and cozy nights surrounded by snow.

Whether you’re interested in horses or horticulture, Flathead Lake is a must see destination in Montana.

You could spend sunup to sundown exploring its wonder, and you still wouldn’t cover all of its ground or sample all of its activities.

You’ll just have to come back again next year!

12. Western Heritage Center

Joseph Sohm / Shutterstock

If you’re looking for free things to do while you’re in Montana, you might like the Western Heritage Center .

It offers numerous events and activities at free or minimal cost, and that isn’t even including the cool stuff found in the museum itself, which is a treasure trove of photos, videos, artifacts and other collectibles from the Western frontier.

Exhibit topics include everything from women ranchers to indigenous cultures in Montana.

You can wander the halls on your own time, or you can sign up for “high noon” lectures or historic walking tours that explore the surrounding Yellowstone River Valley.

You might also be interested to know that the heritage center is more than a century old.

Originally established in 1901, it’s withstood the test of time to become one of the area’s top historical destinations, and there’s a certain magic to that fact.

You’ll be walking the same corridors as real frontiersmen once did!

Put on your 10-gallon hat and check out the Western Heritage Center.

It isn’t the biggest or flashiest of Montana attractions, but it’s a darn interesting one.

Address: 2822 Montana Ave, Billings, MT 59101, United States

13. Big Sky Resort

Robert Vincelli / Shutterstock

While your mental image of Montana might be filled with prairies and tumbleweeds, the truth is that it’s also a thriving wintertime destination.

It can receive as much as 300 inches of snowfall each year, much of it in the mountains, and it can become quite the winter wonderland with glittering white snow capping the cliffs and covering the tree tops.

Big Sky Resort isn’t the only place to enjoy the snow in Montana, but it’s one of the best.

It covers almost 6,000 acres and offers a half-dozen terrain parks for skiers of all skill levels.

It’s also a popular site for snowboarding, snowshoeing and “snow biking” on motorized bikes.

Other activities are offered when the snow starts to melt, including golf, archery, paintball and horseback riding.

All things considered, Big Sky Resort is one of the nicest of Montana’s attractions.

It doesn’t even matter when you visit since every season has something new and exciting to do.

If you’re looking for awesome places to visit in the northwest, you won’t want to miss this one!

Address: 50 Big Sky Resort Rd, Big Sky, MT 59716, United States

14. Boiling River

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Despite its name, the Boiling River isn’t 100 percent hot.

It’s actually known for its dual temperatures where the water can be scalding hot or icy cold just a few feet apart.

The reason for this bizarre phenomenon is because a natural hot spring feeds into the river, but due to the unique twists and turns of the landscape, it often retains its original temperature rather than mixing together.

Swimming is allowed in the river, and so are calmer water activities such as tubing.

Boating isn’t allowed due to the currents.

To reach the water, you’ll have to hike to it, so pack a good pair of boots.

A dip in the Boiling River is definitely one of the most unique things to do in Montana.

It’s an experience that you’ll never forget, and it’s a story that you’ll continue to tell long after you go home.

Address: N Entrance Rd, Gardiner, MT 59030, United States

15. Bison Range

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The bison is an iconic symbol of the Old West, but it can be hard to glimpse them in the wild thanks to their scarcity and the sheer range of their natural habitats.

Fortunately, places like the Bison Range exist!

The Bison Range covers approximately 18,000 acres in northwestern Montana’s foothills and grasslands.

Somewhere between 300 – 500 bison call it home, and visitors can get quite close to them thanks to scenic driving routes that run through their territory.

There are also a few walking trails, but for safety purposes, these are focused on small flora and fauna rather than the mighty beasts of the herd.

Tourists can also check out the visitor’s center to learn more about the region and to get maps and advice about maximizing their time in bison country.

How many times in your life can you say that you saw hundreds of bison roaming free?

The Bison Range provides a rare opportunity for travelers and adventure seekers, so if you’re headed to northern Montana, don’t miss your chance to make unforgettable memories here.

Address: 58355 Bison Range Rd, Charlo, MT 59824, United States

16. Great Falls Farmer’s Market

Great Falls Original Farmer’s Market

You’ve never seen a farmer’s market quite like this one.

After all, how many farmer’s markets offer pony rides?

Held every year from June to September, the Great Falls Farmer’s Market is more like a months-long festival than a traditional “market.”

There are the usual produce stands, of course, as well as freshly-baked bread and a variety of homemade jams.

There are also flowers, crafts, jewelry and other knickknacks that you’d expect from a farmer’s market.

What makes this market different is both its size and its vendor diversity.

There are more than 100 folks selling their goods and services every week, and with that many people, there’s always something new to try.

Pony rides are just the beginning.

If you’re wondering what to do while canvassing the great state of Montana, make a detour for the Great Falls Original Farmer’s Market.

You won’t regret it!

Address: 2 Park Dr S, Great Falls, MT 59401, United States

17. Earthquake Lake

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With a name like Earthquake Lake , you’d probably expect this to be a very dramatic destination, and you’d be right.

In 1959, an earthquake struck the sleepy towns of southern Montana.

It completely baffled scientists who didn’t expect it and natives who never thought they’d live to see a 7.3 earthquake in their neck of the woods.

Many lives were lost, and millions of tons of mud and sand formed a landslide around the lake.

Today, visitors can tour “Quake Lake” and see the remnants of the destruction on the shores and in the surrounding mountain canyons.

There’s also an on-site facility dedicated to earthquake science that teaches things like plate tectonics and offers folks a chance to check out working seismographs and other tools of the trade.

You won’t want to miss Earthquake Lake.

It’s one of the major points of interest in Montana, and it’s a must do for history buffs, disaster enthusiasts and anyone who enjoys cool and unique sightseeing opportunities.

See for yourself if it’s all that it’s “cracked up” to be!

Address: US Route 287, Cameron, MT 59720, United States

18. Lewis and Clark Brewing Company

Lewis and Clark Brewing Company

If you like fresh, frothy beers, the Lewis and Clark Brewing Company is one of the best things to do in Montana.

Hailing the state as “America’s last great place,” they invoke the spirit of their namesake explorers as they constantly experiment with newer and better ways to make alcohol.

They also do everything without pasteurization, ensuring flavors that are an intoxicating blend of bold, natural and unique.

Another noteworthy thing about the brewery is that they love to host block parties, music festivals and tap room events.

There are always new things to see and do on the weekend, so check their schedule and see what’s coming up next!

If you’ve got a thirst in Montana, visit the Lewis and Clark Brewing Company.

You can channel the spirit of the 19th century explorers as you try new taps, enjoy local music and make like-minded friends who know their beer.

Address: 1517 Dodge Ave, Helena, MT 59601, United States

19. Montana Snowbowl

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Are you familiar with huckleberries?

They aren’t just something out of a Mark Twain novel.

They’re a real fruit, and they’re a favorite of Montanans; you can find huckleberry pies, jams, ice creams and bear claws all around the state.

You don’t have to rely on other people to get your huckleberry fix, however.

You can pluck them right off the vine at a place like the Snowbowl .

It’s a beautiful ski lodge where the snow is always fresh and powdery and the cabins are always crackling with the warmth and glow of their fireplaces.

Huckleberry bushes can be found all around the slopes, and guests are allowed to pick and eat as many as they want.

If you’re looking for neat places to see in Montana, consider the Snowbowl.

It offers lots of recreational fun as well as cold, crisp and delicious berries that will burst on your tongue!

Address: 1700 Snow Bowl Rd, Missoula, MT 59808, United States

Planning to visit Missoula soon? Why not check out some of the best things to do in Missoula ?

20. American Computer and Robotics Museum

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With its breweries and bison ranges, Montana might not be the first state that comes to mind when you think about technology, but it’s the location of a very interesting attraction: the American Computer and Robotics Museum .

Like its name suggests, the museum is dedicated to computers, robotics, communications, technology and artificial intelligence.

It traces these subjects back more than 2,000 years when they were just dreams of ancient civilizations.

Visitors can look at various tools and machines related to the history of computing.

They can check out exhibits on brains, automation, algorithms, telegraphs and software.

They can even take a crack at vintage computer games like Pong and Spacewar!

Computers didn’t pop into existence in the late 20th century.

Rudimentary computing machines have been around since the days of the ancient Greeks who wanted to predict the position of the stars.

To learn all about it, visit the American Computer and Robotics Museum.

Address: 2023 Stadium Dr #1a, Bozeman, MT 59715, United States

21. Ringing Rocks

Ringing Rocks

The Ringing Rocks are a unique phenomenon that can only be found in a few places in the world, including Montana.

They’re rocks that sing!

When you tap on them with a mallet, they make strange but beautiful chime-like sounds.

Why do they emit these noises?

No one is sure, but geologists have speculated that it’s due to the rare chemical compositions of these 2,000-year old rock formations.

It might also have something to do with the way that the rocks have eroded and shifted against each other over time.

Another fun fact is that the rocks don’t sing on their own.

They’re only musical in their big pile of boulders.

This has deterred many thieves over the years, which is a good thing for you and future travelers who can still experience their magic firsthand.

If you’re wondering what to do while on vacation in Montana, consider the Ringing Rocks.

You can only see them in a few places in the entire world, and they’ll give you a great experience and an even greater story to tell when you get home.

Address: Whitehall, MT 59759, United States

22. Castle City Ghost Town

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America had a “silver rush” in the late 1800s that resulted in many towns being founded and abandoned along the path to promised riches.

Castle City Ghost Town is just one of these towns, but it’s the only one that still stands in Montana today.

Notable sights include all of the old, historic buildings that marked Wild West frontiers, including saloons, jails and a number of brothels.

Visitors can explore the architecture and poke around at the many rusted objects and abandoned vehicles that dot the landscape.

Another cool thing about the town is that it’s rumored to be haunted.

According to legend, Calamity Jane spent a few months in Castle in the 1890s, and she was up to no good.

Castle City Ghost Town is one of the coolest places to go in Montana, but it’s also one of the eeriest.

If you like your tourist attractions with a bit of dark and spooky glamour, this is the town to visit!

Address: Meagher, MT 59053, United States

23. Chico Hot Springs Resort and Day Spa

Chico Hot Springs Resort & Day Spa

The Chico Hot Springs Resort and Day Spa is one of the most luxurious places to visit in Montana.

It’s attached to the Chico Resort, but you don’t have to be lodging with them to enjoy their amenities.

You can book a date with a mud mask as part of any travel experience, including vacations, weddings, honeymoons and destination getaways.

Do you want to pamper yourself?

Sign up for a massage or an aromatherapy treatment.

Do you want to release all of the tension in your shoulders?

Slide into the natural mineral spring pools, which steam in the cold air of the mountains and provide many health benefits as well as an amazingly relaxing experience.

There are many other places to go in the resort as well, so if you are interested in staying there, be prepared for a full roster of entertainment options that includes hiking, skiing, river rafting, horseback riding, painting classes, wagon rides and more.

Vacations can be tiring.

When you need to recharge, call the Chico Hot Springs Resort and Day Spa.

It’s one of the nicest things to do in Montana, and you might never want to leave once you’ve slipped into the hot springs for a nice hot soak!

Address: 163 Chico Rd, Pray, MT 59065, United States

24. Havre Beneath the Streets

In the early 1900s, a fire destroyed much of the city of Havre.

Local business owners decided that they couldn’t wait the long years for everything to be rebuilt on top of the ashes, so they did something unique: They moved below the ashes.

Havre Beneath the Streets, also known as the “Havre Historical Underground,” is an entire subterranean city that lies below the unassuming surface of the modern-day streets.

Many of the buildings have a slightly illicit air, including the bordellos, opium dens and honky tonks, but there are also legitimate enterprises such as taverns and butcher’s shops.

No one uses these businesses anymore; they’re purely the stuff of a historical tour.

All things considered, however, a tour in Havre Beneath the Streets is one of the coolest and most interesting things to do in Montana.

How many states have vintage underground brothels?

Address: 120 3rd Ave, Havre, MT 59501, United States

25. C.M. Russell Museum

C.M. Russell Museum

Do you love the frontier days?

Do you wish you’d been born in the back of a covered wagon as you bumped and jostled over the dusty trails of early colonial America?

If so, you’ll have a blast at the C.M. Russell Museum .

While technically an art museum, its premiere artist Charles Marion “Kid” Russell lived during the days of the Wild West, and all of his works feature cowboy themes.

You can grab your spurs and pony up for a wild ride through deserts, saloons, rodeos and bank-robbing outlaws.

There are even exhibits dedicated to things like the American bison and the weapons of the Old West!

The museum also boasts several architectural exhibits such as Russell’s log cabin studio and his square-framed wooden house.

Not only can you enjoy his artwork, but you can see where his inspiration struck day after day.

If you’re wondering what to do in Montana that celebrates its unique history and iconography as a frontier destination, consider a trip to the C. M. Russell Museum.

It’ll revive those cowboy days like they never left.

Address: 400 13th St N, Great Falls, MT 59401, United States

26. ZooMontana

Were you aware that there’s only one zoo in Montana?

Despite the abundance of wildlife, the sparse population and the wide-ranging natural habitats for the animals means that zoos just aren’t a thing there.

The exception is ZooMontana .

With more than 58 species calling it home, it’s a wildlife park where visitors can take in a broad and diverse mix of animals in a single location.

It’s also known for its peaceful, tranquil atmosphere; since a canyon runs right through the zoo, there are many natural cliffs and water features that simulate the native landscapes of its critters.

Species at the zoo include everything from tiny chinchillas to larger-than-life tigers, wolves and grizzly bears.

There are also cool and unique animals such as hissing cockroaches and red-tailed boa constrictors.

ZooMontana is a rarity in its state, which already makes it one of the most interesting things to see, but it’s also a cool trip in its own right.

Once you’re staring into the eyes of a raptor, everything else will fall away.

Address: 2100 Shiloh Rd, Billings, MT 59106, United States

27. Jim’s Horn House

Jim’s Horn House is one of the craziest things to see in Montana.

Created by a regular guy and housed in the shed behind his home, it’s a collection of antlers that has been gathered, cultivated and artfully displayed over the course of 60 years.

The homeowner, Jim, is known to locals as “The Antler Man.”

Jim doesn’t actually hunt the animals.

Instead, he wanders through the backcountry of Montana and picks up antlers that have been shed by local deer, elk, moose and antelope.

Then he adds them to a rattling floor-to-ceiling collection in his shed.

The end result is one of the weirdest but most interesting natural history displays that the world has ever seen.

To visit, you’ll need to contact Jim directly; he’ll turn you away if you just show up at his door.

Be polite and ask when you can come to his home.

Jim’s Horn House definitely has to be seen to be believed!

Address: Three Forks, MT 59752, United States

28. Whitefish Mountain Resort

Whitefish Mountain Resort

Another great place to enjoy wintertime fun, the Whitefish Mountain Resort is a premiere skiing destination in the Rockies.

It’s conveniently located right by an airport and offers tons of events, activities and amenities for travelers worldwide.

Your first decision will be about lodging.

The resort offers everything from cozy cabins nestled in the snow to luxurious hotel suites with hot tubs and high thread counts, so it’s just a matter of choosing the type of vacation experience that you want.

Once you’re settled in, you can hit the slopes.

There’s skiing and snowboarding; there are dog sledding shows and guided tours around the mountain.

You can even hop on the lifts to find “night skiing” trails under the glowing moon.

The best places to vacation in Montana are the ones that take advantage of its stunning natural beauty.

At Whitefish Mountain Resort, you won’t have to worry about sightseeing.

Every view from your window will be picture-perfect, and it’ll only get better once you actually venture outdoors.

Address: 1015 Glades Dr, Whitefish, MT 59937, United States

29. A Carousel for Missoula

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With its carved, hand-painted animals, A Carousel for Missoula is one of the niftiest sites to see in Montana.

It’s even better when you learn its history.

It was designed, funded and constructed entirely by volunteers, and to this day, it charges just 75 cents for kids’ rides.

Another nice thing about the carousel is that it’s located in a prime area of Missoula .

A riverwalk is just a few blocks away, and nearby tourist attractions include everything from a baseball stadium to a performing arts theater.

If you’re on a budget in Montana, consider a trip to a Carousel for Missoula.

The ride itself is cheap, and the surrounding area has plenty of low-cost and free things to do that will keep you occupied long after the hand-painted horses have come to a stop.

Address: 101 Carousel Dr, Missoula, MT 59802, United States

30. Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest

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Montana is one of the most beautiful places in the US , and the proof can be found in the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest .

Unlike the remote rock formations that dominate so much of the state, this forest is lush, green and teeming with life from the bugs in the dirt to the birds flying high.

You’ll want to plan your trip carefully since the forest covers more than 3.3 million acres.

There are countless things to see and do on the lakes, fields and alpine mountain passes, but since they’re geographically distant from each other, you’ll need to prioritize.

Do you want to swim and fish?

Hit up the water with your fishing rod.

Do you prefer camping under the stars and cooking hot dogs over an open fire?

Head to the campgrounds.

There are even driving trails if you enjoy nature the best while you’re cruising in an air-conditioned vehicle and viewing it from your window.

The Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest is one of the top destinations of Montana.

Its beauty is unparalleled, and its size means that you’ll never run out of new things to try.

You could have an entire vacation without ever leaving the borders of the forest!

Address: 420 Barrett St, Dillon, MT 59725, United States

31. World Museum of Mining

Radoslaw Lecyk / Shutterstock

How many museums let you go into an underground mine?

At the World Museum of Mining , it isn’t just possible; it’s encouraged.

The World Museum of Mining is dedicated to the preservation of mining history.

It’s centered around an old, abandoned mine called Orphan Girl, and it offers photos, videos and tours to give you an idea of what it was like to mine copper and zinc in the 1800s.

The underground tour will take you 100 feet below the earth, so it’s best if you aren’t afraid of dark and cramped spaces!

Other places to see around the mine include industrial yards, miner memorials and mineral and rock collections.

There’s also a recreated mining town with historic buildings made out of genuine turn-of-the-century materials.

The World Museum of Mining is one of the coolest places to visit in Montana.

Whether you’re a history buff or just an enthusiastic explorer who likes underground tourist attractions, you should appreciate the significance of what’s on display here.

Address: 155 Museum Way, Butte, MT 59701, United States

32. Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument

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The Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument isn’t one of those flashy Montana attractions.

In fact, it’s quite solemn.

It mainly consists of small white graves dotting the green grass of a wide open plain.

If you know your history, however, you know that Little Bighorn was one of the major battles of the 19th century, and it resulted in a major loss of life between both American soldiers and the Lakota and Arapaho tribes.

This destination pays respect to both sides of the conflict with grave markers and a series of pictures and plaques putting names and faces to the fallen.

If you have a car, there’s also a scenic driving route to another battlefield nearby; if you don’t, you can just walk a trail that covers Little Bighorn in its entirety.

It isn’t a “fun” attraction, but it’s an important one.

Visit the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument if you want to learn more about the history that America was founded upon.

Address: I-90 Frontage Rd, Crow Agency, MT 59022, United States

33. St. Ignatius Mission

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You don’t have to be religious to appreciate St. Ignatius Mission .

With its gothic revival architecture that includes red clay bricks and a 100-foot bell tower, it’s a delight to the eyes as well as the soul.

The inside is just as impressive as the outside, too.

It boasts 58 colorful and hand-painted murals, and they’re all the more stunning for being the work of a church cook rather than a renowned artist.

They go hand-in-hand with the high ceilings and stained glass windows that will leave you looking up, up and up as you walk down the rows of pews.

St. Ignatius Mission is a marvel, and it’s easily one of the coolest places to visit in Montana.

If you’ll be near the city of St. Ignatius while you’re there, you’ll want to make time for the parish.

Address: 300 Beartrack Ave, St Ignatius, MT 59865, United States

34. Makoshika State Park

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With a name that translates to “bad land” or “land of bad spirits,” Makoshika State Park is definitely a place that gets your attention.

Despite its reputation, however, it’s a beautiful stretch of terrain with red-brown rock formations jutting from rugged hills and cliffs under a wide open sky.

There are many sights to see at the park, including the fossilized remains of triceratops and thescelosaurus dinosaurs.

Visitors can also hike trails, camp under the stars, take lessons at an archery range or enjoy an outdoor concert at an amphitheater.

Special events at the park include an annual “Buzzard Day” held in June as well as various marathons and outdoor sporting events for disc golf and corn hole.

Don’t let the name scare you off.

Makoshika State Park is one of the most beautiful places in Montana, and the only bad thing would be if you missed it!

Address: 1301 Snyder St, Glendive, MT 59330, United States

35. Garden of One Thousand Buddhas

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Located on the Flathead Indian Reservation of Lake County, Montana, the Garden of One Thousand Buddhas is still in development, but visitors are free to check out what’s already been built.

It’s an excellent sightseeing destination whether you’re religious or not!

Statues of the Buddha cover a sweeping circular landscape that leads to a grand pavilion in the middle.

Most of the statues are made of plain, unpretentious stone, but others are colorfully painted or beautifully presented around natural features such as lakes and gardens.

There’s a small gift shop for souvenirs, and you can also make a donation if you’d like to support the cause.

One day, the builders hope that the garden can become a pilgrimage site for people of all faiths.

Take a walk through the Garden of One Thousand Buddhas if you’re looking for a place to catch a breath, find inner peace or just experience a moment of serenity.

It hasn’t yet become the mecca that it’s destined to be, but you can tell everyone that you got in on the ground floor of something amazing.

Address: 34574 White Coyote Rd, Arlee, MT 59821, United States

36. Yellowstone Big Gun Fun

Yellowstone Big Gun Fun

Some of the stereotypes about cowboys are true.

They wouldn’t be caught dead without their pistols, and at Yellowstone Big Gun Fun , you can channel your inner yeehaw with a state-of-the-art shooting range.

Rentals are offered for rifles, handguns, machine guns and more.

You can shoot an AK-47; you can shoot an M-4. Lessons are available for beginners to learn about safe handling and shooting.

The staff also hosts regular demonstrations and workshops to learn about the history of handguns in the United States.

If you’re wondering what to do that’s off the beaten path in Montana, consider taking aim at Yellowstone Big Gun Fun.

Not only is it a fun, unique activity for your vacation experience, but it’ll also let you unleash your inner cowboy in a state known for its Wild West history.

Address: 15 Madison Ave, West Yellowstone, MT 59758, United States

37. Virginia Falls

RyanTangPhoto / Shutterstock

Some of the most stunning things to see in Montana are the waterfalls, especially when they’re tucked into mountain valleys and surrounded by smoothly eroded stone.

Such is the case with Virginia Falls .

Located in Glacier National Park, Virginia Falls is a multi-tiered waterfall that offers equal parts beauty and power.

Its waters slam into the rocks below with the force of a dozen car crashes, but it’s also a gorgeous sight, and it can be quite soothing when you stand right next to the spray and listen to the music of nature.

To reach the waterfall, you’ll have to hike to it, but you’ll have several options ranging from “a small stroll” to “miles of hoofing it across rugged terrain.”

If you like beautiful things, however, Virginia Falls is worth the effort.

It’s one of the most stunning places to visit in Montana by a wide margin.

Address: Montana 59417, United States

38. Tizer Botanic Gardens and Arboretum

Dave Thomas / flickr

Many beautiful places in Montana involve the outdoors, and the Tizer Botanic Gardens and Arboretum is no exception.

Rather than forcing you to put on your hiking boots, however, it will allow you to take a leisurely stroll around creeks, bridges, gazebos and gardens that have been carefully cultivated in a place of stillness.

Here’s just a small sample of what to see in the gardens:

– Wildflower Walk – Rose Garden – Prickly Pear Creek – Meditation Garden – Butterfly and Hummingbird Garden

There are many other attractions as well, making the Tizer Botanic Gardens and Arboretum one of the most gorgeous places to visit in Montana.

Whether you’re interested in romantic strolls along the water or family-friendly fun among the colorful set pieces of the children’s garden, there’s a little something for everyone here.

Address: 38 Tizer Lake Rd, Jefferson City, MT 59638, United States

39. Clark Fork River Market

Clark Fork River Market

If you don’t have a lot of money to burn, it behooves you to find free things to do around Montana.

One option is the Clark Fork River Market .

Essentially an overgrown farmer’s market, the Clark Fork River Market is a great place to window shop.

Dozens of vendors come together to sell fruits, vegetables, meats, flowers, crafts and more, and their sights and smells make a wonderful feast for your senses.

There’s no pressure to buy, but you might find yourself tempted when you see all of the amazing things for sale.

There’s homemade jewelry in every color.

There’s freshly made honey and freshly harvested plant seeds.

If you’re hungry, food trucks offer everything from savory burritos to sweet cinnamon rolls and caramel popcorn.

You can even find hearty mountain staples such as biscuits and gravy!

You don’t have to empty your wallet to enjoy a trip to Montana.

Just find places like the Clark Fork River Market where breathing the air and seeing the dazzling rows of vendor stalls is an experience in itself.

40. Slippery Otter Pub

Adam Fagen / flickr

Montana is no stranger to pubs.

After long days of hiking through deserts and grappling around jagged, sun-burned rocks, a person works up a thirst!

The Slippery Otter Pub isn’t the only pub of its kind, but it’s one of the best.

It serves ice-cold regional beers as well as a variety of other drinks and cocktails to keep you buzzed.

Additionally, it’s known for its hearty, meat-based menu, the kind that you’ll only find in Montana.

Are you ready to try an elk burger?

Other nice things about the pub include its roomy hangout spaces with lots of entertainment options such as widescreen TVs and shuffleboard games.

All things considered, if you want a drink while you’re in the Yellowstone area, there are worse places to get it than the Slippery Otter Pub.

Shake off the dirt from the mountains and kick up your boots in a pub that’s worth visiting.

Address: 139 N Canyon St, West Yellowstone, MT 59758, United States

41. McGinnis Meadows Ranch

McGinnis Meadows Ranch

While there are lots of places to see horses in Montana, the McGinnis Meadows Ranch stands out as one of the best.

For starters, it’s a working cattle ranch with many barnyard animals in addition to the horses, so it presents a rustic yet authentic atmosphere.

It also offers unique opportunities for you to roll up your sleeves and experience real cattle and equestrian work through the horsemanship clinic!

You can even sign up for 10- to 30-day stays where you wander the ranch at will, learning new things and trying your hand at the various everyday tasks of running a ranch.

Food and lodgings are included with overnight trips.

If you don’t want to work, you can also kick back and relax by fishing from a private deck or enjoying hearty, home-cooked meals with the staff.

The horses are always available as well, so feel free to hop in the saddle and go strolling or galloping through the countryside.

The McGinnis Meadows Ranch is one of the most interesting places in Montana.

It’s much more than a tourist attraction; it’s an entire tourist experience.

If you have a few days to spare, there’s nothing else quite like it.

Address: 6220 Mc Ginnis Meadows Rd, Libby, MT 59923, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Montana

These are just a few of the best things to do in Montana.

Whether you’re interested in art, nature, culture, history or just great places to grab a beer, there’s a little something for everyone in Big Sky Country.

Touropia Travel Experts

Discover the World

10 Best Places to Visit in Montana

Known as Big Sky Country, Montana is an amazing destination for all those who appreciate the beauty of the great outdoors. Primarily rural, Montana is home to national parks, miles of open country, an abundance of wildlife and spectacular scenery.

However, there are also a number of vibrant cities with a flair for cowboy culture. As you plan your upcoming getaway to this state, don’t miss out on any of these unforgettable places to visit in Montana.

10. Great Falls

In the very center of Montana is Great Falls, a destination that is also known as the Electric City. Great Falls is often considered a stopping point when diving across Montana or when exploring nearby national parks, but the city also offers a lot in its own right. You could, for example, spend a day visiting the Ryan Dam, which boasts miles of surrounding hiking trails and is where the Electric City got its nickname.

You might also want to walk along the banks of the Missouri River, feed the trout and get to know more about American history at the Giant Springs State Park and the nearby Lewis and Clark National Interpretive Center.

9. Missoula

The second largest of Montana’s cities is Missoula, the home to the sprawling campus of the University of Montana. Missoula used to be a hub for rail travel, and you can still see the historic and preserved railroad stations around town. History lovers might also want to check out the iconic Caras Park Carousel, the Missoula Art Museum and the iconic Roxy Theater.

The Clark Fork River flows through the center of Missoula and is a hub for recreation, so you could also try rafting down the river or strolling along the waterfront Kim Williams Trail. Head Downtown for a number of local breweries, excellent independent restaurants and boutique shops perfect for snagging unique souvenirs.

8. Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park

The oldest and perhaps most impressive state park in Montana is the Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park, located just outside of Three Forks. The caverns are made from limestone, and they boast interesting columns, stalactites and stalagmites.

Guided tours of the caverns themselves cover a substantial amount of ground, and they take you down 600 steps until the air becomes noticeably cooler. Aside from the caverns themselves, which are open throughout the summer, the state park offers the opportunity to hike, enjoy a scenic picnic, go canoeing or spot wildlife in their natural habitats.

7. Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument

Arguably one of the most famous military battles in American history took place at the Little Bighorn Battlefield. This is where Custer’s Last Stand took place in 1876 between the United States and Native American tribes like the Dakota, the Lakota, the Northern Cheyenne and the Arapaho.

To this day, a big draw to the area is the reenactments that typically happen on an annual basis. You can tour the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument, and you can also head into the nearest town, Crow Agency, for dining, shopping and water sports.

Many people begin their Montana adventures in the city of Helena, which is the state’s capital as well as a hub in the heart of Gold West Country. The main attraction in the city is the Montana State Capitol Building, which is available for guided tours throughout the week.

You’ll also want to check out the Gates of the Mountains of the Missouri River, a collection of cliffs that open up to the river and were famously named by the explorers Lewis and Clark. Helena is also home to the historic mining district known as Reeder’s Alley, the beautifully hand-carved Great Northern Carousel and the 19th century Old Fire Tower.

5. Whitefish

Just north of Kalispell, a city known for being the gateway to the Glacier National Park, is the charming resort destination of Whitefish. Located in Flathead Valley, Whitefish was created by glacier activity, and there is an abundance of freshwater in the surrounding area, dotting the landscape with pristine lakes and stunning streams.

Most of the attractions in Whitefish are natural, and opportunities for outdoor activity abound. You may want to fish from Whitefish Lake, ski at the Whitefish Mountain Resort, kayak along the Flathead River or tee off at one of the great local golf courses in the area.

4. Flathead Lake

Just 15 minutes south of the city Kalispell is Flathead Lake, which is officially the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi River. Formed by glaciers, Flathead Lake is a connection to the past for Montana, but it also serves as a hub for sightseeing and recreation in the 21st century. Just north of the lake, you can try hiking or even horseback riding.

During the summer, fresh cherries are readily available at farmer’s markets around Flathead Lake. Sailing is also growing in popularity, and rentals as well as lessons are available from several spots along the perimeter of Flathead Lake in Montana.

3. West Yellowstone

Much of the famed Yellowstone National Park is located within the bordering state of Wyoming , but some of the entrances are actually located in Montana. One of the most commonly used is known as West Yellowstone. As the name suggests, this is the western entrance to the Yellowstone National Park.

In addition to serving as the entry point to one of the world’s most incredible national parks, which is home to attractions like Old Faithful , West Yellowstone boasts the extensive collections of the Yellowstone Museum. You can also snag interesting souvenirs from the shops located along Yellowstone Ave or head to Faithful Street for some affordable local cuisine.

Bozeman is one of the most popular cities in Montana for travelers, because it serves both as the home of Montana State University and as the gateway to the Yellowstone National Park.

Although natural scenery is a big draw to Bozeman, there is also a large emphasis on culture, history and art. Start your visit to the city by checking out attractions such as the Pioneer Museum, the Museum of the Rockies, the Emerson Center for Arts and Culture and the unexpected but impressive American Computer Museum.

The Gallatin River runs near Bozeman and provides opportunities for swimming, fishing and even kayaking, or you could get active by walking between the many bars and breweries Downtown in what is known as the Barmuda Triangle of Bozeman.

1. Glacier National Park

For those in search of dramatic landscapes and breathtaking scenery, there are few destinations more appealing than Glacier National Park . On the border with Canada, and connected to the Canadian Waterton Lakes National Park, Glacier National Park is an incredible place to visit in Montana to see unparalleled flora and fauna.

Shuttles and guided tours are readily available, but the best way to see the beauty of the park is on your own two feet.

More than 700 miles of hiking trails are available, with some of the most popular paths being the Trail of the Cedars and the Huckleberry Mountain Trail. Within the park, you can also go fishing, mountain biking or horseback riding, and there are opportunities for boating on Waterton Lake as well as Lake McDonald.

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10 Exciting Things to Do in Billings, Montana in October

October is a great time to visit Billings, Montana, as the city is filled with exciting activities and events. From enjoying the vibrant fall colors to exploring the local culture and indulging in delicious food and drinks, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Additionally, outdoor enthusiasts can take advantage of the many outdoor activities available, and history buffs can delve into the rich history of Billings. Here are 10 exciting things to do in Billings, Montana in October.

Key Takeaways

• Experience the stunning fall colors by taking a scenic drive, going hiking in the surrounding mountains, or visiting a local park.
• Immerse yourself in the local culture by attending live music performances, visiting art galleries and studios, and exploring the Western Heritage Center.
• Indulge in delicious food and drinks by trying local craft beers, sampling farm-to-table cuisine, and visiting the farmers market.
• Enjoy outdoor activities such as fishing in the Yellowstone River, taking a bike ride along the trails, or playing a round of golf.
• Experience local events and festivals like the Harvest Festival, Oktoberfest, and the Halloween Parade.

Experience the Fall Colors

Take a Scenic Drive

One of the best ways to experience the fall colors in Billings is by taking a scenic drive through the surrounding areas. Immerse yourself in the vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow as you wind through the picturesque landscapes. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to admire the changing leaves, spot wildlife, and capture stunning photos. Whether you choose to drive along the Beartooth Highway or explore the scenic routes in the nearby national parks, a scenic drive is a must-do activity in October.

Go Hiking in the Surrounding Mountains

One of the best ways to experience the beauty of Billings in October is to go hiking in the surrounding mountains. With the fall colors in full display, the trails offer breathtaking views of the changing leaves . Immerse yourself in nature as you explore the diverse landscapes and discover hidden gems along the way. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, there are trails suitable for all levels. Lace up your hiking boots, grab a trail map, and embark on an adventure in the great outdoors.

Visit a Local Park

When visiting Billings, make sure to take some time to explore the local parks . These green spaces offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the park, taking in the beautiful fall colors that surround you. Listen to the sound of leaves crunching under your feet as you walk along the paths. If you’re lucky, you might even spot some wildlife camouflaged among the trees.

To make the most of your visit, consider bringing a picnic lunch to enjoy in the park. Find a cozy spot under a tree and savor the flavors of local cuisine. Support local businesses by purchasing food and drinks from nearby establishments.

If you’re traveling with kids, many parks in Billings have playgrounds where they can burn off some energy. Let them climb, slide, and swing to their heart’s content. Don’t forget to bring a frisbee or a ball to play some games on the open grassy areas.

Pro tip : Check the park’s website or social media pages for any upcoming events or activities. You might find a guided nature walk, a yoga class, or a live music performance happening in the park during your visit.

Explore the Local Culture

Attend a Live Music Performance

Attending a live music performance in Billings is a must-do for music lovers. With a vibrant local music scene, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to catch talented musicians and bands in action. Whether you’re into rock, country, jazz, or indie, there’s something for everyone.

Here are some upcoming live music events in Billings:

Make sure to check out these events and experience the energy and excitement of live music in Billings. Don’t forget to support local artists and venues!

Tip: Arrive early to secure a good spot and immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the live music performance.

Visit Art Galleries and Studios

When exploring the local culture in Billings, be sure to visit the art galleries and studios scattered throughout the city. These creative spaces showcase the talent and diversity of the local art scene. Immerse yourself in a variety of artistic mediums, from paintings and sculptures to photography and mixed media. Take your time to appreciate the unique perspectives and stories behind each piece of art. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply looking for some inspiration, visiting art galleries and studios is a must-do activity in Billings.

Explore the Western Heritage Center

The Western Heritage Center is a must-visit for anyone interested in the rich history and culture of Billings. Located in downtown Billings, this museum showcases the stories and artifacts that shaped the region. Step back in time as you explore exhibits on the Native American tribes, early settlers, and the development of the city. Learn about the cowboys and ranchers who played a vital role in the area’s history. The Western Heritage Center offers a fascinating glimpse into the past and is a great way to deepen your understanding of Billings’ heritage.

Indulge in Delicious Food and Drinks

Try Local Craft Beers

When visiting Billings, Montana in October, be sure to try the local craft beers. Billings is home to a vibrant craft beer scene, with several breweries offering a wide variety of unique and delicious brews. Whether you’re a fan of hoppy IPAs, rich stouts, or refreshing lagers, you’ll find something to satisfy your taste buds. Indulge in the flavors of Billings and support the local beer community by visiting one of the many breweries in town. Cheers to a great beer-tasting experience!

Sample Farm-to-Table Cuisine

Montana is an adventure in food , with incredible fine dining restaurants, steakhouses, bakeries, bars, breweries, food trucks, and cafés serving up a mix of everything—for every kind of eater. Whether you’re craving a juicy steak, freshly baked pastries, or a locally brewed beer, Billings has it all. Indulge in the farm-to-table cuisine that showcases the region’s bountiful harvests and supports local farmers. From seasonal salads to hearty entrees, you’ll find a variety of dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Don’t forget to pair your meal with a glass of wine from one of the local wineries. Experience the flavors of Billings and satisfy your culinary cravings.

Visit the Farmers Market

One of the must-visit attractions in Billings, Montana in October is the Yellowstone Valley Farmers’ Market . This vibrant market takes place every Saturday from July 15 to October 7, 2023, from 8am to 12pm. Located at the intersection of N Broadway and 2nd Ave N, the market offers a wide variety of fresh produce, local crafts, and delicious food. It’s a great place to support local farmers and artisans while enjoying the lively atmosphere.

If you’re looking for a unique shopping experience, the Yellowstone Valley Farmers’ Market is the place to be. You can find everything from farm-fresh fruits and vegetables to handmade crafts and artisanal products. Take your time to explore the stalls and discover the hidden gems that this market has to offer.

Here are some highlights of the Yellowstone Valley Farmers’ Market:

• Fresh and locally grown produce
• Handmade crafts and artisanal products
• Delicious food and drinks
• Live music and entertainment

Whether you’re a foodie, a craft enthusiast, or simply looking for a fun weekend activity, the Yellowstone Valley Farmers’ Market is a must-visit destination in Billings, Montana in October.

Enjoy Outdoor Activities

Go Fishing in the Yellowstone River

The Yellowstone River is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts in Billings, Montana. With its pristine waters and abundant fish species, it offers a great opportunity to relax and enjoy the outdoors. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a beginner, there are plenty of fishing spots along the river where you can cast your line and try your luck. Don’t forget to bring your fishing gear and a valid fishing license. Catch some peace and tranquility as you spend a day fishing in the Yellowstone River.

Take a Bike Ride along the Trails

Billings, Montana offers a variety of scenic trails for biking enthusiasts. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, exploring the trails is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and take in the beautiful surroundings. The Billings Heritage Trails app provides an interactive map showing the different trails available, along with useful information such as bike shops, restrooms, and community centers. You can easily plan your route and make the most of your biking adventure. So grab your bike and get ready to pedal your way through the stunning landscapes of Billings!

Play a Round of Golf

If you’re a golf enthusiast, Billings offers several excellent golf courses where you can enjoy a round of golf surrounded by stunning natural beauty. Golf in Billings is a popular activity, and the city boasts well-maintained courses that cater to players of all skill levels.

Here are some of the top golf courses in Billings:

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced golfer, these courses offer a challenging and enjoyable experience. So grab your clubs and get ready to tee off in Billings!

Experience Local Events and Festivals

Attend the Harvest Festival

The Harvest Festival in Billings is a must-attend event in October. This annual celebration brings together the community to enjoy the bountiful harvest season. From delicious food vendors offering local produce and homemade treats to live music performances that create a festive atmosphere, there is something for everyone at the Harvest Festival. Take a stroll through the various booths and discover unique crafts, artwork, and handmade goods. Don’t forget to try the seasonal pumpkin spice treats and warm apple cider. It’s a great opportunity to support local businesses and artisans while enjoying the vibrant fall colors.

Celebrate Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest is a highly anticipated event in Billings , Montana, and a must-attend for beer enthusiasts. This annual festival, presented by the Downtown Billings Alliance and Montana Brewing Company, takes place in the center of downtown Billings under Skypoint. It offers a lively atmosphere filled with traditional German music, delicious food, and of course, a wide selection of local craft beers. Whether you’re a seasoned Oktoberfest-goer or new to the festivities, this event is a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and have a memorable time with friends and family.

Join the Halloween Parade

Join in the festive spirit and be a part of the exciting Halloween Parade in Billings. Dress up in your favorite costume and join the lively procession through the streets of downtown. Experience the creativity and enthusiasm of the local community as they showcase their spooky and imaginative outfits. It’s a fun-filled event for all ages, where you can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and join in the Halloween festivities.

Discover the History of Billings

Visit the Moss Mansion

The Moss Mansion is a must-visit attraction in Billings. This historic mansion, located at 914 Division St, offers a glimpse into the rich history of the city. Built in the early 1900s, the mansion showcases the luxurious lifestyle of the Moss family, who were prominent figures in Billings. Take a guided tour of the mansion to explore its beautifully preserved rooms, including the grand ballroom, library, and bedrooms. Learn about the architecture and design of the mansion, as well as the fascinating stories of the Moss family. Immerse yourself in the elegance and charm of this iconic landmark.

Explore the Yellowstone County Museum

The Yellowstone County Museum is a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts . Located in Billings, Montana, this museum showcases the rich history of Yellowstone County and its surrounding areas. With a diverse collection of artifacts, exhibits, and interactive displays, visitors can immerse themselves in the stories and heritage of the region.

One of the highlights of the museum is its collection of Native American artifacts, which provides insight into the indigenous cultures that once thrived in this area. From intricately crafted pottery to traditional clothing and tools, these artifacts offer a glimpse into the daily lives and traditions of the Native American tribes.

Another notable exhibit at the museum is the display on the early settlers of Yellowstone County. Through photographs, documents, and personal stories, visitors can learn about the challenges and triumphs of the pioneers who shaped the region.

For those interested in local wildlife, the museum also features exhibits on the diverse flora and fauna of Yellowstone County. From the majestic elk to the elusive mountain lion, visitors can learn about the unique ecosystems and wildlife habitats that make this area so special.

Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or simply curious about the heritage of Yellowstone County, a visit to the Yellowstone County Museum is a must. Immerse yourself in the captivating stories and artifacts that bring the history of this region to life.

Take a Historic Walking Tour

Immerse yourself in the rich history of Billings by taking a historic walking tour. Explore the charming streets and discover the stories behind the city’s iconic landmarks. Step back in time as you visit the Moss Mansion, a beautifully preserved historic home that offers self-guided tours. Learn about the fascinating past of the Yellowstone County Museum, which showcases artifacts and exhibits that highlight the region’s history. And don’t forget to take a leisurely stroll through the city’s downtown area, where you’ll find a variety of historic buildings and landmarks.

In Conclusion

October in Billings, Montana is a month filled with exciting activities and events. Whether you’re a foodie, an art lover, or an outdoor enthusiast, there is something for everyone to enjoy. From the EWI Rezurrection 2024 event at the Eagle Seeker Community Center to the Rylee & Adam Live at The Winery concert, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore the beauty of Billings under the big skies of Montana. Plan your visit now and make unforgettable memories in October!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best scenic drives in billings.

Some of the best scenic drives in Billings include the Beartooth Highway, the Chief Joseph Scenic Byway, and the Pryor Mountain Scenic Loop.

Are there any live music performances in October?

Yes, there are several live music performances happening in October. Check the local event calendars for more information.

Where can I try local craft beers in Billings?

You can try local craft beers at breweries such as Angry Hank’s Microbrewery, Thirsty Street Brewing Company, and Yellowstone Valley Brewing Company.

What are some popular outdoor activities in Billings?

Some popular outdoor activities in Billings include fishing in the Yellowstone River, biking along the trails, and playing golf.

Are there any festivals or events in October?

Yes, there are several festivals and events happening in October, such as the Harvest Festival, Oktoberfest, and the Halloween Parade.

Where can I learn about the history of Billings?

You can learn about the history of Billings by visiting attractions such as the Moss Mansion, the Yellowstone County Museum, and taking a historic walking tour.

What are some family-friendly activities in Billings?

Some family-friendly activities in Billings include visiting ZooMontana, exploring the Western Heritage Center, and attending local events and festivals.

Where can I find farm-to-table cuisine in Billings?

You can find farm-to-table cuisine at restaurants such as The Fieldhouse, TEN, and Lilac.

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22 Things To Do in Anaconda, Montana

By Jason Gass

Anaconda, Montana is one of the most historically significant towns in Central Montana , being once home to the state’s largest copper smelter. Besides its historical significance, the town offers up plenty of outdoor activities.

Whether you are coming to take in one of the many great tours or the amazing scenic views, you will find plenty of things to do in Anaconda, Montana .

Table of Contents

Awesome Things To Do in Anaconda, Montana

1. horseback riding.

If you are looking for a way to live a little of the Old West, then you’ll want to add a horseback riding tour to your Montana vacation plans.

Iron Wheel Guest Ranch offers a variety of trail ride options that range from short two-hour rides for folks that just want a little taste of riding.

If you want to spend more time in the saddle, Iron Wheel Guest Ranch offers longer rides, including four-hour and all-day options. Tours travel around the Anaconda area and along the Continental Divide.

You don’t have to be an experienced rider either. Each tour begins with some basic riding skills and safety information.

2. Granite Ghost Town

Ghost towns are spots that you shouldn’t miss when visiting Montana. The Anaconda area has a number of ghost town sites, but the Granite Ghost Town State Park located near Anaconda is one of the best.

The Granite Ghost town is the remnants of the Granite Mine and the small town that grew up around the mine.

The town was established around 1875 and was once a thriving community. The Granite Mine was once the richest silver mine in the world, but that didn’t stop it from closing down and the town deserted in 1893.

Today the ghost town has the remnants of a few of the town buildings and a good portion of the mine is still intact.

3. Historic Bus Tours

Anaconda is one of the many towns in Montana that offer guided tours of their historical sites.

In Anaconda you’ll enjoy their Historic Bus Tour that travels around town and highlights some of the town’s most interesting bits of history.

Stops and sites along the tour include the Washoe Theater , the Stack Interpretive Center, Old Works Golf Course , Discovery Ski Area , and the State Fish Hatchery.

4. Zip Line Adventure

If you want to experience Montana in a completely different way, try a zip line Tour.

Montana Zipline Adventures , located just outside of Anaconda along the Pintler Scenic Highway is one of the best places to experience zip lining in Montana.

You’ll get a completely different perspective of Montan’s natural beauty, and scenic vistas while flying about the ground. Montana Zipline Adventures is the longest zipline course in Montana, with over 9,300 feet of lines to explore.

5. Backwoods ATV

Pintler Adventures is the best place to rent backcountry travel equipment in Southwest Montana .

Whether you’re visiting in the summer and want to explore the area in an ATV or UTV or if you’re looking for a great snowmobile adventure in the winter, Pintler Adventures has the best equipment and the most experienced guides in the area.

If you want to explore on your own, Pintler Adventures experienced staff can also provide great trail recommendations where you’ll see some of the best views in all of Montana.

6. Anaconda Smelter Stack Tour

Once this was the central part of the Anaconda Smelter, one of the largest copper smelters in the world.

Today, the only remnant of the mining history in Anaconda is the Smelter Stack. The Anaconda Smelter Stack Tour is the best way to see the stack and learn about Anaconda and the Smelter.

Tickets for the tour can be purchased in advance online.

If horseback riding isn’t your thing, Iron Wheel Guest Ranch also offers some of the best fishing excursions in the Anaconda area.

Their experienced staff will show you the ins and outs of river fishing in Anaconda, as well as float fishing on some of the local lakes. Fishing tours with Iron Wheel Guest Ranch are open to all experience levels.

They can even show you basic fishing techniques.

8. Aerial Tours

Seeing Montana by air is a really popular option for many visitors. Horizon Travel Yeti Aviation is one of the best companies in the Anaconda area for helicopter tours.

From Anaconda you’ll travel around southwest Montana and even into Yellowstone National Park . From the comfort of their state-of-the-art helicopters, you’ll enjoy seeing the beautiful Rocky Mountains from a completely different perspective.

Horizon Travel Yeti Aviation can also provide picnic lunches and stops at some of the most popular sites in Southwest Montana.

Discovery Ski Area offers a number of different lessons and guided skiing adventures for all levels of skiers and riders.

Most lessons at Discovery are half and full-day, though they do have some short 1.5-hour options in the mornings and afternoons.

If you aren’t bringing your own equipment, lesson and tour packages that include rental equipment and lift tickets are available as well.

10. Visit the Local Brewery

Anaconda, like many other towns in Montana, offers visitors a taste of the craft beer scene. Not all craft breweries are great, but Smelter City Brewing in Anaconda is one craft brewery you cannot miss.

Housed in an old bank building, the owners of Smelter City have taken a great deal of time and effort in restoring the historic building.

Smelter City offers a variety of rotating brews and flagship beers for you to enjoy. The brewery is kid and dog friendly. Oh, and our favorite feature is the merchandise store located in the old bank vault.

11. Discover Anaconda Visitor Center

If you are looking for plenty of information on Anaconda and the surrounding area, you’ll want to visit the Anaconda Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center .

Located in a replica of the town’s original railroad station, you’ll enjoy not only a wealth of information but also a beautiful train display. The Visitor’s center is located conveniently in downtown Anaconda, a perfect starting point for all of your local adventures.

Staff in the Visitor’s Center can provide helpful information on the best things to see and do in Anaconda, and they even have a very interesting video of the history of the area.

In the summer, check out the Anaconda Historic Bus tour, which provides a guided tour around Anaconda.

12. Take a Family Day Trip to Fairmont Hot Springs Resort

Fairmont Hot Springs Resort is a great place for the whole family to enjoy a little bit of fun and relaxation.

This resort is open year-round and offers a variety of great activities including a waterslide, four hot spring pools, golf, and tennis just to name a few.

Many people like to stay at the Fairmont Hot Springs Resort, but you don’t have to be staying there to enjoy all that the resort has to offer.

The Fairmont is known for its pool. They have two Olympic-sized lap pools and two mineral-soaking pools. The warm water in the soaking pools is purported to provide health benefits for a range of ailments.

The other amenity that the resort is known for is its 18-hole golf course. The “ Mile High, Mile Long ” 5 th hole on this course is particularly famous and is known to be one of the most challenging in the state of Montana.

The resort also offers a variety of dining and lodging options, making it a wonderful place to stay or visit when in the Anaconda area.

13. Timothy’s Memorial Chapel

Constructed on the hillside, 600 feet above Georgetown Lake is St. Timothy’s Chapel . This beautiful place of worship was built in 1965 by the Bowman Family in honor of their son who died in 1956 at the age of 18.

The chapel sits on the site of the Southern Cross ghost town near Anaconda. It was constructed of natural stone from the area, and plenty of clear and stained glass, making the chapel a perfect place to take in the glory of Montana’s natural beauty.

The Church at St. Timothy’s Chapel is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church, however, it is open to all visitors that wish to experience the beauty of the chapel and the views that it provides of the Rocky Mountains , the Continental Divide, Pintler Wilderness Area, and many of the surrounding 11,000 foot high peaks.

Sunday worship services are available mid-June through October at 11 AM.

14. Anaconda Country Club

If your visit to Anaconda needs to include some time on the links, then you’ll want to pay a visit to the Anaconda Country Club .

Located just outside of the town of Anaconda, this great golf course offers both 9-hole and 18-hole play, with a par 72 for 18-holes. It is important to point out that this course is only a 9-hole course, but you’ll play different tee-box sets for the ‘front’ and ‘back’ nine, giving the course a different challenge for each hole.

Mill Creek wanders through the course providing some additional challenges to play, along with 3 man-made ponds and a variety of challenging bunkers.

Anaconda Country Club also offers a driving range, putting and chipping greens, a well-stocked pro shop, and a great restaurant and bar for your 19 th hole adventures.

15. Visit Georgetown Lake

One of the most popular places in the Anaconda area for both locals and visitors is Georgetown Lake.

This beautiful lake is a popular spot for boating, fishing, camping, and even windsurfing. This 3,000-acre lake sits at 6,000 feet of elevation and is one of the most spectacular mountain lakes in Montana.

The lake is surrounded by amazing mountain ranges including the Flint Creek Range and the Pintler Range. If you’re into fishing, Georgetown Lake is not to be missed. The lake boasts some of the best Kokanee salmon and rainbow trout fisheries in Montana.

The lake is boat accessible, with four boat ramps. The lake is also open in the winter for ice fishing and snowmobiling.

16. Splurge on Dinner

While you’re in Anaconda, you’ll want to check out some of the local restaurants. The Barclay II Supper Club is one of the best in town and offers a more elegant dining option than many of the other restaurants in town.

The Barclay II Supper Club has been family-owned and operated for over 20 years. They offer a full 7-course meal with options such as steak, pasta, and seafood. The lounge offers a full bar and one of the most knowledgeable and friendly bartenders in town.

The Barclay II Supper Club is a local favorite and a stopping point for many of the visitors that return to Anaconda year after year. The atmosphere here is relaxed yet elegant, and the food is by far some of the best in Montana.

17. Seek Out Adventure

Pintler Adventures is the best place in Anaconda for folks that want to have an amazing adventure. Pintler Adventures is a rental provider that offers ATVs, UTVs, RVs, snowmobiles, and even watercraft like paddleboards, canoes, and kayaks.

Their experienced and knowledgeable staff can provide you with some of the best trails and sites to see in the Anaconda area. They even offer a limited number of guided tours.

18. Scrapbook House

Well, maybe you’re not into outdoor adventures, or maybe you need something to do while the rest of your crew is out playing golf or snowmobiling.

A great option in Anaconda is the Scrapbook Retreat House. This great spot provides a different type of getaway in Anaconda. Located west of historic downtown Anaconda, the Scrapbook House provides a wonderful spot for learning the art of scrapbooking, crafts, and art.

The Scrapbook House is a non-hosted retreat available for weekday or weekend stays and provides all of the scrapbooking supplies you might need.

19. Road Trip to the Pintler Veteran’s Memorial Scenic Highway

If you enjoy seeing the sights and want to have a great, relaxed drive, with amazing views, you’ll want to spend a day driving the Pintler Veteran’s Memorial Scenic Highway.

The drive takes you from Anaconda, 64-miles past Georgetown Lake, Philipsburg, and concludes in Drummond. Along the route, you’ll enjoy views of mountains and prairie, as you follow Flint Creek.

Many people choose this route when traveling to Butte and Missoula instead of driving I-90.

Free Things to Do in Anaconda, Montana

20. Copper Village Museum and Art Center

Free museums are a great adventure in many Montana communities. The Copper Village Museum and Art Center in Anaconda is a great free museum to check out.

Located in Anaconda City Hall Cultural Center, the museum features exhibits of heritage arts, history and traditions of the area, and Montana contemporary artists. In the City Hall Cultural Center, you can also visit the Marcus Daly Historical Society Museum and gift shop.

The exhibits in the Museum aren’t the only thing worth seeing at the Anaconda City Hall Cultural Center. The building itself was saved from demolition and carefully restored.

Today the building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

21. Anaconda Smoke Stack State Park

Constructed in 1919 and standing 585 feet tall, the smelter stack from Anaconda Copper Company is one of the tallest brick structures in the world.

The smelter stack is the last remnant of the Anaconda Copper Company that was once the center of life in Anaconda. When the smelter closed in 1980, most of the buildings were removed and the site became a superfund cleanup area, due to the contamination from heavy metals.

The stack is the only remaining structure from the smelter and is now listed on the National Register of Historic places.

Visitors to the State Park can view the stack from a distance at the viewing platforms located in Goodman Park. The Park also has plenty of interpretive signs that detail the mining history of the area, and the environmental clean-up challenges.

22. Washoe Park

Filled with beautiful gardens, mature shade trees, and plenty of places to relax and play, Washoe Park is a great spot to visit while in Anaconda.

The park has many typical features like a playground, tennis courts, a swimming pool, and even a duck pond. But it’s the features of this park that are unique that you really must see.

The Begonia House at Washoe Park was carefully restored by the Anaconda Garden Club and features many beautiful gardens.

There is also the Montana State Fish Hatchery, which is the oldest in Montana and is dedicated to developing populations of the cutthroat trout, the state fish of Montana.

Washoe Park also plays host to the annual Art in Washoe Park Festival. Considered to be one of the best art, culture, and food festivals in the state. You’ll enjoy juried art and craft booths from around the U.S. along with food and live entertainment.

Related Articles

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About The Author

Jason Gass is a Colorado based freelance writer and blogger whose goal is to share a good cup of coffee and great stories around a campfire with close friends. When he’s not working, he spends most of his time traveling, searching for the best breweries, and road-tripping in his teardrop trailer with his wife, daughter, and two dogs.

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Marvelous Montana: The Best Places To Visit In The Treasure State

Posted: November 21, 2023 | Last updated: November 21, 2023

Top spots in the Treasure State

Big Sky Country. The Treasure State. The Last Best Place. Whichever of these nicknames you use for Montana, you won’t be wrong. America’s fourth largest state by area – which has just been named in Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2024 as one of the world’s top regions for travelers – is a real Western wonder. With endless beautiful and intriguing places to explore, from national parks and other natural attractions to small towns, slick cities, and historic landmarks, what are you waiting for?

Click through to discover the very best spots to see in Montana right now...

Swaddled by the spectacular landscapes of the Beartooth Mountains and Custer Gallatin National Forest, this charming enclave calls itself a town and has the quaint, community feel of one, but it’s actually a small city. A Native American trading post frequented by cowboys and outlaws back in the 19th century, Red Lodge has since retained its Western-style architecture and reputation for warm hospitality.

Head downtown to sample the fruits of its locally-owned independent stores and farm-to-table restaurants, or visit Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary to support animals from the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem who are unable to live in the wild. 

Yellowstone National Park

While Wyoming is the state most synonymous with Yellowstone, Montana has two gateways into America’s oldest national park. The little tourist town of West Yellowstone is just a short drive from the West Entrance and will steer you right into the heart of this geothermal marvel.

West Yellowstone is fun to visit in its own right, with the must-see Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center promising close encounters with Greater Yellowstone animals who can’t live in the wild. Yellowstone’s North Entrance – the original way into the park – can be found in Gardiner and leads into the so-called ‘American Serengeti’ year-round, via the iconic Roosevelt Arch.

Beartooth Highway

Beginning just south of Red Lodge, the Beartooth Highway is a 68-mile All-American Road snaking through Montana’s highest mountain peaks and into the state of Wyoming. After crossing the border via Montana's Cooke City, the road climbs to reach Beartooth Pass (elevation: 10,947 feet) and enters Shoshone National Forest before arriving at the northeast entrance of Yellowstone National Park.

The scenic route, with its hairpin bends and sharp switchbacks, is typically open between May and October. Allow at least three hours for the total drive (not including photo stops).

Gallatin River

Known to the Shoshone Tribe as Cut-tuh-o-gwa (swift water), the Gallatin River was renamed after the Lewis and Clark Expedition arrived in Montana during the early 1800s. Around a quarter of the river falls within the northern tip of Yellowstone National Park, attracting hikers, fly fisherfolk, and watersports nuts with its astonishing beauty, as well as local bears, deer, and moose.

Downstream, the river rushes through the Gallatin Canyon and the Gallatin Valley, where the scenery effortlessly shifts from pine forests to cottonwoods and hay fields.

Medicine Rocks State Park

Listed in the National Register of Historic Places, Medicine Rocks State Park is filled with unusual sandstone formations that look like lumps and shards of dusty honeycomb. Shaped by the elements over millions of years, these unique rocks were deemed sacred by some Native American groups (such as the Crow, Northern Cheyenne, and Sioux peoples), who convened in their shadows for ceremonial and religious gatherings.

Called “as fantastically beautiful a place as I have ever seen” by Theodore Roosevelt when he visited as a boy, Medicine Rocks is still a captivating haven for nature lovers.

Bannack State Park

Bannack, a former boomtown near the border with Idaho, was Montana’s first territorial capital and the site of its first major gold strike in 1862. Within a year, the settlement’s population had ballooned to over 3,000, which was then followed by a gradual decline as gold became less valuable.

Now labeled the best preserved of all the state’s ghost towns, Bannack is something of an open-air museum, showcasing more than 50 original Old West buildings seemingly frozen in time. There are 28 campsites (including a tipi to rent) open for year-round overnight stays in the park too.

Fort Peck Lake

Soaking a swathe of Montana’s Missouri River Country, Fort Peck Lake (really a reservoir) is the state’s largest body of water. Its 1,520 miles of shoreline outnumbers the length of the Californian coast and is home to the Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge, populated by herds of mule deer, red foxes, mountain bluebirds, coyotes and so much more.

The lake was founded with a practical use in mind – to alleviate flooding, as well as post-Depression poverty by creating jobs – but has evolved into a hub of outdoor recreation.

Wrapped in blankets of trees on all sides, it’s no mystery how Missoula won its nickname. The ‘Garden City’ is uniquely situated within driving distance of five of Montana’s seven national forests; Lolo National Forest surrounds it entirely.

Within Lolo, visitors will find myriad walking and cycling trails sewn throughout the picturesque Rattlesnake and Blue Mountain National Recreation Areas – but there’s plenty to do indoors too. Missoula is a burgeoning university city; its downtown neighborhood and the so-called ‘Hip Strip’ are awash with music venues, cool art galleries, and coffee houses.

We can’t round up the most gorgeous places in Big Sky Country without mentioning Big Sky itself. Dramatic peaks crest all around this small town like rearing waves and wear whimsical names like Sphinx Mountain, Cinnamon Mountain, and Lone Mountain (pictured). Adrenaline-inducing winter sports and whitewater thrills are the main draws here, with the Big Sky Resort boasting some of the biggest skiing in the US.

While a sense of adventure is encouraged, it’s not mandatory to enjoy your time in Big Sky – just hit the Historic Crail Ranch Museum or the stores instead of the slopes.

Makoshika State Park

The name of Montana’s largest state park derives from the Lakota phrase meaning ‘bad earth’ or ‘bad spirit,’ relating to the harsh and inhospitable conditions of Montana’s eastern badlands. But life has been known to thrive in what is now Makoshika State Park; aside from the juniper and pine scrub that peppers its rocky landscape today, dinosaurs once roamed here.

At the park’s visitor center, you’ll find the fossilized remains of tyrannosaurus rex, triceratops, and even more prehistoric creatures. As well as archaeological wonders, Makoshika is laced with nature trails, scenic driving routes, and campsites. An open-air theater hosts an annual Shakespeare festival too.

Blackfoot Pathways: Sculpture in the Wild

This sculpture park in Lincoln features large-scale installations by Montana natives and international artists that celebrate Blackfoot Valley’s precious cultural, environmental, and industrial heritage. Carving through the western corner of the state, the Blackfoot Valley cradles a free-flowing river of the same name and has been inhabited by Native American peoples for at least 10,000 years.

One of the most striking pieces you can see at Blackfoot Pathways: Sculpture in the Wild is “Tree Circus” by Patrick Dougherty (pictured), created out of willow and alder wood.

Glacier National Park

Forming part of the Crown of the Continent – a Venn diagram of vast temperate ecosystems shared by Montana and the Canadian provinces of British Columbia and Alberta – Glacier National Park is a wilderness of alpine meadows, gleaming lakes, majestic valleys, and vanishing glaciers. It is vast, but we think hiking in the Many Glacier area is a particularly jaw-dropping introduction to exploring this national park.

Tripping the Going-to-the-Sun Road can’t be missed either; take an interpretive tour with Blackfeet-owned tribal business Sun Tours to fully understand the national park’s complex history.

First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park

Set within the High Plains, First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park is where Indigenous hunters used to kill herds of buffalo and bison by driving them over a sheer cliff. Believed to be the largest such jump in North America, this site was used for at least two thousand years and features a mile-long sandstone ledge where compacted bovid remains lie entombed beneath.

While this all might make you shudder, a single jump could feed, clothe and shelter the hunters’ people for a whole year, so they were necessary for survival.

Butte was once called the Richest Hill on Earth, owing to the abundant copper lodes that transformed it from a humble mining town on the slopes of the Continental Divide into Montana’s first major city. At the turn of the 20th century, Butte was the largest city west of the Mississippi and was also the biggest between San Francisco and Chicago for a considerable stretch of time.

Nowadays, while the copper boom has long since dwindled, the city remains a monument to its past – it contains one of the USA’s largest National Historic Landmark Districts and some fascinating museums that document its 1800s prime.

Bozeman is Montana’s other university city, which has been called “the most liveable place.” Combining ample opportunities for backcountry exploring and adventure sports with diverse festivals, farmers’ markets, theaters, cafes, and craft breweries, the growing town is keen to show off its experimental and eclectic vibe.

Spare some time for the Museum of the Rockies, an affiliate of the illustrious Smithsonian Institution and home to one of the country’s largest dinosaur collections, as well as exhibits on regional Native American culture and Western art. If that wasn’t enough, the planetarium and outdoor living-history sections will leave you equally entertained and educated.

Paradise Valley

If you’re visiting Bozeman, supplement your trip with a gorgeous 90-minute drive through the heart of Paradise Valley to the North Entrance of Yellowstone – the only way into the national park during the winter months. With the Absaroka mountain range to its eastern flank and the Gallatin range to the west, Paradise Valley offers some amazing outdoor experiences, including cross-country skiing, dude ranches, dog-sledding, ziplining, and river rafting.

Head to Chico Hot Springs, a spa resort that’s been in operation for over a century, to toast yourself up.

Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area

With one foot in Wyoming and the other in Montana, Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area boasts 17 miles of designated trails and spans over 120,000 acres in its entirety. The park has been touted as the state’s best-kept secret; pontoon boats can be rented and steered between the rugged canyon walls, while the visitor center at Fort Smith overlooks Yellowtail Dam and tells its origin story.

Named after Robert Yellowtail, leader of the Crow Nation, the dam siphoned the once-volatile Bighorn River into a serene lake that now forms the centerpiece of the park.

Kootenai Falls

The largest undammed falls in Montana (and one of the largest free-flowing falls in the American northwest), Kootenai Falls is certainly impressive. The rushing cascade sits on the sacred lands of the Kootenai Tribe, to whom the falls represent the center of the world.

Community members come here for spiritual guidance and direction from their ancestors. For visitors, this is a place to feel grounded and close to nature. Follow the forest trail from the parking lot down to the Swinging Bridge, which promises a great perspective of the falls if you’ve got a head for heights (and aren’t put off by the wobble).

Ross Creek Cedars

Ross Creek Cedars Scenic Area is a 100-acre grove of giant red cedar trees. Many tower above Kootenai National Forest as they have for the past thousand years, their striped trunks sentinels of the past.

Thriving in the shadows of the damp understory are mosses, mushrooms, hemlocks, and lichens, delighting nature lovers with their earthy perfume. For a gentle day hike through a closed canopy of ancient western cedars, follow the Ross Creek Trail 142; a shorter circular trail, lined with information boards and picnic benches, is ideal for families.

Swan Lake might be small in size compared to its neighbor Flathead Lake, but don't let that fool you – it belongs to a big-hearted community, softened and shaped by their connection to nature. The lake lends its name to a nearby town, established in the early 20th century to accommodate lumberjacks felling timber to build the Great Northern Railroad.

It has since grown around the lake, building a modest reputation for its sought-after fish stocks. Nestled among blue peaks and cozy forests, Swan Lake spawns a host of hiking trails and also holds its signature huckleberry festival annually, which has been going for over 40 years.

Whitefish Mountain Resort

Also borne out of the railway, Whitefish (adjacent to Glacier National Park) in northwest Montana was incorporated in 1905 and frequented by loggers, miners, and railroad workers in its early days. Now, there’s one main reason that people come in their droves to this compact city.

Whitefish Mountain Resort is renowned as one of the biggest and best ski spots in North America, featuring over 3,000 skiable acres. But contrary to what you might expect, it’s something of an all-seasons destination – when the powder melts, zipline tours, downhill mountain biking, and treetop walkways become the signs of summer.

Gates of the Mountains

Just north of Helena, Montana’s capital city, you’ll find the magical Gates of the Mountains. Split by the Missouri River, this bewildering limestone canyon has more than 28,000 acres of designated wilderness area named after it, where airy forests, high-altitude meadows, and slender gorges give a different flavor in every season.

It caught mainstream attention after Meriwether Lewis and William Clark passed through on their 8,000-mile journey across what was (in the early 19th century) an uncharted corner of the United States; those following the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail today will find this landmark a highlight of the route.

Humbug Spires

The wilderness study area of Humbug Spires relates to a swathe of peculiar rock formations that form part of the Boulder Batholith, where quartz monzonite shards have pushed up from beneath the surface of the Earth and calved jagged, shark-tooth-like peaks. Pristine and car-free, you’ll seldom see another soul on the trail here, which runs for three miles along Moose Creek and meanders through an old-growth forest.

A boon for rock climbers, the views of Big Sky Country from the spires are top tier.

Terry Badlands

The town of Terry in Montana’s Prairie County is your gateway to the Terry Badlands Wilderness Study Area and the stunning Big Sky Back Country Byway, which ends at Wolf Point on the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail. Its stark badlands are a striking departure from the snow-capped mountains and glacial lakes that most would associate with the Treasure State, comprising weathered escarpments of neatly banded sedimentary rock, fairy chimneys, and sandstone buttes.

The Terry Badlands are remote, but definitely worth the adventure – follow the Natural Bridges Trail for a punchy introduction to the park’s unique geology.

Located on the shores of Flathead Lake, in the midst of Montana’s Glacier Country, Bigfork has been called one of the best small art towns in America. This idyllic enclave may seem sleepy to those just passing through, but stay a while and you’ll discover a thriving community with creativity and curiosity at its core.

From outstanding art galleries to artisanal stores, coffee stops, and markets, Bigfork has a lot to offer within its tiny footprint. Annual celebrations like Bigfork Whitewater Festival and Bigfork Brewfest give the town even more excuses to demonstrate its gregarious spirit.

Flathead Lake

With water so clear in summer that you can see 20 feet into its depths, Flathead Lake is the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi River in the contiguous US and one of Montana’s best places for aquatic activities. Look out for the mysterious Flathead Lake Monster though, which has reportedly been sighted several times in the past 130 years. Note that the southern half of Flathead Lake rests on tribal land, so you’ll need to secure a recreation permit from the Confederated Salish and Kootenai peoples if you’re planning to spend time here.

Now discover the most mysterious place in every US state

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See the full list of past total solar eclipses in the U.S. since 1778

By Kerry Breen

Updated on: April 9, 2024 / 4:36 AM EDT / CBS News

A  rare total solar eclipse was visible in parts of the United States Monday. Those in the path of totality  had the opportunity to see the sun be fully covered by the moon for several minutes.

Total solar eclipses are rare , and aren't often visible from the U.S. The last time one occurred here  was in 2017 , and the U.S. won't see another until 2044 .

Here's a list of all the times a total solar eclipse has been recorded in the United States. 

Total solar eclipse in the U.S. during the 18th century

The first recorded total solar eclipse was in 1778, according to NASA , just a few short years after the United States became an independent country. The eclipse was visible from the Carolinas to New England, and was noted by historical figures like Thomas Jefferson, according to Mount Vernon , the museum established in former President George Washington's estate. Troops in Washington's army also noted the event. 

List of total solar eclipses in the U.S. during the 19th century

1806: The first total solar eclipse of the 1800s occurred in 1806, according to the National Parks Service . The path of that eclipse would have crossed from Arizona, through the Midwest and into New England, according to NASA . 

1869: The next total solar eclipse was recorded in 1869. The path of totality stretched from Alaska to the Carolinas, according to NASA . Photos of the event were published in Harper's Magazine, the service said, the first mass publication to do so. 

1878: The next total solar eclipse occurred in 1878, and the path of totality arced from Alaska through Louisiana, according to NASA . It was studied by an all-woman team of astronomers, according to the parks service, and Thomas Edison himself traveled to see the event, bringing scientific equipment to study the sun's corona during the eclipse. 

List of total solar eclipses in the U.S. during the 20th century

1900: The first eclipse of the 20th century was in 1900, according to the parks service. The path of totality of that eclipse brought it over Wadesboro, North Carolina.

1918: In June 1918, a total solar eclipse was visible from Washington to Florida, according to the parks service. It was the last time a total solar eclipse would be visible across the entire continent for nearly 100 years. 

1925: This was followed by another total solar eclipse in January 1925, which was visible from Minnesota through New England, according to NASA . 

1932: In August 1932, another total solar eclipse was visible in North America. The path of totality for this eclipse was mostly in Canada, according to NASA , but was visible in northern New England including parts of Vermont, Maine, New Hampshire and Massachusetts. 

1963: The next total solar eclipse in the U.S. wasn't until July 1963. This eclipse was visible in Alaska and parts of northern New England, according to NASA . 

1970: In March 1970, another total solar eclipse was visible from the coast of the Southwest United States. Watch CBS News coverage of that event in the video below:

1979: The last eclipse that NASA recorded in the 20th century took place in 1979. This eclipse was visible in the Pacific Northwest and parts of Idaho and the Dakotas, but the path of totality mostly arced through Canada. 

Total solar eclipses in the U.S. during the 21st century so far

Only two total solar eclipses have been visible from the United States during the 21st century. The first was the total solar eclipse of 2017 , which was visible across the country . This was the first time such an event had occurred since 1918, and millions gathered to watch . 

The April 8, 2024, eclipse was the next total solar eclipse visible in the U.S. The path of totality for this eclipse stretched from Texas to the Northeast. The eclipse started  on Mexico's Pacific coast at just after 11 a.m. PDT before traveling across the U.S. and into Canada. The eclipse left North America around 5:19 p.m. EDT. 

The eclipse attracted millions of spectators. Some areas where the event was most visible declared local states of emergency to account for the number of expected visitors. 

When will the next total solar eclipse be visible in the U.S.?

After the April 8 eclipse, the U.S. won't see another total solar eclipse for decades. The next total solar eclipse visible from the United States will occur in August 2044. 

Total solar eclipses typically happen every one to three years somewhere around the globe, but the events are often only visible from Earth's poles or from the middle of the ocean. 

Kerry Breen is a reporter and news editor at CBSNews.com. A graduate of New York University's Arthur L. Carter School of Journalism, she previously worked at NBC News' TODAY Digital. She covers current events, breaking news and issues including substance use.

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When is the next total solar eclipse in the US?

Mark your calendars for 2033.

Did you see the total solar eclipse?

If you were one of the lucky ones with cloudless skies on Monday (April 8), you might be hooked on eclipse chasing for the rest of your life. And if you were one of the unlucky ones stuck under clouds , well, there's always next time.

But when is that next time? If you're willing to travel abroad, not that long: two years and change. But if you want to stay in the U.S., you'll be waiting a while: nearly a decade.

" Solar eclipses happen every few years on the Earth , but the path of totality is only about 100 miles [160 kilometers] wide," Jason Steffen, associate professor of physics at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, told Space.com. "Two-thirds of the time, the path of totality will be over the oceans. So, it's not that eclipses are rare, but that it is rare that the eclipse passes nearby."

So, whether you've caught the eclipse bug or are still hoping to see your first-ever total solar eclipse,  here's what you need to know about the upcoming celestial events.

Related: Total solar eclipse 2024: Everything you need to know

You might've seen the year 2044 thrown around, and while it's true that there will be a total solar eclipse in the U.S. that year, there's actually one even sooner. 

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On March 30, 2033, a total solar eclipse will be visible in Alaska — remote Alaska, that is. The path of totality sweeps across the northwestern part of the state, from Utqiagvik (formerly known as Barrow) down to Nome, and totality will last about 2.5 minutes. Infrastructure is quite limited in this part of the state, so if you're planning to go, definitely be sure to book your accommodations in advance.

The next total solar eclipse visible from the Lower 48, however, is on Aug. 22, 2044. Totality will only be visible in three U.S. states: Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota. And while there's definitely more infrastructure in this part of the country than in remote Alaska, it's still a pretty sparsely populated area. Again, you'll want to make your travel plans as early as possible. What's unique about this eclipse, however, is the fact that it occurs around sunset — that will certainly make for gorgeous photography.

Then, just one year later, there will be another "Great American Total Solar Eclipse," which will be much more widely visible. On Aug. 12, 2045, totality will cross the entirety of the country, running from northern California to Florida. That event may be 21 years away, but we suspect it will stoke the same frenzy as this year's eclipse. Plus, August is typically better for total solar eclipses cloud-wise. 

"I prefer my total eclipses in August," tweeted meteorologist Jim Cantore , referring to the cloud coverage for this year's total solar eclipse.  

When (and where) is the next total solar eclipse in the world?

If you're too impatient to wait nine (or 20) years for the next total solar eclipse, you have plenty of options. The next total solar eclipse anywhere in the world will occur on Aug. 12, 2026, just slightly more than two years away. 

What's great about this eclipse is that totality will be visible from a place that's easy (and fun) to visit: Spain. The path of the eclipse cuts right through the northern half of the country, with totality falling between Barcelona and Madrid, and continuing on to the Balearic Islands. Though there are thousands of hotel rooms and vacation rentals in this region, August is peak tourist season in many parts of Spain, so it'll likely be fairly crowded.

Fortunately, the eclipse will also pass through some more remote locations that might appeal to intrepid eclipse chasers. It'll travel down the east coast of Greenland and make it all the way to Reykjavik, Iceland. But chances are the weather might be a little more cooperative along Spain's sunny Mediterranean Coast.

— When is the next solar eclipse?

— Solar eclipse viewing through history: A roundup of some of the best photos

— 10 things you probably didn't know about the 2024 total solar eclipse

When is the next annular eclipse or partial eclipse?

While partial and annular solar eclipses might not be as spectacular as total solar eclipses, they're still cool celestial events to witness. The next annular or "ring of fire" solar eclipse will occur later this year, on Oct. 2, and it'll be visible across a thin section of Chile and Argentina, as well as a few Pacific islands.

The next solar eclipse to hit the U.S. is the partial eclipse of March 29, 2025 , which will darken skies for observers in the nation's far northeastern reaches.  

Editor's Note: If you snapped an amazing solar eclipse photo and would like to share it with Space.com's readers, send your photo(s), comments, and your name and location to [email protected].

Join our Space Forums to keep talking space on the latest missions, night sky and more! And if you have a news tip, correction or comment, let us know at: [email protected].

Space.com contributing writer Stefanie Waldek is a self-taught space nerd and aviation geek who is passionate about all things spaceflight and astronomy. With a background in travel and design journalism, as well as a Bachelor of Arts degree from New York University, she specializes in the budding space tourism industry and Earth-based astrotourism. In her free time, you can find her watching rocket launches or looking up at the stars, wondering what is out there. Learn more about her work at www.stefaniewaldek.com .

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Your last-minute guide to Monday's total solar eclipse

A total solar eclipse will cross North America on Monday , offering millions a rare opportunity to see afternoon skies temporarily darken as the moon blocks the face of the sun.

Tune into NBC News NOW as Lester Holt hosts a two-hour special at 2 p.m. ET Monday from Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

The eclipse's path fortuitously cuts across Mexico, 15 U.S. states and a small part of eastern Canada. In all other states in the continental U.S., viewers will be treated to a partial solar eclipse, with the moon appearing to take a bite out of the sun and obscuring part of its light.

Here’s everything you need to know about the rare celestial event.

What is a solar eclipse?

Solar eclipses occur when the sun, moon and Earth align. The moon passes between Earth and sun, temporarily blocking the sun’s light and casting a shadow on Earth.

A total solar eclipse is when the moon fully obscures the sun, whereas a partial solar eclipse means it blocks just a portion of the sun’s face.

Solar eclipses occur only with the new moon. Because the moon’s orbit around Earth is tilted, the three bodies don’t always line up in a way that creates an eclipse.

“Imagine if the moon’s orbit were in the plane of Earth’s orbit around the sun — if that were the case, then every new moon, you’d have a total solar eclipse and every full moon, you’d have a lunar eclipse,” Neil DeGrasse Tyson, director of the Hayden Planetarium at the American Museum of Natural History, told NBC News. “So, because things don’t always align, it lends to the rarity of the event and the specialness of the event.”

Where and when will the eclipse be visible?

This year’s eclipse will follow a slightly wider path over more populated areas of the continental U.S. than other total solar eclipses have in the recent past.

NASA estimates that 31.6 million people live within what’s known as the path of totality, where the total solar eclipse will be visible. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path, according to the agency.

The path travels through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Tiny parts of Michigan and Tennessee will also be able to witness totality if conditions are clear.

After the eclipse crosses into Canada, it will pass over southern Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Cape Breton, at the eastern end of Nova Scotia.

Those outside the path of totality can still take part in the astronomical event by viewing a partial solar eclipse — visible throughout all 48 states of the contiguous U.S. — or a NASA livestream.

The timing, including how long totality lasts, depends on the location, but some spots will see the moon fully cover the sun for up to 4 minutes and 28 seconds.

Below is a list of timings for some cities along the path of totality, as  provided by NASA . A number of other resources, including NationalEclipse.com  and  TimeandDate.com , can also help people plan.

• Dallas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:23 p.m. CT and totality at 1:40 p.m.
• Little Rock, Arkansas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:33 p.m. CT and totality at 1:51 p.m.
• Cleveland: Partial eclipse begins at 1:59 p.m. ET and totality at 3:13 p.m.
• Buffalo, New York: Partial eclipse begins at 2:04 p.m. ET and totality at 3:18 p.m.
• Lancaster, New Hampshire: Partial eclipse begins at 2:16 p.m. ET and totality at 3:27 p.m.

How to safely view a solar eclipse

It is never safe to gaze directly at the sun, even when it is partly or mostly covered by the moon. Special eclipse glasses or  pinhole projectors  are required to safely view solar eclipses and prevent eye damage. Failing to take the proper precautions can result in severe eye injury,  according to NASA .

Eclipse glasses are thousands of times darker than normal sunglasses and specially made to enable wearers to look at the sun during these kinds of celestial events.

Sky-watchers should also never view any part of the sun through binoculars, telescopes or camera lenses unless they have specific solar filters attached. Eclipse glasses should not be used with these devices, as they will not provide adequate protection.

However, during the few minutes of totality, when the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to look with the naked eye.

Beware of fake eclipse glasses. On legitimate pairs, the lenses should have a silver appearance on the front and be black on the inside. The manufacturer’s name and address should be clearly labeled, and they should not be torn or punctured. Check, as well, for the ISO logo and the code “IS 12312-2” printed on the inside.

If you don’t have eclipse glasses, you can make a homemade pinhole projector, which lets sunlight in through a small hole, focuses it and projects it onto a piece of paper, wall or other surface to create an image of the sun that is safe to look at. 

All you need is two pieces of white cardboard or plain white paper, aluminum foil and a pin or thumbtack. Cut a 1- to 2-inch square or rectangle out of the center of a piece of white paper or cardboard. Tape aluminum foil over that cut-out shape, then use a pin or thumbtack to poke a tiny hole in the foil.

During the eclipse, place a second piece of white paper or cardboard on the ground as a screen and hold the projector with the foil facing up and your back to the sun. Adjusting how far you hold the projector from the second piece of paper will alter the size of the image on the makeshift screen.

What to look for while viewing the total solar eclipse

For people along the path of totality, there are some fun milestones to keep track of as the total solar eclipse unfolds.

As the eclipse progresses and the sun gets thinner in the sky, it will start to get eerily dark, according to Tyson.

When the last beams of sunlight are about to become obscured, look out for the “diamond ring effect”: The sun’s atmosphere will appear as an illuminated halo, and the last light still visible will look like the diamond of a giant ring.

As the sunlight decreases even further, an effect known as Baily’s beads will be created by the moon’s rugged terrain. Tiny “beads” of light will be visible for only a few seconds around the dark moon, as the last bits of sunlight peer through the moon’s mountains and valleys.

When the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to remove eclipse glasses and look at the total solar eclipse with the naked eye.

Some lucky sky-watchers may even catch a glimpse of a comet .

Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks — nicknamed the “ devil comet ” because an eruption last year left it with two distinct trails of gas and ice in the shape of devil horns — is currently visible from the Northern Hemisphere as it swings through the inner solar system.

The comet can be seen in the early evenings by gazing toward the west-northwest horizon. During the eclipse, when skies darken during totality, it may be possible to see the comet near Jupiter, but its visibility will depend on whether it’s in the middle of an outburst and thus brighter than normal.

Most likely, all eyes will be on the alignment of the moon and sun.

“Most people won’t even notice,” Tyson said. “But if you know to look, it’s there.”

When is the next solar eclipse?

The next total solar eclipse will be in 2026, but it will mostly pass over the Arctic Ocean, with some visibility in Greenland, Iceland, Portugal and northern Spain. In 2027, a total solar eclipse will be visible in Spain and a swath of northern Africa.

The next total solar eclipse visible from North America will be in 2033, but only over Alaska. Then in 2044, a total solar eclipse will cross Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, parts of Canada and Greenland.

The next total solar eclipse to cross the continental U.S. coast-to-coast in will occur in 2045. The path of totality for that eclipse will cut through California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Georgia and Florida.

Denise Chow is a reporter for NBC News Science focused on general science and climate change.

Lucas Thompson is a content producer for the NBC News Climate Unit.