There are many things to do in Montana, thanks to its diverse terrain. Being a ‘Mountain State,’ visitors should expect nothing but a good day outdoors, with the Rocky Mountains serving as their eager host.
Exploring the wild side of the Treasure State is the most thrilling experience a traveler can have. The lakes are pristine, the mountain ranges are inviting, and the rivers are rich, all working together for the nature lover’s satisfaction. The state is proud of Glacier and Yellowstone National Parks, and they should check them out when visiting for the first time. The state also has pockets of paradise: those lesser-known towns that offer relaxation and rejuvenation. In Montana, treasures abound and can be kept in the heart.
10 Whitefish
Whitefish is located at the edge of Glacier National Park, making it the perfect place for wild adventures. This vibrant town is proud of its lush forests and fine waterways, offering tourists ideal outdoor moments. Whatever the season, Whitefish always delivers. The national park is where hikers and bikers can fill their cup of adventure, while those who want something mellow can stroll along with the town's welcoming state parks. Wherever in Whitefish, the catch is always good.
9 Lewistown
Located in the heart of Montana, Lewistown is the perfect spot to take in all the awe-inspiring surroundings. From the towering mountains to the pristine streams, the wild side is always busy in this town. To find their center, tourists just need to be in Lewistown. Fishers are in for a treat because the town has Ackley Lake and Big Spring Creek, while hikers can busy themselves reaching falls, ice caves, and overlooks. History buffs need not worry, too, because this Montana destination has ghost towns, a museum, and the Bear Gulch Pictographs, all ready to be explored. Whatever floats a tourist's boat, Lewistown got them covered.
8 Hamilton
Hamilton is one busy town as it's the county seat of Ravalli, and also an agricultural trading place. The area is surrounded by a rich valley where small farms, orchards, and ranches abound. With such, tourists are assured of landscapes that spell relaxation. Popular attractions that should not be missed include the Ravalli County Museum and Daly Mansion. Meanwhile, those who want to be with Mother Nature can explore Bitterroot National Forest and fish on its river, dip in Lake Como, or enjoy the peace of Kiwanis Park. Hamilton knows how to serve guests.
7 Polson
Polson is perfectly located along Flathead Lake, the largest natural freshwater lake in the western United States. With such a wonderful waterway, a splashing good time is always possible in this Montana town. Over at the rushing Flathead River, tourists can be more adventurous by trying whitewater rafting. For a more relaxed activity, travelers can watch bison, deer, sheep, antelope, and elk at the National Bison Range. This vibrant town is hospitable, and rightly so because it has a lot to offer.
6 Philipsburg
Philipsburg is teeming with lakes and reservoirs, so paddlers and fishers just need to choose which one of the 75 will they meet. This town is rich in mineral deposits so one interesting activity tourists should try is panning. It might be their lucky day if they can score a sapphire. Aside from exploring national parks, travelers can also visit ghost towns and check out gemstone mines. After a busy day of sightseeing and panning, tourists must drop by the local-favorite Sweet Palace, perfect for those with a sweet tooth. Philipsburg might as well be the gem that everyone’s looking for.
5 Fort Benton
Fort Benton is nicknamed the “Birthplace of Montana,” and was once among the “prettiest towns in America.” It has a lot to be proud of, so it’s a must-visit for lovers of history and nature. Aside from museums, other sites that can be explored include the Baker House, the historic districts, and the Lewis and Clark Memorial. For outdoor fun, there's the Upper Missouri River and the Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument. Fort Benton is indeed a place of discovery.
4 Livingston
Livingston is located near the Yellowstone National Park and the Yellowstone River, so tourists dropping by this town should expect nothing but picturesque spots. Adventure awaits on the area's streams, where anglers can score trout. Rafters, meanwhile, should be ready to conquer Yellowstone's rapids. Those with creative souls can visit museums and art centers where they can spend their day learning while having fun. Livingston knows how to represent its name because in this town, even staring at the mountain ranges is full of life.
3 Anaconda
The Pintlers act like a guardian for Anaconda, all the while showing off its majesty. The Anaconda Range might be the town’s most famous scenery, but it's proud of many other things. Georgetown Lake is ready to be a boater or paddler's playground, while those who want to take it slow can visit Washoe Park. Bikers can have fun along Twin Lakes Road, and hikers can conquer the trails of Lost Creek Falls. Anaconda is teeming with surprises, from the center of the town to the smiles of the locals.
2 Choteau
Choteau is like a gateway to the wilderness because it's near the Rocky Mountains, Lewis and Clark National Forest, Flathead National Forest, and Glacier National Park. It’s one lucky town and yet less traveled. Maybe that’s what makes it special, and a must-visit. The wilderness that surrounds it creates an artwork only those in Choteau can see. When tourists explore the attractions through hiking, wildlife viewing, and horseback riding, they'll be hugged by Mother Nature’s best. That’s Choteau: where being one with nature is always within grasp.
1 Red Lodge
Unmatched outdoor experiences await in Red Lodge. Its location near Beartooth Mountain and being surrounded by Custer Gallatin National Forest make the town an adventurer's home away from home. Right from the beautiful Beartooth Highway, travelers will already know that Red Lodge means business. There's so much to do from llama rides and horseback riding to hiking and climbing. Add into the mix fishing, rafting, and the usual sightseeing, and tourists will have a Montana getaway that’s one for the books.