Montana has mesmerizing landscapes only found in limited other areas in North America. This breathtaking state has a particular taste that can only be appreciated by visiting, from massive headframes still visible in mining communities to enchanting glaciated lakes. However, visitors shall beware: once they have seen Montana's magnificent wide-open panorama and amazing wild adventure, they will find it challenging to live elsewhere. It also has some of the country's largest wilderness areas and vast national forest areas. If tourists are one of the lucky people who will be sightseeing in Montana, they shall stop at any of these beautiful locations. Here are the best ten places to visit in Montana for first-timers.
10 Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park, or the "Crown of the Continent Ecosystem," is a large natural paradise in Montana's northern corner. Exceptional wildlife animals, including endangered and rare creatures, may be found in this nature lover's heaven, which offers a wide range of outdoor experiences. Tourists can hike the splendid trails and explore the environment that embraces them. If they do not have enough time for a walk, a scenic drive along the famous Going to the Sun Road will allow them to view many of the park's most beautiful sights.
9 Whitefish
Whitefish is an astonishing outdoor recreation hub and was voted one of National Geographic's Top 25 Ski Towns Worldwide. It is located along the shores of the gorgeous Whitefish Lake. Its Mountain Resort is regarded as one of the most incredible places to go skiing for a reasonable price on unique slopes with beautiful mountain scenery with superb beginner and expert territory. Visitors may enjoy boating, bicycling, and hiking once the shimmering snow has melted, as well as live professional theater and superb cuisine.
8 Butte
Butte offers an authentic Montana experience and is a magical spot to explore. The city, formerly known as the "Richest Hill on Earth," has a lengthy history in the mining sector, which can still be seen on the roads today. It has one of the country's biggest National Historic Landmark Districts and several exceptional museums, as well as trolley excursions of its historical landmarks. Butte, surrounded by spectacular mountain ranges, provides thrilling snowmobiling, skiing, trout fishing, fantastic hiking, golf courses, and even relaxation in fabulous hot springs.
7 Helena
The beautiful Helena is Montana's capital, and its prominent attractions provide a great reflection of the state's present and past. The fantastic city, a combination of ancient and contemporary, had preserved many of the old attractions and buildings that made it famous during the post-gold rush period when it was a refuge for those who struck it big.
6 Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park
Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park is Montana's earliest and most well-known state park, including one of the Northwest's most extensive limestone caverns. They are lined with helicities, stalactites, stalagmites, and columns illuminated by electric lights and provide cool natural relief from the summer heat. The park also has picnic spaces, cabin rentals, campgrounds, a visitor center, hiking trails, and an amphitheater.
- Opening period: Guided tours are offered from May 1 to September 30.
5 West Yellowstone
West Yellowstone town, located just outside Yellowstone National Park's West Entrance, serves as a magnificent gateway to the park. In the summer, it's a great place to go river rafting, four-wheeling, fly fishing, hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking. While in the winter, it's a perfect area to go cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. Tourists will find marvelous shopping stores and various restaurants along West Yellowstone's promenades.
4 Fort Benton
The whole town of Fort Benton was designated a National Historic Landmark because of its fascinating, rich history. Tourists can see its past exhibited throughout its streets, especially in the magnificent Heritage Complex on the Missouri River's banks, where the ancient fort shares territory with several other museums. Outdoor art exhibits may be seen along the old riverboat levee, and the historic town's art galleries, boutiques, theaters, and superb cafes perfectly blend the present with the past.
3 Flathead Lake
Flathead Lake is a massive body of water known for its bewitching flat surface and excellent fishing circumstances. The coastlines are lined with a number of public access spots and boat ramps, including several Flathead Lake State Park units. The cleverly titled Wild Horse Island is one of this state park's most challenging sections. This lake's main island is still home to marvelous wild horses. Kayak rentals, ferries, and powerboat rentals are available on the west side of the lake on the island.
2 Virginia City
Virginia City was previously the interior Northwest's most populous city. There are various opportunities to experience what this astonishing place was like in its halcyon days, like riding a train or even getting aboard an old-fashioned carriage, thanks to the city's popularity. Before movies and television, tourists may see the famed Virginia City Players play melodrama and vaudeville in the exceptional opera house, which is still the most popular entertaining form.
1 Missoula
Missoula is nicknamed the "Garden City" because of its hypnotic green terrain and thick trees. It provides a ton of outdoor adventure activities, including kayaking, boating, fishing, hiking, biking in the summer, and skiing and snowshoeing in the winter. It is nestled within the lofty Rocky Mountains and surrounded by outstanding beauty, including the three amazing rivers and seven great wilderness areas. It's also among the best cultural centers in the state.