18 Things to Do in Montana

Spanning a vast 147,040 square miles, Montana stands as the fourth-largest state in the U.S., offering a spectacle of natural grandeur, including the iconic Glacier National Park and Yellowstone. Beyond these renowned landmarks, you'll find Flathead Lake—the most sizable natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi—and an array of towering peaks that exceed 9,600 feet in elevation, crafting a skyline that's nothing short of majestic.

As a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, Montana presents a rich tapestry of activities ranging from hiking trails woven through pristine landscapes to the adrenaline rush of skiing down powder-covered slopes. For those with an affinity for history and culture, the state serves as a living museum chronicling the legacy of its Native American tribes, while its sprawling, open spaces, bolstered by one of the lowest population densities in the nation, offer a serene escape from the bustle of crowded destinations.

1. Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park, largely sprawled across Wyoming, touches Montana with a mere 3% of its area yet hosts three key gateways for explorers. If your journey begins at the park's north entrance, you will encounter the Mammoth Hot Springs, striking terraced formations created by limestone dissolved and re-deposited by the acidic thermal waters emerging from deep underground chambers. To the west, in West Yellowstone, scenic geyser basins beckon.

In contrast, the northeast entrance offers a path to the famed Lamar Valley, a prime spot for wildlife viewing, including grizzly and black bears, bison, and wolves. Known for its ensemble of natural elements, visitors often describe their encounters with the park as an awe-inspiring interaction with nature's artistry.