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10 Best Things to Do in Montana

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The mountains of Montana have an abundance of gold and silver since the substantial deposits were found in the mid-1800s. But aside from the treasure found in this state, it is a treasure in itself. Discover, explore, and relax! Here are the best things to do in Montana.

1. Trek to the Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park Mountains
Source: Glacier National Park | Getty Images/Ershov_Maks

Do you want to experience outdoor fun? Visit Glacier National Park, or Montana’s well-loved wilderness area, in the Rocky Mountains! It has glacier-carved peaks and valleys that run to the Canadian border. The best time of year to trek to the Glacier National Park is during the Summer Season (July, August, and September) as the higher elevations of the Going-to-the-Sun Road may be blocked with snow during winter. Trust that you’ll get the most spectacular view of the planet. Your eyes will be lost in the park’s millions of acres of forests, meadows, and lakes.

2. Purchase a Pass to See the Flathead Lake

Flathead Lake
Source: Flathead Lake | Pinterest

Speaking of lakes – you should definitely see the Flathead lake! As long as we’re talking about the best things to do in Montana, this destination will always make the cut. Flathead Lake is the largest natural freshwater lake (200 square miles of water) west of the Mississippi River. It may be hard finding a lake as clear and clean as this one. The lake is clear because it is low in phosphorus and nitrogen, which promotes the growth of algae. You can find many native bull and cutthroat trouts in this lake, as well as yellow perch and lake whitefish.

The recreationists are required to purchase a tribal recreation permit, so make sure you purchase a pass through the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Online before you go.

3. Appreciate the Epic Vistas at Logan Pass

The highest point on the Going-to-the-Sun Road is none other than the “Logan Pass.” It is just located along the Continental Divide in Glacier National Park and was named after Major Willian R. Logan, the very first superintendent of the park. The place is home to alpine plants, wildflowers, and glacier lilies, but you can also see grizzly bears or mountain goats along the way. Hike your way to the top or drive around by car. Either way, you better be ready for the epic vistas that await.

Tips:

  • You can get information on hiking trails at the visitor center at the top of Logan Pass.
  • Heavy crowds are usually seen during the summer season.
  • Pack snacks and drinks as there are no stores available.

4. Go Skiing at the Whitefish Mountain Resort

Whitefish Mountain Resort
Source: Whitefish Mountain Resort

The Whitefish Mountain Resort is a perfect place to ski and simply have fun. The top offers stunning views of the Flathead National Forest and Glacier National Park, and you can expect a lot of year-round activities. If you don’t want to ski, you can try a lot of other activities. There’s a new one you can do in your every visit. For instance, you can try the alpine slides, strider bike park, summer tubing, mountain biking, zip line tours, and more.

5. Hike to the Grinnell Glacier

Grinnell Glacier
Source: Grinnell Glacier | Earth Trekkers

No photo could give justice to the beauty of hiking to the Grinnell Glacier. There is no exaggeration when we say it’s one of the best in the world! Grinnell Glacier has it all: the emerald green lakes, wildflowers, wildlife, alpine views, and glacier. What more can you ever ask for?

Facts about the Hike

  • Elevation Gain: 1600 ft. (strenuous)
  • Hiking Time: 5 to 7 hours (round-trip hike from the main trailhead on Continental Divide Trail)
  • Distance: 10.6 miles

You can also take the boat across Swiftcurrent Lake and Lake Josephine if you want to shorten the hike.

6. Take a Relaxing Soak at Boiling River

Boiling River in Yellowstone National Park
Source: Boiling River | Full Suitcase

The Boiling River isn’t exactly boiling, but it is a large hot spring with the perfect temperature of the water that’s comfortable enough to bathe in. If you are stressed and you want to cool off some tension, soaking in the warm water and appreciating the beauty of Yellowstone would be a delight.

Note: Skinny-dipping isn’t allowed here!

7. Have a Well-Deserved Me Time at Bowman Lake

Make your way to Bowman Lake and see the mountain peaks that seem to mirror and match on either side of its reflection. It is frequented by visitors for being too picturesque for words. The summertime swims, as well as the sunrise and sunset, are also phenomenal. If you’re going here, you better bring a map. There is little to no cell service on the way to Bowman Lake.

8. Seek Wisdom at the Garden of One Thousand Buddhas

Garden of One Thousand Buddhas
Source: Ewam Garden of One Thousand Buddhas

The Garden of One Thousand Buddhas was originally established as an international center for peace in 2000. The statuary is arranged in such a way that it forms the “wheel of dharma.” This wheel represents the “Noble Eightfold Path” that encompasses the eternal cycle of life, death, and rebirth. This place is not just a public park or a botanical garden.

This is a sacred place that helps people of all faiths to find or awaken their inner qualities of joy, compassion, and wisdom. Evidently, a must-visit.

9. Check out Medicine Rocks State Park

Want to visit a place that’s full of history, culture, and beautiful topography? Obviously, you can look no further because the 330-acre Medicine Rocks State Park is the answer! Once you hike or camp in this place, there’s no other thought that would cross your mind except, “This is really one of the best things to do in Montana!”

What you should know:

  • Be careful not to vandalize the site by carving into the rocks.
  • This state park is open all year round.
  • There are 12 camping spots you can go to which will allow you to stay between 14 and 30 days.
  • Some of the rock towers are over 80 feet high.

10. Shop at the Montana Gems of Philipsburg

Montana Gems of Philipsburg
Source: Montana Gems of Philipsburg | Hilton Suggests

Indeed, the only way you can complete your vacation is to do some little shopping! But when in Montana, why not combine treasure hunting with great Montana outdoors? Montana Gems of Philipsburg offers a wonderful selection of jewelry, including gem dirt from the Yogo sapphire mine.

Other activities: 

  • You can mine for Montana sapphires here using the outdoor running water flume.
  • You can get dirty and try tock hunting.
  • They can work with you to create a custom-design jewelry that fits your style and budget.

What’s your favorite activity? Share it with us in the comments below.

A writer big on nature, travel, and dogs. If you can't find Errot with her furry pal, then she's probably out exploring.

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