TOP DESTINATION SPOTS IN MONTANA
Montana is a state of natural wonders, where you can experience the beauty and diversity of its landscapes, wildlife, history and culture. Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, education or entertainment, Montana has something for everyone. Here are some of the top destination spots in Montana that you should not miss.
Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park is one of the most spectacular places in the world, with 26 glaciers, 762 lakes, 563 streams, hundreds of species of animals and thousands of species of plants. You can explore the park by hiking, biking, driving, boating or taking a guided tour. Some of the highlights include Going-to-the-Sun Road, a 50-mile scenic drive that crosses the Continental Divide; Trail of the Cedars to Avalanche Lake, a easy hike that leads to a stunning lake surrounded by mountains; Grinnell Glacier Trail, a moderate hike that offers views of glaciers, waterfalls and wildlife; and Highline Trail, a challenging hike that follows the edge of the Continental Divide. Glacier National Park is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a Biosphere Reserve.
Flathead Lake
Flathead Lake is the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi River, covering almost 200 square miles and with 185 miles of shoreline. The lake is known for its clear water, scenic islands and abundant fish. You can enjoy various water activities on the lake, such as swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, fishing or cruising. You can also visit Wild Horse Island, a state park that is home to bighorn sheep, mule deer and a small band of wild horses. For accommodations, you can stay at Flathead Lake Lodge, an all-inclusive dude ranch that offers horseback riding, mountain biking, tennis, golf and more.
Big Sky Resort
Big Sky Resort is one of the largest ski resorts in the country, with more than 5,850 acres of skiable terrain and 4,350 feet of vertical drop. The resort boasts some of the best skiing and snowboarding in Montana, with trails for all levels of ability and experience. You can also try other winter activities at the resort, such as dog-sledding, snowshoeing, sleigh rides or zip-lining. In the summer, you can enjoy hiking, biking, golfing, rafting or fishing. Big Sky Resort offers a variety of lodging options, from luxury hotels and ranches to vacation homes and condos.
Museum of the Rockies
Museum of the Rockies is a Smithsonian-affiliated museum in Bozeman that features one of the largest collections of dinosaur fossils in the world. You can see more than 300 specimens from different eras of prehistory, including Tyrannosaurus rex, Triceratops and Stegosaurus. The museum also has exhibits on Montana’s history and culture, such as Native American artifacts, pioneer homesteads and western art. In addition, the museum has a planetarium that shows educational and entertaining shows about astronomy and space exploration.
World Museum of Mining
World Museum of Mining is a unique museum in Butte that preserves and showcases the mining heritage of Montana. The museum is located on the site of an actual mine that operated from 1880 to 1980. You can tour the underground mine and see how miners worked and lived in harsh conditions. You can also visit the recreated mining town that features more than 50 buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. You can see how people shopped, went to school, attended church and enjoyed entertainment in the mining era.