Montana — “Big Sky Country” — is a state of sweeping mountains, turquoise alpine lakes, historic frontier towns and world-class national parks. This ultimate guide highlights the top 10 tourist attractions you shouldn’t miss, plus when to go, how to get around, and insider tips to make the most of your trip.

1. Glacier National Park — the crown jewel

Why go: Glacier is famous for jagged peaks, turquoise glacial lakes (like Lake McDonald and Grinnell), abundant wildlife, and the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road — one of America’s most scenic drives. Hike to Hidden Lake Overlook, Iceberg Lake, or take a boat on Swiftcurrent or Lake McDonald. Plan and reserve ahead during summer months. National Park Service

Top tips: Arrive early for parking, consider park shuttles/permits, and pack layers — mountain weather changes fast.

2. Yellowstone National Park (Montana side)

Why go: Although most famous features sit in Wyoming, Yellowstone’s north and west entrances open from Montana (Gardiner, West Yellowstone gateway). Expect geothermal wonders, wildlife (bison, elk, bears), and dramatic sights like the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone and the Old Faithful area. Use Montana gateway towns as bases for exploration. National Park Service

Top tips: Drive slowly during dawn/dusk for wildlife viewing; check road and boardwalk closures around hydrothermal areas.

3. Flathead Lake & Whitefish

Why go: Flathead Lake is the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi — perfect for boating, swimming, and lakeside towns. Nearby Whitefish offers a charming mountain town feel and Whitefish Mountain Resort (skiing in winter, hiking/lifts in summer). Great family-friendly and water-focused getaway. Visit The USA

Top tips: Rent a boat or kayak, sample local huckleberry treats (a Montana specialty), and time visits for calmer lake conditions.

4. Big Sky Resort & Lone Peak adventures

Why go: Big Sky delivers both winter thrills (skiing, snowboarding) and summer adventure (hiking, mountain biking, scenic lift rides). Lone Peak and the alpine terrain provide dramatic vistas and outdoor variety for all skill levels. visitbigsky.com

Top tips: Book lift tickets and summer tours early; if you’re not skiing, take the scenic lift for panoramic views.

5. Beartooth Highway — one of America’s best drives

Why go: The Beartooth Highway (U.S. 212) climbs to alpine passes with sweeping vistas, wildflower meadows and glacier-fed lakes. It’s a must for road-trip lovers and photographers. Combine with a visit to nearby Yellowstone or Red Lodge.

Top tips: The road is seasonal (usually open late spring–fall), check conditions before you go and allow plenty of photo stops.

6. Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument

Why go: A powerful historic site where the 1876 Battle of Little Bighorn took place. The visitor center and interpretive trails explain the people and events behind this important moment in American and Native American history.

Top tips: Combine with broader cultural visits in southeastern Montana and be respectful — the site is sacred to many.

7. Museum of the Rockies & the Montana Dinosaur Trail

Why go: Bozeman’s Museum of the Rockies has an outstanding dinosaur fossil collection and rotating exhibits on Montana’s natural and cultural history. It’s a great stop for families and science lovers. The museum connects with the broader Montana Dinosaur Trail for fossil-hunting history across the state. Visit The USA

Top tips: Check exhibit schedules and allow 2–3 hours for the museum.

8. Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park

Why go: One of the state’s most dramatic cave systems, Lewis and Clark Caverns offers guided tours through limestone formations and accessible boardwalks for an underground adventure.

Top tips: Tour schedules vary seasonally — reserve spots during peak months.

9. Historic Virginia City & Nevada City

Why go: Step back to Montana’s gold-rush era in these well-preserved frontier towns. Today they host living-history events, saloons, historic buildings and a taste of Old West charm.

Top tips: Perfect for a relaxed day exploring museums, shops, and photo ops — great for history buffs.

10. Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center (West Yellowstone) & wildlife viewing

Why go: If you want up-close but safe wildlife observation, the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center rehabilitates and houses grizzly bears and wolves while educating visitors about conservation. For wild sightings, book guided wildlife tours near Yellowstone or in Glacier outskirts.

Top tips: Respect wildlife distance rules; guided tours increase chances of ethical viewing.

Best time to visit Montana

  • Summer (June–September): Peak season for Glacier, Flathead Lake and scenic drives — long days and warm temps. Expect crowds in July–August. National Park Service

  • Fall (September–October): Fewer crowds, crisp air, fall colors, and wildlife activity. Some high roads may close.

  • Winter (Dec–Mar): Ski season in Big Sky and Whitefish; quieter in national parks but many roads and facilities close.

  • Spring (April–May): Shoulder season — fewer tourists but variable weather and some attractions still closed.

Suggested 7–10 day Montana itinerary (road-trip friendly)

Day 1–2: Fly into Kalispell or Glacier Park Intl — explore West Glacier / Going-to-the-Sun Road.
Day 3: Hike Many Glacier area or take a boat on Lake McDonald.
Day 4: Drive to Whitefish / Flathead Lake — evening in Whitefish.
Day 5–6: Head south to Big Sky — Lone Peak scenic ride and activities.
Day 7–8: Beartooth Highway into Yellowstone (north entrance at Gardiner) — explore Yellowstone highlights.
Day 9–10: Bozeman (Museum of the Rockies) and historic Virginia City before departure.

Adjust for pace and seasons — many visitors swap order depending on park access and lodging availability. National Park Service

Travel tips & practical info

  • Reservations & permits: Glacier and Yellowstone can require planning for lodging, shuttles, and some permits. Book campsites and in-park lodging months ahead in summer. National Park Service

  • Getting around: A car is essential for exploring Montana’s wide-open spaces and scenic byways. Roads in remote areas may be unpaved — a high-clearance vehicle helps.

  • Wildlife safety: Keep at least 100 yards from bears and wolves; use bear spray while hiking in bear country and follow NPS safety guidelines. National Park Service

  • Connectivity: Cell service is spotty in many park and mountain areas — download maps and carry physical backups.

  • Packing: Layers, sturdy hiking boots, sun protection, and a refillable water bottle are musts.

Quick resources & official pages

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