With its sweeping plains, majestic Rocky Mountains, and pristine national parks like Glacier and Yellowstone, Montana allows people to escape into nature. But, what is Montana known for? Whether you’re considering renting a home in Helena, looking to settle into a charming apartment in Red Lodge, or just planning a visit, you’ll soon find that this state has much more to offer than meets the eye. In this article, we’ll explore what makes Montana special and why so many are proud to call it home. Let’s jump in.
1. Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park, located in the northern Rocky Mountains, is known for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. The park features over 700 miles of hiking trails, including the popular Highline Trail, which offers views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Visitors can drive the Going-to-the-Sun Road, a scenic route that crosses the Continental Divide and provides access to many of the park’s highlights. Because of Glacier’s pristine lakes, such as Lake McDonald, and its iconic glaciers, it’s a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers.
2. Bison burger
The bison burger is a staple in Montana’s culinary scene. Local ranches often source the meat for these burgers, and many restaurants across the state feature them. Places like Ted’s Montana Grill in Bozeman and The Montana Club in Missoula offer expertly crafted bison burgers, often topped with regional ingredients like huckleberry sauce. While visiting Montana, make sure take time to try one of these delicious burgers.
3. Big Sky Resort
Big Sky Resort in southwestern Montana is a premier destination for winter sports enthusiasts. The resort has over 5,800 skiable acres and some of the longest vertical drops in North America. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, you can enjoy snowshoeing, zip-lining, and scenic tram rides to the summit of Lone Peak. During the summer months, the resort transforms into a hub for mountain biking, hiking, and fly-fishing, making it an all-season destination for outdoor adventure.
4. Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park
Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park is home to one of the most impressive limestone caverns in the Northwest. The guided tours take visitors through a series of spectacular underground rooms adorned with stalactites, stalagmites, and other unique formations. Also above ground, the park offers hiking trails, a campground, and interpretive displays about the caverns’ geology and history.
Fun facts Montana is famous for
- Dinosaur fossils: Montana is a hotspot for paleontologists. Paleontologists have discovered numerous dinosaur fossils throughout the state, including the largest Tyrannosaurus rex ever found.
- Yogo sapphires: Montana produces Yogo sapphires, some of the highest quality sapphires in the world. These rare gems are known for their brilliant blue color and clarity.
- Largest landlocked state: Covering over 147,000 square miles, Montana is the largest landlocked state in the U.S.
5. Gold rush towns
Virginia City and Nevada City are two of Montana’s best-preserved gold rush towns. These towns offer guests a fascinating glimpse into the state’s 19th-century history. While here, you can walk along the wooden boardwalks, explore historic buildings, and experience live reenactments that bring the Old West to life. Additionally, you can attend the annual Virginia City Summer Festival. This event features music, parades, and historical tours, celebrating the rich heritage of these iconic towns.
6. Yellowstone National Park
While Yellowstone National Park spans three states, its Montana section offers some of the park’s most spectacular sights. The park’s geothermal features, including Mammoth Hot Springs create a surreal landscape. Wildlife such as bison, elk, and grizzly bears roam freely, providing excellent opportunities for wildlife photography. Because of Yellowstone’s dramatic landscapes, from the Yellowstone River to the lush Lamar Valley, it’s a must-see destination in Montana.
7. Beartooth Highway
Many consider the Beartooth Highway one of the most scenic drives in America. The highway winds its way through the Beartooth Mountains between Red Lodge and Yellowstone National Park. This 68-mile route reaches elevations of nearly 11,000 feet with breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, and glacial lakes. Also, the highway is a favorite for motorists, cyclists, and photographers seeking to capture the stunning landscapes.
8. Great Falls
Great Falls has an impressive series of five waterfalls along the Missouri River, which Lewis and Clark famously navigated during their expedition. The city’s River’s Edge Trail offers scenic views of these falls and the surrounding landscape, perfect for hiking and biking. If you’re hoping to learn more about the area’s history, the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center provides in-depth exhibits about the explorers’ journey.
9. Garden of One Thousand Buddhas
The Garden of One Thousand Buddhas in Arlee is a serene and spiritual destination. This sacred site features a stunning arrangement of one thousand hand-cast Buddha statues, surrounding a central figure of Yum Chenmo, the Great Mother. The garden serves as a center for peace and enlightenment, promoting Tibetan Buddhist teachings and practices. Patrons can walk the peaceful grounds, meditate, and enjoy the surrounding beauty of the Jocko Valley, making it a unique and tranquil retreat.
10. Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument
Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument, located in southeastern Montana, commemorates the site of the infamous Battle of Little Bighorn in 1876. This historic battlefield honors the bravery of the Native American warriors and U.S. soldiers who fought there. The monument includes a visitor center, museum, and the Custer National Cemetery. Guided tours and interpretive programs provide insight into the battle’s significance and its impact on American history.
11. Billings’ Rimrocks
Billings is known for the striking sandstone cliffs known as the Rimrocks. The landscape provides a dramatic backdrop to the city and offers excellent opportunities for hiking, biking, and rock climbing. The nearby Zimmerman Park and Swords Rimrock Park trails provide stunning views of the Yellowstone River Valley and the city below. Furthermore, Billings also features cultural attractions like the Yellowstone Art Museum and the Western Heritage Center.
Source: rent.com