Nestled in the heart of the American West, Montana is home to some of the country’s most picturesque landscapes and vibrant college towns.
From the bustling city of Missoula to the historic charm of Helena, there’s no shortage of excitement and adventure to be found in the Treasure State. In this article, we’ll explore the best college towns in Montana, showcasing their unique attractions, academic offerings and unique local cultures. If you’re considering pursuing your education in Big Sky Country, keep reading to discover the perfect place to call home.
Bozeman is known for its stunning natural beauty and unparalleled outdoor adventure resources. The city is nestled in a scenic valley surrounded by the Bridger, Gallatin and Madison mountain ranges, providing students with a breathtaking backdrop for their academic pursuits. Home to Montana State University (MSU), Bozeman boasts a thriving college atmosphere with a population of just under 50,000.
MSU is recognized for its strong programs in agriculture, engineering and environmental sciences, making it an ideal destination for students interested in these fields. In addition, the university’s focus on research and its proximity to Yellowstone National Park provides unparalleled opportunities for hands-on learning and discovery that you simply cannot access in other parts of the country.
When it comes to entertainment, Bozeman is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts. Students can explore the nearby Gallatin National Forest, ski at Bridger Bowl or hike the famous M Trail. The vibrant downtown area offers a plethora of dining, shopping and cultural experiences, including the Bozeman Symphony and the lively Bozeman Art Walks.
Missoula is a college town with a population of approximately 75,000. Missoula is home to the University of Montana (UM), which is well-regarded for its programs in forestry, environmental sciences and creative writing. UM’s sprawling campus is a lush oasis nestled alongside the Clark Fork River, with Mount Sentinel and its iconic “M” towering in the background.
The city’s stunning location at the convergence of five mountain ranges makes it an outdoorsy type’s paradise. Students here can enjoy a wide range of recreational activities, like hiking, mountain biking and fishing in the surrounding wilderness. Missoula is also a haven for river enthusiasts, with the Bitterroot and Blackfoot rivers offering opportunities for rafting, kayaking and some of the best fly fishing in the world.
Missoula’s vibrant arts and culture draw college students from across the country. The city hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year, including the International Wildlife Film Festival, the Montana Book Festival and the popular Downtown ToNight summer concert series.
In addition, Missoula’s thriving downtown area is packed with galleries, breweries and eclectic dining options, ensuring there’s never a dull moment in this bustling college town.
As Montana’s capital city, Helena is steeped in history and charm. With a population of around 32,000, this college town is home to both Carroll College and Helena College, a branch of the University of Montana. Carroll College is a private Catholic liberal arts school known for its strong pre-med, pre-law and engineering programs, while Helena College offers a range of two-year programs and renowned workforce training opportunities.
The city’s rich history is evident in its well-preserved architecture, which includes the magnificent Montana State Capitol building and the beautifully restored downtown area. Students can soak up the city by taking a stroll down Last Chance Gulch, a lively pedestrian mall that was once the site of a major gold mining operation.
Helena’s location at the base of the Rocky Mountains provides students easy access to a variety of outdoor activities. Just a short drive from the city, you’ll find the Helena National Forest, where hiking, mountain biking and cross-country skiing are popular pastimes. For water enthusiasts, the nearby Missouri River Canyon Trail provides great opportunities for boating, fishing and more.
Throughout the year, Helena hosts a variety of community events that cater to college students and locals alike. The city’s Alive at Five summer concert series and Last Chance Stampede and Fair are just a few examples of the vibrant events that unite this truly unique college town.
A small town of around 4,000 residents, Dillon is home to the University of Montana Western(UMW). This hidden gem of a college town in Montana offers students a close-knit and supportive community as well as a unique educational experience. UMW is known for its Experience One program, which allows students to focus on one course at a time, providing an immersive and engaging learning environment from an entirely new perspective.
The town’s location in the Beaverhead Valley makes for a picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts. Students can explore the nearby Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, fish in the blue-ribbon trout streams of the Big Hole and Beaverhead rivers or visit the historic Bannack State Park, the site of Montana’s first major gold discovery.
Dillon’s charming downtown is home to a variety of shops, restaurants and historic landmarks, like the Beaverhead County Museum. The town also hosts several annual events, including Montana’s Biggest Weekend Rodeo, which brings the community together and provides a fun and festive atmosphere for college students and longtime locals alike.
Butte is home to Montana Technological University, a leading institution in engineering, applied sciences and natural resource management. The university’s strong reputation in these areas attracts students from across the country and around the world.
Butte’s rich mining history is evident throughout the city, with its stunning collection of well-preserved Victorian architecture and the immense Berkeley Pit, a former open-pit copper mine turned environmental attraction.
The surrounding landscape provides opportunities for outdoor exploration, like the scenic Continental Divide Trail. In addition, students who stick around for the summer can enjoy numerous events and festivals, like the Montana Folk Festival, Evel Knievel Days and more.
The mountains of Montana are waiting for you
From the adventure-filled streets of Bozeman to the historic charm of Butte, Montana’s college towns offer a diverse and exciting array of experiences for students of all interests. From bustling city atmospheres to close-knit communities, you’ll find what you’re looking for in one of these fantastic college towns in Montana.
Source: rent.com