places to visit in montana near yellowstone

8 Breathtaking THINGS TO DO Near Yellowstone National Park

In the summer months there are 5 entrances that can get you into Yellowstone National Park . While there are endless things to do and see inside the park, there are also amazing things to do near Yellowstone National Park by the entrances. If you are planning a trip to Yellowstone you can’t miss these awesome things to do near the park!

We will cover: Livingston | Red Lodge | West Yellowstone | Gardiner | Bozeman | Cody | Jackson Hole

And if you are looking for more information about Yellowstone visit our Yellowstone National Park page and check out our post about planning the Ultimate Yellowstone Vacation and Beyond !

Table of Contents

North Entrance: Livingston and Paradise Valley

This is another area that would be great to visit on your way into or out of Yellowstone. Livingston use to be the hub for anyone visiting Yellowstone and there is so much history in the city. Paradise Valley is a beautiful area just south of Livingston. If you are looking for things to do outside of Yellowstone – Livingston and Paradise Valley are a great option.

Fly Fishing

Livingston is the perfect place to go fly fishing! Your guide will take you out on the Yellowstone River and take you to all the great places to catch fish. Along with providing you with the fly fishing gear. For guides we recommend the Montana Expedition Trading Company.

Yellowstone River Float

Not into fishing? Then you can book a float guide where they will take you out the water to float down the river. In the warm summer months you can jump off the boat and swim in the water as you float down the river. For guides we recommend: Rowdy River Guides and Rubber Ducky Rentals .

Chico Hot Springs

Yes more hot springs! Chico Hot Springs is another historic location. You can walk the grounds, go in the hot springs or play disc golf.

Where To Eat

Mint bar and grill.

This unique and historic restaurant has fun decorations, great drinks and delicious food! It is a bar, but families are welcome.

The Sage Lodge

A beautiful lodge located in Paradise Valley. This is a meal with a view! The Sage Lodge is gorgeous and has windows all around so you can eat from inside or site outside and take in the beauty of Paradise Valley.

Where To Stay

Travelodge in livingston.

A simple, but clean hotel in Livingston. Perfect for a stop over as you explore the area.

Learn more about the: Best Things to do in Livingston, MT and Paradise Valley

Northeast Entrance: Red Lodge, Montana

Red Lodge, Montana is a great place to visit on your way in or out of the northeast entrance of Yellowstone. The awesome thing is you can explore Red Lodge and all of the fun things to do there and then take the Beartooth Highway into Yellowstone! Talk about the perfect road trip. So much beauty!!

Horseback Riding

Go horseback riding with Elk River Outfitters in a beautiful area where you are surrounded by 5 mountain ranges and you get to take your horse through a stream! We have done horseback riding before, but nothing quite like riding in Montana on a horse!

The Beartooths are awesome in a car, but taking a UTV from Red Lodge Power Sports up there is a whole other experience! When you rent the UTV they can recommend a few different routes to go.

Downtown Red Lodge

Make sure to make time to just walk around the town of Red Lodge and check out the shops and all of the great restaurants.

Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary

Learn all about the wildlife from Yellowstone country at the Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary . It is a great way to learn more about this amazing part of the county.

Prerogative Kitchen

Looking for a cool dining experience Prerogative is it! Small plate selections with unique options.

Feeling like a margarita? Then head to Bogarts for their fun and unique flavors!

Pollard Hotel

Located right in downtown Red Lodge the Pollard Hotel is the place to stay. They also have great restaurants and a bar on site.

Learn more about: 22 Amazing Things To Do In Red Lodge, Montana

Northeast entrance: Cooke City, Montana

Cooke City is just outside the northeast entrance of the park. This entrance and outgoing road, US Highway 212, is said to be the most scenic drive from the park. Going this way, you pass through the Beartooth Mountains, which is beautiful! Hwy 212 is closed east of Cooke City to cars November through April, so keep that in mind.

Cooke City is a very small town that also has a western feel to it. It has several restaurants and small shops as well as lodging if you can’t find any openings inside the park. If you will be in Yellowstone for an extended period of time, I would suggest taking a day trip out of the northeast entrance to see Cooke City and drive Hwy 212 through the mountains.

East entrance: Cody, Wyoming

Cody is probably the “biggest” town that is close to Yellowstone. There are a bunch of stores and shops, big and small, a grocery store, restaurants, fast food, and a nice little playground right in the center of town.

Cody is about an hour outside of the east entrance and has plenty to offer. We left Yellowstone for a weekend for a camping trip at Buffalo Bill State Park North Shore campground which is right on the Buffalo Bill Reservoir just outside of Cody. This campground was really neat. It was right on the water, surrounded by mountains, and all the campsites were positioned towards the water.

Buffalo Bill Center

One of the bigger attractions in Cody is the Buffalo Bill Center of the West museum. This is actually like 6 museums in one – the Buffalo Bill Museum, the Draper National History Museum, the Whitney Western Art Museum, the Plains Indian Museum, the Cody Firearms Museum, and the McCracken Research Library.

When we entered the Art Museum area with our family (4 kids) and my sister-in-laws family (2 kids) the security guard quickly called in reinforcements. Seriously, we saw the look of fear in his eyes when 6 kids under 8 years old entered.

Another security guard showed up and they followed close behind until they realized that NO, we were not going to let our kids run wild in here. We found the perfect place for them to sit and draw pictures in the art museum.

So, there’s pretty much something for everyone here. The kids really enjoyed the Draper National History Museum where we learned a lot about Yellowstone’s wildlife and ecosystem.

Explore Cody

After checking out the museum, take a walk down the main street in Cody. There you’ll find plenty of restaurants to eat at and a few taverns to enjoy a cold one.

Then at 6pm (6 nights a week in the summer), outside of the Irma Hotel, there is a gun fight re-enactment. They close the street down and have an old western shoot-out! Click here to learn more.

Follow up the shoot-out with a trip to the rodeo . Cody features a nightly rodeo with gates opening at 7pm!

That’s a full day of old-western style entertainment!

Last, but definitely not least is the drive from Cody, heading west toward Yellowstone. This may have been my favorite stretch of the entire trip! You drive right in a canyon between two large mountains and go through tunnels that go right through the mountain. I was pretty sure the RV would fit driving in the first time and luckily it did!

Check out: Things To Do In Cody, Wyoming.

Where to Stay

Buffalo bluff rv park.

Buffalo Bluff RV Park , located in Cody, is about 50 miles from the east entrance to the park. Back-in and pull-through sites are available here. It’s nothing fancy but offers a convenient stay near Cody.

The Historic Wapiti Lodge

The Historic Wapiti Lodge near the Shoshone River is nestled in the heart of Wapiti Valley. It offers a prime location – only 18 miles to Cody and 30 miles to the park entrance.

South entrance: Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Well, this constitutes more than just Jackson Hole. Just south of Yellowstone, there is the whole Grand Teton area, which is amazing! We’ve already written about 5 Family Friendly Things To Do By The Grand Tetons , so definitely check that out.

If you’re interested in booking a guided tour from Jackson to Yellowstone, check out this Full-Day Yellowstone Lower Loop Tour . Or if you’d rather travel with a small group, check out this Small-Group Yellowstone Tour . Both tours will arrange pick-up in the Jackson or Teton Village area, and they are great ways to experience Yellowstone with a live tour guide.

Teton Village

Teton Village has the feel of a quaint ski town similar to Vale, Colorado. Here you can ride the tram, shop in the boutique stores, or eat at any of the great restaurants.

A few miles south of the Teton Village is Jackson Hole, Wyoming. This is also a ski town which is evident by the large hills that surround the city all with ski trails. The city is centered around the town square. This is a nice little park to walk through to sit and at one of the many benches and enjoy a cup of coffee from a local coffee shop or ice cream from Moo’s Gourmet Ice Cream shop.

There are a lot of great things to do in Jackson Hole . It is an upper end town and has endless shopping and eating options. The great thing about this town is that is a great place to visit in summer or winter!

We also visited Slide Lake which was amazing!

We really enjoyed the Tetons and everything around it. If you are near Yellowstone, it is worth it to make the extra trip to the Grand Tetons! If you want to spend the day in the Grand Tetons check out this awesome post: One Day In Grand Teton National Park – Jenny Lake Boat and Hike or this one about what to do in The Grand Tetons.

Jenny Lake is an awesome place to visit when in the Tetons.

Be sure to check out: The Snake River Overlook in Grand Teton National Park

Togwotee Mountain Lodge

On a second visit to the the Grand Tetons, we had the opportunity to stay at the Togwotee Mountain Lodge in Moran, WY. Whoa! Talk about a really neat place to stay! With a big family (and a dog), it can be hard to find places to accommodate us.

No problem at Togwotee. We stayed in a very nice cabin that had a bedroom with 2 large queen beds and a pull-out sofa sleeper. And best part was that Indy (our sweet Labrador Retriever) was welcome too! They also have a main lodge that has different accommodations based on the number of guests you’ll have with you.

We had a full kitchen (fridge, stove, sink and microwave) so we were able to cook our meals just like we were in the RV .

Don’t like cooking when you’re on vacation? No problem, there are 2 restaurants at Togwotee. The Grizzly Grill and the Red Fox Saloon has you covered for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Be sure to have a drink at the saloon and shoot some pool or play some games.

Things To Do

If you’re looking to get out in the Bridger-Teton National Forest, Togwotee is a great place to make your base camp. Right from the lodge, you can do horseback riding, mountain biking, hiking, and fishing. They also offer a pretty cool Wyoming Cowboy Campout in the summer that we just missed. This is an overnight horseback ride into the forest where you will campout cowboy style to fish, cook by the campfire and enjoy the night sky.

In the winter, Togwotee is the mecca for world-class snowmobiling. They have everything you need (including fresh powder) for a great snowmobiling trip. Rent their sleds or bring your own and hit the trails for some epic riding. Or go off trail (depending on your skill level) and churn through the freshest snow.

Togwotee Mountain Lodge is located about 45 minutes from Grand Teton National Park , but it’s an easy scenic drive to and from the lodge. You’re also about the same distance away from Jackson Hole, so you can easily hit the shopping and restaurants there as well.

Find the best deals for Togwotee Mountain Lodge here!

Feeling overwhelmed by all the awesomeness that is Yellowstone?! We get it! The park is huge and there is so much to see and do. We have visited the park over 6 different times and have put together 1, 3 and 7 day guides to help you plan your ultimate trip to Yellowstone:

West Entrance: Bozeman, Montana

Bozeman, Montana is a great destination to hit on your way into or out of Yellowstone. It is an awesome city with a great downtown area, shops, restaurants and museums.

Museum Of The Rockies

Museum Of The Rockies is a great museum to visit to learn more about the dinosaurs that once roamed this area of Montana. Along with learning the history of Yellowstone and the people that use to call it home. Plus you won’t want to miss the planetarium shows!

Montana Alpine Guides Rock Climbing

Bozeman is a great place to head out rock climbing. Even if you have never done outside rock climbing you can do it here with Montana Alpine Guides . They have a great team of guides that will take you out, provide all the equipment and teach you how to climb.

There are some nice and moderate hiking trails to do in Bozeman as well. The Drinking Horse Mountain and College M are a couple great hikes to take just outside the city.

This will be a tough one. Not because there aren’t good places to eat, but because there are so many it is hard to choose!

Sweet Chili Bistro

For delicious Thai and a great drink menu check out Sweet Chili in downtown.

Mountains Walking Brewery and Pub

For good beer and pub food check out Mountains Walking Brewery and Pub.

For delicious pastries and coffee check out the Coffee Pot.

Lewis and Clark Motel

For an old-school yet modern motel check out Lewis and Clark’s! A locally owned motel this place is great and they really make you feel welcome. And the pool area is awesome!

Bozeman Hot Springs

If you are there in an RV then check out the Bozeman Hot Springs campground. Breakfast and entry to the hot springs are included in your stay.

The Silos Marina & Campground

About an hour north of Bozeman is The Silos Marina & Campground in Townsend, MT. Located on the Canyon Ferry Reservoir, it offers beautiful scenery, a boat launch, fishing, and more!

Check out these awesome Montana Airbnb options!

Learn more about: 23 Exciting and Fun Things To Do In Bozeman, MT

West entrance: West Yellowstone, Montana

West Yellowstone is a great place to make as your home base as you explore Yellowstone since it is so close to the west entrance and attractions like Old Faithful, the Upper Geyser Basin and Grand Prismatic Spring. This Yellowstone Park Tour will include visiting Old Faithful and the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone as well as the entire Lower Loop of the park.

But the city of West Yellowstone also has a lot of fun things to offer! It really is one of the top places to visit for things to do around Yellowstone National Park.

If you want to add another state to your list you could stay in Idaho (we enjoyed Henry Lake State Park) and enjoy West Yellowstone from there. Plus there are a lot of great things to do in Idaho Falls and the surrounding area.

Grizzly Wolf and Discovery Center

This is a great place to visit to learn more about these amazing animals! It isn’t a huge place but they rotate the grizzly bears that are out so it is cool to see different ones. They also have a new indoor exhibit where you can watch the otters play. This is a must do while on your trip to West Yellowstone.

Yellowstone Giant Screen Theater

If you are looking to get out of the sun for a while and kick back and relax head to the Yellowstone Giant Screen Theatre to watch the Yellowstone movie where you will learn about the history of Yellowstone.

Wild West Pizzeria and Salon

It is hard to find someone who has been to West Yellowstone and not been to Wild West Pizzeria! A definite staple in West Yellowstone and for good reason. The pizza is delicious!

The Kelly Inn is the perfect place to stay for exploring West Yellowstone and the park. They have a nice breakfast spread in the morning and a pool and hot tub to hang out in at night.

Valley View RV Park Campground

This campground in Island Park, ID is just 15 west of the park. Offering great views and a convenient location, this is a good option is you’re staying on the west side of Yellowstone.

West Yellowstone is also a great hub for visiting Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone along with Canyon Village.

Learn more about: 9 Awesome Things To Do In West Yellowstone

North entrance: Gardiner, Montana

The north entrance is the original entrance to Yellowstone. As seen by the Roosevelt Arch that you drive through to get to the current Yellowstone entrance. It is a quaint western town and is really close to Mammoth Hot Springs in Yellowstone.

Roosevelt Arch

You will drive through the Roosevelt Arch as you enter the North entrance to Yellowstone. But instead of just driving through it, stop and get out to walk through the door and look up and into the inside of the arch. Also be on the look out for elk and pronghorn sheep hanging out in this area but be sure to keep a safe distance – they are wild animals!

City Of Gardiner

The town has an amazing view of Yellowstone National Park and has a nice Visitor Center and a selection of stores and restaurants. The Yellowstone River cuts right through the hilly town which adds to its great landscape.

Yellowstone Wild Tours

If you want to see wildlife in Yellowstone and learn all about the park, the history and the animals then you are going to want to book a tour with Yellowstone Wild Tours ! They pick you up in Gardiner (before the sun rises – it is worth it – I promise!) and then spend the day driving you around the park to Lamar Valley and other places to spot wildlife. You may even end up in Hayden Valley.

When we went we saw multiple bears, wolves, bison, elk, pronghorn sheep, a mountain goat, birds and probably a few more that I am forgetting! They also feed you breakfast and lunch. It is an awesome day.

Yellowstone Hot Springs

Head a little ways outside of downtown to the awesome Yellowstone Hot Springs . They did these springs right with nice man made pools looking out over the surrounding mountains. They have  hot pools, hotter pools and a cold pool.

There are a variety of different restaurants from pizza to sandwiches and local dishes. Plus there is a local grocery store – Gardiner Market if you just want to pick up your own food to cook.

Wonderland Cafe

Wonderland Cafe is an awesome restaurant in Gardiner with local and unique dishes. If you want really good food in Gardiner this is the place to go!

Yellowstone Pizza Company

We found a delicious pizza joint called Yellowstone Pizza Company where we ate on the roof! Check it out here .

They have lodging and hotels available for guests that want to visit Yellowstone and enjoy the comforts of a small town.

Sunny Slope Lodge

We recommend the Sunny Slope Lodge which is about a 15 minute drive outside of Gardiner. It is a beautiful house up in the mountains with plenty of room for multiple families. It is the perfect place to relax and unwind after a day in Yellowstone or exploring Gardiner.

Yellowstone Hot Springs campground is located in Gardiner on the banks of the Yellowstone River. It’s about 8 miles from the north entrance and offers a really peaceful environment.

Learn more about: 12 Amazing Things To Do In Gardiner, Montana [+ Where To Stay]

Here are a few more ideas: Lewis and Clark Caverns , Things To Do In Big Sky , Yellowstone Country on your Montana Road Trip ! Learn more about the Wyoming National Parks .

Check out these posts for a great guide to Yellowstone:

12 Things To Bring To Yellowstone National Park

Mount Washburn Hike in Yellowstone with Kids

Top 10 Things To Do In Yellowstone

Road Trippin’ around Tower-Roosevelt in Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone Camping: Your Complete Guide To A Perfect Spot

Yellowstone in Winter: 11 Things to Know and Do!

Here are a few more options for things to do around Yellowstone:

Things To Do In Cheyenne Wyoming

Wyoming Ski Resorts

6 Epic National Park Road Trip Ideas [Maps Included]

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12 thoughts on “8 Breathtaking THINGS TO DO Near Yellowstone National Park”

West Yellowstone is actually in Montana.

Absolutely right! It’s been fixed now. Good catch!

• Pingback: Helpful Tips For Camping in Yellowstone National Park

IMAX Theater and Wolf and Bear Discovery Center both located in West Yellowstone.

Thanks for the suggestion!

I love Togwotee and want to explore that area more. It’s so beautiful!

West Yellowstone is crazy in the summer, but so is Jackson and Cody. There is a lot of great hiking in the national forest around West. And like Kris said above, the Grizzly Wolf Discovery Center is pretty cool. The bears (which can’t be released into the wild for various reasons) get to test “bear proof” trash cans and other products to see if they really are bear proof.

Yeah, Togwotee is amazing. The park and surrounding areas are pretty crazy in the summer, but still a great time to visit. Thanks for the info on the Grizzly Wolf Discovery Center!

Hope you make it out again!

Did you camp while visiting Yellowstone? Thanks for this insight, very helpful!

We did camp while in Yellowstone, but we were lucky enough to stay in an employee lot because our brother-in-law worked at Lake Lodge for the season. That said, check out this article on Yellowstone camping – http://www.crazyfamilyadventure.com/yellowstone-camping/

If you are in west Yellowstone you need to check out earthquake lake or drive a little farther and check out Virginia city and Nevada city both are historic ghost towns.

Thanks for the recommendations!

Comments are closed.

13 Top-Rated Things to Do in West Yellowstone, MT

Written by Brad Lane Updated Mar 24, 2023

In Southwest Montana, near the Wyoming and Idaho border, West Yellowstone is the most popular gateway town to Yellowstone National Park . The city abuts park boundaries, with the West Entrance less than a mile away. This proximity to Yellowstone's staggering 2.2 million acres is reason enough to visit.

But West Yellowstone's appeal extends well beyond its proximity to the park. Thousands of additional acres of national forest surround the community, and this Greater Yellowstone region entices adventure seekers throughout the year. Trails of all types extend from the city's edge into this incredible wide-open Montana landscape.

West Yellowstone isn't a new vacation destination in Montana. The town has hosted tourists for decades, bolstering a local economy that blossoms with local restaurants, theaters, and a giant movie screen. And whether on the sidewalks or at the local rodeo, expect to encounter plenty of smiling faces any time of year.

Plan your next Montana experience with our list of the top things to do in West Yellowstone.

1. Explore Yellowstone National Park

2. see the residents of the grizzly and wolf discovery center, 3. cross-country ski the rendezvous trail system, 4. catch the sunset at hebgen lake, 5. go fly fishing in blue ribbon waterways, 6. giddy up at the wild west yellowstone rodeo, 7. bundle up for a snowmobile adventure, 8. mountain bike the lionhead, 9. stop at the earthquake lake visitor center, 10. educate the whole family at the museum of the yellowstone, 11. satisfy an appetite in west yellowstone, 12. sing along at the playmill theatre, 13. zip on over to yellowstone zipline adventure park, map of things to do in west yellowstone, mt, west yellowstone, mt - climate chart.

West Yellowstone is the closest community to Yellowstone National Park. The West Entrance is less than a mile's drive from the heart of town. This proximity makes West Yellowstone one of the most popular basecamps to explore the park.

Yellowstone, the nation's first national park, encompasses a staggering 2.2-million acres and its own ecosystem. Visitors coming in from the West Entrance first encounter Madison Junction and Firehole Canyon. Automobile tourists can take Firehole Canyon Drive for spectacular views of lava flows and a fun place to swim (no lifeguards on duty).

South of Madison Junction, other big Yellowstone attractions like Grand Prismatic , Old Faithful , and the Upper Geyser Basin are a short drive away. To the north, steaming landscapes like Steamboat Geyser and Artists' Paintpots surround the Norris Geyser Basin . All these incredible landscapes host many of Yellowstone's best hiking trails .

Adventures in Yellowstone are endless. On top of the many places to visit, there's a wide range of things to do. Outfitters in West Yellowstone are happy to help craft a memorable adventure. Yellowstone Alpen Guides and Yellowstone Adventures both offer guided sightseeing trips based out of West Yellowstone.

Official site: https://www.nps.gov/yell/index.htm

The Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center in West Yellowstone, on the national park border, is a not-for-profit wildlife park. This AZA-accredited facility houses grizzly bears and wolves that are unfit to survive in the wild. The animals are housed in large outdoor habitats that the public can view. This setup provides a unique opportunity to see grizzlies and wolves in a controlled environment.

The on-site Naturalist Cabin is a great place to check out the three different wolf packs at the Discovery Center. This indoor, heated facility features floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the wolf habitat. The Discovery Center also features a new river otter exhibit . These furry mammals are fun to watch as they swim through massive aquariums filled with Yellowstone cutthroat trout.

The Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center is open 365 days of the year, and all admission tickets are good for two-day entry. The center puts on various shows throughout the year, including a Birds of Prey demonstration with some resident raptors. A "Keeper Kids" 30-minute program is also offered twice daily during the summer for children ages 5-12.

Official site: https://www.grizzlydiscoveryctr.org/

The Rendezvous Trail System is one of the most significant outdoor community assets in West Yellowstone. The trailhead is on the southern edge of city limits, within walking distance from almost anywhere in town. From its notable Trailhead Archway , over 35 kilometers of trails meander through the adjacent Custer Gallatin National Forest.

Trail passes are required to use the Rendezvous Trail System, with daily, season, and family passes available. The trail system caters to all skill levels, from old pros to first-time beginners. And at a base elevation of 6,800 feet, the trails are consistently snowy between January and March. Several local gear shops in West Yellowstone offer daily ski rentals.

The Rendezvous Trails are also home to a few significant events throughout the winter. The Yellowstone Ski Festival in November kicks off the season, while the Yellowstone Rendezvous Race provides an exciting finish in March. During the summer, the trail system is popular for hiking, running, and mountain biking.

Official site: www.skirunbikemt.com

Exceptional outdoor environments surround West Yellowstone outside of the park. And Hebgen Lake is a prime example of the immense landscapes nearby. Situated less than 20 minutes northwest, this massive reservoir on the Madison River is a hot spot for summer recreation.

The U.S. Forest Service maintains several facilities on the lakeshore, including boat ramps, campgrounds, and hiking trails. Fishing is one of the most sought-after activities, as the lake is one of the best stillwater fishing spots in the region. And even without a successful bite, Hebgen Lake is an excellent location to watch the setting sun paint the sky with evening colors.

Hebgen has been one of Montana's best lakes for a long time. It was a popular destination in 1959, when an infamous earthquake rocked the Madison River Canyon below the Hebgen Dam. The resulting debris blocked the river and quickly created the adjacent Earthquake Lake . Today, this still-standing body of water is also known as Quake Lake and offers another popular place to visit.

West Yellowstone is the epitome of fly fishing in Montana. Several blue-ribbon fisheries are within a short drive, including trout-filled waters within Yellowstone National Park. Among the many iconic waterways to come out of the park, including the Yellowstone River and Gallatin River , the Madison River passes closest to West Yellowstone.

The Madison forms at the confluence of the Gibbon and Firehole Rivers within Yellowstone, which are two formidable fish hatcheries on their own. The Madison exits park boundaries and winds next to city limits. The river then connects to Hegben Lake - yet another popular stillwater fishing spot nearby.

With so many options to cast a line and different conditions throughout the season, it pays to visit local fishing shops in West Yellowstone. Places like Jacklin's Fly Shop provide gear, suggestions, and guided services. Other spots like Arrick's Fly Shop and Madison River Outfitters offer similar services.

Read More: Best Places for Fly Fishing in Montana

It's not a western vacation without witnessing a rodeo. And one of the region's most famous rodeos takes place four miles west in a large outdoor arena. The Wild West Yellowstone Rodeo takes place Wednesdays through Saturdays between June and August.

Signature events at each nightly rodeo include bareback riding, bull riding, and roping contests. The rodeo is built on western traditions, and each event showcases fervent crowds and sold-out shows. A special Rodeo Ride Package , offered by Creekside Trail Rides, gives patrons the chance to arrive at the rodeo on horseback.

Official site: http://creeksidetrailrides.com/

West Yellowstone is a snowmobile mecca come winter. Alongside easy access to snowmobile-friendly routes in Yellowstone National Park, hundreds of miles of groomed trails span the national forests surrounding the town. And several outfitters and rental shops in the community ensure all abilities enjoy the winter rush.

The West Entrance of Yellowstone closes to vehicle traffic in the winter. Snowmobiles, however, are encouraged to explore at their pleasure. Riders can take an enchanting tour of Yellowstone attractions, like Old Faithful and Norris Geyser Basin, covered in snow. Local places like Yellowstone Vacations offer guided snowmobiling expeditions of these areas.

Visitors don't have to step a snowboot in the park to find excellent trails, however. The national forests surrounding West Yellowstone host hundreds of miles of trails accessible from the city. Some popular routes include the Two Mountain Top Trail , the Big Sky Trail , and the Madison Arm Loop .

Surrounded by thousands of national forest acres, West Yellowstone has no shortage of mountain bike trails to ride. The skier-friendly Rendezvous Trail System thaws during the summer to provide a popular network of mountain biking trails. Another popular place to ride is in the Lionhead area in the Custer Gallatin National Forest.

South of Hebgen Lake and the Madison River, the Lionhead area is known for its miles of high-altitude trails. And a combination of user access rights and dedicated maintenance has made the area a mecca for mountain biking. Nearly all routes require some climbing, but outstanding views reward the uphill efforts.

Freeheel and Wheel is one of the best bike rental shops in West Yellowstone and offers mountain bike rentals by the hour or by the day. The friendly associates at the bike shop can also point you in the direction of some solid trails. Freeheel and Wheel also has a selection of road bikes for those interested in hitting the pavement.

In the middle of the night in 1959, a 7.3-magnitude earthquake triggered a landslide into the Madison River near Hebgen Lake. The area was already a popular vacation destination, and the resulting havoc took the lives of 28 people. In an instant, the landslide also created a new natural impoundment still known today as Earthquake Lake, or Quake Lake.

The Earthquake Lake Visitor Center offers valuable insight into the 1959 event and surrounding geological landscape. The visitor center encompasses 2,400 square feet of indoor exhibits. Items on display include a working seismograph and several interpretive displays concerning the 1959 earthquake.

The building itself lends an excellent view of Earthquake Lake and the backdropping mountain landscape. However, the best views come from the short trails outside on the grounds of the visitor center. These easy hiking paths include commemorative plaques for the 28 victims of the earthquake.

To add a little context to any visit, the Museum of the Yellowstone details the cultural history of the national park and surrounding region. Also on display are the different transportation methods used over the years to travel through the park.

Other exhibits include information on the 1959 Hebgen Lake Earthquake and 1988 fires in Yellowstone. The museum also offers guided walking tours of the adjacent Union Pacific Railroad Historic District . All these insights and more at the museum add a deeper appreciation to the already inspiring landscape.

A great add-on adventure to the museum is the neighboring Yellowstone Giant Screen Theatre . This six-story-tall movie screen is one of a kind in the region. The theater's signature production is an educational movie about the park with gorgeous landscape shots. The theater also screens other documentary movies and recent Hollywood blockbusters.

Official site: https://museumoftheyellowstone.org/

West Yellowstone's local economy thrives on the thousands of tourists that visit each year. This economic driver has spurred a surplus of high-quality restaurants along the streets of the relatively small town. When visiting, be sure to indulge in some local businesses that pack a lot of flavors.

Mountain Mama's Coffeehouse and Bakery offers a caffeinated way to start the day. And just a few blocks west, Running Bear Pancake House offers a complete breakfast menu. Ernie's Bakery and Deli is also a local-favorite for convenient breakfast and lunch entrees. Dinner options are also nothing short of abundant, with places like Wild West Pizzeria and Saloon topping the list for pizza joints.

The Playmill Theatre has provided cherished family memories for over 55 years. This time-honored theater company is a few blocks from the West Yellowstone Visitor Information Center and puts on approximately three productions a year. Shows span between May and September. With an emphasis on family values and fun, it's one show not to miss if traveling with children.

Alongside the theatrical performance, engaging moments between acts offer other ways to enjoy the show. Tacked onto every primary stage production are activities like sing-alongs and variety shows. For young aspiring thespians, the theater also hosts a five-day summer camp in June for students aged 14 to 18.

Official site: https://www.playmill.com/

The Yellowstone Zipline Adventure Park provides high-flying family fun. This popular tourist attraction is a few blocks west of the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center, near many of the area's top hotels. Within the facility, over 1,000 feet of ziplines and a raised ropes course offer all-day entertainment.

Yellowstone Zipline Adventure Park is open every day throughout the summer, with more limited hours in the shoulder seasons. This outdoor attraction shutters between October and April. The facility offers special packages to combine with other Yellowstone adventures. Current zipline packages include add-on white water rafting trips or guided horseback rides.

Official site: https://www.yellowstoneparkzipline.com/

More on Montana

• 7 Must-Visit Small Towns Near Yellowstone National Park

Established in 1872, Yellowstone National Park covers an enormous area of nearly 9,000 square kilometers and is a haven for hundreds of species of wildlife in a spectacular natural setting. But when not in the park itself, visitors can find an assortment of charming and special towns nearby, ideal for exploration and, of course, accommodation. From shopping to fine dining to fascinating history, these small towns are a great way to add to the overall experience of Yellowstone National Park. This article looks at 7 Must visit small towns near Yellowstone.  

Jackson, Wyoming 

The town of Jackson was incorporated in 1914 and continues to be a popular destination for winter enthusiasts and athletes alike. Known for its great ski and snowboard slopes that include Jackson Hole Mountain Resort and Snow King Mountain, tourists to this town of just over 10,000 residents can enjoy a charming mountain locale with great vistas and warm hospitality. Just around 90 kilometers from Yellowstone National Park, visitors in Jackson can also enjoy the National Elk Refuge downtown, where one of the largest elk herds is cared for. Meanwhile, visiting the Centre for the Arts, where local artists proudly display their works, is a great way to discover unknown talents.  

West Yellowstone, Montana

Just a 16-minute drive from the Park, the town of West Yellowstone is truly the ideal place for quick access to the site. This 1,300-resident mountain town was first settled in 1907 and founded as a rail town, and today functions mostly as a stopover. Visitors will find great, charming, and tasty local restaurants, cute souvenir shops, specialty boutiques, and local art galleries. On the way out, tourists should not forget to stop at the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Centre, where visitors can see and learn about a sampling of wildlife outside of Yellowstone Park. 

Red Lodge, Montana

A two-hour drive from the Park, Red Lodge is conveniently located near the Beartooth Highway and is a great snapshot of small-town America and all its quaint charms. Formally settled in the 1880s, Red Lodge has a population of just under 3,000 inhabitants but is full of places to relax and explore. Besides the many great local restaurants, bars, and specialty shops, visitors can also drop by the Carbon County Museum, where the town’s mining history is explored. Known for its hot summers and warm winters, those in Red Lodge can also discover the Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary. Here, wildlife not fit enough to be released into the open wilderness are kept.

Cody, Wyoming

Named for famed American frontiersman Buffalo Bill Cody, this town in northwestern Wyoming is just about an hour’s drive from Yellowstone National Park. For some of the best attractions near the park, Cody is indeed the place to be. The town offers a real sense of the Old West all around. With hot summers and mild winters, tourists and history lovers can enjoy a visit to the Buffalo Bill Museum (dedicated to the life and exploits of this unique pioneer) and the Old Trail Town with its recreated Western facades. Stop in a restored saloon or just walk along the dusty path when at the Old Trail Town. One may certainly experience a feeling of time travel. And before heading out to Yellowstone, why not stop at the Draper Natural History Museum for some unique and beautiful wildlife exhibits that are great primers for the Park ahead?  

Bozeman, Montana

Bozeman is around 125 kilometers north of Yellowstone National Park, nestled right in the midst of the Rocky Mountains . The town, founded in 1864, is a great place to get acquainted with the outdoors, and visitors will have ample opportunities to go hiking, biking, rock climbing, and even skiing in the wintertime. Stop by the nearby Spanish Peaks or the Bridger Mountains for great vistas and breathtaking sights of the Montana sky, or discover the area’s paleontological history at the Siebel Dinosaur Complex. Explore fossils and interactive dinosaur exhibits, and even take in a show at the planetarium theatre. Bozeman is a great place for solo travelers and families alike.  

Big Sky, Montana 

Only 72 kilometers from Bozeman, the unincorporated resort town of Big Sky is particularly popular during the winter, where skiing and snowboarding are always in demand. In the summertime, when visitors are not at Yellowstone (only 24 kilometers away), there are also great activities available in Big Sky, including hiking and cycling at Gallatin Canyon and River. At the stunning Ousel Falls cascade, beautiful picnic areas and stunning observation areas make an afternoon outing a truly memorable one. And of course, tourists will find a good variety of tasty local restaurants, charming boutique shops, and maybe even time for a round of golf or two. 

Livingston, Montana

Located near the Yellowstone River , the town of Livingston is the seat of Park County and is just a short one-hour drive to the National Park;. A charming place of history, Livingston is a great place for history lovers to explore and is home to 17 sites on the National Register of Historic Places. Visit the Livingston Depot Centre (built in 1902), a lovingly restored rail station and adjacent museum, or stop by the Yellowstone Gateway Museum, where the fascinating history of the Old West is explored. Meanwhile, the Fly Fishers International Museum highlights the history of fishing and hunting in the State in a fun and interactive place. There are plenty of unique sites to visit and enjoy in Livingston, all before heading out to the great Yellowstone National Park.

Yellowstone National Park is an enormous place to explore, but before getting there, several small and equally charming towns make the journey even more exciting. In these nearby towns, visitors can enjoy beautiful encounters with nature, fascinating insights into American history, and quaint surroundings. Whether for a one-night stay or just to stop in for a meal, these small towns near Yellowstone National Park are great places to explore and discover the wonder of small town USA. 

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18 Top Things to Do in Montana

From museums to national parks, Montana has something for everyone.

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Known as "The Treasure State," Montana offers a plethora of travel treasures, such as beautiful national and state parks, unique museums, historical monuments and more.

Montana is the fourth-largest state in the U.S. by landmass, measuring 147,040 square miles. The Treasure State is also home to some of the most beautiful natural wonders in the world, including Glacier National Park , Yellowstone , the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi and more than 300 mountain peaks standing more than 9,600 feet tall.

If you love the outdoors, Montana has so much to offer, from hiking and camping to skiing and fishing. But it's also an excellent place to learn about the history of its inhabitants, particularly the Native American tribes, as well as the wildlife that roam the region.

The state also has the third-lowest population density in the nation, and plenty of wide-open spaces, making it a great place to go if you want to avoid crowds. Read on to learn about all of the best things you can do as a visitor in Montana.

(Note: Some tours and excursions may be affected by the coronavirus pandemic. Capacity restrictions, mask mandates even closures may be in effect. Check with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and local tourism boards before making plans.)

Glacier National Park

Established in 1910, Glacier National Park is sometimes referred to as the Crown Jewel of the Continent. Here, you'll find 26 glaciers, 762 lakes, 563 streams, hundreds of species of animals and thousands of species of plants. It also includes roughly 746 miles of hiking trails, making it a paradise for avid hikers. Some of the more iconic routes include the Trail of the Cedars to Avalanche Lake, the Grinnell Glacier Trail and the Highline Trail . Just be sure to look up trail conditions and difficulties before you set out.

While you're visiting, you'll also want to add Going-to-the-Sun Road to your itinerary. The 50-mile road that crosses the Continental Divide is an engineering marvel, passing glaciers, valleys, waterfalls, alpine meadows covered in wildflowers and more. Just keep in mind that the upper portion of the road past Lake McDonald Lodge closes during the winter months.

Visitors hail the park as one of the most beautiful places they've been to, citing stunning views and clear blue glacier water that's almost unreal. Get out on the water in a canoe, kayak, paddleboard, raft or half - or full-day whitewater rafting tour.

Depending on what kind of experience you're looking for, you can camp at one of the park's many campgrounds, or you can stay at a lodge, hotel or bed-and-breakfast. If you're considering more formal accommodations, the Lake McDonald Lodge and Belton Chalet should be on your list of options.

[See more of Glacier National Park: Things to Do  | Hotels  | When to Visit  | Photos . ]

Yellowstone National Park

Only 3% of Yellowstone National Park resides in Montana, but the state is home to three of the park's five entrances. Near the north entrance of the park, you'll find Mammoth Hot Springs , which has been said to look like a cave that's been turned inside out. The large terraces are formed by limestone that's dissolved by the hot, acidic water that rises from the chambers below, then reforms after it's above ground. If you decide to enter through the west entrance, located just across the Wyoming and Idaho borders in West Yellowstone, you'll be a quick drive away from several geyser basins, which include both geysers and hot springs.

Some of the more popular attractions in this area include Old Faithful , Grand Prismatic Spring , Fountain Paint Pot and more. Finally, the northeast entrance, which is closed during the winter months, gives you the best access to the park's famous Lamar Valley , which is where you'll be able to observe grizzly bears, black bears, bison and wolves. Visitors to Yellowstone National Park have called it a piece of heaven on Earth, a breathtaking experience and nature at its best.

Depending on where you're coming from, there are plenty of lodging options for each entrance. In West Yellowstone, the ClubHouse Inn West Yellowstone and the Alpine Motel are top-rated. If you're coming from the north entrance in Gardiner, Montana, Yellowstone Village Inn and Yellowstone Riverside Cottages have great reviews. And if you're coming from the northeast, consider the Elk Horn Lodge or Alpine Motel in Cooke City. If you're interested in a guided experience, consider a private Yellowstone tour .

For an especially unique experience in Yellowstone National Park, get out on the water. You can go fly-fishing, kayaking and boating on Yellowstone Lake or take a half - or full-day whitewater rafting tour.

[ See more of Yellowstone National Park : Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos .]

Soak in one of the state's many hot springs

The Treasure State is home to dozens of hot springs perfect for enjoying a relaxing soak. One of the top options is Quinn's Hot Springs Resort in Paradise, Montana, which is about 70 miles northeast of Missoula. At the resort, you can take a dip in five natural hot spring pools. You can also stay in one of the resort's cabins or lodges. Past guests called the resort a relaxing experience, with some making repeat visits.

For a unique experience, check out the Boiling River in Yellowstone near Mammoth Hot Springs. It's one of the few areas where you can legally soak in the national park, and it features a mix of hot water from the spring and cold water from the Gardner River. Before you go, be sure to check the park's website , as the area does close due to varying water conditions. Visitors can access the spot via a short half-mile walk from the parking lot.

You can bed down at the Yellowstone Village Inn or Yellowstone Riverside Cottages in nearby Gardiner. Some travelers have called the Boiling River a highlight in the park, but recommend bringing sandals to walk in the river and a towel to dry off afterward. Other favorite hot springs to visit in the state include the Chico Hot Springs, Bozeman Hot Springs, Norris Hot Springs and Elkhorn Hot Springs.

Visit the Museum of the Rockies in Bozeman

Courtesy of Museum of the Rockies

The museum is a Smithsonian affiliate and offers an incredible array of exhibits. For starters, it has one of the world's largest collections of North American dinosaur fossils, including T-Rex, one of very few mounted Tyrannosaurus rex skeletons on display in the U.S. It also offers exhibits about the history of Yellowstone National Park and the American Indians who lived on the Northern Plains and near the Rocky Mountains, among other topics. There's also an exhibit dedicated to children 8 years and younger, where they can explore and learn about the science of Yellowstone. Every year, the museum also showcases three to five temporary exhibitions. There's also a planetarium, where you can watch shows about the cosmos.

The museum is rated as one of the top things to do in Bozeman. Past visitors call out the dinosaurs, in particular, as a major draw. If you're looking for accommodations in Bozeman, consider staying at the RSVP Hotel or the SpringHill Suites Bozeman .

Address: 600 W. Kagy Blvd., Bozeman, MT 59717

Check out the World Museum of Mining in Butte

Josie Trudgeon | Courtesy of World Museum of Mining)

This is one of the few mining museums in the world that's located on an actual mine yard called the Orphan Girl Mine. It's home to 50 exhibit buildings and 66 primary exhibits in the mine yard itself. With a visit here, you'll learn about the history of hard-rock mining in Butte, which was home to one of the most productive copper mines ever. You'll also get the chance to take an underground mine tour of Orphan Girl, which includes a 100-foot descent to the mine's original shaft station. There, you'll be able to touch the rock and hear stories about the people who worked there.

Past visitors highly recommend the mine tour and praised the tour guides' knowledge and presentation. Reviewers say you'll want to bring a jacket, because the museum is primarily outdoors and the mine is chilly year-round. Some of the best-ranked accommodations in Butte include the Copper King Convention Center, Ascend Hotel Collection and the Hampton Inn Butte.

Address: 155 Museum Way, Butte, MT 59701

Visit the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center in Great Falls

The Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center offers a look into the history of the famous 19th-century expedition, with a focus on the Corp of Discovery's time in Montana. When you first walk in to the center, you'll see a two-story diorama depicting the portage of the Missouri River's five falls. The museum, which was developed in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service, features exhibits, hundreds of artifacts and art collections, all of which help tell the story of the residents and travelers over the course of hundreds of years in the Great Falls region.

Past visitors say that even for travelers who know the basics of the story of the Lewis and Clark expedition, there's a lot more to learn. Others highlight that it's a family-friendly activity. If you're planning to stay in Great Falls, some of the top options for accommodations include the Historical Hotel Arvon and the Best Western Plus Riverfront Hotel and Suites.

Address: 4201 Giant Springs Road, Great Falls, MT 59405

Learn about the cattle industry at Grant-Kohrs Ranch in Deer Lodge

Originally established in 1862 by Canadian fur trader John Grant, then expanded by cattle baron Conrad Kohrs, this ranch was once the headquarters of a 10-million-acre cattle empire. Now a historic site, the ranch serves as a commemoration of the Western cattle industry from the mid-1800s through recent times. It's also still a working cattle ranch, so travelers can witness some live demonstrations. Visitors can also walk through 88 historic buildings, hike nearly 10 miles of ranch roads and trails and take a tour of the ranch house.

Grant-Kohrs Ranch is located in Deer Lodge, which sits 37 miles northwest of Butte. Many travelers say they stopped by the ranch on their way to somewhere else and describe the historic site as a worthy detour.

Address: 266 Warren Lane, Deer Lodge, MT 59722

Enjoy an all-inclusive dude ranch experience at the Resort at Paws Up

Courtesy of The Resort at Paws Up

Montana is home to a number of all-inclusive dude ranches , which give travelers the chance to experience Western culture (think: horseback rides, nightly campfires and fly-fishing) in a luxurious setting. For example, The Resort at Paws Up , located about 30 miles northeast of Missoula in Greenough, is home to 28 luxury homes and 36 luxury glamping tents . The resort offers more than 50 activities for travelers to enjoy on its 37,000-acre cattle ranch. Options include backcountry tours, canoeing, dog sledding, fly fishing, geocaching, snowshoeing, photography and more. The rate includes all meals and more than a dozen activities that can be enjoyed solo, and more than 50 guided activities for an additional charge. Travelers describe the resort as "unreal," "intimate" and a "once-in-a-lifetime experience."

Other top-rated all-inclusive dude ranches in Montana include the Ranch at Rock Creek , Blacktail Ranch, the Hawley Mountain Guest Ranch and Elkhorn Ranch.

Address: 40060 Paws Up Road, Greenough, MT 59823

Drive the Hi-Line

The northernmost route in the state traveling east to west, U.S. Highway 2, is called the Hi-Line by locals. If you're visiting Glacier National Park, the western edge of the roughly 650-mile highway is close by. As you drive the Hi-Line, you'll come across small towns that will make you feel like you've stepped back in time. The farther you get from glacier country, the landscape morphs into great rolling plains with isolated volcanic peaks, which are sacred to the local Native American tribes. Keep going, and you'll come across reservoirs, rivers, historic homes and shops, breweries and distilleries and so much more.

Travelers say you can easily spend a week exploring all of the places you come across along the way. Depending on how far you plan to travel along the highway, check local towns for lodging options.

Visit Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument

Located in southeastern Montana, Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument memorializes the Battle of Little Bighorn, which is also known as Custer's Last Stand. The battle was between the U.S. Army and the Sioux and Cheyenne tribes. The monument includes a visitor center and a museum, where you can learn about the battle and some of the prominent men who fought there. You'll also discover what it was like for Native Americans living on the plains. You can take a 4.5-mile self-guided tour between two battlefields, the Custer Battlefield and the Reno-Benteen Battlefield, with parking lots at each site.

Some travelers describe visiting the monument as a solemn experience, but also an important one to learn the real history of the events that took place. The nearest major city to the national monument is Billings, which is 65 miles northwest.

Address: I-90 Frontage Road, Crow Agency, MT 59022

Pick your own fruit at Bozeman's Rocky Creek Farm

Montana has many farms where you can pick your own fruits and vegetables. If you're in Bozeman, Gallatin Valley Botanical at Rocky Creek Farm is a great place to find fresh berries and apples. Berry season kicks off in late June with strawberries, and continues with raspberries and aronia berries in the later summer months and early fall. You can pick apples from the farm's orchard between late August and November, and even request to have your apples pressed into custom cider. During your visit, stop by the farm stand in the blue barn, where you can buy vegetables, herbs, flowers, meats, eggs, honey and more, all of which are grown at the farm. According to reviewers, the farm also offers activities for children, such as farm school and summer camps.

Address: 34297 Frontage Road, Bozeman, MT 59715

Relax in the Garden of One Thousand Buddhas

It's not where you'd expect to find a shrine to the Buddha, but the Flathead Indian Reservation just north of Arlee, Montana, is home to the Ewam Sang-ngag Ling Garden of One Thousand Buddhas. Here, you'll find 1,000 hand-cast Buddha statues, all arranged around the central figure of the Great Mother, or Yum Chenmo, who is the manifestation of the perfection of wisdom. It's hoped by those who have built the shrine that those who visit feel peacefulness and compassion. And that's exactly what past visitors say they experienced when describing their time in the garden. Located in western Montana, Arlee sits just 26 miles north of Missoula.

Address: 34756 White Coyote Road, Arlee, MT 59821

Ski at Big Sky Resort

Courtesy of Big Sky Resort

Considered one of the top ski vacations in the U.S. , Big Sky Resort is home to 5,850 skiable acres and 39 lifts. There are runs for skiers of all experience levels, including a 1,450-foot vertical ride up to Lone Peak, giving seasoned skiers an experience similar to heli-skiing. After you're done skiing for the day, hit the spa or one of the many restaurants for après-ski or dinner. There are also a handful of retailers if you want to upgrade your ski uniform. Other winter activities include cross-country skiing, ziplining, snowshoeing, dog sledding, sleigh riding and more.

During the summer months, the resort remains open with a variety of outdoor activities, such as golfing, ziplining, hiking, disc golf, whitewater rafting and more. Visitors talk up the resort's beautiful setting, both in the winter and the summer. If you're staying at the resort, there are four hotels to choose from. There's also the Whitewater Inn, which is a short 15-minute drive from the resort.

Address: 50 Big Sky Resort Road, Big Sky, MT 59716

[Read: The Top Ski Resorts in Montana .]

See rock paintings at Pictograph Cave State Park

Andy Austin | Courtesy of Pictograph Cave State Park

Within Billings city limits, Pictograph Cave State Park is an area with three caves, which were home to generations of prehistoric hunters. Those hunters left behind artifacts and more than 100 rock paintings, or pictographs. The oldest painting dates back more than 2,000 years, while the most recent are from 200 to 500 years ago. To reach the caves, there's a three-quarter-mile loop with displays providing more information about the pictographs, as well as the vegetation and natural features of the area. You can also enter the visitor center to see some of the artifacts that were collected from the caves. The deepest of the three caves, Pictograph Cave, is where the rock paintings of animals, warriors and rifles are still visible.

It's recommended that you bring binoculars to properly view the paintings. Some visitors describe the pictographs as too faded, but binoculars may help solve that concern. Others warn that there's a steep climb to Pictograph Cave that may not be suitable for small children and casual hikers.

Address: 3401 Coburn Road, Billing, MT 59101

Marvel at the Ringing Rocks in Whitehall

David Abrams | Courtesy of Western Montana BLM

Roughly 18 miles east of Butte, there's a unique geologic area where the rocks actually chime with the light tap of a hammer. Experts believe that this phenomenon was caused by a combination of the rocks' composition and the joining patterns that have developed during the natural course of erosion – if one of the boulders is removed from the pile, it no longer rings. Some visitors note that the road leading to the rocks can be tough on smaller vehicles without four-wheel drive. There may also be a hike, depending on where you stop your car. Reviewers say that there are hammers near the entrance, so you don't have to worry about buying one at the local hardware store before you go.

Aside from Montana, you'll find a similar experience at Ringing Rocks County Park in Pennsylvania, one of the state's most unique attractions .

Visit the C.M. Russell Museum in Great Falls

Courtesy of CM Russell Museum

Charles Marion Russell was an American artist whose works centered on the Old West. His work, which includes paintings, sculptures and drawings, portrays the daily life of cowboys and Native Americans, as well as the landscapes of Big Sky Country, through the lens of his personal experiences. Russell's home, which was built in 1900, along with his log studio, which was built three years later, were both converted into a museum that houses the largest collection of the artist's art and memorabilia. The C.M. Russell Museum contains more than 3,000 works of Western art across 16 galleries, an outdoor sculpture garden and a research center. Nearly a third of the works on display were created by Russell himself. The museum is rated among the top things to do in Great Falls. Many visitors are impressed with the sheer volume of work showcased here, saying it gives you a feeling like you're stepping back in time to the artist's life.

Address: 400 13th St. N., Great Falls, MT 59401

Witness the destructive power of nature at Quake Lake

About 25 miles northwest of West Yellowstone is Earthquake Lake, called Quake Lake for short. The lake in the Madison Canyon River Area was formed in 1959 when an earthquake struck the area. The seismic activity created a landslide of roughly 80 million tons of rock, halting the water flow in the Madison River Canyon gorge. Tragically, 28 people were killed as a result of the landslide. The 7.2 magnitude earthquake was so devastating that it altered the geyser patterns in Yellowstone National Park and was felt as far away as Salt Lake City, which is 330 miles away. Today, Quake Lake is a popular fishing spot, with authorities stocking it each year with brown and cutthroat trout. Just watch out for the timbers below the surface that were brought down in the landslide.

See the wildlife in West Yellowstone at the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center

Located in West Yellowstone, the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center opened in 1993 with the mission to give visitors a better understanding and appreciation of grizzly bears. The center acts as a sanctuary for bears, wolves, otters, birds of prey and ground squirrels. Visitors will not only get the chance to see some of the wildlife that's housed at the center, but they'll also be able to learn about the animals through interactive exhibits, films, displays and demonstrations.

The Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center can be a great way to begin or end a trip to Yellowstone National Park. The center is highly recommended by travelers, with some saying it's worth a stop even if you only have a little time to spare. Others say that it can be a great way to get close to the wildlife if you didn't get that opportunity in the national park.

Address: 201 S. Canyon St., West Yellowstone, MT 59758

You may also be interested in:

• Amazing Montana Vacations
• The Best U.S. National Parks
• The Best Places to Hike in North America
• The Best Places for National Park Camping
• The Top Things to Do in Colorado
• The Top Things to Do in South Dakota
• The Top Restaurants in Jackson Hole, Wyoming
• The Top Restaurants in Colorado Springs
• The Top Restaurants in Omaha, Nebraska
• The Best Tourist Attraction in Every U.S. State

Tags: Travel , Montana Vacations , US Vacations , National Parks , U.S. West Vacations

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Yellowstone National Park

America's First National Park

150 Years of Yellowstone

America's first national park was set aside to preserve and protect the scenery, cultural heritage, wildlife, geologic and ecological systems and processes in their natural condition for the benefit and enjoyment of present and future generations. Yellowstone serves as the core of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, one of the last and largest nearly intact natural ecosystems on the planet. Yellowstone has the most active, diverse, and intact collections of combined geothermal features with over 10,000 hydrothermal sites and half the world's active geysers. The park is also rich in cultural and historical resources with 25 sites, landmarks, and districts on the National Register of Historic Places.  

Within Montana

Visit Yellowstone and experience the world's first national park. Marvel at a volcano’s hidden power rising up in colorful hot springs, mudpots, and geysers. Explore mountains, forests, and lakes to watch wildlife and witness the drama of the natural world unfold. Discover the history that led to the conservation of our national treasures “for the benefit and enjoyment of the people.”

Top 10 Hikes in Yellowstone

The top 10 most loved hikes in Yellowstone National Park according to Jake Bramante, the first person to hike all 734 miles of trail in Glacier National Park in one summer.

West Yellowstone

As a gateway to Yellowstone National Park, West Yellowstone is an adventure seeker’s playground full of possibilities and exciting events and activities. The same trail system used for snowmobiling in the winter is available for ATV and UTV use in the summer. West Yellowstone makes for the perfect basecamp regardless of the season.

Considered the original entrance to Yellowstone, Gardiner is home to the historic Roosevelt Arch, which was dedicated by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1903. Year-round access to the "American Serengeti"—Yellowstone's Northern Range—truly differentiates Gardiner from other Yellowstone gateway communities. 

Located on the banks of the Yellowstone River, Livingston has long served as a cultural hub in Montana. Offering an eclectic blend of shopping, arts and culture, dining, and world-class outfitting and guide services, Livingston has it all. 

Situated only a few miles from the Northeast Gate of Yellowstone National Park, Cooke City is surrounded by Yellowstone National Park, Custer Gallatin National Forest and two Scenic Byways: The Beartooth Highway and Chief Joseph Highway. In winter, Cooke City distinguishes itself with its access to vast, untouched acreage of ideal snowmobiling terrain, but there is no shortage of activities year-round in this gateway town. 

25 Best Places to Visit in Montana: A Local’s 2024 Guide

Best Places to Go in Montana for Nature, Skiing, Downtown Fun & Much More!

The best places to visit in Montana differ for everyone, but that is what makes Montana so special. There is something for every type of traveler!

25 Best Places to Visit in Montana

• Bitterroot Valley
• Glacier National Park
• Yellowstone National Park
• Montana Dude Ranch
• Montana Badlands
• Bighorn Canyon
• Flathead Lake
• Holter Lake / Gates of the Mountains
• Big Sky Resort
• Red Lodge / Beartooth Highway
• Hot Springs
• Great Falls
• St. Ignatius / Mission Mountains
• Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument
• Bannack State Park
• Virginia City
• Butte’s Mining Past
• First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park

If you’re looking to get away and get outside this year, then Montana is the perfect destination for you. However, as the fourth largest state in the United States, it can be hard to narrow down the best places to visit in Montana during your trip. We’re here to help!

We’re Montanans who have explored every part of this state. In this article, we’ve listed out the best places to go in our beloved state. These places are broken into different categories: Nature, Water, Cities, Skiing, History, and Wildlife Viewing.

Of course, most places you can visit in Montana are going to fall into numerous categories. For example, we put Yellowstone National Park under Best Places in Montana for Wildlife Viewing, but let’s face it — Yellowstone could go under practically all of these categories! It’s easily one of the best places to visit in Montana.

So with that out of the way (woo-hoo, we love our national parks, but there’s so much more to Montana!) let’s move onto the best places to visit in Montana, for every type of travel personality.

Top 25 Must-See Places in Montana

Montana has quickly become a coveted travel destination. The state provides epic scenery, crowd-free terrain, a burgeoning food and drink scene, and some of America’s most breathtakingly stunning national parks.

We love all of Montana! Still, there are some spots that stand out. Read on for our top 25 places to visit in Montana.

Best Places to Visit in Montana for Nature Lovers

It’s the beauty of the Montana mountains and plains that draws most people to the state. So let’s start with the best places to visit in Montana for nature… 

1. Bitterroot Valley

One of the main attractions of the Bitterroot Valley is its natural beauty. With the Bitterroot Mountains to the west and the Sapphire Mountains to the east, visitors are surrounded by breathtaking scenery and a variety of outdoor activities to explore.

The valley is home to several national forests and wilderness areas, including the Bitterroot National Forest and the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness, which offer miles of trails for hiking and backpacking.

In addition to the natural beauty of the area, the Bitterroot Valley has a variety of cultural and historical attractions. Visitors can explore the small towns and communities that dot the valley, each with its own unique character and charm. You’ll find a historic, must-see chapel in Stevensville, art galleries in Hamilton, and a Main Street with a wild west feel in Darby (this is also where the ranch scenes in Yellowstone are filmed ).

2. Glacier National Park

It’s probably no surprise this national park ended up here. Glacier National Park is known for its epic, gravity-defying scenery punctuated by towering mountain peaks, turquoise glacial lakes, and miles upon miles of stellar hiking trails.

Are You Looking For The Best Activity in Glacier National Park? Here are some top-rated tours that make it easy to explore the park and have memorable adventures:

• Experience the quieter side of Glacier National Park with this Glacier National Park Scenic Float .
• Have a thrilling day on a Half-Day Glacier National Park Whitewater Rafting Adventure
• Spot wildlife in its native habitat with a Half Day Scenic Float on the Middle Fork of the Flathead River

Glacier National Park is best experienced when you hit the trail, making this an easy spot on our best places in Montana for nature lovers. It’s also one of the most likely areas to spot a grizzly bear or moose.

Read More: The Best Things to Do in Glacier National Park

3. Yellowstone National Park

With drives, hiking trails, and wide, open plains that make it easy to see wildlife, Yellowstone National Park is one of the best places to visit in Montana for many reasons. However, for many visitors it’s the wildlife that stands out.

While driving through Yellowstone you’re bound to see bison roaming the plains. Wolves, moose, bears, elk, mountain lions, and other animals are also possible to see.

One of the best places to see wildlife in the park is the Lamar Valley, which is located by Yellowstone’s northeast entrance. The gateway to this entrance is Cooke City, MT. And an epic way to get to Cooke City is via the Beartooth Highway – more on that under the Red Lodge entry!

Read More: Best Things to See in Yellowstone National Park

Bonus Place to Visit: West Yellowstone

To maximize your time in the great outdoors and proximity to wildlife when visiting Yellowstone, we recommend staying in West Yellowstone (if you can’t or don’t want to get a lodge within in Yellowstone’s boundaries , of course).

West Yellowstone is a small Montana town right by the west entrance to Yellowstone National Park , which makes it a gateway to some of the best natural wonders in the world. But West Yellowstone also has its own outdoor fun and animal adventures. 

West Yellowstone is home to the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center. Visit to see these majestic and often elusive creatures (all rescues) in their natural habitat.  We wrote more about our visit to the center here.

In West Yellowstone , you’ll find the Museum of the Yellowstone, where you can learn more about the flora and fauna inside the park.

West Yellowstone is also close to Big Sky where you can find seemingly endless adventures in every season!

4. Montana Dude Ranch

Experience the land and its animals the Montana way — or at least the Montana cowboy way — with a stay at a dude ranch.

You can choose to stay at a small family-run ranch where you’ll get to know the family well. Participate in day to day tasks that will truly give you a taste of what it’s like to live on a working ranch.

Want some pampering? Choose one of the luxury dude ranches like Triple Creek Ranch . You’ll dine on exquisite food, can get spa treatments after horseback rides, and do one-of-a-kind guided adventures.

Read More: The Best Dude Ranches in Montana

5. Montana Badlands

The Badlands are located in eastern Montana and consist of miles upon miles of flat sandstone rocks stacked upon each other. This forms incredible rock stacks and structures against the background of the plains.

Many of the rocks look precariously stacked on top of each other. That combined with the barren surroundings, give the badlands an almost otherworldly appearance in parts. 

For some of the most scenic views of Montana’s badlands, head to Makoshika State Park off of Interstate 94 near Glendive. While you’re there, also make sure to check out the fun dinosaur museums in the town and park. Some of the world’s most incredible dinosaur fossils are from this area.

Read More: The Ultimate Glendive Travel Guide

The Terry Badlands near Terry, MT (a short drive southwest of Glendive) are also known for mesmerizing hoodoos and other rock formations.

Fun Water Destinations in Montana

Love water sports or gazing at serene water framed by gorgeous vistas? Montana is definitely the place for you then. Usually known for its mountains, Montana also has incredible water features, from glistening alpine lakes to rushing river wonders. Next up are our favorite outdoor spots to visit in Montana for some water fun.

6. Bighorn Canyon

Bighorn Canyon is easily one of Montana’s best hidden gems . This massive water reservoir is home to some of the most mesmerizing boating around.

The Yellowtail Dam created this massive canyon. The sheer size of the red-tinged cliffs that surround you as your boat or pontoon slices through the calm water is awe-inspiring.

You can easily find parts of Bighorn Canyon that you’ll have pretty much all to yourself. Waterski on calm water without worrying about wakes from other boats, or just relax on your pontoon and enjoy the peace and quiet. 

Read More: Insider’s Guide to Montana’s Best Kept Secret: Bighorn Canyon

7. Flathead Lake

Flathead Lake is located in northwestern Montana, about 70 miles north of Missoula. It’s considered one of the most picturesque lakes in Montana, with mountain peaks visible in the distance. Around the lake are charming little towns and cherry tree orchards producing famously sweet, delicious cherries. 

A good base for starting your Flathead adventures is either Polson on the south end of the lake or Bigfork on the northeast end. There are boat and watersport outfitters located around the lake where you can rent equipment. You can also bring your own and use the public dock and boat launch in one of the six Flathead Lake State Parks .

A boat ride or paddle over to Wild Horse Island is also an enchanting way to spend a day on Flathead Lake. This unique state park has a loop trail that takes you through island woods with water vistas and the chance to see the five wild horses who live on the island.

When we were there we didn’t see the horses on our hike, but did see the herd of bighorn sheep that also lives on the island.

Read More: Guide to the Best Flathead Lake Activities to Do on Your Trip

8. Swan Lake

If Flathead Lake is too big and busy for you, head to sleepy Swan Lake, less than thirty minutes from Bigfork on the northeast corner of Flathead Lake.

Swan Lake has an excellent day use area that is easy to access. It also has a low fee to visit for the day. Park and be at at a peaceful beach and picnic table in mere moments. Relax by the shore or head out on your paddle board or kayak.

Or simply go for a swim or sit on the shoreline and enjoy the beauty of this peaceful lake nestled against the backdrop of Flathead National Forest. My kids especially enjoyed splashing around by the beach even though the water was pretty cold! We brought wetsuits for them to wear.

9. Holter Lake / Gates of the Mountains

Follow in the canoe path of the Lewis and Clark expedition with a boating adventure in Holter Lake. Holter Lake is surrounded by the pristine Holter Wilderness Area. Part of the Holter Reservoir was created by a dam erected in the Missouri River.

You can boat and dock by campgrounds and trailheads after you glide through the infamous Gates of the Mountains. It’s called “Gates of the Mountains” because that is what Lewis said as they were going through the water pass.

No boat of your own? Sign up for a boat tour that takes you through this part of the reservoir. The tour is also a great way to learn about the area’s history.

Read More: Ultimate Guide to Visiting Holter Lake and the Gates of the Mountains

Love racing down the mountainside in the middle of winter? Us too! Next up are a couple of our favorite places in Montana to visit in winter for snow adventures.

10. Big Sky Resort 

The preeminent ski resort in Montana is massive Big Sky Mountain Resort. It’s home to a number of challenging runs that make Big Sky Mountain a ski destination exciting for experienced skiers and snowboarders. Yet it also has plenty of trails for beginners and is home to an excellent ski school.

Plus, the views you’ll get from the top of the ski runs are stunningly gorgeous.

You can stay right in Big Sky Resort at one of the ski-in, ski-out condos and townhomes, or rent a nearby vacation rental. Another popular option is to stay in Bozeman, which is about an hour’s drive away.

Read More: Insider’s Guide for All the Best Places to Ski in Montana

11. Red Lodge / Beartooth Highway

If you want to ski where the locals ski (at least those who live in Billings and eastern Montana), head to Red Lodge instead of Big Sky in 2023.

You won’t find any of the pomp and circumstance Big Sky is sometimes known for due to it glitzy clientele. Instead you’ll find a laidback mountain town with one Main Street of restaurants and bars and a smattering of hotels. 

Summer in Red Lodge Tip: Red Lodge is also a popular destination in non-ski seasons. Mostly because it’s the start of the incredible Beartooth Highway Drive. This scenic drive leads to the northeast entrance of Yellowstone National Park and has some of the best mountain views in the country. You might see some mountain goats, too!

Plus, even is summer there’s a good chance you’ll see snow at the top of the pass. There’s even a ski run there in the summer, Beartooth Basin , that operates two platter lifts. We only recommend skiing here for advanced skiers, but even if you’re not skiing, it’s cool to watch people gliding down the mountainside seemingly in the middle of nowhere during the height of summer.

Read More: Winter Guide for Red Lodge Mountain

12. Hot Springs

Soak outside in one of Montana’s blissful hot springs. Montana makes it easy to do so at various hot spring resorts and facilities. Our favorites are:

• Quinn’s Hot Springs
• Chico Hot Springs
• Bozeman Hot Springs

Read More: Best Hot Springs in Montana

Must-Visit Cities in Montana

Montana is known for nature and wildlife, but it also has a cosmopolitan side, which you can experience in these cities. All of which are still located close to gorgeous scenery and outdoor activities.

A visit to Helena takes you to Montana’s state capital, a gorgeous city located right in the mountains. It’s home to a university, the stately capitol building, and a downtown area brimming with historic homes and buildings. 

Our favorite place to hang out in Helena is along the Walking Mall. This is a pedestrian-only street in downtown that has an actual creek running through it. My kids love playing in it, while I enjoy watching them play in it from the patio of Windbag Saloon & Grill with a local beer in my hand. 🙂

Cross the road at the end of the Walking Mall and you’re at Reeder’s Alley, which is a really cool historic area that has been preserved to reflect the turn of the 20th century. It’s also where the visitor center is so you can get more ideas on what to do in and around Helena while there, such as going to the nearby Flathead National Forest or other local hiking trails.

Read More: Ultimate Guide for Things to Do in Helena

14. Billings

Billings doesn’t get enough clout as a tourist destination, in our opinion. It’s situated right in between Montana’s massive mountains to the west and the rolling farmland to the east.

(In fact, we love Billings so much we wrote a book about it, 100 Things to Do in Billings Before You Die , which you can get at local booksellers and from Amazon, Target, or Barnes & Noble.)

Billings often gets earmarked as just a starting off point or ending point if accessing Montana via the Billings International Airport. 

However, it would be a shame to overlook Billings on your trip since it has a burgeoning food and craft beer scene plus historic attractions. Despite being Montana’s largest city, it has still retained a small town vibe, making it a welcoming place to explore while in Montana.

Some of the top attractions in Billings include the Billings Beer Trail , the Yellowstone Kelly Memorial atop the rims (rocky cliffs on the north end of Billings that gives the city a beautiful frame) and the Old Town Historic District where you’ll find a number of old homes and museums. 

Read More: All the Top Things to Do in Billings, Montana

15. Bozeman

Beautiful Bozeman is nestled in the gorgeous Gallatin Valley in southern Montana and is surrounded by mountains. It’s home to Montana’s busiest airport and provides easy access to Big Sky Resort for skiing and snowboarding. Bozeman is also a short drive down to Yellowstone National Park. 

Bozeman is a great city in its own right, though, and shouldn’t just be used as a gateway to the rest of Montana. Dedicate a day or two (or more) to spend in Bozeman and get a feel for why it’s one of the best places to live in Montana — and some say, all of the USA! 

Bozeman has a number of craft breweries and distilleries, delicious restaurants that focus on local ingredients, and a fun downtown area with bars and nightlife. It’s also close to epic hiking at Hyalite Canyon which you can follow up with a relaxing soak at Bozeman Hot Springs.

In addition, Bozeman is the location of the esteemed Museum of the Rockies , which is one of the best dinosaur museums in the whole country.

Museum of the Rockies is a must-see for anyone who thinks dinosaurs are cool (and isn’t that pretty much everyone??). You’ll see a massive skeleton of a Tyrannosaurus Rex and a Triceratops plus learn about the paleontology work done in Montana that unearths these prehistoric dinosaur bones. 

Read More: Best Things to Do in Bozeman

16. Whitefish

Whitefish is a beautifully situated town located in the northwestern part of the state, nestled at the base of the impressive Whitefish Mountain Resort with the gorgeous alpine Whitefish Lake flanking the north edge of the town. With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture, Whitefish is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Montana.

One of the top attractions in Whitefish is the aforementioned Whitefish Mountain Resort, which offers a wide variety of outdoor activities year-round. In the winter, visitors can enjoy skiing and snowboarding on the resort’s world-class slopes. When visiting Whitefish in the summer , visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and zip-lining up at the mountain resort, or swimming and paddle boarding down the mountain at Whitefish Lake.

The town itself is also full of unique shops, delicious restaurants, and lively bars, making it the perfect place to unwind after a day of adventure. Whitefish is also home to a thriving arts and culture scene. The local community is known for its support of the arts, with numerous galleries and theaters showcasing the work of local artists and performers.

Read More: Best Things to Do in Whitefish

17. Missoula

Missoula is one of the most beloved cities in Montana for a number of reasons. Its beauty is what first pulls people in.

Surrounded by towering mountain peaks, Missoula is breathtaking to behold. The city is a short drive from Lolo National Forest and Flathead Lake. Just a bit farther north and you’ll find yourself in Whitefish and Glacier National Park. 

Top things to do in Missoula include taking a ride around the hand-carved Carousel for Missoula , going for a stroll along the River Walk, dining at the hearty restaurants and craft breweries in town. Beyond downtown, you can escape to the Clark Fork River for some whitewater rafting, fly fishing, or kayaking. 

Read More: Top 10 Things to Do in Missoula

18. Lewistown

Lewistown is a charming small town located in the heart of the state, surrounded by rolling hills, sprawling ranches, and endless natural beauty. Visitors to Lewistown are drawn to its laid-back atmosphere, friendly locals, and abundance of outdoor activities.

One of the top attractions in Lewistown is the Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument, which offers stunning views of the rugged landscape and opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, and boating. History buffs will also appreciate the town’s rich heritage, with several historic sites and museums showcasing the area’s Native American and pioneer past.

In addition to its natural and cultural attractions, Lewistown also boasts a thriving arts scene, with galleries, studios, and annual events like the Montana Winter Fair and the Chokecherry Festival. Whether you’re in the mood for adventure, relaxation, or inspiration, Lewistown is a great place to visit and experience the best of Montana.

Read More: Best Things to Do in Lewistown

19. Great Falls

Great Falls is a hidden gem surrounded by stunning natural beauty including the Missouri River, the Rocky Mountains, and the vast prairie lands of Montana. Visitors to Great Falls can experience the best of both worlds, with easy access to outdoor adventures and city amenities.

One of the top attractions in Great Falls is the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center, which tells the story of the famous explorers who passed through the area on their expedition to the Pacific Northwest. The center features interactive exhibits, artifacts, and a replica of the boat used by the expedition.

Another must-see attraction is the C.M. Russell Museum. C.M. Russell is arguable Montana’s most famous artist. He’s one of the world’s most beloved Western painters, known for his paintings depicting the frontier and Native American life in the late 1800s and early 1900s. An extensive collection of his works are housed in the museum in Great Falls. His old log home is also located on the grounds.

Outdoor enthusiasts will also find plenty to do in Great Falls, with hiking, fishing, and boating opportunities available in the nearby mountains and rivers. The Giant Springs State Park is an especially popular spot for picnicking, bird watching, and fishing. The park features a natural spring that produces over 156 million gallons of crystal-clear water every day, making it one of the largest freshwater springs in the country.

Read More: Complete Guide to the Best Things to Do in Great Falls

By the way…

Before we get to the rest of this list, quick break to make sure you know about our First Timer’s Guide to Montana travel guidebook. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or want some expert advice for Montana trip planning all in one place, this 139-page guidebook is for you! Click here to learn more about it!

…and now back to the best places to visit in Montana list!

Historic Places to Visit in Montana

History abounds in Montana, and here are some of the historic places that stand out that you should add to your Montana bucket list.

20. St. Ignatius / Mission Mountains

A historic place to visit between Missoula and Flathead Lake is the town of St. Ignatius on the Flathead Indian Reservation.

St. Ignatius is home to the similarly named St. Ignatius Mission, which is a popular tourist attraction in this area.

St. Ignatius Mission is a Catholic Church that dates back to the 1890s. When visited, it must be seen from the inside. That’s where you’ll see the 58 original paintings on the ceiling painted by Brother Joseph Carignano. There is also a museum next to the mission.

To learn more about the history of the area, head to the Ninepipes Museum of Early Montana in St. Ignatius where you can learn more about the importance the land has played to the native people of Montana throughout the past centuries. 

St. Ignatius is also near the Mission Mountains, which provides visitors with opportunity to partake in a number of outdoor activities. Popular ones include rock climbing, ice climbing, river rafting, and boating.

21. Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument

Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument is a historic site located in Southeast Montana. The site is dedicated to preserving the memory of the Battle of Little Bighorn, which took place in 1876. This battle is also known as Custer’s Last Stand, as it saw the defeat of General George Custer and his troops by the Lakota Sioux and Cheyenne warriors. The battlefield is a somber, yet interesting place to visit because of its historical significance and natural beauty of its surroundings.

Visitors to Little Bighorn Battlefield can explore the site and learn about the events leading up to the battle, the battle itself, and its aftermath. The visitor center features exhibits and artifacts that give insight into the lives of the soldiers and Native Americans who fought in the battle. Guided tours are also available, led by knowledgeable rangers who can provide more in-depth information about the site and its history.

In addition to its historical significance, Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument is also a beautiful natural area. The site is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer and prairie dogs. The landscape is dotted with rolling hills and wide open spaces, offering visitors a chance to experience the beauty of the American West.

The 1-mile Deep Ravine Trail is a good hike to do to soak in these views while learning more about the battle and the Native American history in the area. The site is also a great place for hiking, with several trails that offer stunning views of the battlefield and surrounding area. 

Bonus Site: While in this region, also head to Pompeys Pillar, a large sandstone rock tower that has a visitor center about the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Why here? It’s the only known spot where one of the explorers left a mark of their identity: William’s signature etched into the rock face. Read more about Pompeys Pillar here.

22. Bannack State Park

Located in the southwest corner of Montana, Bannack State Park offers visitors a unique glimpse into the past. The park is home to the ghost town of Bannack, which was once a bustling gold rush town in the late 1800s. Today, visitors can explore the well-preserved buildings and artifacts of this historic town, giving them a glimpse into what life was like in the Old West.

Aside from its fascinating historical significance, Bannack State Park also offers plenty of outdoor recreational opportunities. Visitors can hike or bike on the park’s trails, fish in the nearby streams, or camp overnight in the park’s campground. The park is also home to a number of special events throughout the year, including living history days, ghost tours, and gold panning demonstrations.

23. Virginia City

While Bannack is cool and spookily deserted, if you want to really feel what it was like to live during the mining boom period, head to Virginia City. Located about 90 minutes east of Bannack State Park, Virginia City is also an old mining town that was once deserted…but this time an initiative in the 1960s refurbished many of the buildings along Virginia City’s Main Street. The buildings now reflect almost exactly as they would have been set up in 1890. Their is a bank, carpenter, hat store, general store, pharmacy, and many more shops all available for you to peer into and glimpse the past.

Virginia City is also where Montana’s oldest bar is located, which you can still sidle up to and order a beer or stiffer cocktail.

Just a couple minutes down the road from Virginia City is Nevada City, MT. This is another little ghost town has abandoned old buildings and homes with informational signs about what the town was like back during the gold rush.

24. Butte’s Mining Past

Located in Central Montana, Butte is located between Missoula and Bozeman right off I-94. As a result, most road trippers drive right through this historic city or just stop to get gas.

This is definitely doing yourself a disservice!

Butte has an incredible history and was once nicknamed the “Richest Hill on Earth.” This moniker was due to the extensive minerals (and resulting riches) its massive mining industry unearthed in the early 1900s.

Today, the mining industry is gone, but you can still see remnants of it, both in downtown Butte and on the outskirts of town.

In downtown Butte, tour the gorgeous Victorian homes from the mining town’s heyday. Beyond the town, you can see the Anaconda Smelter Stack jutting up into the sky. Drive up the hill to view acidic Berkeley Pit, a sad reminder of the toll mining has on the earth.

Read More: The Best Things to Do in Butte

25. First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park

First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park is a fascinating and historically significant site located in Montana. It was once used by Native American tribes as a hunting ground for bison. The bison would be driven over the edge of the cliff, providing an abundant source of food and supplies for the tribes.

Today, visitors to the park can explore the area and learn about its history through informational signs and plaques. The park also features an interactive visitor center, which provides additional information about the site and its significance. Visitors can even watch a short film that explores the history of the buffalo jump and its importance to Native American culture.

One of the highlights of First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park is the hiking trail that leads to the top of the cliff. This trail offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, and it is a great way to experience the site from a unique perspective. Along the way, visitors can explore the remnants of ancient hunting structures and learn more about the history of the site.

First Peoples Buffalo Jump Park is located in the town of Ulm, a short drive southwest of Great Falls. If you’re sticking to southwest Montana, there’s also a buffalo jump site in the small town of Three Forks called Madison Buffalo Jump State Park.

No matter what type of vacation you’re looking for, these best places in Montana to visit are epic. Each place will have you experiencing Montana in an epic way with gorgeous scenery.

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40 Things To Do In Montana

Posted on September 29, 2014 by Kris Hauck

Are you planning a vacation to beautiful Montana? Make sure you read up on this checklist of Things to Do in Montana created by the Backroad to Yellowstone. We detail some awesome things to do in Montana and throughout the famous Madison Valley!

1. Take a relaxing dip in Montana’s legendary hot springs. The Norris Hot Springs are considered the “Water of the Gods”, and are perfect for taking a soak. Or check out the  Bozeman Hot Springs  at Four Corners, where people have been visiting for more than 100 years. These famous hot springs are perfect for visiting on a cold fall, winter or spring day.

2. Visit our beautiful national parks. Yellowstone National Park is known for its abundance of wildlife and breathtaking geography. Check out our Guide to Yellowstone for more information. Grand Teton National Park can be found at the south end of Yellowstone NP – renowned for its classic craggy peaks.

3. Go for a scenic drive. Full of wide open spaces and natural beauty, is no shortage of scenic drives in Montana . In fact,  drive US 287  as a scenic route all the way from Glacier  through  Ennis and into the west entrance of Yellowstone National Park.

4.  Find all of our beautiful wildflowers. Montana is famous for it’s beautiful nature, wildflowers included. Alpine meadows provide showy displays of wildflowers beginning in early June through August. Join us each year when we take a  wildflower tour with the US Forest Service up the Gravelly Range Road near Ennis in July.

There are several designated Botanical Sanctuaries in Montana.  The Lamar Valley in Yellowstone NP and Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge are both convenient to Ennis and US 287.

5. Cast Your Fly Fishing Line in a Montana River

Anglers come from near and far just to take on some outstanding  Madison River fly fishing . The Madison River, from Madison Junction in Yellowstone to Three Forks, is a fly fishing mecca for serious anglers. It is classified as a blue ribbon fishery in Montana and is one of the most productive streams in Montana for brown trout, rainbow trout and mountain whitefish.

• If you’re planning on fly fishing in Montana, visit the Montana FWP website to research general rules and safety tips.
• Make sure to buy a Montana fishing license to avoid any hefty fines from the FWP on the Montana rivers.
• Different rules apply to different rivers (and even stretches of certain rivers), so read up on Montana fishing regulations , and educate yourself before you dip a line!

6.  Visit a Montana brewery or distillery. Follow this trail map of breweries  or this list of distilleries . Locals like to visit our favorite craft distillery, Willie’s Distillery , for one of their delicious specialty cocktails.

7.  Eat! Montana is packed with wonderful restaurants that offer authentic Montana cuisine. Ever had elk or bison? Head over to the Continental Divide Restaurant & Bistro and try both in a relaxing, sophisticated setting.  Or spend a summer evening at Bandito’s Restaurant with a great bar and lively vibe.

8.  Check out a western rodeo. Watch cowboys and cowgirls ride buckin’ broncos and lasso cattle from their saddles. If you’re in Montana for the 4th of July, don’t miss the popular Ennis Rodeo , which has been going for more than 60 years!  And the 4th of July parade is small-town awesome, too!

9.  Visit Virginia City because you won’t find another town quite like it.    Echos of vigilante justice and gold rush fever in a living town.    Take a ghost-walk tour, learn history on a stagecoach tour or pan for gold in an authentic western town.

10. Take a Hike on one of Southwest Montana’s Trails

Montana offers amazing scenery and spectacular views. But if you really want to see the beauty of Southwest Montana up close and personal, you should take to the trails. With hundreds of thousands of miles of acreage to hike, the Madison Valley offers the best hiking in Montana.

There are an abundance of beautiful places and thousands of miles of hiking  t rails  in the Madison Valley. From easy to difficult, from peaceful to intense, you’ll never experience a hike like the one you’ll do in Southwest Montana!

With the miles of vast wilderness and untouched land, there’s always a chance that your day could take an unexpected turn.   If you’re out on an adventurous Montana hike, make sure you prepare yourself by keeping these resources handy:

• US Forest Service Emergency Number in Montana: 406-682-4253
• General outdoor safety information from US Forest Service
• Madison Valley hiking safety guidelines

11.  Get geared up for your outdoor adventure. If you’re going fly fishing on the Madison River, make sure to stop by one of the many fish tackle shops in Ennis, MT .  Stop in for the latest “no-fail” fly or up-to-date local information on hatches.   Also, if you happened to forget anything at home – your fishing rod or waders, perhaps – you can visit the local sports store where you can pick up any fishing gear you may need! Click on the links below to find out more about where you can prepare for your Montana fly fishing adventure:

• The Tackle Shop – Montana’s Oldest Fly Fishing Tackle Shop!
• Shedhorn Sports – From hunting licenses to high tech GPS, Shedhorn carries everything!

12.  Spend your nights in a log cabin. Nothing completes your Montana adventure like coming home to a log cabin.    El Western Cabins & Lodges in Ennis, MT built its first cabin in 1948 and has lodges of all sizes to accommodate your party.  A western tradition with all the comforts – not to be missed!

13.  Hit the links at one of Montana’s 119 golf courses . Test your skills at the “best little course in Montana”, Madison Meadows Golf Course .

14.  Pan for gold! The historic towns of Nevada City and Virginia City were gold mining towns back in the day and visitors can still pan the river gold .

15. Go Montana Horseback Riding

There’s no more authentic – and better – way to spend your day than on the back of a noble steed, trotting through the untamed wilderness of Montana. With a strong cowboy heritage, working horses are still a fixture on most local ranches.  Ride with experienced outfitters through the Beaverhead National Forest and enjoy amazing views in the Rocky Mountains.

• Diamond J Corrals Horseback Riding Montana
• Wolfpack Outfitters

16.  Visit a fish hatchery. Since fishing is such a huge part of Southwestern Montana culture, it’s fitting that the Ennis is home to one of the largest broodstock hatcheries in the entire Forest Service National Broodstock Program. The  Ennis National Fish Hatchery  has been one of only two rainbow trout hatcheries in the federal US that hatches rainbow trout. 20 million rainbow trout eggs are produced each year and sent to more than 20 states.

17.  See the abandoned cabins at Earthquake Lake. After Madison River flows out of Yellowstone, it keeps running its course, north,  into Southwestern Montana. It steadily streams through Madison Valley on it’s way past the west entrance of Yellowstone and into Hebgen Lake. Just past Hebgen Lake, the river flows into the infamous Quake Lake.  Quake Lake is a long whitewater section of the river that was created from the 1959 earthquake that struck the area and created the lake.

18. While you’re at Quake Lake, get a wholesome brunch at the Campfire Lodge . Since 1922, this riverside stopover has been feeding and lodging hunters, fisherman, and adventurers of all kinds.

19. Enjoy the museums, shops, and restaurants around the west entrance of Yellowstone. US 287 and US 191 converge at this park entrance, bringing visitors from Bozeman, Big Sky, Missoula, Idaho, Washington and more. It makes the west entrance a popular destination filled with many attractions .

20. Float Down the Madison River

The start of the Madison River is in Yellowstone National Park and it is very easy to get to. Whether you are an expert fly fisherman, a novice, or simply want to go for a relaxing float down the river, the Madison River is for you.

The Tackle Shop or the Madison River Fly Fishing Company can set you up with all the gear you need for an enjoyable jaunt down the river. Additionally, there are several shops in West Yellowstone that offer tubing.

21.  Explore Montana art. Find authentic western art inspired by the early settlers or modern pieces created by famous Montana artists. Take an outdoor art tour or see all of the events and galleries in Montana .

22.  Hike “up Jack Creek,” as locals say. Just east of Ennis, MT, Jack Creek comes racing out of the Fan Mountain foothills. The  Jack Creek hike  along the stream makes for a fantastic day with a combination of scenic drives and beautiful walks. A great way to spend an autumn day catching the leaves changing colors.

If you’re starting from Ennis, head out of town about 12 miles east until the blacktop becomes a dirt road. After a short drive, you’ll start climbing up into the mountains, past grazing elk and antelope chomping on the native prairie grasses. Once you’re high enough in the mountains, you’ll come across the Diamond J Ranch. Drive past that up toward the parking and trailhead that’s the start of the trail.

23.  Find out why Montana is known as “Big Sky Country”, with a beautiful ascent into valleys and gorgeous displays of twinkling starts at night. Make sure to say hi to the neighbors while you’re here.

24.  Dip your toe in the water. If you’re in search of how you can get your feet wet in some Montana waters, then visit the Montana Fish Wildlife & Parks website . There you are able to search for the nearest Fishing Access Site (FAS) of more than 300 locations.

25. Camp in Montana

Montana camping offers some of the best camping experiences in the US, and possibly throughout the world. If you like natural landscapes and gorgeous views, Montana campgrounds should be on your list of top vacation spots for your next trip. There are camping areas made for remote camping and there are that offer a little bit in the way of amenities, such as toilets and running water. Whatever you’re looking for in your Montana camping experience, you’ll find it.

If you’re planning on adventuring on the Backroad to Yellowstone, and are looking for camping opportunities before you get to your destination, the most popular area is the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest .

Visit the Montana State Parks website to see a list of more campsites around Montana.

26. Hike the 12 mile loop on Bear Creek Trail.  Bear Creek Hiking Trail offers views and access to the most beautiful mountains in the Madison Valley. As an easy, non-technical hike, the Bear Creek Trail features gorgeous views, high elevation and switchbacks.

27.  Be entertained by the hilarious sketch comedy show called Brewery Follies . They perform out of the old H.S. Gilbert Brewery in historic Virginia City; a venue as unique as the performance. Word of warning: Leave the kids at home!

28.   For adrenaline junkies, take a white water rafting trip!  The infamous “Kitchen Sink” rapid in Bear Trap Canyon rates a IV in the spring run-off.  Not for novices!!  Limited guided trips available through the Bear Trap Express.  Or for the milder-wild, ride the rapids in the Gallatin River with Montana Whitewater Company .

29.  Drive the beautiful Gallatin Canyon and take a zip-line in at Big Sky Resort in the summer.   Named by Merriweather Lewis of Lewis & Clark, this beautiful canyon features Gallatin River where the angling opportunities are abundant.  All part of the Gallatin Forest .   The Gallatin offers miles and miles of off-road motorized vehicle adventurers summer or winter!

30. Head up to the Gravelly Range

If you’re in the mood for beautiful views of Big Sky Country, then the  Gravelly Range is where you want to head. A trip to this beautiful mountain range, where you can hike, picnic or just hang out, makes for a great way to spend your day in Montana.

31.  Look for hidden treasure…Montana is a  geocaching gold mine!  GPS is a great tool for any outdoor adventure in Montana – especially when you are on a treasure hunt in the Treasure state!

32.   Go bird watching , and capture some spectacular views of Montana’s feathered friends. Did you know that Madison Valley is designated as an Important Bird Area in 2004? You might see anything from horned owls to waterfowl!  Or  check out Red Rocks National Refuge  near Lima, Montana for amazing water fowl.

33.  Attend the Air Fair  at Ennis Big Sky Airport, where planes perform high-flying twists, turns, and flips! If you’re not into airplanes, then check out the classic cars or fantastic food at any of the food stands.

34.  Head over to Willie’s Distillery for the Annual Pig Pickin’ event, featuring famous Montana moonshine and music. Not to mention the delicious, authentic Montana food!

35. Tour the Lewis & Clark Caverns

The Lewis & Clark Caverns are a sight to behold among Montana tourist attractions. Designated as a national monument by Teddy Roosevelt, these caverns are named after the famous expedition of Lewis & Clark who passed over the caverns more than 200 years ago – come see why!

36.  Spend a few hours shopping at the locally-famous, Otter Banks , where the  motto is: “Where you’ll find everything you want, and want everything you find!” If you’re a shopaholic, Otter Banks is calling your name.  Or try Benjie’s for amazing prices on silver jewelry.

37.   Get out your mountain bike and hit the trails !  Your legs will never be the same!

38.  Spend a few hours learning about Montana and the Rocky Mountains at the Museum of the Rockies in Bozeman. MOR features stunning exhibits of dinosaurs and American Indian history, as well as activities such as a planetarium and walkable garden.

39.  If you love state history, then soak up as much as possible at the Montana Capitol Building . The gorgeous building was built in 1896 and is considered the “People’s House.” For more than a hundred years, the Montana State Legislature has been governing from the capital, Helena. With a tour conducted by the Montana Historical Society , gaze at the famous rotunda, standing atop the building and more.

40. Learn At The Madison Valley History Museum

The Madison Valley History Museum is where the history of the Madison Valley comes to life. Through a collection of exhibits featuring artifacts, videos, photographs and stories, the museum educates visitors on the hundreds of years of Madison Valley life and culture.

Get Going to the Backroad Now!

If any of these things to do in Montana sound appealing to you, then take a look at the adventure awaiting you on the Backroad to Yellowstone. On US Highway 287, you’ll have an authentic Montana vacation, seeing the wild west for what it truly is: A beautiful, majestic, often unforgiving, but never uninspiring destination for the outdoor enthusiast.

The next vacation you take has the chance to be a great one. Plan your trip to Southwest Montana today.

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Where to Go in Yellowstone Country

There’s the obvious: Yellowstone National Park . You might call it the region’s main attraction. But the beauty and adventure of the park spills on for miles beyond its boundaries, creating much more than a vacation destination. It’s a discovery of a way a life where awe and exploration never end.

Immerse yourself in Montana. In the charm of the Old West, in any season. In the lazy rivers and the wild ones. In the rolling hills and the rugged peaks. In the refuges for beasts and birds. In the small towns thriving with arts and culture, food and drink and friendly folks. There’s history to consume and alpine whiskey to savor. There are ski hills and rapids to run. There are scenic drives to take and epic memories to make. The gift of discovery is given here in heaping portions, and it’s rather well received. Expect the unexpected in Yellowstone Country Montana, and boldly go to places you’ve never imagined and you’ll never forget.

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• Yellowstone National Park

25 Awesome Things To Do in Yellowstone [Free, Tours & All Seasons]

By Will Beck

There are so many things to see and do in Yellowstone, with an endless collection of outdoor activities, museums and art galleries, historic houses and culturally significant buildings, interpretive centers, distilleries, and hot springs to check out.

It’s for this reason that visitors often have a hard time deciding what to do during their vacation here. If that sounds like you, then we’ve got you covered, with fun activities and tours that cater to all tastes and family members no matter what the season of weather.

The 25 Best Things To Do in Yellowstone

1. old faithful geysers.

One of the best things to do in Yellowstone National Park would be to explore its numerous thermal features. Of all the thermal features in the world, more than half are found inside this enormous park. In the Upper Geyser Basin, the Old Faithful Geyser is one of the most popular thermal features.

As its name suggests, Old Faithful has the most frequent and consistent eruptions of all geysers and this has been so for over a century. This magnificent geological feature erupts to heights of up to 184 feet, releasing tens of thousands of liters of hot water along with steam.

Besides this wonderful geyser, the Old Faithful area has tons of other thermal formations to explore. Mud pots and fumaroles, for instance, are found in this area as well. Unlike hot springs and geysers, these two features comprise less water. Fumaroles release steam and mud pots are acidic thermal features.

As you move towards the Lower Geyser Basin on the Fountain Point Pot Trailhead, you will encounter lots of fumaroles, hot springs, cone geysers, and mud pots. The interesting thing about thermal features is how they change in terms of functionality over the years. This means that for every visit you take to Yellowstone National Park, you will always have something different to experience.

The Old Faithful region is easily accessible from the West Yellowstone gate in Montana. Pass by the Old Faithful Visitor Center for directions on your visit and any other relevant information. As you view these features, be sure to stay on the boardwalks to avoid any accidents. These features are dangerous. The steam released here can be as hot as 3500F (1760C) and the water as hot as 2400 F (1150C). Therefore, it’s only best that you stay safe.

2. Yellowstone Grand Canyon

The Yellowstone River runs down this large canyon from Yellowstone Falls. This feature is approximately between 0.25 and 0.75 miles long and up to 1,200 feet deep. The Lower Falls has a picturesque view from Artist Point and is one of the most photographed places in the park.

Many front country and backcountry trails allow you a view of some parts of this canyon. The Canyon Visitor Education Center is the place to pass by for detailed directions.

Some of the backcountry trails to take include the Cascade Lake Trail, which is a 2km backcountry trail from the Canyon Junction that ends at Cascade Lake. The Howard Eaton Trail covers four lakes, Cascade Lake, Grebe Lake, Wolf Lake, and ends at Ice Lake. It’s 10.7 miles long and goes through a forested region and marshy area.

Mount Washburn provides spectacular views of the Grand Canyon. The Mount Washburn Spur Trail is a 16.2-mile all-day loop that covers Washburn Mountains and Washburn Hot Springs. The shortest Mt. Washburn trail is one that begins at the Chittenden Road and stretches 5.8miles to Mount Washburn. It is, however, not recommended in September and October.

There are many more hiking trails around the Grand Canyon area, which let you experience parts of this elegant geological marvel. There are many alpine world flowers you’ll also enjoy seeing along your way. Watch out for grizzly bears, especially during fall.

3. Mammoth Hot Springs

This has got to be the most perfectly crafted of all hot springs in Yellowstone. Water cascades down its staircase-like rocky terraces like a waterfall. Formerly, people could soak in its waters for the healing effects of its mineral components. This, however, is currently prohibited for safety purposes.

The source of the heat for this feature remains a geological mystery to date, with speculations that it may be the magma chambers in the Yellowstone Caldera, a volcano that erupted hundreds of thousands of years ago.

While at these springs, you may take a trail through its lower terraces and up its higher terraces. The ground gets steeper in some of the stair-filled areas. Driving trails are also available up these terraces. If hiking, stay in designated walking areas. You may also view wildlife such as bison, black bears, elk, and mule deer in the surrounding areas.

4. Yellowstone Lake

This magnificent lake offers scores of adventurous activities you will enjoy. There are guided boat tours offered by Yellowstone National Park Lodges and many other different companies. You can also rent boats, go kayaking, motorboat riding, or canoeing. Take fishing excursions and spend your afternoon trying to catch some trout.

The shores of Yellowstone Lake also make for good backcountry hiking places. The Pelican Creek Nature Trail is a short 0.6mile trail loop that covers the forest-filled area around the shores of the lake. This trail is good for bird watching.

The Avalanche Peak Trail is a long trail that elevates as high as 2,100 feet. Be sure to follow the existing trail paths on this particular hike to keep safe. At the highest point of the trail, you get the best views of mountain peaks around the park.

The Elephant Back Mountain Trail is a 3.5-mile trail that allows you the best views of Yellowstone Lake from a distance. At 1.5 miles, it elevates up 800 feet along the forested shores of the lake. Be sure to watch out for grizzly bears on these trails and keep safe.

The Mud Volcano Trail explores the Yellowstone Caldera, which Yellowstone Lake is a part of. These depressions were formed as a result of volcanic eruptions that occurred 640,000 years ago, some much later.

Some of these depressions filled up with water to form lakes. Some were filled with lava flows over time and a plateau was formed. This region covers most of Yellowstone National Park. A hike around the mud volcano areas allows you amazing views, as well as a peek into the geological history of most parts of this park.

5. Grand Prismatic Spring

This is the largest hot spring in the entire United States and the third-largest in the world. This colorful spring is the most popular in the Midway Geyser Basin, and Yellowstone as a whole. On your adventure itinerary, it should be listed as the thing to do in Yellowstone without fail.

It’s probably the picture that got you yearning to come to this park, as it’s the most photographed area in Yellowstone. This is mostly owing to its vibrant colors. Just like the Mammoth Hot Springs, the colors result from the living microorganisms that thrive in high heat on its outer surface.

Take a paved trail or follow boardwalks around the springs to get its magnificent view. Being very popular, the spring is mostly crowded. Parking spaces are limited and they fill up fast. Being early may help avoid the crowd, although you may miss out on the best views. The Grand Prismatic Overlook Trail is a short trail to an elevated region where you can view the spring from a distance.

6. Biking Park Roads and Trails

Most roads around the park allow biking activities. There are also designated biking trails that you can enjoy riding on around the park. Mountain bikers will particularly enjoy the elevated trails, some of which go up to 8,860 feet. The park also allows e-bike riding to be carried out within set rules.

The Yellowstone National Park Lodges at Old Faithful offers bike rentals. Some of the biking trails you might enjoy are the Bunsen Peak Loop Bike Trail and Old Gardiner Road Bike Trail in the Mammoth Hot Springs area. The Lone Star Geyser Trail and Old Faithful Lower General Store are located in the Old Faithful area. There is also Riverside Bike Trail in West Yellowstone and many more.

While riding on the park roads, in order to be safe, you need to beware of motorists as they give little regard to bikers. The roads also get heavy traffic depending on the seasons you visit. Riding backcountry trails and boardwalks is prohibited and as a biker, you need to stick to designated trails only. The services in between roads and trails are far apart, hence carrying supplies such as food and water on your biking excursion is highly recommended.

7. Hayden and Lamar Valley

Are you a wildlife lover or photographer? If so, then these two valleys are most suitable for your hobby. Lamar Valley is known for its wolves. They come out of their dens towards the end of spring into winter and hang out in packs. Winter guided tour drives are the most suitable way to watch these amazing animals in their natural habitats. Wildlife watching is suitable seasonally in these two valleys.

During spring in Lamar Valley, it’s a bison and pronghorn calving season and you can watch them and their little calves. Black bears and wolf puppies can also be spotted during this season. The best animals to watch out for in summer are the bighorn sheep in Lamar Valley and Bison in both Lamar and Hayden Valley.

The bears move to elevated areas during summer because of the heat and they become less visible. They come back in spring, both the black bears and grizzly bears. Raptors migrate to Hayden Valley in the fall, which makes it convenient for bird watching.

Besides wildlife, these valleys also offer beautiful views of landscapes, Yellowstone River, Lamar River, and many more creeks. The best times to watch wildlife are during the early mornings and in the evenings. The Hayden Valley is centrally located in the park. Lamar Valley is easily accessible through the North-Eastern entrance from Cooke City.

8. Bird-watching and Photography

Another interesting, less vigorous thing to do in Yellowstone is bird watching. The best places to watch birds from are near water bodies and in marshy areas. Also look out for trees, treetops, and elevated areas as birds love to perch in such places. They’re mostly visible early to mid-morning and in the evening as they go back to their habitats.

Birds migrate into Hayden Valley in the fall. The raptors, for example, are a common bird species that fly into this valley during this season. This makes Hayden Valley a suitable place for bird-watching, especially water birds such as tundra swans and ducks, and prey birds such as hawks.

You can also catch sight of different birds throughout the park. Bird migration into the park is also common in spring. During winter, birds move away from the park and into other winter regions.

Carry your binoculars and spend your time observing and identifying these beautiful creatures. Take pictures of them, and while you’re at it, don’t forget to enjoy the sweet melodies from songbirds. Even as you go about bird watching and photography, it’s advisable to do it from a distance. This way, the birds are peaceful and you get to enjoy even more time watching them.

9. Old Faithful Inn

One place to spend your days upon visiting Yellowstone is in this historic inn. Old Faithful Inn is located close to the Old Faithful Geysers. One up to spending your nights at their lodges is that you get amazing views into the park, including views of the geyser.

This inn has existed for centuries. The rooms perfectly combine Old Yellowstone and New Yellowstone, with modern furnishing in an antique setting. There are different options for the type of room to pick, depending on your preference. The inn also offers guided tours around some parts of Yellowstone Park such as the Firehole Basin.

Old Faithful Restaurant has amazing cuisine as well. Yellowstone is a huge park, so you will definitely need lots of food on your walks to replenish your energy! The Old Faithful Bear Paw Deli offers takeout services for foods such as sandwiches, salads, and snacks. This is suitable for those opting to carry food with them on their trip.

The Old Faithful cafeteria offers both lunch and dinner. They also have a bakeshop for freshly made pastries which make for great breakfast or snack choices. Their Geyser Grill also offers take-out chicken, burgers, sandwiches, and more.

10. Roosevelt Lodge

These rustic cabins were built in the 1920s and are located near Yellowstone Tower Fall. They offer guided horseback ride tours and stagecoach carriage tours. They are a great place to spend your nights if you’re set for multi-day tours around the park.

The cabins don’t have as many provisions but are comfortable and simple. Their Roughrider Cabins are fit for those looking to “rough it”. They have communal bathrooms and showers nearby.

The Roosevelt Old West Dinner Cookout is one you do not want to miss. They’re done the old western way, with open campfires and grills. The result is premium beef steak, baked beans, cornbread muffins, coleslaw, potato salad, brewed coffee, and a night of cowboy fun. Take that ride to Pleasant Valley and experience the cookout of a lifetime.

Free Things To Do in Yellowstone

11. firehole canyon scenic drive.

Take this short two-mile drive off the Grand Loop Road towards Madison Junction. Along the way, you’ll see the Firehole River flowing right down from the Firehole Falls and a swimming area. There is a parking space along the road where you can make a stop and take in these wonderful views. You could also take a swim in the swimming area, although it’s important to note that it’s not very safe.

12. Artist Point Trail

It’s a 0.2-mile trail to a viewpoint for the Grand Canyon. The highlight of this trail is the views from the Lower Falls, which is one of Great Canyon’s popular features. Once in the park, you don’t need to pay any extra fees for this trail.

13. Firehole Lake Drive

It’s a three-mile loop from Old Faithful towards Madison. Along the way, you will see some geysers and hot springs as you drive.

14. The Old Faithful Visitor Center

Enjoy the geological and scientific exhibits, Yellowstone history, films and get educated on Yellowstone Park. Get the resources and guidance you need as well as information about the Old Faithful region.

The Best Tours in Yellowstone

15. 2-Day Guided Tour with Lunches: An exhaustive tour to both Upper and Lower Yellowstone Park.

16. Yellowstone Day Tour Including Entrance Fee : A full-day guided trip around Yellowstone National Park.

17. Small-Group Yellowstone Tour with Picnic Lunch : Small group guided tour around the park with stopovers at the park’s major highlights.

18. Grand Teton & Yellowstone 2-Day 1-Night Tour : Overnight tour to Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks.

19. Grand Teton & Yellowstone: 4-Day Nature Tour with Lodging : A 3 to 4-day exhaustive adventure around the Yellowstone National Park.

20. West Yellowstone Park Tour with Local Guide : Guided tour around Yellowstone National Park’s popular places.

21. Full-Day Yellowstone Lower Loop Tour : A guided tour along the Lower Loop of Yellowstone National Park.

22. Private Lewis Lake Fishing Trip from Jackson: Fishing tour on Yellowstone National Park’s Lewis Lake.

23. 4-Day Grand Teton and Yellowstone Winter Tour: Guided winter tour on Yellowstone National Park.

24. Yellowstone National Park 5-Day Wolf Tour : A tour to view Yellowstone gray wolf and witness the geysers in winter.

25. Self-Driving Audio Guided Tour: An audio-guided tour around Yellowstone National Park.

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About The Author

Will is a true digital nomad, taking his work on the road at every opportunity. His first love is coffee, with travel a close 2nd. He loves nothing more than hitting the road in his self-build campervan and visiting off-the-beaten-path places, away from popular tourist destinations.

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Experience the Best of the West with These Road Trips Through Montana’s Yellowstone Country

When visiting Yellowstone National Park, don’t miss the area just to the north. Montana’s Yellowstone Country is full of delightful surprises.

You don’t need to be a devout fan of the now-famous TV show to know that Montana’s Yellowstone Country is as iconic an American destination as they come. The national park is a big draw, sure, but it’s far from the only thing pulling world travelers to the region north of its bounds. In fact, you’d really be missing out by not tacking on extra time to explore the area’s endless miles dotted with charming towns that serve as your basecamp to adventure. And the best way to see it all is via one of the great Western pastimes: a good, old-fashioned road trip. Spending anywhere from three to five additional days outside the national park, you’re guaranteed to get a true taste of what Yellowstone Country has to offer.

Made up of five south-central and southwest Montana counties (Gallatin, Park, Sweet Grass, Stillwater, and Carbon), Yellowstone Country is a veritable playground for outdoor enthusiasts and culture buffs alike. We’ve mapped out three family-friendly road trips starting in Yellowstone National Park’s gateway communities, where you’ll not only experience peak adventure but savor a taste of the Old West we all crave. The down-home hospitality, slow living, and breathtaking landscapes you’ll come across along the journey are so nostalgia-inducing that they may even make you consider making a move out to Montana yourself. 

West Yellowstone to Three Forks

Courtesy of Google Maps

As gorgeous as the famous national parks are, it’s worth exploring some of the state parks and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands, too, like Missouri Headwaters or Madison Buffalo Jump state parks, both just a hop, skip, and a jump from Three Forks. This route, easily accessible from Bozeman, allows explorers to do just that. As always, it’s important to recreate responsibly , being sure to leave nothing but footprints (and good vibes) behind. While there are excellent spaces to RV and tent camp along the way, for the glamping-inclined, you’ll want to start your journey at the world-class accommodations at Under Canvas West Yellowstone . After a morning stroll in West Yellowstone, go for après at the acclaimed Bar N Ranch , which serves up a wild game Bolognese worth writing home about.

Eric Melzer

Making your way north, book in for a day of horseback riding with Broken Hart Ranch , which offers both day and overnight horse packing trips in the Spanish Peaks Wilderness Area. If you’d rather hoof it, go hiking through Big Sky’s spectacular mountain ranges. Known for being home to some of the world’s best snow in the winter months, it’s no surprise that they offer incredible backcountry to explore in the spring and summer seasons. Afterwards, be sure to stop into Riverhouse BBQ, which serves some of the best ribs under the big sky. To class it up at the end of your road trip, consider a stay at the historic Sacajawea Hotel , right in the heart of Yellowstone Country’s Three Forks along the Lewis and Clark Trail.

Gardiner Through Livingston to Big Timber

Named after an outlaw fur trapper and dotted with wildlife like bison and elk, Gardiner is the Wild West town of your dreams, hot springs included. ( Yellowstone Hot Springs and Chico Hot Springs are just two area favorites.) Known as “Nature’s Favorite Entrance to Yellowstone National Park,” Gardiner is surrounded on all sides by 10 million acres of public lands, so you can set out in any direction and find adventure, like rafting, ziplining, horseback riding, and exceptional hiking. While in Gardiner, pick up some reads for your road trip at Tumbleweed Bookstore and Cafe and a bite of wood-fired pizza at Yellowstone Pizza Company before heading out for fly fishing (you’re in Montana after all.)

Andy Austin

Grab a line for first-rate casting in Big Timber, or jump in for some river rafting on the Yellowstone River, the longest free-flowing river in the lower 48. Many river-bound trips depart from Paradise Valley, punctuated by picturesque waypoints and world-class angling. The ideal basecamp is Pine Creek Lodge , a darling boutique property known for its live music, locally brewed beers, and stellar pub fare. Other excellent accommodations along the route include Under Canvas North Yellowstone , and Sage Lodge in Pray, the latter of which would make an excellent home base if you happen to be in the bustling town of Livingston during the month of July for one of Montana’s oldest rodeos . There’s a contingency of young makers and crafters that are breathing new life into this Old Western outpost, making it worthy of an overnight. 

Silver Gate-Cooke City to Columbus

Only around 140 people call Cooke City home, but in the summer it booms with outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the nearby Custer Gallatin and Shoshone national forests. Here, you’ll enjoy “the most scenic drive in America”—the Beartooth Highway—and doses of the outdoors along the route include Cooney State Park and the Absaroka Beartooth Wilderness. If woodsy waterways ripe for fishing are your speed, then a stop in Columbus is a must. Sitting at the foothills of the Beartooth Mountains where the Stillwater and Yellowstone rivers meet, it’s an angler and backpacker paradise, but it still has all the creature comforts for those looking for some solid shut-eye and culture to boot.

Kaden Harrison

Visit the Museum of the Beartooths for a lesson in the history of the frontiersmen and homesteaders that shaped the area, as well as artifacts of the Crow Tribe and Northern Pacific Railroad memorabilia. There’s no shortage of amazing spots to rest your head along the route, including Whispering Pines Cabins , Absaroka Mountain Lodge , or Pollard Hotel Red Lodge . They’re the perfect blend of rustic style and comfort, making your trip just the right mix of nature and nurture. 

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17 Best Things To Do In Yellowstone National Park

Home » Blog » U.S.A. » 17 Best Things To Do In Yellowstone National Park

Planning a trip and looking for some of the best things to do in Yellowstone National Park? From can’t miss attractions to day hikes, we’re covering the best of Yellowstone so you can create the ultimate itinerary.

Written by Guest Author: Lauren Stuart

Yellowstone is the oldest National Park in the United States and is home to some of the most unique ecosystems in the world. As you drive along Yellowstone’s scenic loop road, you’ll pass by hydrothermal hot springs and geysers, encounter wildlife, and witness geologic sites like the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. 

From geological wonders to epic day hikes, there are so many things to do in Yellowstone National Park. Oh, and did you know Yellowstone is home to more geysers and hot springs than any other place on earth? Pretty cool, right?!

The park is not only unique in its ecosystem, but also in its location. Yellowstone National Park straddles three U.S. states. Located primarily in Wyoming (96% of it) with small portions of the park reaching into Montana (3%) and the rest in Idaho (1%). 

Whichever state you decide to enter the National Park from, one thing is for sure, you’ll have plenty of things to see and do in one of the most popular National Parks in the US. In this article we’ll go over all the details you need to plan the ultimate Yellowstone National Park experience, from the logistics to the bucket list experiences. 

Yellowstone National Park Guide

• Yellowstone at a glance
• How to get to Yellowstone
• Park Entrances
• Best Time to Visit
• How much time to spend in Yellowstone?
• Best way to explore
• Yellowstone National Park Map
• Things to do in Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park at a glance

• Open: All year round, but certain areas of the park are only accessible during certain times of the year.
• Entrance Fee: $35/vehicle, $30/motorcycle, $20/hiking & biking or free as part of an annual America the Beautiful Pass
• Wildlife: Bighorn sheep, bison, elk, moose, grizzly bears, mountain lions, and wolves
• Established: March 1, 1872
• Ancestral Lands: Given the vastness of Yellowstone, 27 tribes called this land home. Tribes like the Crow, Umatilla, Shoshone, Bannock, and Blackfeet used the area for hunting and gathering.
• Area: 2,221,766 acres

How to get to Yellowstone 

If you are not road tripping to Yellowstone, you’ll need to book flight arrangements. The closest airports to Yellowstone National Park are its two small regional airports:

• Yellowstone Airport (WYS) located in West Yellowstone
• Yellowstone Regional Airport (COD) located in Cody, Wyoming
• Jackson Hole Airport: 70 miles, 1.5 hour
• Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport: 80 miles, 1.5 hours
• Idaho Falls Regional Airport: 110 miles, 2 hours
• Salt Lake City International Airport: 325 miles, 5 hours

Yellowstone park entrances

There are a total of five entrances to Yellowstone National Park. Three of which are in Montana and the other two are in Wyoming.

• North Entrance : Located 5 miles from Gardiner, Montana and is the closest entrance to Mammoth Hot Springs.
• Northeast Entrance : Located 10 minutes from Cooke City, MT and is the closest entrance to Lamar Valley.
• West Entrance : The most convenient entrance for those coming from Idaho or Missoula, MT. This entrance will put you in the heart of geyser country.
• East Entrance : Located 53 miles from Cody, Wyoming and is the closest entrance to Yellowstone Lake.
• South Entrance : Located 1 hour and 15 minutes from Jackson, Wyoming. To get to the south entrance of Yellowstone you’ll have to drive through certain sections of Grand Teton National Park!

For those looking to fly into larger airports, Jackson Hole and Bozeman Airport will be your two closest options.

Tip: If you plan to see nearby parks like Grand Teton and Glacier, plan to purchase an America the Beautiful Pass to help save on National Park entrance fees.

When is the best time to visit Yellowstone?

While Yellowstone National Park is open all year round, the best time to visit the park is from mid-May to the beginning of mid-September. During the summer months, the weather is nice and all the facilities in the park are open and accessible. However, the summer months are also considered peak season, which means lots of crowds, especially from June to August.

The shoulder seasons, like spring and fall, are options for those looking to avoid the crowds. If visiting during shoulder seasons, be prepared for inclement weather—maybe even snow! During our first visit to Yellowstone in October, we had a nice little snowfall welcoming us to the park.

Visiting Yellowstone during the winter months is also possible, you’ll just have to plan for limited access to facilities. The best way to explore the park during the winter months is to book a snowmobile or snow coach guided tour .

Psst! Did you know Yellowstone is one of the  best national parks to visit in winter ?

How many days do you need in Yellowstone? 

Can you see all of Yellowstone in one day? No way.

The Park is massive, like REALLY massive, and without skipping sites, seeing Yellowstone in one day is pretty much impossible. At the bare minimum, plan to spend at least two days in Yellowstone National Park.

Two days allows you to break up the park into two sections, the North Loop and the South Loop. By having two days, you’ll be able to see the park highlights at a nice pace. Our tip is to start early. The earlier you start, the fewer crowds there will be.

If you have the time, spending three days in Yellowstone is amazing. Not only will you have more time to see the lesser-known sites, but you’ll also have the time to take a day hike and experience the best things to do in Yellowstone at your leisure.

Best way to get around Yellowstone

Since the national park is so vast, the best way to explore Yellowstone is by car. Plan to rent a car from the airport you fly into, or you can book a tour with a reputable Yellowstone Tour company.

Biking through Yellowstone National Park is another option. If you plan to bike the park, please be sure you are in shape and are an experienced road biker. There are lots of vehicles in the park and with the elevation, it is highly recommended you are prepared, both with gear and in physical shape before exploring Yellowstone by bicycle. 

If you have a campervan, travel trailer, or RV, exploring Yellowstone is totally possible with these forms of transportation. The only warning is parking. Parking is already hard to come by during peak season, but if you have a larger/longer rig, you may find it difficult to navigate parking lots and to find room along the side of the park road to pull off. When planning an RV trip or Van trip through Yellowstone, the smaller your rig size, the better.

Wanna give vanlife a try while visiting Yellowstone? 

It’s no secret we’re obsessed with #vanlife. However, if you don’t have the time (or interest!) in  building your own conversion  but you still want to give vanlife a test drive, we’ve got options for you…

Check out our list of top companies for  USA Campervan Rentals  from budget to bougie, we’ve even included some exclusive discounts for our readers. 

One company we’d recommend looking into is  Escape Campervans . They have 12 different locations across North America and come fully loaded with all the gear you need for an epic road trip. Plus, their rates are fair and affordable.

BONUS:  We’ve partnered with them to give you a  10% off discount when you use our  link !

Yellowstone National Park map

This map shows all the best things to do in Yellowstone, plus logistical information like entrances. You’ll see it covers a fair bit of ground so it’s best to plan your trip in sections.

Best things to do in Yellowstone National Park

While it would take years to compile a list of everything there is to see and do in this park, we did our best to put together a list of the best things to do in Yellowstone including the must-see attractions and sites. We think this list will give you a good idea of where to start your itinerary planning.

1. Drive Yellowstone’s Scenic Loop Road, The Grand Loop 

First up is to drive Yellowstone’s Scenic Loop. The only way to circumnavigate the entire park is along the scenic loop. Sometimes also called the Grand Loop, Yellowstone Scenic Loop is 142 miles and takes visitors through the national park.

When planning your trip to Yellowstone, it’s best to break the Scenic Loop Road into two parts, the North Loop and the South Loop. 

The North Loop consists of popular sights like Mammoth Hot Springs and Lamar Valley. Whereas the South Loops has popular park sights like Old Faithful, Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, and Yellowstone Lake, just to name a few.

Tip: If you are short on time, or only have one day in Yellowstone, plan to explore the South Loop. The South Loop covers more of the best things to do in Yellowstone versus the North Loop.

2. Spot wildlife in Lamar Valley & Hayden Valley

No trip to Yellowstone is complete without spotting a field of bison or a moose wading through the river. From endless deer to the ever-sneaky black bear and pack of wolves, Yellowstone is home to a variety of birds, reptiles, and mammals. 

The best places to catch wildlife are at Lamar or Hayden Valley.

Tip: Plan to bring some binoculars. Really, the only animals that are close to (or on the road for that matter) are the bison. More than likely, any moose, bears, or wolves you’ll see will be far away and will require a pair of binoculars to get a better view.

Visitors to Yellowstone often skip Lamar Valley for Hayden Valley due to the fact that Lamar Valley isn’t located near many other Yellowstone attractions. However, if you are looking to spot moose or wolves, Lamar Valley is your best bet. 

We were VERY lucky to see both during our trip in October. As they say, the early bird gets the worm . So aim to get to Lamar Valley at sunrise to see what wildlife you can spot.

When exploring Hayden Valley, understand a traffic jam is always caused by bison. It’s just another normal day in the park!

3. Discover the rainbow colors of Grand Prismatic Spring at Midway Geyser Basin 

One of, if not the most popular geyser in all of Yellowstone is Grand Prismatic Spring which is located in Midway Geyser Basin. Grand Prismatic Spring is one of the iconic photographed landmarks of Yellowstone and rightfully so.

So, what makes Grand Prismatic Spring so, well, grand? 

It’s the largest geyser in the United States and the third-largest geyser in the world. It’s larger than a football field and packed with bold rainbow colors like orange, yellow, green, and blue. 

To say it’s beautiful and impressive is an understatement (in our opinion) and a must-see stop as it ranks among the best things to do in Yellowstone National Park.

4. Watch Old Faithful erupt

Seeing Old Faithful erupt as it sends steaming water 100-180 feet into the air is something to experience. First discovered in 1870 by the Washburn Expedition, Old Faithful was named for its timely eruption schedule. Erupting on average every 90 minutes (give or take 10 minutes), an Old Faithful eruption lasts around one minute to a minute and a half.

You have several options for where to watch the Old Faithful eruption:

• The Boardwalk: Great for those with accessibility needs, the boardwalk offers paved walkways and benches for views to watch the eruption.
• Observation Point: To get a bird’s eye view of Old Faithful, you’ll need to hike around 1.1 miles uphill (it’s a fairly strenuous hike up) to get to the Old Faithful’s Observation Point.
• Old Faithful Inn: The Old Faithful Inn has a viewing deck for visitors to use. Grab a drink and wait for the next eruption to take place.

The boardwalk is the most popular option for visitors, so if you are looking to avoid crowds, you should try to avoid peak viewing times. The earlier you get to Old Faithful, the better. Once tour buses start to arrive, it can be hard to find a decent place with a good view to watch the eruption. 

Tip: To get a better idea of when Old Faithful’s next eruption is estimated to be, you can check the posted prediction at the Old Faithful Visitor Center, follow @GeyserNPS on Twitter, or view the Old Faithful eruption schedule online .

5. Explore Upper Geyser Basin & Morning Glory Pool

If you arrive at Old Faithful a little too early and have some time to kill before the next eruption, no worries at all. There is plenty to do in the area. Old Faithful sits on what is called the Upper Geyser Basin.

Home to other geysers, like the famous Morning Glory Pool, Castle Geyser, and Black Sand Basin, Upper Geyser Basin is not only the largest basin in Yellowstone but has the highest concentration of geysers in the world. Spanning between the Old Faithful area and the Grand Loop Road, the Upper Geyser Basin has more than 150 geysers for visitors to see.

It’s easy to spend a half day exploring the Upper Geyser Basin. The entire Upper Geyser Basin loop is a 4.5-mile paved boardwalk with Morning Glory Pool being the furthest away at 1.5 miles from Old Faithful.

6. Experience the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone

If you only have one day in the park, be sure the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone makes your list of things to do. It really is one of the best places in Yellowstone National Park and should be included in anyone’s itinerary.

So, why is the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone so special? Let me explain…

Yellowstone Canyon is 4,000 ft wide, over 1,000 ft deep in some sections, 24 miles long, and home to two Yellowstone waterfalls, the Upper and Lower waterfalls of the Yellowstone.

With observation viewing points like Artist Point and Inspiration Point, visitors can get expectational views of the waterfalls and canyon below. In addition, both the North Rim and South Rim of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone are accessible to those looking to get a little hike in with Uncle Tom’s Trail being among the most popular trails in the area.

Note: We’ve since discovered that as of February 2021, the stairs leading down to Uncle Tom’s Trail have been closed indefinitely. Check back on Alltrails for the latest updates. 

7. Walk around Mammoth Hot Springs

If you are coming from Gardiner, Montana, one of the first things to do when you enter the park is to explore Mammoth Hot Springs, a unique geothermal area unlike any other in Yellowstone.

Mammoth Hot Springs is a set of terraced limestone hot spring formations making up some 3,472 square miles. Broken into two sections, you can walk the upper and lower terrace boardwalks to get expansive views of not only the park but of the hot springs themselves.

8. Hit the trails

From stunning summits and meandering riverside trails to tranquil lakes and boardwalks that get you up-close and personal to the park’s geysers and springs, there are some pretty incredible hikes in Yellowstone to discover. Many of the best trails lie well away from its star attractions.

See our round up of the best hikes in Yellowstone National Park on our sister site to get some inspiration and help you prepare to hit the trails!

9. Take in the view at Yellowstone Lake

Located in the southern end of the park, Yellowstone Lake is the largest high elevation lake in North America. Sitting at 7,730 ft above sea level, Yellowstone Lake is best explored and enjoyed by boat. Even during the summer months, the lake water temperature sits at around 41°F making it a little too cold to swim.

With its blue waters and mountain peaks in the distance, Yellowstone Lake is perfect for a quick pitstop if you are short on time. If you have more time to spare, you can hike to Storm Point or pack a lunch and have a meal along the lake shore.

Storm Point Hike

• Distance: 2.5-mile loop
• Elevation: 98 ft 
• Difficulty Rating: Easy
• View the trail notes

A moderately trafficked wooded loop trail that passes by Indian Pond and Yellowstone Lake. With varied scenery, spectacular views and the chance to encounter wildlife on the trail, it is recommended you carry bear spray if you attempt this hike. 

10. Explore the beautiful West Thumb Geyser Basin 

Even though West Thumb Geyser Basin is the smallest geothermal area in Yellowstone, it happens to be one of our favorites. We’re not sure if it’s the beautiful backdrop of Yellowstone Lake and mountain peaks, but this small geyser basin is one not to miss.

Visiting the West Thumb Geyser Basin is easy. The boardwalk is a 1.1 mile paved path and can take around 30 minutes to one hour to complete. Home to the Abyss Pool, Yellowstone’s deepest hot spring, West Thumb is just gorgeous and well worth the stop!

11. Wander around Norris Geyser Basin

Of all the geyser basins in Yellowstone, Norris Geyser Basin is the one that is rapidly changing the most. Norris is broken up into two sections: Black Basin and Porcelain Basin.

Back Basin is the larger of the two and home to popular thermal pools like Steamboat Geyser. 

Porcelain Basin, while smaller, offers much more to look at when compared to Back Basin. From bubbling thermal pools to turquoise hot springs, if you must choose between the two, we’d suggest spending your time at Porcelain Basin. 

Psst! Want to combine your trip to Yellowstone with another of America’s greatest national parks, check out our 4 day Grand Teton to Yellowstone itinerary on our sister site to help you plan an epic road trip!

12. Visit the Fountain Paint Pots

A quick stop at Fountain Paint Pots is nice as it highlights all of Yellowstone’s geothermal features in one stop: hot springs, geysers, mud pots, and fumaroles. 

However, in relation to other hot springs and geysers you’ll visit, the Fountain Paint Pots are a little lackluster in comparison. Nevertheless, the half mile long boardwalk loop makes visiting quick and easy.

13. Chase a Yellowstone waterfall… or five

Scattered through Yellowstone National Park is a series of around 300 waterfalls. Some are found along the side of the road, others requiring a bit of a hike to get to. 

Regardless of whether you want to chase as many as you can find or just a few, be sure to at least see one waterfall during your visit to Yellowstone. 

Below are a handful of the most popular waterfalls to see in Yellowstone:

• Udine Falls : Located about 10 minutes south of Mammoth Hot Springs and can be viewed from the road.
• Fairy Falls: Requiring a 4.8-mile hike, you can access the trailhead near Grand Prismatic Spring.
• Tower Fall: Located about a half-hour away from Udine Falls, lies Tower Fall, a 132ft waterfall that requires a 0.8-mile hike.
• Gibbon Falls: Dropping 84-ft into the Gibbon River is the Gibbon Falls. This waterfall requires a short walk along a paved path to get your sights on it.
• Firehole Falls: Located along scenic drive in Firehole Canyon lies Firehole Falls. You can witness this 40ft fall easily from the road.

14. Relax in Yellowstone’s Boiling River Hot Spring

If you are near Mammoth Hot Springs and want to rest for a bit, consider resting and soaking in the boiling river! 

We know, not the most welcoming name, is it?

You can find the boiling river parking lot along the road between the North Entrance and Mammoth Hot Springs. Once parked, a half-mile walk along the Gardiner River will take you to the designated swimming area of the Boiling River.

Tip: Please use eco-friendly sunscreen to protect Yellowstone’s waterways from harmful chemicals sunscreens can place in our environment.

15. Trek the Mount Washburn Trail

• Distance: 6.8 miles, out and back
• Elevation: 1,394 ft 
• Difficulty Rating: Moderate

If you are looking for one epic day hike in Yellowstone with expansive views of the park, hiking the Mount Washburn Trail is for you! The most popular place to start this hike is from Dunraven Pass.

From Dunraven Pass, the trail is a nearly 7-mile out and back trail that may take you anywhere from 3-6 hours to complete depending on your physical fitness. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to spot bighorn sheep and wildflowers.

Tip: Plan to pack some bear spray . It’s better to be safe than sorry!

16. Drive through the Roosevelt Arch

If you are coming from or exiting through the North Entrance of the park, you’ll notice a giant stone archway. In 1903, the Roosevelt Arch was constructed with the cornerstone laid by President Theodore Roosevelt. 

As you drive through the arch, you’ll notice the inscription on the top sets the tone for your trip into the park, “For The Benefit and Enjoyment of the People.”

17. Take a scenic drive along Blacktail Plateau Drive

Looking to experience an additional scenic drive in Yellowstone National Park? Blacktail Plateau Drive should be added to your list.

Blacktail Plateau Drive is a 7-mile lightly trafficked dirt road which takes around 20-30 minutes to drive. However, if you plan to stop to take in the view along the way (which you should) the drive will take much longer. 

Ranking among the best places to spot wildlife in the park, Blacktail Plateau Drive is in the northern loop section of the park, about 25 minutes from Mammoth Hot Springs.

Psst! Want to combine your trip to Yellowstone with another incredible U.S. National Park? Check out our  5-Day Glacier National Park to Yellowstone on our sister site to help you plan an epic road trip!

Things to Know Before Visiting Yellowstone National Park

• Road closures: For information on current or upcoming road closures in Yellowstone National Park, check out the latest updates on road conditions here .
• Accommodations & tours: Whether you’re staying in the park or nearby, camping or looking for a hotel, you should book accommodations and any tours well in advance as things book up quickly!
• Cell phone reception: Limited to nonexistent in the park, so download offline Google maps to help you navigate before you go.
• Park restaurants: For a full list of Yellowstone restaurants, check out the NPS site here .
• Be bear aware & respect the wildlife: Do not leave food out and do not feed the wildlife, keep your distance from all animals, and please pick up after yourself.
• Bathrooms: Bathrooms can be found at Visitor Centers and entrances to popular geyser basins and sites
• Gas stations: Old Faithful Service Station, Grant Village Service Station, Fishing Bridge Service Station, Tower/Roosevelt Junction Service Station and Mammoth Hot Springs Service Station

Where to stay in & nearby Yellowstone

Within Yellowstone National Park, you have 9 accommodation options to choose from. For any reservations at the below in-park accommodations, visit the Yellowstone National Park website to reserve your stay.

• Lake Yellowstone Hotel and Cabins
• Mammoth Hot Spring Hotel and Cabin
• Old Faithful Inn
• Old Faithful Snow Lodge and Cabins
• Canyon Lodge and Cabins
• Old Faithful Lodge Cabins
• Roosevelt Lodge Cabins
• Grant Village
• Lake Lodge Cabins

If you want to stay outside the park, the closest accommodation options to Yellowstone will be in Gardiner, Montana (North Park Entrance) or West Yellowstone, Montana (West Park Entrance).

Gardiner, Montana Accommodations

The Roosevelt Hotel :

Clean, comfortable, and quaint. If you are looking for friendly staff and a great location to not only Gardiner but Yellowstone, The Roosevelt Hotel is a great option to consider.

Yellowstone Riverside Cottages :

Overlooking the Yellowstone River, these charming cottages are a perfect place to cozy up and take in the views after a day of exploring Yellowstone Park.

Yellowstone Gateway Inn :

Located next to a National Forest and 2 miles from the park entrance, the Gateway Inn offers private cabins to those looking for a quiet and comfortable stay.

West Yellowstone, Montana Accommodations

Golden Stone Inn :

Friendly staff, excellent location with a modern log cabin twist, it’s no wonder why Golden Stone Inn ranks among the top accommodation choices for West Yellowstone.

Under Canvas Yellowstone :

If you’re looking for a unique accommodation experience, consider glamping just outside of Yellowstone! Cozy and welcoming luxury canvas tents with comfortable beds and fireplaces await you. 

Faithful Street Inn :

Clean and comfortable cabins located in West Yellowstone and close to Yellowstone is what you can expect from Faithful Street Inn. They are a little rustic, but cozy, nonetheless.

Tip: As soon as you know the dates of your Yellowstone visit, BOOK YOUR HOTEL room. Places within and near the park book up fast. To secure your desired accommodation type and location, book well ahead of your planned visit.

Camping in Yellowstone National Park 

If you are looking to pitch a tent or park your campervan or RV, Yellowstone has 12 in-park campgrounds with over 2,000 sites for you to choose from. 

Fair warning: these sell out fast! Like, really fast. 

Of the 12 campgrounds, five require reservations. The rest are first-come, first-serve. The five that require reservations are listed just below.

• Bridge Bay Campground
• Canyon Campground
• Fishing Bridge RV Park
• Grant Village Campground
• Madison Campground Yellowstone

For more information on Yellowstone Camping, reference the NPS site for the latest information on site availability and pricing. If sites are all booked up, try using the popular camping app The Dyrt to find additional camping sites near Yellowstone National Park.

The Dyrt App

If you’re traveling in a campervan or simply hoping to save money on your visit to Yellowstone National Park by camping along the way, we have a deal for you!

The Dyrt is our favorite campsite locating app with the largest database of campgrounds (44,000+ campsites and counting!) and over 1 million user-submitted reviews. Plus, it’s super user-friendly, and has some pretty cool features, like outdoor gear contests and forums to connect and seek advice from fellow campers, that you won’t find on any other camping app.

Try their Pro Membership for FREE for 30 days and gain access to the offline version of the app, utilize their trip planning feature AND get exclusive discounts on campsites and gear!

What to pack for Yellowstone National Park 

• Snacks: You’ll be in your car a lot and your days will be busy so having snacks is key. You’ll be spending long days in Yellowstone, and no one wants to be hangry.
• Sunscreen: You’re at a higher elevation and spending loads of time outside.  Lather up and protect that skin of yours. If you can, go the eco-friendly route to protect our lovely little planet of ours.
• Reusable water bottle: Avoid plastic bottles. Do your part to limit waste and opt for a reusable water bottle instead.
• First aid kit: For any blisters or accidental cuts. It’ll save you the hassle (and pain) of trying to track band aids/medicine down from strangers or park rangers.
• Layers: In the mornings and evenings, the temperatures are chilly. Plan to have a jacket or fleece with you. Something you can take off as the day heats up.
• Comfortable footwear: Comfortable sandals like Chacos or Tevas are great options, especially for summer! If you’re going on any trails or looking for a closed-toe shoe, sneakers with tread or a hiking boot is a great option.
• Bug spray: The mosquitoes are alive, well and THRIVING in Yellowstone.
• Binoculars: We can’t tell you how many times we used our binoculars to see and spot wildlife. You’ll be able to see wildlife much better if you have a pair of binoculars with you.
• Portable charger: Whether it’s a portable charger you can take with you or a USB you can plug into your car, you’ll want to have something with you to keep your phones charged up.
• Offline Maps: Cell phone reception is practically non-existent in the park so if you require GPS, make sure to download offline Google maps or Maps.Me to help you navigate the park when reception is not available.

If you plan to have lunch on the go, plan to pack a cooler in your vehicle. However, if you are driving a truck, just make sure to keep the cooler out of your truck bed as it could attract bears.

About the author s

Lauren & Jesse from the Wandering Stus are a free-spirited travel couple whose appetite for adventure and faraway places fuel their wanderlusting souls. They give you travel tips, epic itineraries & overall travel inspiration to help you plan your next adventure! Follow along on @Wanderingstus on Instagram as they tell their stories of the places they’ve been and furthermore, where they are going next.

Are you planning travel around the U.S.A.?

We have TONS of resources on travel in the US and how to make the most out of your trip. Check out our  Ultimate USA Travel Guide  for everything you need to know, or read some of our favorite articles below.

• America the Beautiful Park Pass: Is it Worthwhile?
• Fun Things to do in Grand Teton National Park
• Amazing Things to Do in Glacier National Park
• Money-Saving Tips for a Cheap Road Trip Across the USA

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We want to hear from you!

Have you been to Yellowstone National Park? What was your favorite part? Still have questions about the best things to do in Yellowstone? We’ll do our best to get back to them in the comments below.

Comments (1) on “ 17 Best Things To Do In Yellowstone National Park ”

Thanks for discussing about things my family and I can do in Yellowstone such as relaxing and swimming in the river hot spring. We have been cooped up here for a year so I think this might be a good time to go out. I wonder if there are private tours services that can cater to a big family like ours.

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Which Entrance to Yellowstone National Park Should I Take?

Planning a vacation to yellowstone involves many details, one of which is deciding how you will enter the park..

With 2.2 million acres ⎯ larger than the size of Rhode Island ⎯ the park is enormous, which is why it’s a good idea to figure out what you want to see and know which entrance is closest to those sights. There are five Yellowstone entrances ⎯ North Entrance, Northeast Entrance, South Entrance, East Entrance and West Entrance . Here are the details on each to help you plan your adventure to the country’s oldest national park.

• North Entrance, open year-round, brings you to Mammoth Hot Springs
• Northeast Entrance puts you at doorstep of park’s wildlife
• East Entrance brings you to Yellowstone Lake
• South Entrance allows you to tackle two national parks in one day
• West Entrance brings you to geyser paradise

1. North Entrance Brings You to Mammoth Hot Springs

Want to experience some of the West’s most spectacular scenery in a town that can feel like a cross between Northern Exposure and Animal Planet, given its wild neighbors living up the street in Yellowstone?

Head to Gardiner, Mont., just five miles from Yellowstone’s steaming terraces of Mammoth Hot Springs, one of the park’s many natural wonders. Sitting at the only year-round entrance to the world’s first national park, pretty much everything in Gardiner is colorful from the scenery and people to the names of dishes on menus, adding a poetic slant to your visit.

If you’re coming from the Pacific Northwest or even Missoula, Mont., the North Entrance, along US 89, may be the one for you. Situated in Gardiner, Mont. , a lively small western town, the North Entrance is open year round and is the only way to reach the park’s northeastern border in the winter.

Be Wowed by Mammoth Hot Springs

From the North Entrance, you are well-situated to see the park’s incredible wildlife, as well as the famed Mammoth Hot Springs and the historic hotel and dining room located near the hot springs. You also pass the Boiling River turnoff on the stretch of road from Gardiner to Mammoth. In the Boiling River , one of two sanctioned swimming areas in the park, you can swim in an area where warm hot springs water enters the Yellowstone River.

Explore Lamar Valley

From Mammoth, you can head east on the northern most road in the park to get to the expansive Lamar Valley , referred to as the Serengeti of the United States, because of the extraordinary diversity of mammals living there. It is the Lamar Valley that the first wolves were reintroduced to the park in 1995-97. It is also home to grizzly bears, black bears, bison and elk, among many others. Bring your binoculars!

2. Northeast Entrance Puts You at Doorstep of Park’s Wildlife

Closest to Cooke City, Mont. , and its sister village Silver Gate, this entrance gives you the best access to Yellowstone’s legendary Lamar Valley where grizzlies, black bears, bison and wolves roam. The tiny outpost of Cooke City (year-round population is 100) has a downtown that spans only a few blocks but offers good dining and lodging options

Closed in the winter time, the Northeast Entrance makes sense to enter if you are coming from the northeast side of Montana like Billings or Red Lodge, Mont. From Billings, you can take I-90 west to US 212 west and from Red Lodge, Mont., take US 212 west. Driving US 212 west is arguably the most dramatic route to enter the park.

Be Amazed By Beartooth Pass

With its sweeping alpine vistas, Beartooth Highway , along US 212, is the closest you may get to feeling as if you are on top of the world. Every corner of the road presents a more incredible view than the previous. Head south over Beartooth Pass, before dropping into Cooke City and Silver Gate, the closest towns to the Northeast Entrance.

Fuel Up in Cooke City

Cooke City itself is a tiny town but offers a number of services from lodging to restaurants and gas. From it, you can drive to the Northeast Entrance is a matter of minutes. Once you go through the entrance gate, the Lamar Valley unfolds before your eyes. Home to bison, grizzly bears, black bears, wolves and elk , plan to spend some time along the roadside pull-offs, viewing the animals from a safe distance . You’ll find the Lamar Valley will give you an overwhelming sense of what the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem looked like before white pioneers settled there more than 150 years ago.

3. East Entrance Brings You to Yellowstone Lake

The East Entrance brings you right to the Yellowstone Lake , the largest mountain lake at such a high elevation of 7,733 feet. It stretches 20 miles long and 14 miles across and its shorelines are dotted with geothermal features . From there, the West Thumb Geyser Basic and Old Faithful lie to the southeast and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone to the north.

To get to the park’s East Entrance, you will pass through Cody, Wyo. , founded by Buffalo Bill Cody himself. While Cody is 53 miles from the East Entrance, it is the closest town to the entrance.

Have an Authentic Western Experience

Cody is an Old Western town that celebrates its rich history through daily summer rodeos and incredible museums that make up the Buffalo Bill Center of the West . With its historic downtown and numerous family friendly activities, including the Cody trolley tour where you can learn more about Cody’s history, it is well worth a stop for a day or two. Admission to the Buffalo Bill Center of the West is good for two days, so take your time exploring.

Buy a cowboy hat downtown at the third-generation-owned Wayne’s Boots or Boot Barn up the hill and head to two of Cody’s family friendly venues that offer cowboy music during the evenings. The Cody Cattle Company has a really casual atmosphere where kids can run around the establishment’s wooden picnic tables. Dan Miller’s Cowboy Music Revue is a more upscale  show that has moved next to the Irma Hotel in downtown Cody. The show starts at 8 p.m. Monday-Saturday throughout the summer.

Stop at Buffalo Bill Dam

From Cody to the entrance, you will take the Yellowstone Highway, also known as US 16-20-14, past the enormous Buffalo Bill Dam six miles from town. Completed in 1910, it was the tallest dam in the world then. Today, it supplies water to 93,000 acres of farmland in the Bighorn Basin, bringing to life alfalfa, sugar beets, oats, barley and beans. The dam’s visitor center is open daily May 1-Sept. 30. From there, you will continue through the valley, eventually, reaching Sylvan Pass, which is RV-friendly and tops off at 8,350 feet.

4. South Entrance Allows You To Tackle Two National Parks in One Day

If you are looking to tackle two national parks in one day, the South Entrance is for you. From Jackson, Wyo. , you can stop at the awe-inspiring Grand Teton National Park along your 57-mile drive north on the John D. Rockefeller Jr. Highway up to Yellowstone. Plus, if you are staying in Jackson, Wyo., the South Entrance is the easiest entrance to access Yellowstone.

Jackson itself is an incredible mountain town that attracts skiers to its steep slopes in the winter and throngs of tourists in the summer. Blending the Old West with upscale boutiques, Jackson is the ritziest of all Wyoming towns. But it has a full range of hotels and eateries, catering to every type of traveler.

Once you enter through the South Entrance, you will drive along a stretch of the park’s road without any turnoffs for more than 20 miles. But once you hit the West Thumb Geyser Basin, you can stretch your legs and explore some of the park’s amazing geothermal features. From there, head west to view Old Faithful or continue north along the shores of Yellowstone Lake and on up as far as the Lamar Valley, which stretches to the Montana border and is known for its abundance of large mammals, including wolves, bison and bears.

5. West Entrance Brings You to Geyser Paradise

If geysers are on the top of your Yellowstone hit list, you may want to enter the park via US 20 and the West Entrance, as it puts you in the heart of the park’s geyser country.

This entrance is the park’s busiest, so it’s no wonder that West Yellowstone, Mont., is a bustling gateway with dining, shopping and attractions for travelers. Located just across the Wyoming border in Montana, West Yellowstone is a convenient entrance town for those coming from Idaho or western Montana, especially Missoula. Visitors will find Wild West flavor, plenty of lodging and a mix of cultural and outdoor activities.

Welcome to Geyserville

When you enter the park through the West Entrance, you will drive 14 miles until you reach Madison, a jumping off point for geyser basins to the north and south. Head south and you will see the largest geyser basin in Yellowstone called the Lower Geyser Basin, which includes Fountain Paint Pot, Firehole Lake Drive area and the Great Fountain Geyser. You’ll want to stop at the Midway Geyser Basin, slightly south, which is home to the dazzling Grand Prismatic Spring , which has resident bacteria that creates rainbow-like rings in the spring.

Further south is the Upper Geyser Basin, which is home to Old Faithful , Biscuit Basin and others. At least 150 geysers exist in 1 square mile here.

Up north you’ll find Norris Geyser Basin , the park’s oldest and hottest thermal area with two walkable zones. It’s home to the Steamboat Geyser, which is the world’s tallest geyser at 300-plus feet. If you drive farther north, up to the park’s northern border with Montana, you can explore the boardwalks of Mammoth Hot Springs, a two-tier travertine wonder.

West Yellowstone Attractions

There’s also a lot to do when you are ready to take a break from sightseeing in the park. Minutes from the West Entrance sits West Yellowstone, Mont. , home the Grizzly &Wolf Discovery Center , as well as lodging and dining.

Catch a show at the Playmill Theatre or study up for your park trip at Yellowstone Giant Screen Theatre, which shows IMAX movies about Yellowstone and beyond.  It also is home to a number of well-equipped RV parks, which make it a fantastic place to park your RV and launch your tours of the park via your car.

Getting a park map is key to understanding where all of Yellowstone’s scenic attractions are located, as well as their proximity to the park’s entrances. You’ll get a free map when you go through an entrance station, but if you want to plan in advance, purchase a Trails Illustrated map of Yellowstone from REI.com .

Pssst. Want to download an insider’s guide to Yellowstone, where to stay and what to do? Order our free stunning Yellowstone Trip Planner filled with an inspiring itinerary, gorgeous photographs and everything you need to plan your dream vacation.

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THE 10 BEST Things to Do Near Yellowstone National Park

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• Full-Day Guided Yellowstone Day Tour
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Marvelous Montana: The Best Places To Visit In The Treasure State

Posted: November 21, 2023 | Last updated: November 21, 2023

Top spots in the Treasure State

Big Sky Country. The Treasure State. The Last Best Place. Whichever of these nicknames you use for Montana, you won’t be wrong. America’s fourth largest state by area – which has just been named in Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2024 as one of the world’s top regions for travelers – is a real Western wonder. With endless beautiful and intriguing places to explore, from national parks and other natural attractions to small towns, slick cities, and historic landmarks, what are you waiting for?

Click through to discover the very best spots to see in Montana right now...

Swaddled by the spectacular landscapes of the Beartooth Mountains and Custer Gallatin National Forest, this charming enclave calls itself a town and has the quaint, community feel of one, but it’s actually a small city. A Native American trading post frequented by cowboys and outlaws back in the 19th century, Red Lodge has since retained its Western-style architecture and reputation for warm hospitality.

Head downtown to sample the fruits of its locally-owned independent stores and farm-to-table restaurants, or visit Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary to support animals from the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem who are unable to live in the wild. 

Yellowstone National Park

While Wyoming is the state most synonymous with Yellowstone, Montana has two gateways into America’s oldest national park. The little tourist town of West Yellowstone is just a short drive from the West Entrance and will steer you right into the heart of this geothermal marvel.

West Yellowstone is fun to visit in its own right, with the must-see Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center promising close encounters with Greater Yellowstone animals who can’t live in the wild. Yellowstone’s North Entrance – the original way into the park – can be found in Gardiner and leads into the so-called ‘American Serengeti’ year-round, via the iconic Roosevelt Arch.

Beartooth Highway

Beginning just south of Red Lodge, the Beartooth Highway is a 68-mile All-American Road snaking through Montana’s highest mountain peaks and into the state of Wyoming. After crossing the border via Montana's Cooke City, the road climbs to reach Beartooth Pass (elevation: 10,947 feet) and enters Shoshone National Forest before arriving at the northeast entrance of Yellowstone National Park.

The scenic route, with its hairpin bends and sharp switchbacks, is typically open between May and October. Allow at least three hours for the total drive (not including photo stops).

Gallatin River

Known to the Shoshone Tribe as Cut-tuh-o-gwa (swift water), the Gallatin River was renamed after the Lewis and Clark Expedition arrived in Montana during the early 1800s. Around a quarter of the river falls within the northern tip of Yellowstone National Park, attracting hikers, fly fisherfolk, and watersports nuts with its astonishing beauty, as well as local bears, deer, and moose.

Downstream, the river rushes through the Gallatin Canyon and the Gallatin Valley, where the scenery effortlessly shifts from pine forests to cottonwoods and hay fields.

Medicine Rocks State Park

Listed in the National Register of Historic Places, Medicine Rocks State Park is filled with unusual sandstone formations that look like lumps and shards of dusty honeycomb. Shaped by the elements over millions of years, these unique rocks were deemed sacred by some Native American groups (such as the Crow, Northern Cheyenne, and Sioux peoples), who convened in their shadows for ceremonial and religious gatherings.

Called “as fantastically beautiful a place as I have ever seen” by Theodore Roosevelt when he visited as a boy, Medicine Rocks is still a captivating haven for nature lovers.

Bannack State Park

Bannack, a former boomtown near the border with Idaho, was Montana’s first territorial capital and the site of its first major gold strike in 1862. Within a year, the settlement’s population had ballooned to over 3,000, which was then followed by a gradual decline as gold became less valuable.

Now labeled the best preserved of all the state’s ghost towns, Bannack is something of an open-air museum, showcasing more than 50 original Old West buildings seemingly frozen in time. There are 28 campsites (including a tipi to rent) open for year-round overnight stays in the park too.

Fort Peck Lake

Soaking a swathe of Montana’s Missouri River Country, Fort Peck Lake (really a reservoir) is the state’s largest body of water. Its 1,520 miles of shoreline outnumbers the length of the Californian coast and is home to the Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge, populated by herds of mule deer, red foxes, mountain bluebirds, coyotes and so much more.

The lake was founded with a practical use in mind – to alleviate flooding, as well as post-Depression poverty by creating jobs – but has evolved into a hub of outdoor recreation.

Wrapped in blankets of trees on all sides, it’s no mystery how Missoula won its nickname. The ‘Garden City’ is uniquely situated within driving distance of five of Montana’s seven national forests; Lolo National Forest surrounds it entirely.

Within Lolo, visitors will find myriad walking and cycling trails sewn throughout the picturesque Rattlesnake and Blue Mountain National Recreation Areas – but there’s plenty to do indoors too. Missoula is a burgeoning university city; its downtown neighborhood and the so-called ‘Hip Strip’ are awash with music venues, cool art galleries, and coffee houses.

We can’t round up the most gorgeous places in Big Sky Country without mentioning Big Sky itself. Dramatic peaks crest all around this small town like rearing waves and wear whimsical names like Sphinx Mountain, Cinnamon Mountain, and Lone Mountain (pictured). Adrenaline-inducing winter sports and whitewater thrills are the main draws here, with the Big Sky Resort boasting some of the biggest skiing in the US.

While a sense of adventure is encouraged, it’s not mandatory to enjoy your time in Big Sky – just hit the Historic Crail Ranch Museum or the stores instead of the slopes.

Makoshika State Park

The name of Montana’s largest state park derives from the Lakota phrase meaning ‘bad earth’ or ‘bad spirit,’ relating to the harsh and inhospitable conditions of Montana’s eastern badlands. But life has been known to thrive in what is now Makoshika State Park; aside from the juniper and pine scrub that peppers its rocky landscape today, dinosaurs once roamed here.

At the park’s visitor center, you’ll find the fossilized remains of tyrannosaurus rex, triceratops, and even more prehistoric creatures. As well as archaeological wonders, Makoshika is laced with nature trails, scenic driving routes, and campsites. An open-air theater hosts an annual Shakespeare festival too.

Blackfoot Pathways: Sculpture in the Wild

This sculpture park in Lincoln features large-scale installations by Montana natives and international artists that celebrate Blackfoot Valley’s precious cultural, environmental, and industrial heritage. Carving through the western corner of the state, the Blackfoot Valley cradles a free-flowing river of the same name and has been inhabited by Native American peoples for at least 10,000 years.

One of the most striking pieces you can see at Blackfoot Pathways: Sculpture in the Wild is “Tree Circus” by Patrick Dougherty (pictured), created out of willow and alder wood.

Glacier National Park

Forming part of the Crown of the Continent – a Venn diagram of vast temperate ecosystems shared by Montana and the Canadian provinces of British Columbia and Alberta – Glacier National Park is a wilderness of alpine meadows, gleaming lakes, majestic valleys, and vanishing glaciers. It is vast, but we think hiking in the Many Glacier area is a particularly jaw-dropping introduction to exploring this national park.

Tripping the Going-to-the-Sun Road can’t be missed either; take an interpretive tour with Blackfeet-owned tribal business Sun Tours to fully understand the national park’s complex history.

First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park

Set within the High Plains, First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park is where Indigenous hunters used to kill herds of buffalo and bison by driving them over a sheer cliff. Believed to be the largest such jump in North America, this site was used for at least two thousand years and features a mile-long sandstone ledge where compacted bovid remains lie entombed beneath.

While this all might make you shudder, a single jump could feed, clothe and shelter the hunters’ people for a whole year, so they were necessary for survival.

Butte was once called the Richest Hill on Earth, owing to the abundant copper lodes that transformed it from a humble mining town on the slopes of the Continental Divide into Montana’s first major city. At the turn of the 20th century, Butte was the largest city west of the Mississippi and was also the biggest between San Francisco and Chicago for a considerable stretch of time.

Nowadays, while the copper boom has long since dwindled, the city remains a monument to its past – it contains one of the USA’s largest National Historic Landmark Districts and some fascinating museums that document its 1800s prime.

Bozeman is Montana’s other university city, which has been called “the most liveable place.” Combining ample opportunities for backcountry exploring and adventure sports with diverse festivals, farmers’ markets, theaters, cafes, and craft breweries, the growing town is keen to show off its experimental and eclectic vibe.

Spare some time for the Museum of the Rockies, an affiliate of the illustrious Smithsonian Institution and home to one of the country’s largest dinosaur collections, as well as exhibits on regional Native American culture and Western art. If that wasn’t enough, the planetarium and outdoor living-history sections will leave you equally entertained and educated.

Paradise Valley

If you’re visiting Bozeman, supplement your trip with a gorgeous 90-minute drive through the heart of Paradise Valley to the North Entrance of Yellowstone – the only way into the national park during the winter months. With the Absaroka mountain range to its eastern flank and the Gallatin range to the west, Paradise Valley offers some amazing outdoor experiences, including cross-country skiing, dude ranches, dog-sledding, ziplining, and river rafting.

Head to Chico Hot Springs, a spa resort that’s been in operation for over a century, to toast yourself up.

Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area

With one foot in Wyoming and the other in Montana, Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area boasts 17 miles of designated trails and spans over 120,000 acres in its entirety. The park has been touted as the state’s best-kept secret; pontoon boats can be rented and steered between the rugged canyon walls, while the visitor center at Fort Smith overlooks Yellowtail Dam and tells its origin story.

Named after Robert Yellowtail, leader of the Crow Nation, the dam siphoned the once-volatile Bighorn River into a serene lake that now forms the centerpiece of the park.

Kootenai Falls

The largest undammed falls in Montana (and one of the largest free-flowing falls in the American northwest), Kootenai Falls is certainly impressive. The rushing cascade sits on the sacred lands of the Kootenai Tribe, to whom the falls represent the center of the world.

Community members come here for spiritual guidance and direction from their ancestors. For visitors, this is a place to feel grounded and close to nature. Follow the forest trail from the parking lot down to the Swinging Bridge, which promises a great perspective of the falls if you’ve got a head for heights (and aren’t put off by the wobble).

Ross Creek Cedars

Ross Creek Cedars Scenic Area is a 100-acre grove of giant red cedar trees. Many tower above Kootenai National Forest as they have for the past thousand years, their striped trunks sentinels of the past.

Thriving in the shadows of the damp understory are mosses, mushrooms, hemlocks, and lichens, delighting nature lovers with their earthy perfume. For a gentle day hike through a closed canopy of ancient western cedars, follow the Ross Creek Trail 142; a shorter circular trail, lined with information boards and picnic benches, is ideal for families.

Swan Lake might be small in size compared to its neighbor Flathead Lake, but don't let that fool you – it belongs to a big-hearted community, softened and shaped by their connection to nature. The lake lends its name to a nearby town, established in the early 20th century to accommodate lumberjacks felling timber to build the Great Northern Railroad.

It has since grown around the lake, building a modest reputation for its sought-after fish stocks. Nestled among blue peaks and cozy forests, Swan Lake spawns a host of hiking trails and also holds its signature huckleberry festival annually, which has been going for over 40 years.

Whitefish Mountain Resort

Also borne out of the railway, Whitefish (adjacent to Glacier National Park) in northwest Montana was incorporated in 1905 and frequented by loggers, miners, and railroad workers in its early days. Now, there’s one main reason that people come in their droves to this compact city.

Whitefish Mountain Resort is renowned as one of the biggest and best ski spots in North America, featuring over 3,000 skiable acres. But contrary to what you might expect, it’s something of an all-seasons destination – when the powder melts, zipline tours, downhill mountain biking, and treetop walkways become the signs of summer.

Gates of the Mountains

Just north of Helena, Montana’s capital city, you’ll find the magical Gates of the Mountains. Split by the Missouri River, this bewildering limestone canyon has more than 28,000 acres of designated wilderness area named after it, where airy forests, high-altitude meadows, and slender gorges give a different flavor in every season.

It caught mainstream attention after Meriwether Lewis and William Clark passed through on their 8,000-mile journey across what was (in the early 19th century) an uncharted corner of the United States; those following the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail today will find this landmark a highlight of the route.

Humbug Spires

The wilderness study area of Humbug Spires relates to a swathe of peculiar rock formations that form part of the Boulder Batholith, where quartz monzonite shards have pushed up from beneath the surface of the Earth and calved jagged, shark-tooth-like peaks. Pristine and car-free, you’ll seldom see another soul on the trail here, which runs for three miles along Moose Creek and meanders through an old-growth forest.

A boon for rock climbers, the views of Big Sky Country from the spires are top tier.

Terry Badlands

The town of Terry in Montana’s Prairie County is your gateway to the Terry Badlands Wilderness Study Area and the stunning Big Sky Back Country Byway, which ends at Wolf Point on the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail. Its stark badlands are a striking departure from the snow-capped mountains and glacial lakes that most would associate with the Treasure State, comprising weathered escarpments of neatly banded sedimentary rock, fairy chimneys, and sandstone buttes.

The Terry Badlands are remote, but definitely worth the adventure – follow the Natural Bridges Trail for a punchy introduction to the park’s unique geology.

Located on the shores of Flathead Lake, in the midst of Montana’s Glacier Country, Bigfork has been called one of the best small art towns in America. This idyllic enclave may seem sleepy to those just passing through, but stay a while and you’ll discover a thriving community with creativity and curiosity at its core.

From outstanding art galleries to artisanal stores, coffee stops, and markets, Bigfork has a lot to offer within its tiny footprint. Annual celebrations like Bigfork Whitewater Festival and Bigfork Brewfest give the town even more excuses to demonstrate its gregarious spirit.

Flathead Lake

With water so clear in summer that you can see 20 feet into its depths, Flathead Lake is the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi River in the contiguous US and one of Montana’s best places for aquatic activities. Look out for the mysterious Flathead Lake Monster though, which has reportedly been sighted several times in the past 130 years. Note that the southern half of Flathead Lake rests on tribal land, so you’ll need to secure a recreation permit from the Confederated Salish and Kootenai peoples if you’re planning to spend time here.

Now discover the most mysterious place in every US state

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