Southwestern Montana has a slower-paced way of life. Here, you can step back in time and experience the rich Western history that is still an important aspect of life for this part of the state.
The National Park Service has created an accessible way for people around the world to not only experience the beauty and grandeur of our country, but also for people to learn about the stories that have shaped us as Americans.
Leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind and escape to nature for some much needed quiet with this three-day itinerary. The route takes you from the Rocky Mountain Front in Bynum to a migratory hub that experiences a unique natural phenomenon near Choteau, and ends by exploring Indigenous history at what’s thought to be North America’s largest buffalo jump near Great Falls.
Montana is a state for every season. No matter the time of year, there’s always somewhere to explore, and with 56 state parks to discover, you’re never too far from your next outdoor adventure.
As the air outside gets warmer, so do the water temperatures in Montana’s rivers. While summertime is prime for casting a line, fishing during the heat of the day can be detrimental to the fish.
Montana is proud of its trout. With the blackspotted cutthroat trout designated as the state fish, and more than six other kinds of trout swimming through the rivers and lakes, there is no shortage of the fish around here.
Montana is the best place to spend a summer, and there’s nothing quite like a hot day spent out on the water. With lakes, rivers, streams and ponds in abundance throughout the state, the options for recreation are endless.
Montana has over 30 million acres of public lands for its residents and visitors to utilize. Enjoying the outdoors here is easy and accessible — it just takes a little planning before you head out.
2025 marks the 20th anniversary of the Montana Dinosaur Trail. This statewide expedition allows visitors and locals alike to explore the prehistoric history of Montana.
Action-packed rodeo events grew from skills that cattle herders and ranchers traditionally used in their work — making rodeo both a thrilling spectacle and a celebration of heritage. This summertime staple is something that Montanans look forward to each season.
The best way to experience Indian Country is from the Indigenous perspective. Through experiences with a cultural expert at the helm, visitors can explore significant tribal landmarks and traditions, and hear the Native American stories behind them in the way they were meant to be told.
Evidence of centuries-old Native American life and culture can be found across the state, and one example that's part of the landscape itself are buffalo jumps. These topographic features played a key role in the hunt for bison — an important aspect in the life of the first peoples of Montana.
Whether it’s a lakeside camping weekend or a day of Nordic skiing across badlands you’re after, a range of options — including 56 state parks — means you can find your ideal outdoor escape.