7 Breathtaking Towns to Visit in Montana
Montana, often referred to as "Big Sky Country," has sprawling landscapes that include parts of the Rocky Mountains and the Great Plains. Its terrain encompasses towering peaks, rolling hills, and large expanses of flatland. The state is home to Glacier National Park, known as the "Crown of the Continent," and the northern part of Yellowstone National Park, which it shares with Wyoming and Idaho. Montana's geography provides a backdrop for its many breathtakingly beautiful small towns. These seven towns blend history with nature and tranquility, drawing visitors seeking a peaceful yet picturesque retreat.
Whitefish
Whitefish, Montana, is a resort town in the Rocky Mountains of northwest Montana. The town is named after Whitefish Lake and is part of a region known for its wilderness. The area around Whitefish was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, primarily the Kootenai and Blackfeet. The modern town of Whitefish developed in the early 20th century with the arrival of the Great Northern Railway.
Glacier National Park, one of the main attractions, is a must-visit for anyone coming to Whitefish. The park has vistas of alpine meadows, mountains, and lakes. With over 700 miles of trails, visitors can enjoy hiking and wildlife viewing. Whitefish Trail is a more local but equally rewarding outdoor experience, with over 42 miles of natural surface trails that connect various lakes, overlooks, and state forests around Whitefish. Whitefish Lake itself is for water-based recreational activities, including boating, swimming, and fishing.
Bigfork
Bigfork is a community at the northeastern corner of Flathead Lake, the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi River in the contiguous United States. The town lies in an area that was once the seasonal hunting ground for several Native American tribes, including the Salish, Kootenai, and Blackfeet. The town itself was founded in the early 1900s as a hub for logging and agriculture.
Flathead Lake State Park gives visitors numerous recreational opportunities, including boating, fishing, swimming, and picnicking. The park’s landscapes and the sheer size of the lake are perfect for water sports and relaxation. The Swan River Nature Trail, also known as the "Wild Mile," is a pathway that follows the old Bigfork Northern Railroad grade along the Swan River. It is ideal for a leisurely walk, run, or bike ride. For those interested in the arts, the Bigfork Summer Playhouse is a highlight known locally as "Broadway in the Rockies."
Hamilton
Hamilton, Montana, is a small town in the Bitterroot Valley of Western Montana, bordered by the Sapphire and Bitterroot mountain ranges. Founded in 1890 by copper magnate Marcus Daly, it is the Ravalli County seat. Daly, one of Montana's three famous "Copper Kings," established the town primarily to support his nearby lumber interests that supplied his Anaconda copper mines.
Lake Como is a popular recreational destination in the Bitterroot National Forest for hiking, boating, fishing, and camping. Its well-maintained trail circling the lake has nature views. The Daly Mansion, the historic home of Marcus Daly, is open to the public for tours. This Georgian Revival mansion features over 50 rooms and is set on expansive grounds. For a taste of local produce, the Hamilton Farmers Market Co-op is a must-do. Held from May through October, local vendors sell everything from fresh produce and crafts to prepared foods. This lively market supports local farmers and artisans.
Red Lodge
Red Lodge, Montana, is a mountain town at the foot of the Beartooth Mountains and a gateway to the Beartooth Highway, leading directly into Yellowstone National Park. The town’s origins trace back to the late 19th century when it initially flourished as a coal mining town. As the mining industry waned, Red Lodge transitioned into a tourism hotspot, leveraging its mountain scenery and proximity to major national parks.
Beartooth Highway is one of the most scenic drives in the USA, winding through the rugged Beartooth Mountains with views of snow-capped peaks, glacial lakes, and wildflower-filled meadows. It has numerous viewpoints and access to high-altitude recreational activities. The Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary is another must-see. It is a haven for native wildlife that cannot return to the wild, including wolves, bears, bison, and elk. Lake Fork Trail is a hiking path with access to alpine lakes and local flora and fauna. The trail is well-maintained and offers various lengths and difficulties to accommodate different skill levels.
Livingston
Livingston, Montana, is on the banks of the Yellowstone River and is surrounded by four mountain ranges. Founded in 1882 as a railroad town by the Northern Pacific Railway, Livingston quickly became an essential stop for tourists venturing to Yellowstone. This history is reflected in its well-preserved downtown, characterized by elegant 19th-century buildings that now house galleries, shops, and restaurants.
The Yellowstone River, flowing right through the town, lets visitors experience fishing, rafting, and scenic walks along its banks. It attracts anglers from all over for its trout fishing and beautiful views. Pine Creek Falls is a top hiking destination accessible via a well-marked trail that leads to a waterfall within the Custer Gallatin National Forest. This moderate hike is suitable for most ages and fitness levels. The Livingston Depot Center, originally built as a train depot in 1902, has been restored and now operates as a museum and community cultural center. It has exhibits on local history, including Livingston's connection to Yellowstone National Park.
Philipsburg
Philipsburg, Montana, is a mining town in the Flint Creek Valley between the Sapphire Mountains and the Pintler Range. Founded in the late 19th century during the silver boom, Philipsburg was named after the mining engineer Philip Deidesheimer, who designed and implemented a square-set timbering system in the Comstock Lode silver mines in Nevada.
Gem Mountain Sapphire Mine is a hands-on mining experience where visitors can sift through gravel to find sapphires. This activity allows visitors to take a piece of Montana’s rich geological history home with them. Granite Ghost Town State Park is another glimpse into Montana’s silver mining past. Visitors can explore the remains of what was once one of Montana’s most bustling mining towns but is now a ghost town. For the adventurous, Skalkaho Pass is a rugged mountain pass accessible via a gravel road that connects Philipsburg and Hamilton. It has views, waterfalls, and abundant wildlife, making it perfect for photography and hiking.
Ennis
Ennis is a town deeply rooted in the American West. Ennis is named after William Ennis, a freighter and early settler whose homestead was a stop for stagecoaches traveling between Virginia City and Bozeman. The town’s development was closely linked to ranching, farming, and, most notably, gold mining in nearby Virginia City, which brought a surge of settlers to the area.
Bear Trap Canyon Trail follows the Madison River through Bear Trap Canyon, with views of rugged cliffs and rushing waters, popular among hikers, whitewater rafters, and anglers. Ennis National Fish Hatchery, one of the major broodstock hatcheries for rainbow trout in the United States, has guided tours that educate visitors about fish production and wildlife management. This facility is crucial for supporting the nation’s fisheries. Ennis Lake, formed by the damming of the Madison River, is a local favorite for boating, swimming, windsurfing, and bird-watching.
Montana's breathtaking small towns are must-visit places for those seeking natural wonder. Whitefish is a gateway to Glacier National Park, with endless outdoor activities and mountain scenery. Meanwhile, Bigfork’s charm is enhanced by its proximity to Flathead Lake, with ample recreational opportunities and water views. Red Lodge acts as a perfect starting point for exploring the Beartooth Highway, with its scenic drives and access to Yellowstone National Park. Each of these seven towns exemplifies why Montana is celebrated for its natural beauty.
