9 Prettiest Montana Towns to Visit in 2024
Nicknamed Big Sky Country, Montana is home to some of the most majestic landscapes in North America. Homesteads and historic hamlets are dotted throughout the country's 41st state. With a stronghold in various industries over the years, including silver, gold, and cattle, its contribution to the nation's growth is indisputable. Diverse communities nestled amongst acres of wide open spaces add to the appeal of this western territory. This is no more evident than in its small towns. Here are just a few small Montanan towns visitors continually refer to as some of the prettiest land in the US.
Hamilton
Fans of the television show Yellowstone may recognize this breathtaking town! Part of the Bitterroot Valley, Hamilton, was founded by Marcus Daly, an Irish immigrant. Something of a renaissance man, Daly was a member of the group colloquially named The Copper Kings, a term coined to refer to the men who dominated Montana copper mining during the late 19th century. His former home, The Daly Mansion, has been turned into a county museum open to the public, with fifty unique rooms and acres of lush gardens.
A stop on the Lewis and Clark Expedition, Hamilton's outdoor spaces are unparalleled. Experience it yourself on the paths of Blodgett Overlook Trailhead. Over 2.5 miles of scenic trails overlooking canyons and valleys, a relatively moderate hike provides Instagram-worthy views at every step.
Learn about local history at the Ravalli County Museum and Historical Society. Dedicated to preserving Hamilton's heritage, the museum houses exhibits and artifacts showcasing the region's evolution from mining to cattle ranches to industrialization and tourism. Long-time residents serve as knowledgeable docents excited to share anecdotes and personal experiences.
Libby
The first settlers in this northwestern part of the state were fur traders and loggers. The addition of a railway stop in 1892 allowed the town to experience an economic boom as alloy mining became a much sought-after industry. With a topography formed primarily by glaciers, it has been used as the backdrop for numerous Hollywood productions, including The River Wild and The Revenant.
Kootenai Falls attracts tourists from all over. One of the largest waterfalls in the country, it is located in the heart of Lincoln County. Hiking, trout fishing, and whitewater rafting reign supreme here. The Kootenai Swinging Bridge is not for those afraid of heights, but it provides stunning views of the valley surrounding the Kootenai River.
During the winter months, Turner Mountain Ski Area offers the best skiing and snowboarding. With a summit elevation of 5952, Ski Magazine calls it the "best powder skiing in the country."
For those wanting to experience life on the homestead, McGinnis Meadows Cattle and Guest Ranch is a working ranch. Visitors can try their hand at wrangling and riding on some of the prettiest acreage in Montana.
Livingston
Home to legendary sharpshooter Calamity Jane, this town owes its growth to the Northwest Pacific Railway. Used as a service point for railroads passing through the Rockies, it appealed to engineers and laborers. Used by many as a base camp for treks to Yellowstone Park, it allows easy access without the crowds found in nearby Bozeman. This unassuming town has had many high-profile residents and fans over the years. Anthony Bourdain named the Murray Hotel one of his top ten stays in the world. Opened in 1904, this historic accommodation is quintessential Wild West. Providing modern amenities without losing the authentic charm of yesteryear, it is amongst the town's biggest draws.
Whether it's fly fishing or hiking you are seeking, Livingston's outdoors will not disappoint. Sacajawea Park's riverside trails and Pine Creek Trail offer unlimited choices for the adventurer. Set along the banks of Yellowstone River, visitors can rent kayaks, bikes, and canoes at the visitors center.
Housed in the Northside School, the Yellowstone Gateway Museum is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Indoor and outdoor exhibits chronicle thousands of years of regional heritage. Native American artifacts sit beside vintage fire trucks, weaving a virtual tapestry of our nation's unique experiences.
Anaconda
Originally named Copperopolis by Marcus Daly, the copper king who founded Hamilton, it was changed to Anaconda in 1883. Despite its small size and with almost 10,000 residents, it is the ninth most populous town in Montana.
Anaconda was a smelting territory. Metals were heated to bring out the various ores. The Anaconda Smelter Stack is the tallest masonry tower still in existence. Standing almost 600 feet tall, it was built in 1918 by the Washoe Smelter Co. While the smelter no longer exists, a rallying cry from the residents saved the stack from demolition.
Georgetown Lake is a fisherman's destination. Almost 3000 acres, it sits by the Anaconda Range. Originally created to power the local mines, it was given the Blue Ribbon fishery commendation due to its ideal environment for rainbow and brook trout migration. Lost Creek State Park offers a relaxing trail hike to its 50-foot waterfalls and panoramic views of homesteads below.
Experience the theater of a time gone by at the perfectly preserved Washoe Theatre. Visitors will enjoy modern productions in a pretty Art Deco-style building erected in 1931, the last of its design built in the country.
Whitefish
This valley town was the homeland of the Kootenai tribe and was home to hunters, trappers, and loggers. Settled in 1883 by John Morton, its name is derived from its proximity to the Whitefish River. Like its neighboring towns, the introduction of the railroad allowed the beauty of this town to be explored, and an impressive economic boom followed.
Great Northern Mountain can be hiked or partially driven to the peak. Offering panoramic views of the prettiest part of the region, a variety of trails can be accessed for rock climbing and abseiling
Bison abound in Whitefish. Experience this frontier giant with a tour around Flathead Lake and the National Bison Range. Formed by glaciers, this Native American land is believed to have healing properties in its soils. Protected by the National Park Service, it is home to one of the largest wildlife preserves in the West.
The Alpine Theatre is a gem in the heartland. Founded in 2004 by legendary Tony, Grammy, and Emmy award winners, it attracts performers and guests from all over the world. Its modern design perfectly complements the majestic backdrop of the Whitefish Range.
Philipsburg
A mining hub incorporated in the late 19th century, Philipsburg's history is shown through its position as one of the largest ore-smelting communities in Montana. With less than a thousand residents, this close-knit hamlet counts its neighbors as family.
Gem hunting is a favorite pastime, and Gem Mountain Sapphire Mine is one of the best locales to try your luck at finding your prettiest treasures. Granite Ghost Town State Park is a glimpse into the region's silver mining past. Built in the 1890s, it was once the richest silver mine in the entire world. Follow the narrow trail to the mine's superintendent quarters and the ruins of Union Hall.
Providing the backstory to the mining industry, The Granite County Museum is one of visitors' favorite stops. Recreating the basement as a mining town gives an authentic-feeling experience. For fans of old-time entertainment, Opera House Theatre hosts a variety of productions during the summer season. Built at the turn of the century, it harkens back to vaudeville and community theater. Budding DeNiro's and Streep's, will appreciate the layout that allows the audience to become part of the show.
Choteau
As its name might suggest, this town was founded by French explorer Pierre Chouteu, Jr. Nestled between Mount Frazier and Old Baldy, it was an important trading post for furriers and loggers. Nearby, the Teton River was one of the town's sources of mineral extraction.
Adventure seekers will appreciate the multi-faceted terrains. Ski enthusiasts who prefer the actual sport and not the social scene return to Teton Pass Ski Area year after year. Set in Bob Marshall Wilderness, its scaled, no-frills approach appeals most, providing an unfiltered atmosphere to take in the beautiful landscapes. Hike the area with a tour by Dropstone Outfitting. Providing the amenities needed for the full Treasure State expedition, guides navigate you through peaks and valleys and assist with setting up camp if you wish to make it an overnight stay.
Jurassic Park fans and paleontologist of any age flock to the Old Trail Museum. Exhibits showcase dinosaur fossils, ancient trails and entertaining presentations on the life of the T. rex and Triceratops that traversed the land. Only open during the summer season , it is a member of the Montana Dinosaur Trail, which highlights the extensive history about prehistoric life.
Columbia Falls
Ranked as one of the best places to live in Montana, this town was settled in 1891. Driven by the excitement of the Great Northern Railway, pioneers from the East were attracted to the country, looking for a better way of life.
A strong community drives the town. In July, the entire town gathers for Heritage Days. Events, including dance competitions and basketball tournaments, all benefit the Chamber of Commerce and various philanthropic needs.
Flathead National Forest provides many opportunities to hike, fish, and rock climb. Covering an impressive two and a half million acres, it was the indigenous land of the Flathead tribes. Nearby Glacier National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including grizzly bears, elk, and mountain lions. A protected ecosystem, it offers true insight into the elements faced by 19th-century frontiersmen.
You will find the Montana Vortex and House of Mystery off the beaten track. Experience the laws of physics in this unique vortex attraction. Cynics and believers alike will enjoy the opportunity to test the power of electromagnetism.
Big Timber
Halfway between Billings and Bozeman, Big Timber rests along the banks of the Yellowstone River. Taking its name from the cottonwood trees that cover the area, it was found in the late 19th century. One of the largest wool manufacturers, it became a sought-after shipping depot. With a strong Norwegian migration, Nordic influences are felt throughout the town.
Earning its position on the National Register of Historic Places, Big Timber’s Grand Hotel Bed & Breakfast attracts high-profile names worldwide. An authentically iconic Wild West awaits guests in their rooms. Cap off the night at the Grand Hotel Saloon.
If you want to embrace pioneer culture, your first stop should be the Crazy Mountain Museum. Owned and operated by locals whose families have been there for generations, the museum treats visitors to an authentic frontier evolution. Guiding you through exhibits showcasing artifacts and photos, volunteers regale you with stories peppered with personal anecdotes about their ancestors.
No stop in Montana is complete without experiencing the rodeo. Big Timber Weekly Pro Rodeo is just the place to find your inner cowboy or cowgirl. Featuring all skill levels and types of riding, it is run every week throughout the year.
Small-town life is defined more than just by county lines and maps. The diverse communities and their narratives all contribute to the story of America. Montana's impact can be felt from its proud mining communities and cattle ranch legacies to its prehistoric histories and Native American traditions. With the West's prettiest backdrop, Montana continues to attract tourists wanting to explore the unmatched beauty of the region.
