12 Amazing Montana Day Trips That Are Worth The Drive

The Treasure State is truly that — but for far more reasons than just its mineral wealth. Montana, also known as Big Sky Country, is a treasure trove of natural beauties, from the wide-open terrain within Yellowstone National Park to the wilderness preserves to the snow-capped mountain ranges. Montana promises adventure and fun in every season, whether you’re skiing, hiking, visiting local festivals, or simply admiring the wildlife. Needless to say, there's a reason Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) welcomes over 2 million visitors annually. Whether you're an avid outdoorsman, a skier, a history buff, or just someone up for a good adventure, consider these 12 amazing Montana day trips that are worth the drive from BZN.

Downtown Bozeman (20 minutes)

The quaint town of Bozeman is bound to delight you, but the downtown section is certainly its highlight. Downtown Bozeman offers something for everyone: the art lover, the foodie, the shopper, and the souvenir hunter. Here you’ll find plenty of fun local (and often western-themed) retail stores, hole-in-the-wall (and fine dining) restaurants, and even unique shops like the pop-up book bus Bookies to enjoy. Historic streetlamps line the streets, and often you’ll find local events like the Bozeman Farmers' Market or a live band at the Rialto. If you're a meat-lover, don't forget to order a bison burger; you won't regret it. Take it slow and spend as many hours as you want strolling through the streets, soaking in the fresh mountain air. It's close, simple, and so much fun.

Big Sky (60 minutes)

Big Sky might be known as a ski resort, but it has so much more to offer visitors. If you find yourself going in winter but wishing for alternative activities outside of snow sports, rest assured, Big Sky has you covered. Enjoy a magical horse-drawn sleigh ride or dog sled, trek through the forests surrounding Lone Mountain on a snowshoe tour, or race your friends on a SNO-GO ski bike or snowmobile. For the extra brave tourist who plans for a late-night return home, try skiing by headlamp at night. In the summertime and warmer months, you can golf, bike the mountains, ride the scenic lift, zipline, learn archery, go on hikes, rock climb, ride a horse, go fly fishing, and more. The options are endless, all with breathtaking views of the mountains and forests. Be sure to check out Cafe 191 Big Sky nearby. You can do it all, and still have time to drive back to the airport to fly out that night.

West Yellowstone (1 hour 45 minutes)

There's a reason West Yellowstone was named one of America's favorite US towns in 2024. In fact, over 4 million people visit each year. Why? This whimsical place feels like another world — and another time period to boot. West Yellowstone is known for its rustic charm and historical feel, with old-timey businesses like Eagle's Store that has been selling ice cream and other products for over 100 years. Step back in time to experience the western gateway to Yellowstone National Park. Visit the Yellowstone Historic Center's Museum of the Yellowstone, located in an old train depot, to learn more about the town. If your family is hoping to see some animals up close, check out the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center. And if you're up for a wild ride, consider renting ATVs here and driving them along the back roads into Idaho. This day trip can also be easily combined with a trip to Yellowstone.

Yellowstone National Park (1 hour 45 minutes)

Since 1872, Yellowstone National Park, the nation's first national park (and possibly the world's first) has been wowing visitors with unbelievable geological and hydrothermal wonders — not to mention the rest of the natural beauty of the park. Yellowstone is 3,500 square miles of wilderness and recreation areas that lie atop a volcanic hot spot. Of course, the day trip is worth it to see Old Faithful; the geyser spews water harder regularly at intervale between 44 minutes and two hours. There are more than 500 geysers throughout the park, more than half of the world's total, along with all kinds of wildlife. Keep your eyes open for bison and elk. Make sure to check the official website for information regarding what roads are open. While it is beautiful at every time of year, the fall colors of the trees throughout the park often attract leaf-peepers from across the country. The cooler temperatures allow you to hike, sightsee, and simply enjoy being outdoors. If you want to spice up your Yellowstone experience, you and your family can also go horseback riding or rent an ATV to drive through the woods within the park.

Ennis (1 hour)

In 1863, just two months after gold was discovered in Alder Gulch, a settlement was established that quickly became the town of Ennis. Ennis provides everything you could want within the small riverside valley town. Everywhere you turn, you will see stunning mountains contrasted against flat prairie land where cattle roam. Not only is it a lovely small town, it boasts a Main Street that rivals the western movies with true old west saloons and restaurants galore. Ennis is also an ideal place to fly-fish on the Madison River. Some of the best moments seem to happen by the water, and Ennis provides ample opportunities to enjoy it along the waterfront. Make sure your kids also check out the retro soda fountain at Yesterday's Soda Fountain for a special afternoon treat. Whether you're hoping to learn a bit of history, play outside in nature, or relax and watch the water, you won't regret this day trip.

Livingston (40 minutes)

If you think you've seen beautiful, just wait until you get to Livingston. Nestled at the northern edge of the Absaroka Mountains, one of the best things about this town (outside of the views) is the bustling downtown. But another key attraction is the Yellowstone River, its banks at the town's edge. The Yellowstone River is the longest free flowing river in the contiguous US, making it one of the best places to snag a trout while fly-fishing. If you or someone in your party gets tired of the great outdoors, though, Livingston's historic downtown provides ample entertainment with boutiques, cafes, and art galleries. If you’re hoping to learn more about the history of Yellowstone and the town of Livingston, visit the Yellowstone Gateway Museum or the Livingston Depot Center.

Gardiner (1 hour 30 minutes)

Gardiner is proud to be the first entrance to America’s oldest national park, Yellowstone, with its stone Roosevelt Arch marking the entryway. Founded in 1880, Gardiner feels like it has not changed a bit, except for a few added modern amenities. In the warm months, splish-splash with Paradise Adventure Co. on a whitewater rafting excursion on the Yellowstone River you aren’t likely to forget. Plus, you can go horseback riding or hiking nearby. When you stop downtown to eat, rest assured, the people of Gardiner are known for their friendliness. Especially after undergoing hard economic struggles due to regional flooding in 2022, they are excited to welcome you into their tiny town of 800 people. When you picture their downtown, one word encapsulates it all: wagon-chic.

Helena (1 hour 35 minutes)

The capital city of Montana draws visitors of all types for all kinds of reasons. Helena’s downtown, called the Gulch, is both a taste of rich history and of modern good food. The area’s nickname has been shortened from “Last Chance Gulch,” which was the name the group of prospectors gave it because it was their final hope for finding gold. Fortunately for them, they struck gold, and today, you, too, will strike gold when you visit this gem of a town. Eat, drink, shop, and admire the art. If you are looking for a more unique indoor activity, try one of Birdseye Stained Glass workshops or The Painted Pot’s pottery class. Indulge in a ballet show or a visit to the Lobby at the Iron Front. For all the bookworms out there, the Lewis & Clark Library is for you; it is the oldest library in the state. Helena provides numerous opportunities for a historical and/or cultural experience, from the state capitol building to the Cathedral of St. Helena and the Montana Historical Society Museum. Helena has so much to do, you might find yourself making a few day trips there.

Virginia City (1 hour 20 minutes)

When an entire city is designated a National Historic Landmark District, you know you are in for a treat. Virginia City has a population of less than 250 people, but it has almost as many attractions. Less than a mile away lies Nevada City, which tells a similar tale. Experience the Old West like never before. Virginia City was once the territorial capital of Montana. While it may look like a ghost town today, it was the largest settlement in the mid 1860s with around 5,000 people. Check out the shops, restaurants, and saloons on your visit, and if you are feeling lucky, you can even pan for gold. It is truly like stepping into a living museum. Make sure to visit the Thompson-Hickman Museum and the Virginia City Depot, too.

Red Lodge (2 hour 30 minutes)

Originally home to the Crow Indians, the town of Red Lodge was officially established in 1884. In its early beginnings, the town of Red Lodge was full of immigrants and rough-and-tough cowboys, such as its deputy sheriff, John "Liver Eating" Johnston, who was known for eating the livers of those who crossed him, especially members of the Crow tribe. In Red Lodge, beauty and charm are normal. Whether you are taking a day trip as a family adventure, solo retreat day, or a romantic getaway for two, this small mountain town has you covered. Enjoy live entertainment downtown or live wildlife at the Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary; either way it is bound to be a wild, fun day trip. Not only do you have all types of shops, outdoor activities, and dining options, you are on the Beartooth Scenic Byway, which was considered “the most beautiful roadway in America” by "On the Road" correspondent Charles Kuralt.

Bannack State Park (2 hour 14 minutes)

Bannack State Park is Montana’s best-preserved ghost town. Think "Old West" with a hint of spooky — but in the best kind of way. This old, abandoned mining town now serves as a commemoration of Montana's first major gold discovery in 1862. Not to mention that it was also Montana’s first territorial capital. Fifty buildings of log and frame structures line Main Street. Once you finish meandering through the town, you can skate on the frozen dredge pond in winter months (free loaner skates are available). You can bike, bird watch, fish, and glean a bit of context for what settlers lived like in the days of the gold rush. Bannack State Park is one of a kind and will provide an absolutely delightful excursion for the day.

Three Forks (30 minutes)

Just a short drive away from Bozeman is the city of Three Forks. Over 200 years ago, Lewis and Clark’s expedition took them to the headwaters of the Missouri River. The city of Three Forks eventually developed nearby, beginning with a mix of trappers and traders. It is called Three Forks because due to its proximity to the confluence of the Jefferson, Madison, and Gallatin rivers — all converging to form the mighty Missouri — the longest river in North America. The Montana town is small, but visitors still can find plenty to do, including exploring the Missouri Headwaters State Park. Some visitors prefer to relax and do nothing but simply soak in the surrounding nature. One of the most popular activities and what makes it worth the quick drive is the nearby Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park. This park features one of the largest and most well-known limestone caverns in the West. You can also hike or bike on dozens of trails and learn about the caverns at the Visitor Center. The city itself has a nice golf course — the aptly named Headwaters Public Golf Course — hiking trails, ranch resorts, great restaurants, and the occasional music festival.

Pack a Backpack and Go

The airport in Bozeman, Montana, is the perfect starting place for a whole slew of day adventures. In every season of the year, Montana promises beauty and adventure to all who visit. No matter if you like skiing, shopping, history, or a spooky bedtime story, there’s a day trip waiting for you. Each of these 12 Montana cities make for amazing day trips that are worth the drive because they encompass a little bit of everything: nature, culture, and all-around fun. Enjoy delicious food and quality time with the people you love while you make lasting memories together in these unique Western towns and their stunning parks.