9 Great Road Trips to Take in Montana
Montana, with its vast skies, rugged mountains, and winding highways, is a road trip paradise. Whether you’re starting in Billings, Bozeman, or Great Falls, the state offers unforgettable journeys that showcase its natural beauty, history, and charm. From the awe-inspiring Beartooth Pass to the serene Flathead Lake, these trips provide access to hidden gems and iconic landscapes. Here are nine exceptional routes, complete with three must-visit stops en route to each destination.
Red Lodge
Starting in Billings, this scenic road trip heads west to the charming mountain town of Red Lodge, known for its alpine views and outdoor recreation. Your first stop is the Pryor Mountains, home to wild horses and ancient pictographs at the Big Ice Cave, which a short trail can access. This region’s untouched beauty is an escape from the city.
Next, the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness offers miles of hiking trails and panoramic views. Stretch your legs on the Lake Fork Trail, where you’ll encounter meadows and cascading streams. As you approach Red Lodge, the iconic Beartooth Highway begins its ascent. Beartooth Pass, the final highlight, delivers jaw-dropping views of snow-capped peaks and glacial lakes, ensuring the journey is as thrilling as the destination.
West Yellowstone
This road trip from Bozeman to West Yellowstone blends history, small-town charm, and geological wonder. The first stop is Madison Buffalo Jump State Park, where you can learn about Indigenous hunting practices while hiking trails that overlook the vast plains. Interpretive signs guide you through the area’s cultural significance.
Continue south to Ennis, a quaint town known for its fly-fishing culture and lively main street. Visit the Gravel Bar for a hearty meal or the Willie’s Distillery tasting room for a sip of locally made spirits. Before reaching West Yellowstone, take time to explore Quake Lake, a hauntingly beautiful site formed by a massive earthquake in 1959. The Visitor Center provides fascinating insights into this natural disaster.
Glacier National Park
Leaving Great Falls, this journey heads north to the crown jewel of Montana, Glacier National Park. The first stop is the Teton Pass Ski Area, a year-round recreational site with hiking trails in the summer and skiing in the winter. Climb to the summit for panoramic views of the Rocky Mountain Front.
Your next stop is Choteau, a charming town with a strong connection to paleontology. The Old Trail Museum has exhibits on local dinosaur discoveries and Blackfeet culture. Finally, as you near Glacier National Park, stop at St. Mary Lake. Its crystalline waters and towering peaks set the stage for your arrival at one of Montana’s most iconic destinations.
Makoshika State Park
From Billings, head east to Makoshika State Park, Montana’s largest state park and a treasure trove of geological wonders. Your first stop, Pompeys Pillar National Monument, is a sandstone butte where William Clark carved his name during the Lewis and Clark Expedition. The Visitor Center here provides a fascinating historical context.
Next, visit the Terry Badlands, an otherworldly landscape of eroded buttes and vibrant sandstone formations. This remote area is perfect for photography and short hikes. Finally, stop in Glendive, a small town on the Yellowstone River. The Frontier Gateway Museum showcases local history, while the town itself offers a great place to refuel before venturing into Makoshika’s badlands.
Big Sky
A short but rewarding trip, this route from Bozeman to Big Sky immerses travelers in Montana’s wilderness. The first highlight is Gallatin Canyon, where the Gallatin River winds through dramatic cliffs and forests. Stop at a pullout along U.S. 191 to enjoy a picnic or watch kayakers navigate the river’s rapids.
Next, arrive at the Big Sky Town Center, a hub of activity with shops, restaurants, and art galleries. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample Montana-inspired cuisine at Olive B’s Bistro or grab a coffee at Café 191. Conclude your journey with a hike to Ousel Falls, a family-friendly trail that leads to a waterfall surrounded by moss-covered rocks.
Havre
This road trip takes you along Montana’s famed Hi-Line, a route rich in history and wide-open landscapes. Begin with a visit to the Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge just outside Great Falls. This prairie wetland is home to countless bird species, making it a haven for birdwatchers and photographers.
Next, stop in Fort Benton, often called the “Birthplace of Montana.” Tour the Museum of Upper Missouri or stroll along the Missouri Riverfront to learn about the town’s fur trading history. Before reaching Havre, visit the Bear Paw Battlefield near Chinook. This solemn site marks the final battle of the Nez Perce War, a profound historical perspective through interpretive trails and signage.
Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument
This journey south from Billings delves into Montana’s ancient and modern history. Start with Pictograph Cave State Park, just a short drive from Billings. These caves feature prehistoric rock art dating back thousands of years, with a well-maintained trail and interpretive signs.
Next, stop in Hardin, a small town with a vibrant farmers' market during the summer months. The Big Horn County Museum here offers insights into local history and ranching culture. Before reaching Little Bighorn Battlefield, visit the nearby Custer Battlefield Museum in Garryowen. This museum provides context for the events leading up to the Battle of the Little Bighorn, making the national monument’s expansive grounds even more impactful.
Helena
On this road trip, you're heading from Bozeman to Helena, combining Montana’s rivers, lakes, and mountain scenery. Your first stop is Three Forks, where the Jefferson, Madison, and Gallatin Rivers converge to form the Missouri River. Visit Missouri Headwaters State Park to explore this historic site and its scenic trails.
Continuing north, stop at Canyon Ferry Lake, a large reservoir with opportunities for swimming, fishing, or simply relaxing along its sandy shores. It’s an ideal spot to enjoy Montana’s sunny weather. Before reaching Helena, take a detour to the Gates of the Mountains. This canyon features towering limestone cliffs and boat tours that highlight the area’s history and geology, making it a must-visit stop on your journey.
Missoula
Heading west from Great Falls to Missoula, this trip captures Montana’s rugged terrain and small-town charm. Begin with a stop in Belt, a historic mining town. Visit the Belt Museum or sip a craft beer at Harvest Moon Brewing, a local favorite.
Next, continue to Lincoln, a gateway to the Bob Marshall Wilderness. This quaint town has opportunities for hiking and fishing, with nearby trails like the Alice Creek Historic District providing scenic views and historical insights. As you near Missoula, take a break along the Blackfoot River, made famous by the book and film A River Runs Through It. Find a pullout to watch fly-fishers in action or enjoy a picnic by the crystal-clear waters.
The Road Ahead in Montana
Montana’s road trips are as diverse as the state itself, offering unforgettable experiences ranging from rugged badlands to serene mountain lakes. Whether you’re exploring the historic Hi-Line from Great Falls to Havre, winding through Gallatin Canyon en route to Big Sky, or marveling at the dramatic peaks along Beartooth Pass, these journeys highlight the best of Big Sky Country. Pack your bags, fuel up, and hit the road—Montana’s open highways and landscapes are calling.
