Gina, Author at Travel Montana Now

Best Skiing in Montana

Best Montana Ski Resorts for Downhill and Cross-Country Skiing

If you’ve considered skiing in Montana, the state boasts favorable conditions throughout the winter months. This, coupled with mountainous terrain and majestic summits make it the best state for skiing in the country. While many vacationers head to warmer climates during the colder months, winter weather fans delight in Rocky Mountain snowy terrain.

Countless resorts, deep snow, and opportunities for tubing, skiing, and snowboarding make Montana a must-visit for ski fans the world over. Celebrities like Tom Brady, Justin Timberlake, and Celine Dion flock to Montana for its abundant outdoor recreation. Featuring acres of terrain to carve, Montana’s ski runs are unparalleled. See why the Treasure State beckons powder enthusiasts with a variety of slopes and trails.

Montana’s Best Downhill Skiing

Alpine skiing or downhill skiing as its best known is a fun, recreational sport practiced by over 11 million people nationwide. The Rocky Mountains of Montana provide some of the best skiing in the country. The following downhill ski areas and cross-country meadows throughout the state will delight even the most discriminating outdoor enthusiast.

Big Sky Resort

Located between Bozeman and Yellowstone, Big Sky Resort is in southwestern Montana. With 300 trails and 22 lifts across 5,800 acres, Big Sky Resort boasts terrain that appeals to all levels. Beginner to advanced skiers will find the perfect trail. One of the most popular resorts, Big Sky continually receives tops ratings. Whether it’s the spectacular views, variety of trails, amenities, and atmosphere, it is a must-visit if traveling to Montana for a ski trip.

Discovery Ski Area

With 40 trails across 380 acres, Discovery Ski Area is centrally located between Missoula, Butte, and Helena. Low wait times, powder bowls and a 1300-foot vertical drop provide skiers with a variety of beginner and intermediate runs. Ideal alpine skiing awaits at this ski area in Philipsburg, Montana.

Whitefish Mountain

With 105 runs and an annual snowfall of 333 inches, Whitefish Mountain provides skiers with a variety of trails for all levels. Waits are made shorter will 11 lifts, two T-bars and a magic carpet conveyer belt to bring skiers to their desired trail.

Great Divide Ski Area

The Great Divide Ski Area boasts the least inexpensive lift ticket in the region. With 10 trails, 6 terrain parks, and night skiing and live musing, it is an ideal resort for groups and families. Visitors looking to start skiing early in the season, flock to this ski area near the Continental Divide adjacent to Helena, MT. It is usually the first ski area in Montana to open each season.

Red Lodge Mountain Resort

This full-service resort includes 70 runs across two mountain summits. Beginners and veterans alike will appreciate the variety of slopes. Rentals, lessons, a repair shop and dining options abound at Red Lodge Mountain Resort. For unpretentious skiing, Red Lodge Mountain offers a simple, fun skiing experience with low wait times and few crowds.

Montana Snowbowl

Montana Snowbowl is home to a three-mile trail called Paradise as well as a steep 2,000-foot drop named Grizzly. With over 950 acres of trails and runs, Montana Snowbowl is better suited to veteran skiers with more experience than beginners. Just a short drive from Missoula, Snowbowl is located in the Lolo National Forest.

Blacktail Mountain

Nestled among the national forest, Blacktail Mountain offers 24 runs across 200 acres. Overlooking the small Montana town of Lakeside, Blacktail Mountain is at an elevation that receives 250 inches of snowfall per year. Located on the western side of Flathead Lake in the Flathead National Forest, Blacktail Mountain offers top-notch lodge and amenities.

Cross-Country Skiing in Montana

Winter outdoors enthusiasts interested in a more social experience that allows them to get out in nature and enjoy the sights may appreciate cross-country skiing. Nordic skiing, often for exercise or transportation is also a popular recreation activity. With an abundance of open meadows and rolling hills, Montana is an ideal setting for cross-country skiing.

Silver Crest Cross Country and Snowshoe Area

This recreation area features over 200 miles of trails for snowmobiling, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Spend some time taking in the sights while meandering through the groomed trails. Located near the Kings Hill Recreation Area, Silver Crest Ski Trail is a great choice for recreationists seeking options.

Lone Mountain Ranch Cross-Country Ski Trails

Lone Mountain Ranch offers cabins for overnight stays that include meals, a trail pass and a variety of evening programs. Cross-Country skiers will enjoy quality groomed ski trails and skating lanes. Visitors looking to snowshoe will also find ample, quality trails here as well. For downhill skiing and snowboarding, many visitors head to nearby Big Sky Resort while visiting Lone Mountain Ranch.

Mount Haggin Nordic Ski Area

Located on state land groomed by local volunteers, Mount Haggin offers over 15 miles of ski trails. Six miles of these trails are designated for cross-country skiing. Winding through historic logic camps surrounded by majestic mountain vistas, skiers of all levels will appreciate this ski area. Overlooking Anaconda, Montana, Mount Haggin is a BLM site under the jurisdiction of the Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks.

Bohart Ranch Cross Country Ski Center

Located just a short drive from the hustle and bustle of Bozeman, Montana, Bohart Ranch features secluded wilderness for nature-minded cross-country skiers. The ski center offers lessons for all levels as well as one-on-one instruction clinics. Trails span for 18 miles and offering opportunities for skiers of all ages and expertise levels.

Homestake Lodge Cross-Country Ski Center

Near Butte, Homestake Lodge offers cross-country skiing along flat open meadows. Visitors stay at the rustic lodge or adjacent cabins and enjoy the family-friendly atmosphere. Spend time plowing through the rolling meadows among the forests and ponds. Homestake offers an evening ski loop, full-service ski shop and even a few dog-friendly trails. A variety of climbs, hills and flat, open meadows make this a great option for families with varying cross-country preferences.

With short wait times to be found, countless trails and an abundance of snowfall, Big Sky country is the best skiing destination for skiers of all levels.

Best Things to See in Yellowstone National Park

Montana for First Timers - Start Here, National Parks, Yellowstone National Park

A Local’s Guide to Must-See Yellowstone Sites

Dormant super volcanoes, sky-high geysers, rainbow-hued hot springs, herds of bison, and roaming bears…just some of the incredible things you can see in Yellowstone National Park.

Yellowstone is the United States’ first national park and it has amazed visitors for over a century. For those of us who call Montana home, it’s also a place to have some epic weekend adventures. And even locals still get astounded by the sheer power and beauty of the park’s top things to do.

So without further ado, here are the best things to see in Yellowstone National Park with tips for making the most of your time there. Best of all, you’ll find some lesser-known spots on this list, supplied by locals!

Old Faithful

This is at the top of most people’s list when it comes to things to do in Yellowstone National Park. Old Faithful is a geyser that explosively shoots up into the air every 44 to 125 minutes, which is why it gets its name: you can have faith in the fact that Old Faithful will be erupting again soon.

Why You Have to See Old Faithful

It has a massive plume of geothermal water that shoots up to 180 feet in the air (the average is 130 to 140 feet) consistently throughout the day. This spectacle occurs for anywhere from 90 seconds to five minutes before Old Faithful takes a short break.

How to See Old Faithful

A predicted schedule is posted in the Old Faithful Visitor Education Center. If you want front-row seats on the bleachers surrounding Old Faithful, then expect to get there at least 30 minutes before this natural show is scheduled to begin. If you don’t want to sit around waiting for that long, don’t worry – you can still get a great view of Old Faithful farther back. After all, it’s shooting up sky-high!

Where to See Old Faithful

Old Faithful is located in the northwest part of the park, only about 30 miles from West Yellowstone.

Bonus Sights Near Old Faithful

It’s also worth visiting the Old Faithful Visitor and Education Center where you can learn more about the history of the geyser. The center will also help you better understand geothermal activity, which is actively and noticeably happening all over Yellowstone park. The nearby Old Faithful General Store is also a cute souvenir shop to browse through.

Another nearby attraction is the Old Faithful Inn, which is not only a great place to stay for a night or two, but is also a historic hotel that is beautifully built.

Grand Prismatic Spring

Grand Prismatic Spring is another geothermal marvel in Yellowstone National Park, and it is definitely grand thanks to being the largest hot spring in the United States. On a worldwide scale, it is the third largest.

Before you think of donning a swimsuit and making the spring your personal hot tub for the day, remember that there is no swimming or bathing in Grand Prismatic Spring – for good reason. It is around 132 degrees Fahrenheit and reaches over 180 degrees at its center!

While the heat and size of the geyser is impressive, that’s not what makes this one of the best things to see in Yellowstone. The aspect that draws people to this natural phenomenon are the colors that shimmer around the lake in shades of bright blue and iridescent orange and yellow. Grand Prismatic Spring gets its colors from its unique geological makeup and due to the way the heat is dispersed, which makes it hard for bacteria or anything else to live in the center of the spring.

Why You Have to See Grand Prismatic Spring

Its rainbow colored water is one of the most unique sites to see in a national park.

Where is Grand Prismatic Spring

Grand Prismatic Springs is located on the western side of the park, not too far north of Old Faithful.

Bonus Things to See Near Grand Prismatic Spring

Two more noteworthy hot springs are located in this area: Opal Pool and Turquoise Pool. Both of these can be walked to from Grand Prismatic Spring. Park your car in the designated Grand Prismatic parking lot off the main road and then use the walking trail to cross Firehole River and continue following the trail around the different hot spring.

Yellowstone Lake

If you want to cool off or get some swimming in during your time in Yellowstone National Park, head to the lovely Yellowsotne Lake. You can wade in from the beach or jump off a public dock here – just be forewarned that it will b a bit chilly even in summertime! The lake is situated at a high elevation of 7,733 feet.

Even if you don’t jump in the clear blue water, Yellowstone Lake is worth seeing due to its serene beauty.

Yellowstone Lake is a great place for some photo snapping and a recreational adventure during your trip. There are hiking trails, boat rentals, kayak excursions, fishing expeditions, and tons more. A simple drive around the lake is also an idyllic way to spend time there.

Why You Have to See Yellowstone Lake

Yellowstone Lake is the largest body of water in Yellowstone National Park and it boasts gorgeous water and mountain views.

Where is Yellowstone Lake?

It’s centrally located in the park, a short distance east of Old Faithful.

Bonus Things to See by Yellowstone Lake

Walk around the property and have an elegant meal in the onsite restaurant of the Lake Yellowstone Hotel, the oldest hotel in Yellowstone National Park.

Yellowstone Caldera

Want to see not just a volcano, but a super volcano? Then you’ll be going to the right place with a visit to Yellowstone National Park. The park is home to a massive volcano with the potential to have deadly consequences that could impact the entire country. Luckily, it is highly unlikely that this super volcano will erupt in our lifetime.

If you want to see what happened when it last erupted 640,000 years ago then a visit to the Yellowstone Caldera is a must-do.

Why You Have to See Yellowstone Caldera

The Yellowstone Caldera was created during that last eruption and is a 30-mile by 45-mile wide crater in the earth, right in the middle of Yellowstone National Park.

Where is Yellowstone Caldera?

Where is Yellowstone Caldera: It is located a short distance southeast of Old Faithful, still to the west of Yellowstone Lake, and just north of the smaller Shoshone Lake.

Mammoth Hot Springs

If cold weather isn’t your thing, head to Mammoth Hot Springs.

Though they’re too hot to go in, you will get a steam facial as you walk around the terraces lining the edge of the springs. In addition to being a flurry of gurgling and steam, the hot springs are physically appealing to see.

Why Must You See Mammoth Hot Springs?

Mammoth Hot Springs are just stunning to see. The water cascades over a myriad of steps and ledges within the side of the earth that produces an almost otherworldly atmosphere. The intricate designs made out of the travertine rock of the area add to the mystique of the hot springs.

Where is Mammoth Hot Springs

Mammoth Hot Springs are near the city of Mammoth, Wyoming, near the northeast corner of the park.

Bonus Things to Do

Mammoth, Wyoming is home to a few other interesting sights. You can visit the Albright Visitor Center, which has displays teaching travelers more about the history of what they’re seeing and info about the wildlife in the area.

Another historic thing to see is Fort Yellowstone, the first fort to be built in Yellowstone in an effort to keep a better handle on the vandals and crime that plagued the area back during the Wild West era.

Tower Fall

The first photos taken of Tower Fall back in the late 19^th century is what spurred congress to designate the region a national park, thus making Yellowstone the United State’s first national park.

Today, you’ll no doubt want to take a photo of this iconic natural wonder while exploring Yellowstone.

Why You Have to See Tower Fall

This massive waterfall plunges from the mountaintop to the river below for an astonishing 132 feet drop, connecting the higher Tower Creek with the Yellowstone River below.

In addition to the gleam of the water, Tower Fall is surrounded by jagged rock formations shaped like steeples and punctuated by green pine trees.

Where is Tower Fall

Tower Fall is located off of Grand Loop Road (note that this road is closed in winter) near the Tower Junction where Grand Loop Road meets with US-212. The best place to get a photo op of the waterfall is from the Tower Fall Overlook near the road.

Scenic Viewpoints in the Park

Yellowstone Falls in Yellowstone National Park — Yellowstone Falls

Two more scenic viewpoints you don’t want to miss while in Yellowstone include Uncle Tom’s Trail to Yellowstone Falls and Artist Point to see the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone.

Uncle Tom’s Trail and Yellowstone Falls

Do the quick and easy hike along Uncle Tom’s Trail for an excellent view of Yellowstone Falls. There is an upper and lower waterfall making up Yellowstone Falls and both are striking to behold.

Artist Point and Grand Canyon of Yellowstone

Immediately after Yellowstone Falls you’ll find the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. This massive slice in the earth is an erosional feature, likely caused by volcanic activity hundreds of thousands of years ago.

One of the best places to get a photo op of the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone is from Artist Point, also located off of Grand Loop Road. I suppose if you have a sketchpad, this would also be a great place to draw the setting, too, hence the name, but…it’s much quicker to snap a picture (or two or twenty).

Wildlife in Yellowstone National Park

Mama and Baby Bison in Yellowstone National Park Walking Down the Road — Bison in Yellowstone

The wildlife in Yellowstone National Park is a huge draw for people. Fortunately, it’s hard not to see wildlife, particularly when it comes to bald eagles, bison, antelope, and elk. Other species take more luck, such as seeing a bear, moose, or pack of wolves.

You never know when an animal might amble across the road or peer outside of the forests near the road you’re traveling on, so keep your smartphone down and your eyes scanning for wildlife.

Lamar Valley

One of the best places to see an abundance of wildlife is in the Lamar Valley, nicknamed America’s Serengeti due to its wide expanses of visible land often roamed by herds of animals.

Lamar Valley is located near the central northern border of the park adjacent to the Lamar River. It is home to multiple wolf packs and a huge herd of bison. The Lamar Valley is also one of your best chances for seeing a grizzly bear.

Don’t forget to bring binoculars! It makes it much easier to spot wildlife.

How to Get to Lamar Valley: Head to the western end of US-212 and you’ll soon be in the middle of the Lamar Valley.

Bonus Sights in Lamar Valley: In addition to all the animals you can see, the flora of Lamar Valley is beautiful in its own right, with sun-dappled plains, sprawling sunflower fields, and jagged mountain peaks outlined against the sky.

Other Helpful Tips for Making the Most of Your Time Seeing Yellowstone’s Top Sights

Bison grazing in Yellowstone National Park — Bison in Yellowstone

Parking can be a hassle in Yellowstone, particularly if you’re traveling during high season in the summer. Plan to get to places that have a deadline, such as Old Faithful if you want to catch a particular eruption, plenty early in case you have to circle a few times to find a parking spot.

The National Park Service has also put together this handy parking map that tells you what to expect at each lot in the park and also includes data on when parking lots are usually at their fullest.

If you want to avoid timing your visit with peak season, head to the best things to do in Yellowstone when it’s not peak season, which is the last half of June through the end of August. The first week of September also might be a bit busy since not all schools are back in session yet.

Just keep in mind if you hope to go in the spring or fall to not go too early or too late, respectively. If the snow hasn’t melted yet in the spring or if there is a sudden snowfall in autumn, roads leading to these main attractions in Yellowstone National Park may be closed indefinitely until the thaw of summer.

If you are in Yellowstone in the summer, start your day early and be at the park gates as soon as they open to try to beat some of the crowds. You can also have an advantage for certain spots if you stay in the park to sleep, such as at the aforementioned Old Faithful Inn. These hotels in the park usually book up far in advance so plan your trip to Yellowstone early if you hope to stay at one.

From a sightseeing perspective, another thing to keep in mind is that these best things to see in Yellowstone National Park are favorites with visitors for a reason due to the awe-inspiring display of nature many of them offer; however, there is magic to be found all over the park.

I spent a day in Yellowstone with my husband, her sister, and her husband just driving around and stopping at seemingly random spots. But they were beautiful and they were devoid of other tourists. It’s hard not to find the magic in Yellowstone.

Wildlife Safety

Be safe around wildlife while you’re in Yellowstone National Park! If you’re planning to do some hikes – even on Uncle Tom’s trail and the other heavily trafficked, established trails — you’ll want to bring bear spray and bear bells with you. Grizzly bears can be a real, serious threat.

If you cross paths with one, slowly back away and get your bear spray ready. And if you see one in the distance, do not go closer to it! Immediately move away from the direction you see it. That should seem obvious, but news stories will tell you otherwise. Don’t be one of those people!

Other animals that you should keep a safe distance from include bison, moose, and wolves. Bison in particular can look pretty chill just standing there munching on grass, but they can quickly get territorial and charge at you.

If an animal comes near your car, keep your windows up. Also, under no circumstances should you feed any of the animals in the park. Adopt the leave no trace principles and don’t do it unintentionally either. If camping, be sure to elevate your food in the air with a rope around a tree branch where bears and other animals can’t easily access it.

So Many Amazing Things to Do in Yellowstone!

Whether you do and see all the things in Yellowstone on this list, or just some, you’re sure to have an incredible time in America’s first national park. You also might like reading our article on what you should know before you visit Yellowstone National Park so you can put together an unforgettable trip.

Top Things to Do in Helena, Montana

Big Sky Cities and Towns, Western Montana

Visitor’s Guide to Helena, Montana

The city of Helena, Montana, is home to a number of things to do and activities, plus Montana’s State Capitol.

Are you looking for things to do in Helena, Montana? You won’t have to look far. If you have ever been to Montana, you know that the stunning landscape and outdoor backdrop influences much of the lifestyle here, and this is especially true in the state’s capital city of Helena.

Helena is a city that is complete with outdoor gems, entertainment opportunities galore, interesting museums, and even some locales that will give you a fun, small-town feel.

Rocky Mountains Near Helena, Montana — Rocky Mountains Near Helena

Helena was founded in the mid-19th century as a gold camp and was quickly named as the capital of Montana. Today, it’s known for much more than just gold. Helena is home to a gorgeous capitol building, galleries, museums, and one of the greatest trail systems in the entire country.

Whether you are in Helena for a few days, or are looking for things to do while passing through, here are some of our favorite things to do in Helena, Montana!

Things to Do in Helena, Montana

Gates of the Mountains Tours

Gates of the Mountains near Helena, Montana — Gates of the Mountains

Arguably one of the coolest things about Helena is that it was a major factor in the Lewis and Clark expedition, and the ability for those in Helena to retrace the steps of the historic explorers.

If you are visiting Helena during the summer months, a highly recommended activity to do is the Gates of the Mountains boat tours. The Gates of the Mountains were named as such by Meriwether Lewis himself since it seemed as if the mountains were parting as he sailed down the water.

Now a peaceful two hour boat ride will awaken your eyes to the beautiful natural wonder that has brought spectators to Helena for centuries.

We have written a massively in-depth article about the Gates of the Mountains to help you plan your time there — click here to read!

Helena National Forest

Outdoor lovers in Helena are all well aware of what a magical place the Helena National Forest is. If you are a hiking enthusiast, Helena National Forest is a must-visit, but it’s also a great place for a leisurely drive.

Helena National Forest is also home to many wildlife species, which you have the chance of seeing, including grizzly bears, wolves, antelope, big horn sheep, and mule deer.

Last Chance Ranch

If you are visiting Helena National Forest, do not miss out on your chance to visit the Last Chance Ranch. This is one of the Montana experiences that you will never forget.

Visitors here take a horse-drawn ride to Mountain Moose Cabin, where you can enjoy a delicious western meal that will make you feel like you are taking a journey to the wild west, all while listening to authentic western entertainment. You can even book a room here to stay. And did we mention that the Mountain Moose Cabin is all solar-powered?

Mount Helena City Park

Another great thing to do in Helena for hikers is to head to Mount Helena City Park. This park features over 600 acres of outdoor paradise. With miles and miles of hiking trails, you can find your ideal trail, whether it’s a challenging one like the Hogback Trail which leads to the park’s namesake’s summit at 5,468 feet, or the Trout Creek Canyon Trail which is a comfortable, family friendly hike.

Montana’s Museum

If you’re curious about Montana’s history, don’t travel through Helena without stopping at Montana’s Museum. This Helena gem is home to artifacts which span throughout Montana’s history.

You won’t just find historical pieces here, expect to find interesting pieces from today as well. Keep your eyes open for Montana based art such as sculptures, paintings, and you will even find illustrated letters done by the famous Montana artist Charles M. Russell.

ExplorationWorks

ExplorationWorks is Helena’s own museum of science and culture. It is also one of the most popular attractions in the city. Here you can find interactive and hands-on exhibits that put a focus on health, nature, energy, and more.

Great Northern Carousel

Once you are finished with you Exploration Works visit, be sure to head right next door to the Great Northern Carousel. The always fun carousel atmosphere is welcoming to children of all ages.

The Great Northern Carousel was named “The finest new carousel in the nation and possibly the finest built carousel in the world” by the National Carousel Association in 2010.

Also, don’t leave without trying one of their delicious treats. We highly recommend the ice cream!

Parrot Confectionery

Now that you have treats on the brain, does visiting an old-fashioned soda fountain and candy store sound fun to you? Then you need to head down to the Parrot Confectionery.

The Parrot Confectionery has been owned and operated by the same family for close to 100 years and serves up homemade, old fashioned ice cream, handmade chocolates, and more. It’s a delicious stop to make while you journey through Helena.

Tour the Capitol Building

Montana State Capitol Building in Helena, Montana, under a blue sky. — Montana State Capitol

One of the top things to do in Helena is to tour the Montana State Capitol Building. This is a gorgeous capitol building that you can either tour on your own or via a guided group tour (call for reservations first).

If you want a different kind of tour, you can take the Last Chance Tour Train. This tour train will take you around the capitol area, starting at the Capitol building and past many of Helena’s other most prominent buildings and locations.

Cathedral of St. Helena

In the very early 1900s, construction began on the Cathedral of St. Helena, and it is a sight to behold. The Gothic-style cathedral was inspired by the architecture of the Votive Church of the Sacred Heart in Vienna.

The Cathedral is open to visitors daily, or you can arrange to take a guided tour. Keep in mind though, that they do hold mass here, so check times before you go.

Archie Bray Foundation for the Ceramic Arts

If you have a love of art, you need to take a stroll through the grounds of the Archie Bray Foundation for the Ceramic Arts.

This public, nonprofit artist residency program was founded by world famous ceramic artist Archie Bray. His intention was to make the institution “a place to make available for all who are seriously interested in any of the branches of the ceramic arts.” The goal of the foundation is to allow ceramic artists to thrive, which is exactly what they do here. If you love art, specifically ceramic art, you will for sure enjoy visiting the Bray during your time in Helena.

Are you heading to Helena soon? What type of things are you most excited to do in Helena?

Best Montana Family Vacations

Big Sky Cities and Towns, Great Outdoors

Take a Family Vacation to One of These Epic Montana Destinations

Take a family vacation to Montana and introduce your kids to the beauty of the outdoors with epic mountain scenery and unforgettable activities that come with the geography.

Whether you’re planning a Montana family road trip or you’re planning to stick around one area, we’ve compiled some of the best places that you’ll want to visit if you’re considering a family trip to the state of Montana.

Keep reading to discover some of the best Montana family vacations you can take with your brood.

Glacier National Park

One of the most beautiful places in Montana, hands-down, can be found in Glacier National Park. Every which way you look, there is a stunning panorama too perfect not to be captured – so bring that extra camera battery! The Rocky Mountains hug the shoreline of the enchanting Glacier Lake, creating a masterpiece of earth and water.

Try to venture out on the Going to the Sun Road, a 2-hour scenic mountain road where you’ll witness waterfalls and countless breath-taking mountain views, and which can take much longer than two hours to drive depending on how often you stop.

The park has whitewater rafting, boating, swimming and fishing among other popular activities to do. There are also more than 700 miles of hiking trails through this Glacier National Park.

Whitefish, Montana

Whitefish is a resort town that leads you to Glacier National Park and boasts some of the best skiing slopes in the world. You may want to plan your stay at the Whitefish Mountain Resort, located at Big Mountain.

Depending on when you visit, they have both summertime and winter activities that your family will enjoy. Skiing is the number one sport during the winter there, while dirt biking, ziplining, hiking, and alpine slides are popular during the summer.

Yellowstone National Park

You can enter Yellowstone National Park through Montana, on the North Entrance Road that runs through Gardiner, Montana, or at the Northeast Entrance via the Beartooth Highway route from Billings.

Yellowstone is America’s first declared National Park and it has a number of neat features you won’t want to miss on your family vacation to Montana.

Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, Mammoth Hot Springs, and Tower Fall are just to name a few. You can learn more about these Yellowstone National Park attractions here.

Your family can enjoy wildlife viewing at both the Lamar Valley and Hayden Valley. We recommend you visit in the early morning and just before dusk to see the most activity for the wildlife – which works perfect around nap schedules if traveling in Montana with little ones!

Big Sky Montana

Is your family big into winter activities, like skiing? Then Big Sky, Montana is quietly calling your name. Even if you’re not into skiing and snowboarding, there is something at Big Sky for everyone. For example, what would your kids say to exploring Big Sky Country by dog sled? Probably a resounding heck yeah!

There are also snowmobile tours, snow coach tours, sleigh rides, and cross country skiing trails. Big Sky also has a number of cute hotels, resorts, and lodging that is surrounded by awesome mountain views in your backyard.

Griz Statue in Missoula by the University of Montana — Griz Statue in Missoula by the University of MT

Missoula, Montana

Missoula, Montana is a charming city that resides in the western part of the state. The nearby Bitterroot River is an exceptional spot for fishing and fly-fishing while the Montana Snowbowl is an alpine ski area about 12 miles north of Missoula in the Lolo National Forest.

You will come across a number of winter sports and rentals up in the Snowbowl that are ideal for a family.

The Mount Sentinel M Trail is a fun hiking trail that will take you up “Mount Woody,” just east of the University of Montana – my siblings and I did it when we were kids and I still remember how cool it felt to get up to the giant “M”!

The Carousel for Missoula and its adjacent park are also super fun for families to visit and have some fun.

Paradise Valley

If you’re looking for a relaxing Montana family vacation with majestic mountain views, take a gander at Paradise Valley, Montana. You will want to take the scenic 62-mile loop through Paradise Valley with the Absaroka Range to the east and the Gallatin Range to the west.

If your family is into hiking, Paradise Valley also has a number of hiking trails of varying difficulty.

Kids on a ranch in Montana — Montana Ranch

Dude Ranches

Montana has hundreds of “Dude Ranches” that offer a unique family vacation experience with western hospitality. Depending on where you visit, your family can enjoy unlimited horseback riding, hiking, panning for gold, fishing, and you can even head out on a cattle drive just like a real Montana cowboy. You can choose to stay at a lodge or ranch, where you can enjoy a country dinner just before sundown.

Check out this article that has our top picks for Montana dude ranches.

Bozeman, Montana

Vacationing with your family in Bozeman, Montana is also a great destination to check out.

Located in southern Montana, Bozeman has the Museum of the Rockies, along with a planetarium on the campus of Montana State University. There you will find a huge complex of dinosaur fossils and extensive research that’s still done even today.

The Spanish Peaks near Bozeman not only is beautiful to behold, but they also have horseback riding, golfing, skiing, camping, and many scenic hiking trails to explore.

Check out Pine Creek Lake Trail outside of Bozeman, that’s rated difficult, but has epic views.

If you love your Food Channel shows, then we also recommend you try out the Sidewinders American Grill, which has a sister location in Jackson, that Guy Fieri visited during one of his episodes on the Food Network Channel.

Which of these Montana Family Vacations Sound Best to You?

There can be no doubt that the state of Montana is a gorgeous place to visit. While the state can be a beast to travel through, there are a number of destinations that would make for the perfect family getaway. Which one would you most like to visit?

All About Montana National Parks and Historic Sites

Historic Sites, National Parks

Visitor’s Guide for All of Montana’s National Parks & National Historic Sites

Montana may be a massive state without much of a population per square mile, but within those square miles it packs in a number of historical sites and National Parks that can’t be ignored. There’s evidence that a massive flood changed the geological map thousands of years ago in Montana and this can very much be appreciated today.

Long before the white man traveled through the area, there were Native Americans that flourished in Montana country. With those two historical pieces put aside, Montana also holds two of the entrances into the Yellowstone National Park.

With as much history and beauty that’s waiting here, you can’t possibly say no to a visit. Here’s a look at many of Montana’s National parks and historical sites that will make for an amazing trip.

Let’s start with the big ones: the National Parks of Montana. These include Yellowstone National Park and Glacier National Park, two of the most famous parks in America.

Location: Southwest Montana (plus Wyoming and Idaho)

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is the oldest declared national park in the United States and is part of three states, including Montana.

The park is unique for its geological formations, thermal geysers, and beautiful hot springs. Lamar Valley and Hayden Valley within Yellowstone National Park are wonderful locations of finding wildlife in the park.

The north entrance to Yellowstone National Park is located in Gardiner, Montana, while the northeast entrance can be found in Cooke City, Montana.

Glacier National Park

Location: Northwest Montana

Glacier National Park is located in the Rocky Mountains of Northwest Montana. The park has absolutely gorgeous rugged mountain and lake views, creating the perfect venue for the outdoorsman.

The park has over 700 miles of hiking trails, great camping, and backpacking locations. Be sure to head out on the Going-to-the-Sun Road, a nice scenic drive. Whitewater rafting, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing are other great activities for you to do.

There are also many great hotels and chalets in the area that have amazing views. Many Glacier Hotel is the largest hotel in the park that matches this description.

Now for the historic sites that are operated by the National Park Service.

Bighorn Canyon

Location: Southeast Montana, about 90 minutes from Billings.

If you’re around the Montana-Wyoming border, Bighorn Canyon is definitely worth a visit.

Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area not only offers visitors amazing views inside the canyon but plenty of activities too. Kayaking, biking, hiking, fishing, hunting, and camping are just to name a few. There’s also evidence for early human history from more than 10,000 years ago.

Nez Perce National Park

Location: Montana, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington. The parts of Nez Perce National Park that are in Montana are in the far west part of the state.

The Nez Perce National Park is dedicated to the Nez Perce people that were avoiding being put on a reservation, while they were headed north to Canada seeking freedom. This became known as the Flight of 1877.

Several skirmishes broke out between these people and the US Army Cavalry. The park is made up of 38 sites where the conflict took place, all of them scattered all throughout four states. The park’s sites teach stories, cultures, and history of these people. The Battle of Bear Paw and Big Hole National Battlefield are both sites that are located in Montana, of which the latter is another National Park Historic Site.

Big Hole National Battlefield

Location: Wisdom, Montana

In the early morning of August 9, 1877, the US Army surprised the Nez Perce tribe in what later became known as the Battle of the Big Hole. The tribe had been escaping to Canada when the 7th Infantry regiment caught up with them. Today, Big Hole National Battlefield commemorates the warriors and soldiers wounded in battle.

Fort Union Trading Post

Location: Northeast Montana, right on the border of North Dakota

The Fort Union Trading Post held incredible significance for early fur trading this far north on the Missouri River. Fort Union was built back in the late 1820s and was used as a trading post by frontiersmen and many native tribes and Indian nations until 1867. Buffalo hides, beads, knives, clothing, alcohol, and rifles were common goods traded at the post. During those years, over $100,000 worth of merchandise was traded annually at the post.

The fort today has been reconstructed based on drawings and historical documents and helped us better understand the early settlers and the Native’s way of life.

Grant-Kohrs Ranch

Location: Deer Lodge, MT

In the mid-1800s, herding and transporting cattle was a huge part of our early American West history. For just over three decades, cowboys came to the high plains to earn a living through many dangers and hardships.

At one time, Grant-Kohrs Ranch was an impressive 10 million-acre open-field industry. Today the ranch has original furnishings, artifacts, and exhibits that tell the story of the history of the west.

Ice Age Floods

Location: Montana, Washington, Oregon, and Idaho. In Montana you can see remnants near Missoula.

The Missoula floods was a cataclysmic flood that took place during the last ice age, over 18,000 years ago. It affected a number of northwestern states and left remnants of its devastation still visible today.

In the Montana region the aftermath of the flooding left a giant lake called Missoula Lake, which eventually caused major flooding throughout Idaho, Oregon, and Washington, and is now a valley that is marked by the Glacial Lake Missoula National Natural Landmark. You can see this landmark and where the lake once stood by traveling about 70 miles northwest of Missoula.

Lewis and Clark National Forest in West Central Montana — Lewis and Clark National Forest

Lewis & Clark Historic Trail

Location: The Lewis & Clark Historic Trail went through 16 different states and through numerous parts of Montana

The Lewis and Clark Historic Trail was the famous exhibition team that traveled through 16 states and covered over 4,900 miles, charting and mapping land west of the Mississippi.

Yet Montana holds boasting rights to the longest part of the trail traveled. You can visit and travel on the part of the trail and this National Park Historic Site and find where the Lewis and Clark expedition forged the Missouri River.

Little Bighorn Battlefield

Location: Crow Agency, MT — an hour east of Billings.

This site was one of the last major victories for the Indian Nations to preserve their way of life. The Little Bighorn Battlefield honors both US soldiers of the 7th Cavalry and the warriors of the Lakota and Cheyenne nations that died here.

“Custer’s Last Stand” resulted in the deaths of more than 263 soldiers, including Lt. Col. George A. Custer himself. The numbers are unknown for the Native Americans that fought. Here at the Little Bighorn Battlefield in Eastern Montana, you will see where the skirmish took place.

What’s Your Favorite National Park Site in Montana?

There are many Montana National Parks and National Historic Sites to visit during your time in Montana country. Which of these will you take time to see when you’re planning your visit there? If you’ve already visited any of these parks and sites in the past, go ahead and tell us about your experience.

What to Know Before You Visit Yellowstone National Park

National Parks, Yellowstone National Park

Tips For Planning a Trip to Yellowstone National Park

Year after year, tourists from all over the world flock to Yellowstone National Park in search of grizzly bears, wolves, bison, elk, geysers, waterfalls, hot springs and Old Faithful.

Established in 1872, Yellowstone is the world’s first national park. With 2.2 million acres spawning over three states, YNP offers its visitors more than 300 miles of paved roadways leading to all the most popular attractions within the park.

Where are the Entrances to Yellowstone National Park?

Yellowstone can be accessed through five separate entrances:

North Entrance: Gardiner, MT
Northeast Entrance: Silver Gate/Cooke City, MT
East Entrance: Cody, WY
South Entrance: Grand Teton National Park, WY
West Entrance: West Yellowstone, MT

Choose Your Route Wisely

Within the park there are two main loops. Personally, I’ve done the main loop only once (though I plan on making the trip again this summer) and we were able to complete it in a day. We entered through the North entrance and hit all the main pull outs along the way: Norris, Madison, Old Faithful, West Thumb, Canyon Village, Tower Roosevelt; then left the park through the Northeast access point.

Mother and Baby Bison in Yellowstone National Park — Mother and Baby Bison in Yellowstone

It was a long day in the car, but we saw SO much along the way! In addition to Mammoth Hot Springs, Norris Geyser Basin, Old Faithful, and the Upper and Lower Falls of the Yellowstone River; we saw tons of bison, a grizzly bear, a black bear cub, and elk. Luck was definitely on our side that day. I’ve been to the park plenty of other times and only saw bison and elk. Granted, the routes we chose were typically shorter during those visits.

Norris Geyser Basin in Yellowstone National Park — Norris Geyser Basin

What YNP Sites Need to Be on Your Must-See List?

I’ll be honest: the crowds can be a bit overwhelming in July and August, but you really don’t want to miss out on the popular spots – they’re famous for a reason.

Therefore, I recommend not missing Old Faithful, Yellowstone Lake, Norris geysers, and the hot springs at Mammoth.

No matter how old you are or how many times you’ve seen it, Old Faithful is an incredible eruption to witness and the magnitude of Yellowstone Lake, the North America’s largest high-altitude lake, is impressive as you travel along the shoreline. Plus, the geysers at Norris and the hot springs at Mammoth are just so cool and unusual.

Yellowstone National Park is an active volcano and is one of the world’s largest calderas. There truly is nowhere else in the world that offers such an experience.

What to Know if You Journey Off the Beaten Path

Yellowstone National Park is 80-percent forest, which means there are miles and miles of trails and areas to explore.

Yellowstone National Park offers more than 1,000 miles of backcountry trails and 92 trailheads. With 300 backcountry campsites, feel free to pack a bag and stay for awhile. J After all, exploring the world’s oldest and first national park without the traffic jams on the main route is bound to provide a unique, one-of-a-kind experience.

Here’s the deal though: As I’ve mentioned… there are lot of grizzly bears in Yellowstone. And when I say “a lot” I mean it.

Yellowstone National Park is home to approximately 500 grizzlies. It is critical to be prepared when venturing into the backcountry of YNP, even if you’re on a well-traveled path. Bear spray costs about $30 and can save your life in the event of a grizzly bear encounter.

A young grizzly bear soaking in the sunshine near the road in Yellowstone National Park.

Where to Stay in Yellowstone National Park

If you have a few days to spend in Yellowstone National Park, they won’t be wasted. In fact, that’s probably the ideal way to see the park. Within the park there are plenty of options when it comes to lodging or camping. YNP has nine hotels/lodges, offering more than 2,000 hotel rooms or cabins throughout the park. If you’re looking for a more inexpensive and a “getting back to nature” type of stay, consider one of the five concession-operated campgrounds within the park. In total, YNP offers 1,700 campsites. Be sure to plan ahead, during the peak season rooms and sites tend to book up quickly.

If you would rather make day trips into the park, all gateway communities leading into Yellowstone offer various types of lodging accommodations. In fact, the local economies of those towns depend heavily on tourism dollars, so feel free to splurge on souvenirs and such. 😉

From grizzlies and wolves to steaming geysers and bubbling mud pots, Yellowstone National Park offers a spectacular, up-close-and-personal wilderness experience.

Best Bear Spray to Keep You Safe

Great Outdoors

Bear Spray may seem like a frivolous purchase – after all, most people visiting the national parks of America WANT to see a bear and likely won’t see one. However, most people also want to see that bear from the safety of their car or a well-trafficked lookout point. They don’t want to suddenly encounter a bear wandering the same trail as them – and that’s where bear spray can save a life.

For those of us who call Montana home, bear spray isn’t just a “good idea” product. It’s a necessity. Both for you and the bear. A bear that attacks because it feels threatened by a human in its domain (and make no mistake; if you enter bear country, you are the one in the bear’s domain) will likely be put down even if it wasn’t the bear’s fault.

Since many species of bears are on the endangered list, this is problematic. As more people visit the National Parks each year, such as Yellowstone and Glacier where bears are prevalent, it is important to learn how to keep them and us safe. Bear spray is a huge help for this.

The best bear sprays are instrumental in helping to ward off an attack of a charging bear. The bear sprays are made with a painfully hot concoction that is similar to mace, but even stronger. When sprayed at a bear, it will typically stop a bear in its tracks as it infiltrates its eyes, nose, and mouth, and hopefully send it back the other way.

How Bear Spray Works

Bear Spray uses capsaicinoids, a chemical typically found in pepper spray, but on a much smaller level. In bear spray, typically the highest amount legally permitted are included in the concoction. This liquid is then pressurized in a can so it can be released powerfully and reach a charging bear before it’s upon you. Bears can travel up to 35 miles per hour, so the sooner the sting of the spray reaches the bear, the better.

Grizzly bar and cub sen from afar on a sloping hill.

Bear Spray vs. Hunting Rifle vs. Bear Bells

For those who think if they are hiking with a hunting rifle or gun, and therefore don’t need bear spray, think again.

Even a gun isn’t necessarily going to protect you from a bear attack.

For starters, you need to be extremely confident in your shooting abilities and that you can stay calm under the pressure of a charging grizzly bear and get a shot that will actually slow down a 300+ pound angry bear. Even if you hit the bear, it may just make the bear more aggressive if it doesn’t fatally wound the animal.

Second, if you shoot and kill a grizzly bear, you need to be able to prove that your life was in immediate danger and will likely undergo an investigation. It is a crime to kill a grizzly bear since they are a protected species.

Third, studies have shown that using a gun on a charging bear is only about 50% effective, while using the best bear spray is 92% effective. Using bear spray not only helps the chances of having an attack deterred and therefore saving your life, but it also saves the bear’s life.

As for bear bells, they can help to be a deterrent during certain times of year (so can singing and talking loudly), but there are also reports of bear bells attracting bears because they’re starting to learn where there are humans there are usually pieces of trash and food left behind. (At Travel Montana Now, we heavily believe in the Leave No Trace philosophy – you can find out more here.)

So now that you know why Bear Spray is so important, whether you’re exploring the Bear Country of Montana or another region where you have the chance of encountering a bear, let’s get to which bear sprays are considered the best.

The Best Bear Sprays You Can Get

The best bear sprays are all EPA approved, so we have only included ones that fit this description.

Counter Assault

In addition to being effective, many consider Counter Assault to be the best bear spray brand due to its innovation and longtime dedication to being environmentally friendly. It was first developed in the 1980s in conjunction with professors from the University of Montana – Missoula. In 1998 the spray was given the US Environmental Protection Agency registration. One negative is it doesn’t come with its own holster, but you can purchase the Bear Spray Neoprene Holster, which will help it to be secure and ready for action.

This spray holder keeps your bear spray in easy reach without being cumbersome. It’s made by Counter Assault and fits both size bottles by Counter Assault, which includes a 10.2 ounce canister that can spray 40 feet for 8 seconds and an 8.1 ounce canister that can spray 32 feet away for 7 seconds. The canisters come with a nylon belt holder, but the above holder is more secure if you’re doing any jogging or strenuous hiking. Shelf life is four years. Also, it’s made in Montana!

Sabre Frontiersman

Sabre Frontiersman is EPA certified and made in the USA. It has a canister size of 7.9 oz. and can fire up to 30 feet.

Helping to make this one of the best bear sprays is that it comes with a holster that can be secured around your waist for easy access and an easy to use canister that can be quickly deployed while also being secure from accidental use or leaks.

UDAP

The UDAP bear spray was actually developed by a bear attack survivor. The UDAP bear spray uses a Pepper Power Fogger technology to quickly disperse the spray. UDAP can shoot up to 30 feet. UDAP has a couple different holster options you can choose from, including a camo-colored one and one featuring its Griz Guard logo.

Guard Alaska

This bear spray is the only one that is EPA certified to be used on all bear species. The canister is 9.1 ounces and will spray a distance of 15 to 20 feet. The Alaska Guard bear spray also comes with a nylon holster that has a Velcro closure.

Practice Bear Spray

If you’re still feeling weary about possible encountering a bear even with bear spray in tow, there is also a canister of practice bear spray you can get at a much lower price. Frontiersman created this so you can practice in the safety of your backyard (or park – there are no chemicals in this water-based spray) how to quickly take the bear spray canister from your holster, undo the safety latch and quickly spray it in the direction you want.

Bear Spray can be affected by the wind, so it’s wise to practice with bear spray in different wind conditions so you understand what happens to the spray in cross-winds, frontal winds, and winds at your back. Then when hiking, be cognizant of which ways the wind is blowing so you’re prepared if a bear suddenly charges.

Pros: Will give you additional peace of mind for your bear country vacation. Will help you to be more prepared should you encounter a bear in the wild.

Cons: Still a bit expensive and only comes with one, meaning you may want to purchase multiple quantities in order to properly practice.

A Few More Tips for Using Bear Spray

Before each trip into bear country, be sure to check your bear spray and make sure it hasn’t expired. Also, be wary of keeping it in a hot car or direct sunlight – bear spray can explode if it reaches temps of 120 degrees and higher.

Don’t keep your bear spray in your daypack. Bears are much faster than they look and if one starts running toward you, you likely won’t have time to get the spray out of your daypack before the bear is upon you.

Where to Buy Bear Spray

If driving to your hiking or outdoor adventures destination, make things convenient by ordering some Bear Spray online (as we made easy for you to do above).

If flying, you won’t be able to bring bear spray since it is not permitted even in checked luggage. In that case, you should purchase it upon landing. Do some research beforehand to find out where you can get it in your destination before you arrive so you don’t waste time.

If traveling to Yellowstone National Park, you can purchase some at certain Yellowstone Forever Park Stores. Call before arriving to make sure the one you’re planning on stopping at has bear spray. In Glacier National Park, you can usually find bear spray being sold at a good value at the Glacier Guides and Montana Raft Company store in West Glacier.

In both the areas around Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks, you should also be able to find bear spray at most sporting good stores and other businesses catering to park visitors. We’ve even seen it sold at Costco!

Top Things to Do in Butte, Montana

Big Sky Cities and Towns, Western Montana

Guide to Butte, Montana for Visitors

Are you planning a visit to the “Richest Hill on Earth” anytime soon? That would be Butte, Montana, for those who don’t know about the vast history and beauty of this less-visited area of Montana.

Whether you are in Butte for work, spending some vacation days in the city, or you were brought in last minute after spotting the famous Our Lady of the Rockies statue from the Interstate, you may be surprised by the number of great things to do in Butte — and we are here to help you learn exactly what it is you can do there.

Berkeley Pit, the site of a former open mine near Butte, Montana — Berkeley Pit, the site of a former open mine near Butte

Butte was initially established in the mid-1800s as a mining camp, eventually became the county seat and is home to over 30,000 people. This town has had enormous success in the mining and smelting operations, which has driven over $48 billion worth of revenue to the area. This rich history is the basis for much of the great things to do in Butte.

What to Do in Butte, Montana

Our Lady of the Rockies

I already mentioned this famous statue once, but it is definitely worth mentioning again. The construction of the Our Lady of the Rockies statue began in 1979, and was finished in 1985. The Statue itself is in the likeness of Mary, Mother of Jesus, but is said to be non-denominational and is dedicated to women everywhere. As the second tallest statue in the United States (the tallest is the Statue of Liberty), Our Lady of the Rockies deserves a visit. The statue can be visited for tours during the summer and early Fall, otherwise you can visit the Our Lady of the Rockies gift shop.

World Museum of Mining

Do you have an interest in mining? Are you intrigued by the deep history of mining in Montana? If you said yes to either of these things, then you need to visit the World Museum of Mining! There is a recreation of an old mining town (think re-created western town, but with a focus on mining), REAL mines which you can go into, and there is also a mineral room where you can get an idea of the minerals that are mined in the area.

While you are at the museum you also get to spend some time checking out old mining equipment. If you want the real experience, you can take a tour of the museum, often led by retired miners.

Just to throw a little weird into the mix, inside of the World Museum of Mining you can also find the Doll Museum. Don’t miss a visit to this!

MBMG Mineral Museum

Once you finish at the World Mining Museum, make sure to head on over to Montana Tech and visit the Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Mineral Museum.

With over 10,000 specimens (1,000 on display), this museum is home to one of the greatest mineral and rock collections in the world, including several meteorites and a large gold nugget which was found in the Butte area.

Butte Trolley Tour

If you want a fun, and relatively quick history lesson on the town of Butte, take a trip on the Butte Trolley tour. This tour is a really fun way to learn about the history of Butte. This trolley tour is inexpensive and only takes about two hours.

Historic Building in Downtown Butte, Montana — Historic Building in Downtown Butte

Downtown Butte Walking Tours

Have you ever taken a walking tour? They are usually an awesome way to learn about the history and culture of an area, and the Downtown Walking Tours of Butte are no different.

The Downtown Walking Tours in Butte are a great way to really see the history of Butte in an up close and personal way. These guided walking tours are available from late spring to early fall, however, you can make a special request for tours during the colder seasons.

Due to there being over 5,000 different historic buildings plus other historic sites and mines, there are several different types of tours available, including decade-specific tours. All tours are family friendly, and equally interesting to adults and kids alike.

Copper King Mansion

Lifestyles of the rich and famous, anyone? If you were a fan of that show (do you even remember that show?), you will love going to visit the Copper King Mansion. This 34-room Victorian mansion was the home of William Andrews Clark. Mr. Clark was on of the Montana “Copper Kings,” and as such, became one of the wealthiest men in the world. The mansion was built in 1888 at a cost of $500k, which was a massive amount of money at the time (roughly $13m today). The mansion is available to tour late spring through early fall, and it is also a bed and breakfast during the summer months.

Mother Lode Theatre and Orphan Girl Children’s Theatre

Are you a lover of the arts? Did you know that you can catch a great show in Butte, Montana? You can! The Mother Lode Theatre is a wonderful place to visit to see local, regional as well as national touring productions. This is also where to head in Butte when you want to see the symphony or head to a concert. If there is a show playing while you are in town, you should definitely check out this theatre.

Granite Mountain Mine Memorial

Mining is a huge part of the history of Butte and there is no question in anyone’s mind that mining is an incredibly dangerous profession. The Granite Mountain Mine Memorial is a memorial that was created in memory of the miners who lost their lives in a terrible fire that took place in the Granite Mountain Shaft in 1917. This fire was the cause of the loss of 168 miners, which is the most fatalities in metal mining history. As tragic as this disaster was, there were also incredible stories of survival, as well as rescue and recovery operations that saw the whole community come together to help.

The Granite Mountain Mine Memorial is a place to learn the history of this disaster, remember those lost and also learn a lot about mining itself.

Nearby places to visit when you are in Butte, Montana:

If you are looking for a day trip while in Butte, Montana, you have no shortage of opportunities! Here are some great ideas for you:

Glacier National Park (4 hours away)

Lewis and Clark Cavern State Park (42 miles away)

Grant-Kohrs Ranch (40 miles away)

Whether you’re visiting Butte during a Montana road trip, are using it as a base during your time in Montana, or want some fun things to do in Butte while visiting friends and family, you’ll be able to find history and entertainment during your stay in this historic city.