12 Epic Must-See National Parks in Montana

Known as the “Big Sky Country” and “The Last Best Place,” it’s no wonder Montana is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the country.

The major national parks in Montana contain uninterrupted prairies, boundless plains, surreal geothermal elements, and isolated glacial lakes, and it even nestles the internationally acclaimed Glacier National Park.

So when you’re down the road to this side of the country, tune in until the end as we review the must-see national parks in Montana listed below that would allow perfect tranquillity moments.

Page Contents,:

Methodology: How We Review And Rank The National Parks

You may wonder how we ranked the best national parks in Montana and what we considered their most distinguishing features at this stage.

If you want to ask me how many national parks in Montana are worth visiting. Well, to be fair, there are many, and each park offers attractions that will provide guests with experiences that are unique to that park. However, if there is a certain item that you seek, we have it here on the list!

We gave the parks to visit in Montana a ranking based on a variety of factors, such as the number of visitors, the variety of activities available, the ease of access, the facilities available, and, of course, the natural attractiveness of the parks.

Crowd Sizes- When compared to other national parks, how crowded is this one on a regular day? We thought of factors like traffic, crowded vistas and hikes, limited available campsites, lines, and other such concerns.
Possibilities for Leisure Activities- This investigates the various opportunities for recreational pursuits within montana national parks, including walking, biking, boating, climbing, and other pursuits.
Accessibility- Is it easy to go to this national park? We considered factors such as the closeness of major highways, the availability of alternative modes of public transportation, the ease of access to airports, the number of hotels, and any other indicators of urbanization.

Park Amenities- Are there improvements to the park’s infrastructure, like the construction of tourist centers, campsites, restrooms, hotels, and others?
Aesthetic Appeal- This looks at the park’s stunning natural surroundings. Despite the fact that this is entirely based on personal opinion, it still needs to be taken into account.

12 Must-See Montana National Parks

Using the ranking or technique described above, we can identify the top 10 best parks in Montana that visitors absolutely cannot miss. You might as well get a pen and some paper and start making a list of the parks in Montana that you want to visit on your bucket list.

Best National Park for Hiking Trails: Glacier National Park

Vast View of Glacier National Park — Glacier National Park / GetYourGuide

This park is one of the best state parks in Montana. It features snow-covered slopes rising above turquoise lakes surrounded by pine trees and is considered to be home to the greatest concentration of grizzly bears anywhere in the world.

Even while the trails at Glacier National Park are what bring in the most tourists to the park, those who don’t trek will still find a lot to see and do there. Paddling a kayak across Lake McDonald’s is a wonderful way to take in the scenery. Taking Going To Sun Rd is yet another well-liked option for traversing the park from east to west.

The glacier national Park has 700 miles of trails available for exploration, and the landscape is unlike anything else in the country. You can reach the place from the glacier park international airport. The route up to Avalanche Lake, which is one of the most well-known, is also one of the least taxing and most levels. Hotels like the ancient Many Glacier Hotel and the modern Lake McDonald Lodge can be found inside the park’s limits. You can check out some exciting activities here at GetYourGuide.com

Pros:

No shortage of camping options
Nature’s beauty at its finest

Rich indigenous culture
Near historic lodges and has antique touring busses

Cons:

Hotels, roads, and trails are seasonal because of the number of tourists
Steep drop-offs.
Most fun tours are usually booked, you have to book a month or 2 earlier.

Related: Best Things to Do in Montana

Best National Park for Rich Wildlife: Yellowstone National Park

Grand Canyon Waterfall at West Yellowstone National Park — Yellowstone National Park / GetYourGuide

The fact that previous designers had the foresight to designate Yellowstone as a nationally protected area is a monument to the iconic and one-of-a-kind traits that the park possesses.

It holds the number one spot constantly throughout the entire United States and is one the best national parks in Montana. The park encompasses a land area of 3471 square miles and is residence to spectacular geothermal and home to a wide variety of famous American animals, including but not limited to bison, gray wolves, grizzly bears, elk, and bald eagles, all of which are free to roam throughout the area.

In Gardiner, on the outskirts of west Yellowsto n e National Park, you may see Roosevelt Arch, which is often considered to be one of the park’s most recognizable features. When you enter the park from the west gate, the town of Mammoth and the spires of Mammoth Hot Springs will be visible to you.

The stunning Yellowstone Grand Canyon or canyon creek and the Grand Prismatic Spring are both additional popular sites in Yellowstone National Park.

There are a variety of places to stay within the park, including hotels such as the Roosevelt Lodge and the Old Faithful Inn. Other lodgings can be found beyond the border and in the vicinity of bozeman yellowstone international airport, which is the closest airport in its south district. Check the site and bookings here at GetYourGuide.com.

Pros:

Highly recommended, because there’s not experience like it
Rich in the alpine and mountainous scenery

Overflowing with unbelievable variety, scenery, and wildlife

Cons:

The entrance is not free. You will need to pay a fee for a standard vehicle.

Free annual passes are available to military members (including veterans) and fourth-grade students.

Best National Park for Breathtaking Landscapes: Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area

Discover the region’s high desert plains, narrow gorges, and expansive valleys by going on an excursion. It first opened its doors to the general public in 1966, making this one of the earliest parks in Montana and is connected to the bighorn battlefield national monument.

Beaver Pond Nature Trail, Bighorn River or Bighorn Lake, and Three Mile Access are considered three of the most spectacular hikes in the Recreation Area, which spans an area totaling 120,000 acres and is available from the Northern Region.

Renting a canoe or small boat from Ok-A-Beh Marina is a fantastic opportunity to explore the surrounding area by getting out onto the lake and river. You have the opportunity to fish for a variety of trout and walleye. Additional highlights include equestrian activities, horseback riding, hiking, camping, and touring historic ranches. There are also a ton of animals to see.

It is recommended that visitors land through Logan International Airport in Billings, Montana, the closest major airline to Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Reserve’s Northern District Entrance. It’s about a 90- to 2-hour journey along I-90S and SH-313S from here.

Pros:

Taking a boat ride through the canyon is worthwhile to experience
Knowledgeable guides.

Cons:

It can be confusing to access some points
Roads are rough and hard to get into

Best National Park for Limestone Caves: Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park

Visitors are welcome to explore one of the largest limestone caves in the Pacific Northwest, which is located within Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park. This cave is part of the park following the lewis and Clark expedition. Exploring the depths of the earth continues to be one of the most well-liked pastimes, even in our modern era.

The state park may be reached by car in about an hour from the Bozeman airport and is located to the west of the airport. In order to get entrance to the cave’s interior, visitors are required to participate in a guided tour. The Classic Tour and the Paradise Tour are the two distinct varieties of trips from which you can pick and select. The first alternative is the more challenging one because it requires stair climbing, can last for two hours, covers two miles, and ends with a short walk.

In addition, there is a campground that is quite popular, and it has forty different sites available, in addition to miles of trails that can be used for a variety of activities. It is highly recommended that camping reservations be made well in advance of the summer season. In addition, there is a modern visitor center, a souvenir shop, and a theater for amusement purposes all located on the premises.

Pros:

You can save time when you climb around caverns and caves.
Knowledgeable guides
Nice campground.

Cons:

You will need to book reservations in advance.
The uphill hike is not for children and older adults.

Best National Park for Largest Lake: Flathead Lake State Park

Northwest Montana is home to one of the world’s most impressive bodies of freshwater. This massive lake receives a lot of attention since it is the biggest natural lake westward of the Mississippi River within the lower 48 states. It is also nearly 28 miles long, making it one of the longest lakes in the world.

Five of the six sections of the nature preserve are situated on each side of the riverbank. Boating, fishing, and swimming are some of the activities that may be enjoyed on the western shore, which is from the West Shore and the Big Arm unit’s service. The Big Arm, which is the largest of the two, also provides many opportunities for camping with its 41 sites.

Finley Point, Wayfarers, and Yellowbay are the three state park sections located on the eastern shore. Each of the three flats offers stunning vistas of the lake as well as camping in close proximity to the shore.

Wild Horse Island, its six units, also covers a portion of the largest island on the lake and is home to the free-roaming horses that give Montana’s topography its distinctive character. Boating is the only option for getting to Wild Horse Island. Other locations in the neighborhood also provide ferry services and rental options for kayaks but you cannot reach it through the upper Missouri river.

Pros:

The lakeside cottages and cherry orchards are some of the most picturesque places.

The water is clear and cool, relieving on a hot day.
There are many boats to enjoy the lake.

Cons:

One review said the place is dirty, and the hosts are not accommodating.
Camping easily gets full

Best National Park for Historial Purposes: Bannack State Park

Bannack State Park is situated approximately 90 miles to the south of Butte and is a national historic site along with Perce National Historical park with their famous Bear Paw Battlefield. Other national historic sites are The Big Hole National Battlefield, The Clark National Historic Trail, and the Grand Kohrs ranch National Historic Site found in western Montana.

Guests have the opportunity to investigate the ruins of a ghost town that is regarded as being in the most intact state across the entirety of Montana. The city ultimately went bankrupt, and of the roughly sixty structures that trace back to the town’s more prosperous age, only one building is still surviving today.

One of the most interesting activities that we, as visitors, can participate in while we are in this location is simply going about and learning about the rich history of the now-abandoned town of Bannack. In addition, the visitor center operates as the departure point for the available guided hikes.

In addition, throughout the course of the year, Bannack plays host to a number of exciting events and pursuits. The month of July is set aside for the annual Bannack Days celebration, which includes artisan exhibitions as well as other entertaining activities, such as mock gun skirmishes in the street. In the days running up to Halloween, Bannack hosts ghost tours as an additional activity.

Pros:

There is plenty to read and see about the history
Has helpful brochures and maps for guidance about the historical spots.

There are good nearby campgrounds
Has rich artifacts.

Cons:

Not ideal for people with mold allergies because of moldy buildings falling apart inside.
Not allowed to ride a bike.

Best National Park for The Summer: Whitefish Lake State Park

The southwestern most point of Whitefish Lake in Northwest Montana is where you’ll find this tiny state park. This is just one of the many beautiful natural sights that bring visitors to this region during the warm summer months. The state park sits on 10 acres close to the water’s edge and provides visitors with an entrance to the lake and camping, wildlife watching, and fishing options.

Getting onto the water is made simple at the nature preserve thanks to the availability of both a designated boat ramp and periodic boat rentals. Stand-up inflatable kayaks, as well as pedal boats, are some of the watercraft that can be rented from the middle of June until the Labor Day holiday.

There are 25 different campsites available for overnight stays at Whitefish Lake. Most campsites are basic non-electric sites, and there is plenty of space for RVs. The campsite has a variety of amenities such as fire rings, picnic areas, restrooms, and toilets with flushing toilets. The campground’s location is also great, as it is close to the water to enjoy the beautiful sunsets.

Pros:

The camping spot is appealing and accommodating.
The personnel at the park is extremely hospitable and accommodating.
There were quite a few picnic tables and benches available.

Cons:

The state park is located close to the train station, and it would take the trains around one to two minutes to pass by.
The noise from the train makes it difficult to get a good rest from the camp.

Best National Park for Cave Hunting: Pictograph Cave State Park

The lengthy history of habitation in Montana is highlighted in this state park which is located outside of Billings and encompasses 23 acres. The state park is comprised of three caves, each of which has ancient rock art created by local inhabitants.

Some of the artwork dates back more than 2,000 years. In addition, hundreds of objects have been pulled from the caves with the sandstone carvings that have been discovered making it the best national geologic trail.

Visitors can explore the many caverns in the area by going on a hike that is less than a mile long. The terrain is mostly level, with a few inclines and declines along the way. The symbols on the cave walls can be viewed from viewing sites right outside the cavern entrances. Even though the pictographs may be seen with the naked eye, using binoculars to examine them in more detail is strongly advised.

You should set aside at least one hour to explore the caves properly. The state park also has a brand new and contemporary visitor center that provides access to a greater amount of cultural knowledge. In addition, there is a picnic area and flushing restroom facilities located on the premises.

Pros:

There are pictograph paintings that are 2,000 years old.

some displays have been extremely well crafted that describe not only the artworks but also the history of the neighborhood.
In addition, there is a state park stamp that can be purchased within the building, making it a great site for stamp collectors.
Trails that are kept in good condition

The staff are accommodating

Cons:

There is a hard trek leading up to the cave; strollers are not recommended.

Extremely confusing, and it is difficult to see the writing on the wall.

Best National Park for Rock Formations: Makoshika State Park

Makoshika State Park is located in the far eastern part of Montana, not far from Glendive. This park is known for its desolate but stunning flatlands. In the indigenous Lakota language, “country of bad spirits” translates to “tortured land.” Its layered vistas and attractive rock formations make it a popular tourist destination.

It is the state’s largest park and has an enormous land area. In addition to having some of the most beautiful hiking routes, there are also some beautiful drives you can take. There is a chance that you will see bald eagles, vultures, and falcons circling the sky above the breathtaking terrain.

Dinosaur fossils have been discovered over time within the barren constraints of the park where they were discovered. These extraordinary remnants are currently on display at its visitor center, where you’ll also discover interesting interactive displays about the geology and history of the local area. This makes it a perfect place is perfect novice archaeologists and experienced hunters. RV rentals are also available for convenient access to the place.

There is an abundance of opportunities to learn new things and get some exercise, thanks to the presence of a museum, a theatre, mountain biking, and hiking trails. Some of the more interesting things to do include horseback riding, going on bike rides, and watching animals. You can book your stay at the Rodeway Inn Gateway to Medora T-Roosevelt & Makoshika State Park.

Pros:

The camping is uncomplicated and modern.
The stunning natural environment and a variety of enjoyable hiking trails
There are stunning rock formations to be seen.

Cons:

It does not contain any sort of trail network to navigate.
Trails are limited in length, have poor markings, and do not accommodate mountain bikes.

On the weekends, there is no national park service and no police presence.

Best National Park for Scenic Trails: Lone Pine State Park

The picturesque Lone Pine State Park, which towers over the city of Kalispell and the Flathead Valley, can be found just to the southwest of the city. There is a large number of recreational opportunities available, which contributes to the area’s high level of popularity among both locals and tourists. The area is home to beautiful scenery and nature trails.

The park was established in 1941 and featured some beautiful scenery, including flower-filled meadows and thick woodlands covering the steep bounds of the park. It contains more than 10 kilometers of routes that may be explored, and it reaches a height of 1,110 meters, where one can take in breathtaking views from the higher peaks of the mountain.

In addition to walking, mountain biking, and horse riding along its tranquil routes, tourists can also engage in wildlife and birding. Additionally, there is a volleyball court as well as an archery range for guests to use during their stay. During the winter season, guests can participate in cross-country skiing and sledding.

Pros:

It features breathtaking panoramas from several vantage points.

It offers several well-kept circuits that are perfect for shorter treks.
It has convenient parking and some picnic tables if it’s not too crowded.

Cons:

The trail was a bit peculiar; it began on a smooth surface but suddenly became fairly steep.
The trail is somewhat isolated, and some “shady” characters along its tracks are difficult to follow and comprehend.
The trails have steeper inclines, typically including switchbacks.

Best National Park for Recreational Activities: Hell Creek State Park

On the south shore of Fort Peck Lake is where you’ll find Hell Creek State Park, a state park and national recreation area that provides a wide variety of opportunities for your recreational pursuits. The park is situated twenty miles to the north of the village of Jordan. It is situated just on Hell Creek Arm on Fort Peck Lake and is bordered by the breathtaking natural landscape, both of which attract people who enjoy being outside.

The park features five campground loops with great camping amenities, a boat launching for boat camping inside the untamed and gorgeous Missouri Breaks, catching for walleye, swimming, paddling, kayaking, and walking paths.

The park is also home to the Missouri Breaks State Park. A children’s playgrounds, a fish washing station, picnic areas, fire rings, barbecues, restrooms, and showers, are among the other amenities available at this location. There is an abundance of chances to camp along Hell Creek, thanks to its five camping loops.

Pros:

It has good and clean showers
It has a stunning landscape you can enjoy while on the trail

It has great campground lakeside sites
Very friendly and accommodating people in the Marina

Cons:

Road conditions included blind corners, washboard surfaces, and steep drops. Extremely hazardous, and any vehicle with a low ground clearance should avoid it at all costs.

Best National Park for Tall Sandstone Pillars: Medicine Rocks State Park

The tall sandstone pillars with mysterious undulations, fractures, and tunnels are the inspiration for the park’s moniker, “Medicine Rocks” because of its rocky mountains. As one of the most popular national parks, this 330 acres in size and 3,379 feet in elevation, is the property of the state of Montana. Tribes of Plains Indians used to travel here on vision quests to pursue food and medicinal herbs since it was regarded as a hallowed, holy spot.

There are a large number of old tribal petroglyphs, elk and cattle label inscriptions, military references, American west symbols, and the signers of cowpunchers to be found at the site, which also feature chained and isolated arches, caves, and spires up to 80 feet in height and 200 feet across. There are 12 camping spots and a museum in the nearby town of Ekalaka, just a short drive from Medicine Rocks State Park, which is open all year.

Pros:

It offers great sandstone sculptures and rock formations.

Cons:

It has a 2-mile detour and dirt road.

We highly recommend that you add this list of amazing national parks in Montana with the added bonus of grant Kohrs Ranch National or Ranch National Historic Site. If you are a historical geek, love the thrill sheer of adventure, or just want to experience tranquility in nature, Montana’s national parks have everything you need. However, it is best always to plan ahead, so make sure you book your accommodations at trusted sites like Booking.com, and check various activity packages today at GetYourGuide and Viator.