The Outdoorsman's Travel Guide Of Montana
There are many outdoor activities available to do throughout the state of Montana. Popular things to do include biking, camping, hiking, backpacking, fishing, horseback riding, hunting, watching wildlife and rock climbing. Many of these activities are available at state and national parks. With so many things to see and do, it is no wonder why Montana is an outdoorsman's paradise.
Related: Outdoorsman's Guide To Visiting Arizona's Lake Havasu
Photo Credit: ThinkstockPoints Of Interest
Montana is home to a variety of both state and national parks, offering a plethora of things for both visitors and residents to enjoy. Here are some of the most popular points of interest found throughout the state:
There are plenty of opportunities to go fishing throughout the state of Montana. Those looking to fish will find a variety of hot spots located along the many rivers, creeks, streams and lakes scattered throughout the state. Those who have been fly fishing in Montana know where the hot spots are, including those along the Madison River, Yellowstone River, Boulder River and Gallatin River. Other rivers that are perfect places to cast your lines include the Ruby River, Missouri River, Stillwater River, Jefferson River and the Bighorn River.
In addition to fishing along these beautiful river waterways, you will find plenty of wild trout hiding in the smaller creeks and streams throughout the state. Springs and creeks that are perfect for fishing at in Montana include DePuy, Nelson, Milesnick, McCoy and Armstrong.
Montana is home to many beautiful lakes, all of which are perfect for fishing. Popular lakes for trout fishing include Harrison Lake, Canyon Ferry, Ennis Lake and Hebgen Lake.
Yellowstone National Park is also a great place to go fishing in the Rockies. Dry fly fishing experiences are available in the following legendary waterways within the park: Madison, Firehole, Yellowstone, Gallatin, Gardner, Lamar and Slough Creek.
You will discover more than just amazing catches of the day while fishing in Montana. While fishing along these popular fishing spots you are sure to encounter an abundance of wildlife and see amazing limestone cliffs in the background.
If you are looking to make an entire vacation around fishing, you have to plan your getaway to either Missoula or West Yellowstone. These are some of the best towns offering plenty of fishing options.
Photo Credit: ThinkstockHiking Trails
Hiking in Montana is one of the most amazing experiences an outdoorsman can do. The many paths and trails will take you through some of the most scenic views the Northwest regions of the country have to offer. You will come close to elk, beavers, deer, bears and other amazing wildlife found in this region of the country. Top hiking trails in Montana include those in Glacier National Park and Yellowstone Park.
Turn a brief hike into an entire weekend getaway by planning a backpacking trip in Montana. There are so many beautiful areas in the state, all offering plenty of space to explore during the day and set up camp at night. Popular backpacking experiences in Montana include visiting Glacier National Park and Beartooth Mountains.
If you are looking for an experience filled with lots of adrenaline, you need to plan to take a raft trip while in Montana. Tour guides offer a variety of rafting experiences that will take you down the many waterways of Montana. Top raft trips available include Glacier Guides and Montana Raft, Montana Whitewater, Montana River Guides, Wild River Adventures and Geyser Whitewater Expeditions.
Photo Credit: ThinkstockSki Trips
If you plan to visit Montana during the winter months you will probably want to go skiing during your visit. There are many ski areas in the state, all of which offer options for all ski levels from beginner to pro. Popular skiing areas in Montana with affordable day lift tickets include Bear Paw Ski Bowl, Blacktail Mountain, Great Divide, Lost Trail Powder Mountain, Maverick Mountain, Teton Pass and Turner Mountain.
One of the best ways to enjoy the great outdoors Montana has to offer is to pack up the tents and go camping for the weekend, or even for an entire week. Your camping experience in Montana will be like no other. Top camping locations include recreational areas, campgrounds and state and local parks. Here are some of the best places to camp while in Montana:
- Choteau City Park and Campground
- Hick's Park Campground
- Lakeview Campground
- Orofino Campground
- White Sandy Recreation Area
- Wise River Ranger District
Related: Best Campgrounds In The Chicago Area
If you love the great outdoors, but are not so fond of spending the night under the stars, you are sure to find some traditional hotel and motel-style accommodations while visiting Montana. There are various types of lodging that will keep you close to all of the outdoor action the national parks have to offer. Lodging available throughout the state include cabins, hotels, motor inns and resorts. Top places to stay when visiting Glacier National Park include Lake McDonald Lodge and Village Inn at Apgar.
Other popular places to stay in Montana include:
Photo Credit: ThinkstockDining
Just as there are many places to explore in Montana, there are also many ways to enjoy a meal in the great outdoors. Several restaurants throughout the state offer carryout service, making it possible to take your meal with you and enjoy a picnic. Popular picnic areas in Montana include Pioneer Park, Lake Elmo State Park, Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument, Sheepshead Recreation Area Picnic Area, Homestake Lake Picnic Area and surrounding Georgetown Lake.
Montana is home to many exciting things to see and do that every outdoorsman loves to experience. Make plans for a weekend getaway or an entire week's vacation enjoying the great outdoors of Montana.
