8 Perfect Long Weekend Destinations in Montana

A picturesque landlocked mountain state, Montana is characterized by its unparalleled, earthly charm and diverse topography. The mesmerizing Rocky Mountains, expansive northern Great Plains, rushing river valleys, pristine trout-filled waters and magnificent rock formations are the region’s highlights Big Sky Country is an exemplary refuge for all vacationers, trailblazers and conservationists worldwide. Although the Treasure State While bustling metropolises like Missoula, Bozeman, Billings and the state capital Helena are overwhelmingly the biggest tourist attractions, the countless scenic spots throughout the state are also worth visiting on your relaxing weekend trips.

Philipsburg

Philipsburg, named after the eminent mining engineer Philip Deidesheimer, is a cozy town in Granite County on the Pintler Veteran’s Memorial Scenic Highway, more or less halfway between Glacier and Yellowstone National Parks. Thanks to the city’s proximity to popular nature reserves and places where special mineral deposits such as sapphire gemstones have been discovered, Philipsburg has become one of the most sought-after escapes for outdoor enthusiasts over the years. Additionally, shop for sapphires at local gem shops like Montana Gems & Sapphire Jewelry, tour Philipsburg’s Granite County Museum & Mine Exhibit, spend time at Granite Ghost Town State Park and the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, and stay comfortably at the Kaiser House Hotel.

Choteau

Choteau, the seat of Teton Count’s government, was founded as a trading post by AB Hamilton in 1873 and named in honor of Pierre Chouteau Jr. It lies at the foot of the Rocky Mountain Front. Offering a seamless blend of spectacular panoramas, iconic landmarks and abundant entertainment, Choteau welcomes excursionists to tour Egg Mountain – one of the most significant paleontological sites of the Cretaceous Period. As part of the Montana Dinosaur Trail, the Old Trail is home to the Museum of Choteau ‘Maiasaura’ – the state fossil as well as many archaic objects that reflect the glorious past. Plus, visit some expansive areas like Teton Pass Ski Resort, Lewis & Clark National Forest, Choteau City Park & ​​Campground, Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex, and Freezeout Lake Wildlife Management, plus enjoy a pleasant stay at Big Sky Motel .

whitefish

Whitefish, one of the largest ski resorts in the United States, sits on the shores of pristine Whitefish Lake at the foot of Big Mountain on the western side of the Continental Divide. Located just a stone’s throw from Glacier National Park, this Flathead County town beautifully combines small-town beauty and modern conveniences against the dramatic backdrop of the Northern Rockies. While you’re in town, in addition to browsing antique shops like Big Antiques, art galleries like FoR Fine Art – Whitefish Gallery, and contemporary restaurants like Tupelo Grille, you can also take a day trip to Glacier National Park, tour Whitefish Mountain Resort, or hike the Whitefish Trail, participate in recreational activities at Whitefish Lake State Park, and stay at the Lodge at Whitefish Lake. Make time for your crazy routines to attend the Under the Big Sky Music Festival, Huckleberry Days Arts Festival, Whitefish Trail Legacy Run and Whitefish Winter Carnival.

Lewistown

Lewistown, Fergus County, is located in the geographic center of Montana on Big Spring Creek, northwest of Billings and southeast of Great Falls. Originally established as a trading post on the Carroll Trail and christened Reed’s Fort, the settlement was renamed after Major William H. Lewis and gradually transformed into Judith Basin’s main distribution center. History buffs should not only learn about the area’s bygone days at the Central Montana Historical Museum, but also take a tour of the carefully preserved buildings in Lewistown’s five historic districts. An ideal base for nature lovers, adrenaline junkies visiting this family-oriented community can relax at either the Super 8 by Wyndham Lewistown or The Calvert Hotel. Take some time out and try to attend one of the city’s annual festivals, such as the Independence Day Celebration, the Montana Winter Fair, the Chokecherry Festival, the Metis Celebration and the Montana Cowboy Poetry Gathering & Western Music Rendezvous.

Hamilton

Named in honor of JW Hamilton, this outdoor recreation paradise is located in the center of the rugged, beautiful Bitterroot Valley in Ravalli County in southwest Montana. Countless souvenir shops like Robbins on Main, breweries like Bitter Root Brewing, eateries like Maria’s Restaurant, and the cozy Super 8 by Wyndham Hamilton line the town’s main street. Also visit the stately Daly Mansion, the Ravalli County Museum in the former Ravalli County Courthouse, and the Hamilton Performing Arts Center – where the annual Bitterroot Performing Arts Series is hosted by the Bitterroot Performing Arts Council. The meandering Bitterroot River provides a quality trout fishing environment.

Red Lodge

Red Lodge, the county seat of Carbon County in southern Montana, is located in the Beartooth Mountains and borders the Custer Gallatin National Forest. The Red Lodge Commercial Historic District, which includes downtown, includes several landmarks including the Iris Theater, the Carbon County Courthouse and the Carbon County Hospital & Sanitarium. Downtown Red Lodge is also home to a number of museums such as the Carbon County Historical Society & Museum, art galleries such as the Carbon County Arts Guild & Depot Gallery, gift shops such as Daisy’s General Store, restaurants such as Black Canyon Bistro, and first class hotels such as the The Pollard Hotel. The adjacent Red Lodge Mountain is ideal for ski adventures amid alpine landscapes.

West Yellowstone

Part of the Bozeman, MT Micropolitan Statistical AreaWest Yellowstone is a year-round recreation destination in Gallatin County near the western entrance of Yellowstone National Park. Wildlife watching is a year-round activity here. The city’s numerous gift shops like Crazy Bear Gifts, restaurants like Bullwinkle’s Saloon & Eatery, and accommodations like Gray Wolf Inn & Suites meet the needs of thousands of nature lovers who come here annually. Travelers can participate in horseback riding at Diamond P Ranch, ziplining at Yellowstone Zipline Adventure Park, whitewater rafting on the Gallatin River, grizzly bear and wolf viewing at the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center, and learn more about the national park’s rich history at the Museum of Yellowstone . In the cold months, skiers can use the cross-country ski trails of the Rendezvous Ski Trails System.

Stevensville

This pristine city in Ravalli County, bordered by the Bitterroot and Sapphire Mountains, is considered Montana’s most important permanent non-Native settlement. Stevensville was founded by Jesuit missionaries in 1841 at the request of the local Bitterroot Salish tribe and was christened after Issac Ingalls Stevens. Stevensville is widely known for offering breathtaking views of the impressive Bitterroot Valley. Those interested in culture should visit the historic St. Mary’s Mission, which remains open to the public from April to October along with other buildings in the mission complex. The numerous art galleries such as Stevensville Art & Sculpture, River’s Mist Gallery & Gifts and Sacajawea Gallery are suitable for art fanatics, while Frontier Café, Blacksmith Brewing Company and Marie’s Italian Restaurant with appetizing cuisine are a must for foodies. Traverse the nature trails of the Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge and the Kootenai Creek Trail and relax after a busy day at the Stevensville Hotel.

From the quirky Choteau, home to some magnificent fossils and artifacts, to Whitefish – Montana’s resort capital – the charming small towns in the fourth-largest and eighth-least populous state in the country are the best-kept secrets waiting to welcome you all. If you’re looking for cozy villages to settle in or places to socialize during your weekend stay, these Montana towns are for you. They are guaranteed to leave an indelible impression on anyone out of town.