13 Exciting Things To Do In East Montana

With sprawling prairies, rugged badlands, and snow-capped peaks, East Montana is a nature lover’s paradise. But this corner of the Big Sky Country isn’t just about sightseeing and getting in touch with nature. From heart-stopping adventures to cultural experiences, there’s plenty to keep you occupied in East Montana. Here are 13 exciting things to do in this frontier region—pack your bags and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!

Explore Glacier National Park

East Montana is home to some of the most breathtaking natural beauty in the United States. Perhaps one of the most iconic destinations in this region is Glacier National Park. If you're looking to explore this stunning park, there are a few things you won't want to miss.

Firstly, it's important to note that Glacier National Park is located in the northwest corner of Montana, near the Canadian border. The park spans over a million acres and contains a diverse range of ecosystems, including alpine tundra and old-growth forests. One of the best ways to explore the park is by hiking one of its many trails. With over 700 miles of trails to choose from, there's something for hikers of all levels.

One of the most popular hikes is the Highline Trail, which offers stunning views of the park's signature glacier-carved peaks. This trail is 11.6 miles long and reaches an altitude of over 7,000 feet, so be sure to come prepared with sturdy shoes and plenty of water. Another popular hike is Grinnell Glacier Trail, which takes you past vibrant wildflower meadows and turquoise alpine lakes.

If you're not much of a hiker, there are still plenty of ways to soak up the park's beauty. One of the most popular (and accessible) options is to take a drive along the Going-to-the-Sun Road. This scenic drive cuts through the heart of the park, offering jaw-dropping views of waterfalls, snow-capped peaks, and wildlife like mountain goats and bighorn sheep.

Another must-visit spot in Glacier National Park is Lake McDonald. This picturesque lake reflects the surrounding mountains and trees, making for some incredible photos. You can rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the lake yourself or simply take a stroll along the shore.

If you're interested in learning more about Glacier National Park's history and wildlife, consider joining a ranger-led program. These free programs cover topics like geology, ecology, and the park's Native American heritage.

Lastly, be sure to take advantage of the park's many camping opportunities. There are 13 campgrounds to choose from, ranging from primitive sites to more developed options with running water and showers. Waking up in the middle of this natural wonderland is an experience you won't soon forget.

East Montana is a truly special place, and exploring Glacier National Park is a must for any nature lover. With its stunning vistas, diverse wildlife, and endless opportunities for adventure, it's easy to see why this park has captured the hearts of so many visitors.

Hike the trails at Makoshika State Park

Nestled in east Montana, Makoshika State Park offers a unique outdoor experience for hikers of all levels. The park, which spans over 11,000 acres, is home to geological formations, dinosaur fossils, and stunning vistas.

One of the best ways to explore the beauty of Makoshika State Park is by hiking its trails. With over 20 miles of trails varying in difficulty, there is a route for everyone. Whether you're looking for a short, leisurely hike or a challenging trek, the park offers something for you.

The park's most popular trail is the Cap Rock Nature Trail, which is a 1.5-mile loop trail that offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding badlands. This trail is rated as an easy hike, making it perfect for families with young children or beginner hikers.

For those looking for a more challenging hike, the Broken Leg Trail is an excellent option. This trail is rated as moderate and spans over 4.5 miles. The trailhead is located near the visitor center and winds its way through the park's rugged terrain, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.

Another popular route is the Bluebird Trail, which is a 2-mile loop through a prairie dog town. This trail offers hikers the opportunity to observe wildlife and learn about the local ecosystem.

For the adventurous, the park also offers backcountry trails that take hikers through more remote areas of the park. The trails are not marked, so hikers must have a good sense of orientation and be prepared for hiking in a more challenging environment.

Before setting out on any of the park's trails, it's essential to wear appropriate footwear and bring plenty of water and snacks. Hikers should also be mindful of weather conditions, as the Montana sun can be intense, and sudden storms can arise.

Overall, hiking the trails at Makoshika State Park is an unforgettable experience. With options for hikers of all levels, the park is the perfect outdoor adventure for those seeking to explore the beauty of Montana's badlands.

Visit the Range Riders Museum in Miles City

Characteristic	Description
Name	Range Riders Museum
Type	Museum in Custer County, Montana
Website	Go to website
Address	435 Interstate 94 Business, Miles City, MT 59301
Phone	(406) 232-6146
Profiles

East Montana is a region full of history and cultural significance. One of the top attractions in this area is the Range Riders Museum in Miles City. If you're planning a trip to this part of the country, be sure to add a visit to the museum to your itinerary.

The Range Riders Museum is located in the heart of Miles City and is dedicated to preserving the history of the cattle industry in Montana and the surrounding area. It is also home to artifacts and exhibits that showcase the local culture and way of life.

The museum features a wide range of displays that cater to visitors of all ages. There are exhibits on Native American history, cowboy and ranching equipment, and even a replica of an old-west saloon. The museum also has an extensive collection of photographs, artwork, and documents that chronicle the history of Miles City and the surrounding area.

One of the highlights of the museum is the collection of wagons and carriages from the 1800s. These vehicles were used by cowboys and their families as they traveled across the rugged terrain of Montana. Visitors can get up close and personal with these historic vehicles and learn about the history of transportation in the wild west.

The museum is also home to a gift shop that features unique souvenirs and gifts that are exclusive to the museum. Visitors can purchase cowboy hats, boots, and other western-themed items. The gift shop is a great place to find a unique gift for friends and family back home.

If you're planning a trip to East Montana, be sure to schedule a visit to the Range Riders Museum in Miles City. The museum is a great way to learn about the local history and culture, and it's a fun and educational experience for the whole family.

Go fishing on the Yellowstone river

Are you looking for a relaxing and serene getaway in East Montana? If so, then you can't miss out on an opportunity to go fishing on the legendary Yellowstone river.

Located in the heart of the West, the Yellowstone river stretches over 692 miles and runs through Wyoming, Montana, and North Dakota. It's a popular fishing destination and has been recognized as one of the best trout fishing streams in the world.

The river boasts four distinct sections, each with its own unique characteristics and fishing opportunities. The uppermost section is perfect for fly-fishing and offers breathtaking views of mountains and forests. The middle section is renowned for its large trout, and the lower stretch delivers outstanding fishing for smallmouth bass.

One of the best ways to experience the Yellowstone river is by joining a guided fly fishing trip. These tours provide you with expert guides who can help you navigate the river's currents and guide you to the best fishing spots.

If you prefer to fish on your own, then you'll need to obtain a fishing license before casting a line in the river. The state offers both resident and non-resident licenses, with prices varying depending on how many days you'll be fishing.

While fishing on the Yellowstone river, you can expect to catch rainbow, brown, and cutthroat trout, as well as smallmouth bass. Keep in mind that the river is catch and release, meaning that you'll need to release any fish that you catch back into the water.

Apart from fishing, the Yellowstone river also offers plenty of other fun activities, including hiking, camping, and wildlife watching. You might be lucky enough to spot bald eagles, moose, grizzly bears, and other wildlife that call this river home.

In conclusion, the Yellowstone river is a hidden gem in East Montana, offering breathtaking scenery and world-class fishing opportunities. Whether you're an experienced angler or a novice, spending a day or two fishing on the river is an experience you won't soon forget.

Attend the Montana Cowboy Poetry Gathering in Lewistown

If you're a fan of cowboy poetry and music, there's no better place to be than Lewistown, considered the heart of eastern Montana. Each year, the city hosts the Montana Cowboy Poetry Gathering, one of the biggest annual events in the area that showcases the authentic cowboy culture of the region.

The Montana Cowboy Poetry Gathering has been in operation for over 30 years now and continues to draw crowds from all over the world. This four-day event, usually held in the month of August in Lewistown, is an opportunity for poets, musicians, cowboys, ranchers, and enthusiasts to gather and share their talents.

The event is centered on cowboy poetry, which is considered an oral tradition of the American West. The poets who perform at the gathering are true cowboys, ranchers, and rural folks who have stories to tell about their lives and the West. Many of the poets perform their own original works and the cowboy poetry presented is meant to be entertaining, enlightening and informative.

Along with cowboy poetry, the Montana Cowboy Poetry Gathering offers other forms of entertainment as well. Attendees can enjoy live performances of authentic cowboy music which are usually simple yet heartfelt, featuring traditional instruments such as guitar, harmonica, and fiddle.

There are also workshops for individuals who are interested in learning more about the different aspects of cowboy culture such as horsemanship, cattle handling, and saddle making.

The Montana Cowboy Poetry Gathering is a cherished event in Lewistown, as it attracts visitors from all over the country and the world, and showcases the authentic Western culture that has made Montana and the Midwest so unique.

If you are in the area during the event, attending the Montana Cowboy Poetry Gathering is an experience you won't want to miss. It's a chance to soak up the rich history and traditions of the American West, meet new people, and enjoy some great entertainment, all under the big Montana sky.

Take a hot air balloon ride over Billings

East Montana is a fascinating region, offering a multitude of activities for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. One unique experience that should be at the top of your bucket list is taking a hot air balloon ride over the charming city of Billings.

Billings is located in the Yellowstone River Valley, surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty on all sides. Taking a hot air balloon ride will give you an unparalleled view of the city and the surrounding landscape. Soaring high above the ground, you'll be able to see the iconic Rimrocks, the Yellowstone River, and the nearby Beartooth Mountains in stunning detail.

Hot air balloon rides are not just about the view, though. They offer a serene and peaceful way to experience the world around you. The silence of floating through the sky, interrupted only by the occasional blast of the burner, is a truly unforgettable experience. Plus, the slow pace of a hot air balloon ride allows you to appreciate the landscape and take everything in at your own leisurely pace.

Luckily, there are several companies in Billings that offer hot air balloon rides for visitors. Typically, the rides last about an hour and can hold up to four people plus the pilot. Flights usually take place in the early morning or late afternoon, as the air is the calmest and most stable during these times.

Before you take to the skies, you'll be briefed on safety precautions and what to expect during the flight. The experience is not overly physically demanding, but you'll need to be able to climb in and out of the balloon basket, and stand for about an hour. It's also important to dress appropriately for the weather, as the temperature can drop significantly at higher altitudes.

In conclusion, if you're visiting East Montana, taking a hot air balloon ride over Billings is an experience that should not be missed. It offers a unique and peaceful way to see the stunning natural beauty of the region, and is a memorable way to cap off any trip to this beautiful part of the country.

Tour historic Fort Peck Dam in Glasgow

If you're a history buff or just looking for a unique experience in east Montana, make sure to add Fort Peck Dam to your list of places to visit. Located near Glasgow, Fort Peck Dam is a National Historic Landmark that played an important role in the development of the central United States.

Constructed in the 1930s, Fort Peck Dam was built by the US Army Corps of Engineers in response to a devastating flood that hit the region in 1933. The dam was designed to control the flow of the Missouri River and harness its power for electricity generation and irrigation purposes. It was the largest dam of its kind in the world at the time of its construction and one of the most ambitious public works projects of the New Deal era.

Today, Fort Peck Dam is a popular tourist attraction that draws visitors from around the world. Visitors can take a guided tour of the dam and learn about its impressive engineering and construction, as well as its impact on the local environment and economy. You can also explore the nearby Fort Peck Interpretive Center, which features exhibits on the area's history, geology, and ecology, and houses a variety of artifacts and memorabilia from the dam's construction.

Aside from the dam, there is plenty to see and do in the surrounding area. The Fort Peck Lake Recreation Area is a popular destination for camping, fishing, and boating, and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. You can also take a scenic drive along the Missouri River or visit the nearby town of Glasgow, which is home to a number of historic landmarks and attractions.

Overall, a visit to Fort Peck Dam is a must for anyone interested in the region's history and natural beauty. So, next time you find yourself in east Montana, be sure to stop by and see one of the most impressive engineering feats of the 20th century.

Check out the World Museum of Mining in Butte

Characteristic	Description
Name	World Museum of Mining
Type	Museum in Butte, Montana
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.7 / 768
Address	155 Museum Way, Butte, MT 59701
Phone	(406) 723-7211
Hours	Monday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 2:30 PM Tuesday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 2:30 PM Wednesday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 2:30 PM Thursday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 2:30 PM Friday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 2:30 PM Saturday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 2:30 PM Sunday_easter - opens at 10 AM and closes at 2:30 PM
Profiles

Located in the heart of the historic mining town of Butte, Montana, the World Museum of Mining is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history of mining in the United States.

Founded in 1963, the museum is dedicated to preserving the legacy of Montana's mining heritage and educating visitors on the history of the industry in the region. The exhibits at the museum showcase the fascinating history of mining, including the equipment used, the techniques employed, and the lifestyles of the miners who worked in the harsh conditions of Montana's mines.

One of the most impressive displays at the museum is the Orphan Boy mine, which is an actual underground mine that visitors can explore. The mine is a replica of a late 19th-century mine and is designed to simulate the conditions that miners faced while working underground. Visitors are provided with hard hats and headlamps and are led on a tour of the mine, where they can see the tools and machinery used by miners as well as the cramped living quarters they slept in.

Other exhibits at the museum include a re-created mining town, complete with a saloon, general store, and schoolhouse. There is also a collection of vintage mining equipment, including locomotives, ore cars, and mining drills, as well as a collection of minerals and gemstones found in the area.

The World Museum of Mining is a great place to visit for anyone interested in history, science, or mining. The museum is open year-round, and guided tours are available for visitors. There is also a gift shop on site where visitors can purchase souvenirs and mining-themed merchandise.

If you happen to be travelling through Butte, Montana, be sure to stop by and check out the World Museum of Mining. It's an educational and entertaining destination that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Go skiing or snowboarding at Red Lodge Mountain

Characteristic	Description
Name	Red Lodge Mountain
Type	Ski area in Carbon County, Montana
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.5 / 715
Address	305 Ski Run Rd, Red Lodge, MT 59068
Phone	(406) 446-2610
Hours	Monday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 4 PM Tuesday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 4 PM Wednesday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 4 PM Thursday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 4 PM Friday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 4 PM Saturday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 4 PM Sunday_easter - opens at 9 AM and closes at 4 PM
Profiles

For adventure seekers looking to hit the slopes in Montana, Red Lodge Mountain is a can't-miss destination. Located in the heart of east Montana, Red Lodge Mountain offers breathtaking views of the Rockies and a wide range of skiing and snowboarding options suitable for all levels of experience, including beginners, intermediate, and advanced skiers and snowboarders.

Red Lodge Mountain is a must-visit ski resort in Montana, offering visitors 70 trails, some of which span over 2,400 vertical feet. Skiers and snowboarders will love the mountain's varied terrain, from long, winding groomed runs to steep chutes and narrow glades. With an average annual snowfall of 250 inches, visitors can expect to enjoy fantastic powder conditions throughout the ski season.

One of the great things about Red Lodge Mountain is that it caters to skiers of all levels. For beginners, there are a variety of beginner-friendly runs, as well as group and individual lessons available to help skiers feel more comfortable on the snow. Intermediate and advanced skiers will find plenty of challenging terrain, from long, sweeping groomers to expert-only chutes.

Red Lodge Mountain is also a fantastic destination for snowboarders, with plenty of wide open bowls and terrain parks to explore. The mountain has a mix of natural and man-made features, including rails and jumps, that are perfect for snowboarders looking to practice their tricks.

Visitors to Red Lodge Mountain can expect to find friendly and helpful staff throughout the resort. The base lodge features several restaurants, a bar, and a few retail shops, making it easy to grab a quick bite to eat or pick up some gear. Visitors can also rent skis and snowboards, purchase lift tickets, or book lessons right at the resort.

Overall, Red Lodge Mountain is a fantastic ski resort in the heart of east Montana. With stunning views, plenty of challenging terrain, and a range of activities for skiers and snowboarders, it's a must-visit destination for anyone looking for the ultimate ski vacation. So grab your skis or snowboard and hit the slopes at Red Lodge Mountain, you won't be disappointed!

Visit the Lewis and Clark Caverns near Three Forks

Characteristic	Description
Name	Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park
Type	State park in Jefferson County, Montana
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.7 / 1,677
Address	25 Lewis & Clark Caverns Road, Whitehall, MT 59759
Phone	(406) 287-3541
Profiles

If you're ever in East Montana and looking for a unique and beautiful destination, the Lewis and Clark Caverns near Three Forks is an ideal spot to visit. The caverns are a natural wonder of underground caves, filled with colorful limestone formations and natural sculptures, and offer a perfect opportunity to explore the stunning beauty of Montana.

The underground caves are located in Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park, named after the famous explorers who visited the area during their journey to the Pacific coast. The park covers nearly 3,000 acres, and it offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and picnicking. The highlight of the park, however, is undoubtedly the caverns, which attract visitors from all over the world.

The Lewis and Clark Caverns are one of the most extensive limestone caves in the United States. Discovered in 1895, they are believed to be about 300 million years old and offer about 3.5 miles of underground passages. It's a fascinating place to explore, and the tour guides are excellent at pointing out various formations, including crystal formations, cave bacon, and curtains.

While the caves might be the main attraction, the park offers much more. There is a visitor center, which offers fascinating exhibits on the history of the area, as well as a gift shop, a picnic area, and a campground. The park also has several hiking trails that range from easy to difficult, so there is something for everyone.

The best time to visit the Lewis and Clark Caverns is between April to October, as during this time, the park has regular cave tours. During the off-season, the park remains open for hiking and camping, but the caverns are closed.

In conclusion, if you're looking for an unforgettable adventure in East Montana, the Lewis and Clark Caverns near Three Forks is an ideal destination. The park offers a beautiful place to explore, from the extensive underground caves to the many hiking trails. It's a perfect location for a memorable day trip or a weekend camping trip.

Attend the Montana Folk Festival in Butte

East Montana is home to one of the most exciting and culturally rich events in the state – the Montana Folk Festival in Butte. This annual festival takes place in the heart of Butte's historic uptown and showcases some of the best traditional music, dance, and art in the region.

For three days every July, Butte hosts more than 20 stages of live music and dance performances, featuring over 250 performers from across the country and around the world. The festival brings together a diverse range of folk music styles, including blues, bluegrass, Cajun, Celtic, gospel, and more. It's a celebration of Montana's rich cultural heritage and an opportunity to experience the traditions of other cultures.

In addition to the music and dance performances, the Montana Folk Festival offers a wide range of family-friendly activities, including arts and crafts demonstrations, workshops, and a variety of food vendors selling delicious local treats. The festival also features a Montana Marketplace, where visitors can browse and purchase handmade crafts and other unique items.

One of the most exciting things about the Montana Folk Festival is its location in Butte's historic uptown district. The festival takes place in the heart of Butte's bustling city center, where visitors can explore the city's unique history and culture. Butte was once known as the "Richest Hill on Earth" due to its rich mining history, and the city still boasts many beautifully preserved historic buildings and landmarks, including the Copper King Mansion and the World Museum of Mining.

Attending the Montana Folk Festival in Butte is one of the best ways to experience the rich cultural heritage of East Montana. Whether you're a music lover, history buff, or just looking for a fun family outing, the festival offers something for everyone. So mark your calendars and make plans to attend this year's Montana Folk Festival in Butte – you won't be disappointed!

Go bird-watching at Medicine Rocks State Park

Characteristic	Description
Name	Medicine Rocks State Park
Type	State park in Carter County, Montana
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.7 / 173
Address	1141 MT-7, Ekalaka, MT 59324
Phone	(406) 377-6256
Hours	Monday - Open 24 hours Tuesday - Open 24 hours Wednesday - Open 24 hours Thursday - Open 24 hours Friday - Open 24 hours Saturday - Open 24 hours Sunday_easter - Open 24 hours
Profiles

If you're looking for a unique outdoor adventure in eastern Montana, then look no further than Medicine Rocks State Park. Located in the southeastern corner of the state, this park is known for its rugged terrain and stunning rock formations. But what many people don't know is that Medicine Rocks State Park is also a fantastic destination for bird-watching.

The park is home to a wide variety of bird species, from raptors to songbirds. One of the best places to start your bird-watching adventure is the Rimrock Trail, a 1.6-mile loop that takes you through some of the park's most scenic areas. Keep your eyes peeled for hawks, eagles, and other birds of prey that nest in the rocks and cliffs. You may also spot a variety of songbirds, including finches, sparrows, and warblers.

If you're looking for a longer hike, consider the Medicine Rocks Trail, a 7-mile loop that takes you through some of the park's most remote areas. Along this trail, you're likely to see a variety of bird species, as well as other wildlife such as deer, antelope, and coyotes.

For those who want to take their bird-watching to the next level, consider bringing along a bird identification guide and a pair of binoculars. This will allow you to identify birds from a distance and get a closer look at their unique markings and behaviors.

If you're visiting Medicine Rocks State Park in the spring or summer, make sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as temperatures can get quite hot during the day. Additionally, be aware that rattlesnakes are common in this area, so be sure to stay on designated trails and keep a safe distance from any wildlife you may encounter.

Overall, if you're an avid bird-watcher or simply looking for a unique outdoor adventure in eastern Montana, Medicine Rocks State Park is definitely worth a visit. With its rugged terrain, stunning scenery, and diverse bird population, this park is sure to provide an unforgettable experience for nature lovers of all kinds.

Take a scenic drive along the Beartooth Highway

East Montana is a beautiful region that has much to offer to visitors. Among its many attractions, one of the most breathtaking experiences that you can have in this region is driving along the Beartooth Highway. This 68-mile road stretches from Red Lodge to Cooke City, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape and an unforgettable Montana experience.

As you begin your journey on the Beartooth Highway, you will immediately be struck by the towering mountains and rolling hills that surround you. The highway winds its way through the mighty Beartooth Mountains, which form part of the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness Area in southern Montana.

Along the way, you will pass through several scenic overlooks that provide stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and forests. From these vantage points, you can see for miles around and marvel at the beauty of the natural world that surrounds you.

One of the highlights of driving the Beartooth Highway is the opportunity to see wildlife in their natural habitat. The region is home to a variety of creatures, including black bears, elk, bighorn sheep, and moose. Keep your eyes peeled as you drive, and you never know what you might see!

At the summit of the Beartooth Highway, you will reach an elevation of over 10,000 feet. Here, you will find the Beartooth Pass, which is one of the highest mountain passes in the United States. From this point, you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, which is a truly breathtaking experience.

If you are an outdoor enthusiast, then make sure to plan some time during your Beartooth Highway drive to explore the surrounding wilderness areas. Here you can enjoy hiking, fishing, camping, and other outdoor activities, all while taking in the stunning beauty of the region.

In conclusion, a drive along the Beartooth Highway in East Montana is an unforgettable experience that should be on everyone's bucket list. The breathtaking views, abundant wildlife, and endless opportunities for outdoor adventure are just a few reasons why this route is such a popular destination for travelers. So why not pack up the car and plan your own Beartooth Highway adventure today?

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