8 Quirky Facts Montana Natives Are Proud to Embrace

Are you well-versed in your Treasure State trivia? There are probably a few things even the most die-hard Montanan doesn't know. These facts prove that life in the Last Best Place is anything but boring.

1. Our State Holds the Record for the Most Dramatic Temperature Change to Occur Over a 24-hour Period

In 1972, the temperature in Loma, MN, rose from -54 degrees Fahrenheit to 49 degrees Fahrenheit. That's a whooping difference of 103 degrees. The coldest temperature ever recorded in Montana was -70 degrees at Rogers Pass, north of Helena in January of 1954.

2. Helena Was Once Home to the Most millionaires Per Capita in the Entire World

This was in 1888, and we had the gold rush to thank for that. According to History.com, the town was founded by for miners who struck it rich in 1884. In just four years, the town produced "some $19 million worth of gold."

3. Want to Isolate Yourself in True Montana Fashion? Just Move to Jordan

Jordan, MN, is one of the most isolated counties in the nation. It's 175 miles from the nearest airport, 85 miles from the nearest bus line and 115 miles from the nearest train. According to the last U.S. Census Report, the town had only 356 residents.

4. Montana Should Be Called the Lake State Instead of the Treasure State

There are 3,223 known lakes in our beautiful state. Over 250 of those lakes are within the Glacier National Park boundaries alone! It's often considered one of the most beautiful national parks in the world, and is well worth a trip to the the Treasure State.

5. We Really, Really Like Our Space

Of Montana's 56 counties, 46 are considered "frontier counties," with average populations of 6 people or less per square mile. For residents and visitors alike, this means wide-open spaces, incredible natural scenery, and a true sense of solitude.

6. Montana Actually Has TWO State Gemstones

Our state gems are sapphire and agate. The designation came in 1969. Agate was abundant in the Yellowstone River and the Yogo sapphire originates from the Yogo Gulch.

7. We Have the World's Largest Steer

Steer Montana weighed a whooping 3,980 pounds. He can be found at the the O'Fallon Historical Museum. According to the museum's website, he lived to be 15 years old.

8. And Speaking of Our Bovine Friends...

Montana has more cows than people. According to the Montana Free Press, "U.S. Department of Agriculture data from early 2024 shows 2.12 million cattle roaming the state alongside 1.14 million people." We're not kidding when we say we like our space!

We might be a little odd in Montana, but we're proud to be America's black sheep. Looking to get out in America's wild and connect with the great outdoors? Plan your trip to the Treasure State using the Only in Your State Itinerary Planner.