12 Magnificent Hidden Gems To Discover In Montana This Year
Every year, we endeavor to see more of the state. We make plans to go to the big-name parks, eat at the best restaurants, and take our visitors to places they’ll want to tell their friends about. But, what about everything else? The truth is that, in doing this, we miss out on some of the best hidden gems in Montana. From restaurants to parks and museums to hikes, there are spots here that are so worthy of a visit. However, these places frequently get overshadowed. This year we’re making a promise to ourselves to get out and see more! Here are a few of the areas we’re starting with:
Spread over 10 magnificent acres, this garden was established as an international center for peace in 2000. While it was built based on Buddhist philosophy, it's meant to be a place for all. A stroll across the grounds offers beautiful scenery and some of the most peaceful vibes in the state. You can visit any time, but guided tours are available from April through October.
Garden of One Thousand Buddhas, 34574 White Coyote Rd, Arlee, MT 59821, USA
We love the idea that restaurants can be hidden gems, and this one located in Billings is certainly a great example. While there are plenty of places to enjoy a meal, family-owned Cajun Phatty's should be high on your list. Between the crawfish boil and the hot bowl of Seafood Jambalaya, you'll feel as though you've gone on a trip to Louisiana.
Cajun Phatty's, 2564 King Ave W Suite F, Billings, MT 59102, USA
This 270-acre park is beautiful, offering expansive views over Flathead Valley. For nature lovers who appreciate birding, hiking, and learning about the land around them this quiet area is a no-brainer. While there are certainly plenty of parks, this is one of the best hidden gems in Montana. With fewer people, it's great for clearing your head, too.
Lone Pine State Park, 300 Lone Pine Rd, Kalispell, MT 59901, USA
While this beautiful spot is likely well-known to those in Flathead or Swan Valley, it might be brand new to people in other areas of the state. The hike to get to the lake is 11 miles, so you'll need to start early. It's a bit rugged and not rated for beginners, so if you're new to hiking you'll want to find a different hidden gem on this list. But for those who can visit, the pristine water will offer a great payoff!
Turquoise Lake, Condon
The small town of Livingston is one of the best hidden gems in Montana. With a fun, vibrant downtown and lots to enjoy, it makes for a fantastic day trip. It sits on the banks of the Yellowstone River and is located between the Crazy and Absaroka Mountain Ranges. This makes it excellent for exploring the great outdoors, knowing you can head to town for a great meal afterward.
Livingston, MT 59047, USA
The crystal clear waters of Wade Lake offer some of the most beautiful scenery in the state. If you love to camp, you'll want to plan a few nights at the Wade Lake Campground so you can be near it. While the road to get there is a bit rough, the journey is definitely worth the bumps. Check it out the next time you want to lay on a lakeshore beach or enjoy kayaking or canoeing.
Wade Lake, Montana 59720, USA
The hike to this lovely waterfall is about 2.5 miles and starts near the Pine Creek Campground. The route is relatively simple to follow and is well-marked. The trail is rated as moderate due to a slight uphill portion, but the rest is reasonably flat. This is a good option for hikers that are ready to go from beginner trails to something more challenging without overdoing it.
Pine Creek Falls, Pine Creek Rd, Livingston, MT 59047, USA
Beautiful Storm Lake is located within the Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness. The lake is a beautiful blue color and can be reached on a 3.5-mile roundtrip hike. While the route is fairly flat, getting to the wilderness area can be bumpy, so come with an all-terrain vehicle if you can. Once you reach the lake you'll find plenty of trails to continue exploring.
Storm Lake, Anaconda, MT 59711, USA
This lovely waterfall is easy to find, as long as you know where to look. Found just off the Skalkaho Pass, the waterfall cascades right alongside the road! The pass is located on Montana Highway 38 and was built to connect the Bitterroot Valley to the Philipsburg Valley. High in the air at 6,000 feet of elevation, the sight of the falls reaching the road is truly incredible!
Skalkaho Falls, Montana 59858, USA
Located just outside of Billings, this fun restaurant has a truly interesting past. It was once the town post office. After that, it became a local bar, which existed for 50 years before taking a hiatus and opening in its current form. Hungry locals have been flocking here for years, but those in other places will agree that this is certainly a hidden gem!
3 North Bar & Grill, 8369 MT-3, Acton, MT 59002, USA
Located near the Beaverhead River, this eight-acre park is less visited than others in the area. The size compared to other parks can easily be considered tiny, but it packs a punch if you choose to explore it. The Lewis and Clark Expedition visited in 1805, which is how the park got its name. There's even a monument commemorating the visit.
Clark’s Lookout State Park, 25 Clarks Lookout Rd, Dillon, MT 59725, USA
This small and underrated park is best known for the Lost Creek Falls. The park is slightly over 500 acres and offers everything from hiking trails to fishing to biking to picnicking. The hike to the waterfall is fun, but there are other routes to explore as well. Visit and you're sure to return.
Have you been to any of these hidden gems in Montana? If so, we’d love to hear your tips! If there are any secrets to making these spots even better, let us know in the comments.
If you love the idea of turning the search for hidden gems into an adventure, consider checking out the road trip that takes you to multiple incredible little-known spots in the state.
Address: Cajun Phatty's, 2564 King Ave W Suite F, Billings, MT 59102, USA
Address: Garden of One Thousand Buddhas, 34574 White Coyote Rd, Arlee, MT 59821, USA
Address: Wade Lake, Montana 59720, USA
Address: Lone Pine State Park, 300 Lone Pine Rd, Kalispell, MT 59901, USA
Address: Turquoise Lake, Condon
Address: Livingston, MT 59047, USA
Address: Pine Creek Falls, Pine Creek Rd, Livingston, MT 59047, USA
Address: Skalkaho Falls, Montana 59858, USA
Address: 3 North Bar & Grill, 8369 MT-3, Acton, MT 59002, USA
Address: Storm Lake, Anaconda, MT 59711, USA
Address: Clark’s Lookout State Park, 25 Clarks Lookout Rd, Dillon, MT 59725, USA
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