6 Montana Tourist Spots I Tried to Hate (But Ended Up Loving)

One of my favorite things about writing for Only In Your State is the opportunity to find hidden gems across a region. I love the spots that are lesser known, underrated, and away from the crowds. However, that doesn’t mean there aren’t a few tourist spots in Montana that I’ve actually fallen in love with and enjoy visiting. The following are six tourist spots I really wanted to hate in Montana but ended up loving and would visit over and over again. These destinations certainly aren’t the hidden gems of the Treasure State, but are some places I hope every individual (especially Montanans) visit at least once.

1. Going-to-the-Sun Road

Going-to-the-Sun Road is one of the most popular, well-known scenic drives in the country. In fact, it’s so popular that timed entry vehicle reservations are required during Glacier National Park’s peak season. This was one of the first National Park Service roadways, and it features 51 miles of the most incredible views of cliff walls, lush forests, and brightly colored glacial lakes. It may not be a quiet, empty stretch of road, but it’s impossible not to fall in love with the scenery you’ll encounter. It’s like walking into a new landscape painting around each turn.

2. Flathead Lake

One of my grandpa’s favorite places in the country was Flathead Lake. He had so many wonderful things to say about this area of the Treasure State, but I also knew he wasn't alone in his love for this area, and the crowds that flock here just didn't interest me. I prefer my lake days quiet and calm. However, one visit to Flathead Lake and you’ll realize why so many people visit. This is the largest natural freshwater lake in the Western U.S. (by surface area) and also one of the cleanest. The clear water and beautiful shore create picture-perfect scenes, and not to mention all of the outdoor activities available here. With a little planning, you can create a perfect lake day, and you’ll never want to leave.

3. Yellowstone National Park

I feel truly blessed to live just outside of Yellowstone National Park. Yes, this is one of the busiest national parks in the U.S. Yes, the crowds are overwhelming at times. And yes, I’ve seen visitors make some stupid, unwise, and very unsafe choices during their visit to the park. However, because I have driven through the park dozens of times throughout my life, I have developed such a strong love for this national park, and I have discovered those quiet, remote, hidden gems. More than 90 percent of visitors to Yellowstone never leave the main roads, so venturing on the quiet, lesser-known routes is where you’ll find time away from the crowds and a love for the park.

4. Lookout Pass

Lookout Pass is a popular tourist spot as it’s located right on the Idaho and Montana border. It’s easy to access as it’s directly off Interstate 90, and it’s where you’ll find all types of outdoor activities no matter the time of the year. If you love snow sports, this is an oasis as Lookout Pass Ski Resort averages up to 400 inches of snow per year. I particularly love the summer months when you’ll find beautiful scenic chair lift rides and hiking trails. The Lookout Pass area is also where you’ll find the Route of the Hiawatha, a 15-mile rail trail, where pictures simply don’t do it justice. If you want to fall in love with this small corner of the state, tackle this bike ride—you can thank me later.

5. Virginia City

Virginia City will make you feel like you’ve stepped into the Old West and are living during the Gold Rush. I remember the first time I visited as a young girl. I loved panning for gold and walking along the boardwalk, looking at the buildings and shops with evidence of the town’s past. Virginia City is a delightful day trip destination for the entire family and a place where you’ll find yourself smiling more than once, even if it's much more commercialized today than decades ago.

6. Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park

It is easy to see why Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park is a favorite place to visit in Montana. This state park has many claims to fame. It was the first state park in Montana, is the most highly decorated limestone caverns in North America, and is home to all types of activities from cave tours to hiking and camping. In fact, with so much here, it’s a place where it’s easy to find something for every person in your group to enjoy. It's hard not to find something you love about your visit here.

Montana’s tourist destinations are unique and certainly draw in a crowd, but there’s a reason why people come from near and far to experience them—they each offer something remarkable. What other tourist spots in Montana would you add to this list? Let me know by filling out this nomination form. I’d love to hear your recommendations.

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip to a Montana tourist spot using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.