8 Hidden Spots Even Most Montanans Aren’t Aware Exist

Discover Montana's hidden gems, including secret hiking spots, unique museums, and charming eateries.

One of the most beautiful things about the Treasure State is also the saddest for those of us who call it home: It's so vast, it's impossible to see it all in a lifetime. But whether it be a secret hiking spot or a little known watering hole, discovering Montana's hidden gems is part of the fun of living here.

If you haven't heard of a few of the places on this list, you're not alone.

1. Prairie County Museum and Cameron Gallery, Terry

Evelyn Cameron came to Terry in the late 19th century with her naturalist husband, leaving behind a life of privilege for a life of adventure and photography. Her photos are amazing, and this museum displays them beautifully.

2. Woodbine Falls, Beartooth Mountains

Located near the small town of Nye, the 1.8 mile Woodbine Falls trail is a beautiful and easy hike that often gets overlooked by our larger waterfalls. It's a trail worth taking.

3. Parker's Restaurant, 32 E Front St., Drummond

Some of our finest treasures are hidden in plain sight. In a state saturated with tasty burger joints (which we aren't complaining about), it's easy for some places to slip under the radar. But if you ever find yourself in the small town of Drummond (located in Granite County off I-90), make it a point to stop here and find out how underrated it really is.

4. Heart Lake

It takes a lengthy hike and a lot of patience to reach Heart Lake, which is located near Superior in Lolo National Forest. But, well, just look at it.

5. Montana Tavern, 202 W Main St., Lewistown

Lewistown is awesome for many reasons, one of which being the fact that Spring Creek runs right under Main Street. It also runs right after Montana Tavern, which serves the best drinks in town. You can see the creek from a window in the floor (don't worry, it's locked).

6. Bear Creek Saloon & Steakhouse, 108 Main St., Bearcreek

Did you know there's a steakhouse in Montana where you can watch a round of pig races after your meal? The Bear Creek Saloon is kind of in the middle of nowhere, but it's worth the drive.

7. Akokala Lake, Glacier National Park

It's hard to find a "hidden gem" in Glacier these days without going off the grid for miles and miles. But Akokala Lake remains largely uncrowded and perfectly pristine.

8. Coloma Ghost Town

Not much is known about this abandoned town in Missoula County, other than its high gold mining activity around 1896. Still, its mysterious nature makes it that much more appealing to explore.

Explore as much of Montana as you can -- there are hundreds of trails, lakes, eateries and other attractions awaiting you. Check out this charming little hidden restaurant.

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