The 6 Most Colorful Places You Can Find in Montana

I believe Montana is one of the most beautiful states in the U.S. From its alpine lakes and rugged mountain peaks to its dense forests and wildflower-covered fields, the natural beauty within the Treasure State is hard to beat. And even better, many of these gorgeous areas are bursting with color. These are places that astound and inspire, and are a true feast for the eyes. From rainbow lakes to dramatically layered badlands, the following are just six of the most colorful places you can find in Montana.

1. Lake McDonald, Glacier National Park

One of our favorite destinations in Montana is Lake McDonald. This famous lake is not only known for its breathtaking scenery but also for the thousands of small, colorful rocks that cover the shore and are visible underwater. These rocks certainly have a story to tell, as they are believed to be more than 1 billion years old and are easily visible in the lake's crystal-clear water. 

2. Logan Pass, Glacier National Park

Another gorgeous destination within Glacier National Park is Logan Pass. This is the highest point you can reach by vehicle within the park and is a highlight along the Going-to-the-Sun Road. It sits along the Continental Divide, offers stunning mountain views, and if you look closely, you may even spot mountain goats also enjoying the area. Visit in peak bloom when the meadows in Logan Pass are covered in colorful wildflowers—it's absolutely stunning.

3. Flathead Lake

I know we’ve already mentioned one lake on this list, but I could not forget about the postcard-worthy Flathead Lake. This is known as one of the cleanest and clearest lakes in the world based on its size and type. The clear water lets you easily see the world beneath the surface, full of colors, shapes, and creatures. However, it’s not just the water that’s unique, but the entire shoreline is beautiful and quite colorful, as you’ll see tall rugged mountains often capped with white snow, thick green forests, and fiery skies overhead.

4. Bitterroot Valley

The Bitterroot Valley sits between the stunning Bitterroot and Sapphire Mountains and is best known for its incredible outdoor opportunities, particularly fly fishing and hiking. It’s also home to many towns like the charming Hamilton, and is the primary filming location for the TV show “Yellowstone.” And while there are many places throughout this 90-mile valley that are beautiful all year long, it truly shines in the autumn when its fall foliage is at its peak. The orange, yellow, and red hues make this valley a sight that you don’t want to miss.

5. Beartooth Highway

A portion of U.S. Highway 212, known as the Beartooth Highway, is one of the most beautiful scenic drives in Montana and takes you from the town of Red Lodge to Yellowstone National Park. This route takes you nearly 11,000 feet in elevation, past gorgeous green valleys, through wildflower meadows, to stunning mountain peaks, and near bright blue alpine lakes. The scenery on this drive is sure to make you awestruck, but I particularly love the views at sunset. It’s a route that will make you quickly fall in love with the Treasure State. 

6. Makoshika State Park, near Glendive

While western Montana often gets the most attention for its natural beauty, you can’t overlook Makoshika State Park in the eastern part of the state. This is Montana’s largest state park, filled with badland formations such as hoodoos and natural bridges, layered in colors, and spotted with green trees and other vegetation. Not only is this area worth visiting for its unique landscape, but also for the discoveries made here. This area is where many dinosaur fossils have been recovered, including those of Triceratops and Tyrannosaurus rex. 

Montana is a state full of color. Some color is man-made, but some of our favorite views are Mother Nature’s greatest creations. What are some of your favorite colorful spots in Montana? Did it make our list? Let me know by filling out this nomination form. I’d love to hear from you. 

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip to colorful destinations in Montana using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.