We all know how it goes… every year we resolve to see more of Montana, and every year, life gets in the way. But there’s something to be said for prioritizing local travel over jetting off to far off destinations, so if you find yourself with a free weekend this year and you haven’t seen any of these breathtaking spots, take the time to check them out. They’re worth it.

  1. Flathead Lake

Troy Smith / Flickr It seems a little surreal that there are lifelong Montanans who have never been to Flathead Lake. If you’re one of them, make this the year you go.

  1. Gates of the Mountains

http://www.gatesofthemountains.com/ Montana’s “Grand Canyon” is located halfway between Yellowstone and Glacier National Park, just 20 miles from Helena. You can take a guided boat tour through the gorgeous canyon for just $16 per adult.

  1. Lewis and Clark Caverns

Troy Smith / Flickr Montana’s first state park contains one of the most decorated limestone caverns in the Northwest. It’s even naturally air conditioned, so it’s the perfect place to spend a scorching summer day.

  1. Beartooth Mountains

Neal Wellons / Flickr Located along the Montana - Wyoming border, this is one of our most breathtaking mountains ranges… and for a state whose name means “Mountainous,” that’s really saying something.

  1. Terry Badlands

Bureau of Land Management / Flickr Come see why Teddy Roosevelt once called the Terry Badlands “pristine.”

  1. Going-to-the-Sun Road

m01229 / Flickr Of course, Glacier National Park tops the list for must-see Montana attractions. But if you’ve never driven this stunning stretch of road (or taken a Red Bus tour), you owe it to yourself to have the adventure.

  1. The Rocky Mountain Front

Sam Beebe / Flickr The Rocky Mountain Front, where the mountains meet the plains, is one of the most biologically rich regions in the country. And it’s definitely one of Montana’s most impressive natural wonders.

  1. Whitefish Lake

Troy Smith / Flickr Whether you’re a fan of boating, fishing, or just lakeside lounging, Whitefish Lake is one of our most popular summer destinations for a reason. It’s spectacular.

  1. Gibson Dam

Wikipedia Located on the Sun River west of Great Falls, the Gibson Dam is a true hidden gem. You’ll love the views from the reservoir.

  1. Lake McDonald, Glacier National Park

Jeff Krause / Flickr Even in a place like Glacier, which has stunning scenery as far as the eye can see, Lake McDonald stands out as one of its most beautiful spots. And it’s even better in person.

Have you seen all of these Treasure State gems? How about the Seven Wonders of Montana?

Troy Smith / Flickr

It seems a little surreal that there are lifelong Montanans who have never been to Flathead Lake. If you’re one of them, make this the year you go.

http://www.gatesofthemountains.com/

Montana’s “Grand Canyon” is located halfway between Yellowstone and Glacier National Park, just 20 miles from Helena. You can take a guided boat tour through the gorgeous canyon for just $16 per adult.

Troy Smith / Flickr

Montana’s first state park contains one of the most decorated limestone caverns in the Northwest. It’s even naturally air conditioned, so it’s the perfect place to spend a scorching summer day.

Neal Wellons / Flickr

Located along the Montana - Wyoming border, this is one of our most breathtaking mountains ranges… and for a state whose name means “Mountainous,” that’s really saying something.

Bureau of Land Management / Flickr

Come see why Teddy Roosevelt once called the Terry Badlands “pristine.”

m01229 / Flickr

Of course, Glacier National Park tops the list for must-see Montana attractions. But if you’ve never driven this stunning stretch of road (or taken a Red Bus tour), you owe it to yourself to have the adventure.

Sam Beebe / Flickr

The Rocky Mountain Front, where the mountains meet the plains, is one of the most biologically rich regions in the country. And it’s definitely one of Montana’s most impressive natural wonders.

Whether you’re a fan of boating, fishing, or just lakeside lounging, Whitefish Lake is one of our most popular summer destinations for a reason. It’s spectacular.

Wikipedia

Located on the Sun River west of Great Falls, the Gibson Dam is a true hidden gem. You’ll love the views from the reservoir.

Jeff Krause / Flickr

Even in a place like Glacier, which has stunning scenery as far as the eye can see, Lake McDonald stands out as one of its most beautiful spots. And it’s even better in person.

 

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