Montana is the fourth largest state in the country. And while we have plenty of nationally known spots like Flathead Lake and Glacier National Park, the Treasure State is also chock-full of hidden gems. These are a few places where you'll probably only see other Montanans — if you see anyone else at all.
1. The Rimrocks, Billings
These beautiful geological rimrock sandstone formations are on the outskirts of Billings, offering a peaceful escape from the city (as well as sweeping views). The cliffs rise up hundreds of feet over the Yellowstone River and they're truly spectacular.
2. Makoshika State Park
Nestled all the way over in Eastern Montana near Glendive, Makoshika State Park is 11,000 acres of gorgeous badlands. The park is a popular place for paleontologists to find fossils, and the landscape is incredibly unique. Address: 1301 Snyder Street, Glendive, MT, 59330
3. Blue Mountain Observatory
Located on top of Blue Mountain at an elevation of 6,300 feet, Blue Mountain Observatory Is operated by the University of Montana. The staff and students open it to the public in the summer for tours — just check their Facebook page for 2020 dates.
4. Bridger Canyon
It's safe to say most people in the country don't know about Bridger Canyon, including some Montanans. But for those who live in Bozeman, Bridger is a beautiful place to hike, bike, ski, and look for wildlife.
5. Yaak Valley
Tucked all the way up in the northeast corner of the state, the Yaak Valley is one of the most biologically diverse landscapes in Montana. Not only is it a mecca for wildlife, but it's also home to our state's only rainforest.
6. Passage Falls
This five-mile waterfall trail is a total hidden gem. It's located near Livingston, and the area itself has plenty of waterfalls — but this one manages to stay off the beaten path (literally). To reach it, take Highway 89 from I-90 and turn left onto Mill Creek Road. After 14 miles, the trailhead will be on your right.
7. Charles M. Russell Wildlife Refuge
This is the second-largest National Wildlife Refuge in the lower 48 states, and it never disappoints. But due to its location (near Fort Peck), it doesn't get as many out-of-state tourists as some of our top attractions. People use the land for fishing, hunting, wildlife viewing, and taking nature photos.
8. Gibson Dam
Gibson Dam is a concrete arch dam on the Sun River, a tributary of the Missouri. Located about 70 miles from Great Falls, it's truly a place to get away from it all — plus, the views of the Rocky Mountain Front are amazing.
9. Missouri Headwaters State Park
As the name suggests, Missouri Headwaters State Park is the origin of the Missouri River. The large park is located in Three Forks, and since the terrain is mostly flat, it's a fantastic place to hike. Address: 1585 Trident Road, Three Forks, MT, 59752
Montana is a wildly underrated state. And clearly, we think it's the best.
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