Insider’s Guide to Montana: Where to Stay & Play Near Montana’s National Parks

My first visit to Montana was back in 2005. I kind of went kicking and screaming on this vacation with friends. After all, I was this city girl working at a 5-star hotel and not prone to “roughing it.” Little did I know then that it would become one of my favorite vacation memories some twenty odd years later.

Known for wide open vistas and miles of pristine wilderness, Montana is known as “Big Sky Country,” a reference to its seemingly endless horizon. Captivating landscapes and stunning national parks, including the world-famous Yellowstone and Glacier, offer unparalleled wildlife viewing, hiking and geothermal explorations. And then there’s the vibrant towns like Big Sky and Bozeman which add a mix of cultural experiences and charming local hospitality.

Here is my Insider’s Travel Guide to Montana. Whether it’s the serene wilderness vibe, breathtaking mountain vistas or the storied cowboy lifestyle, Montana’s virtues make it a premier destination for those seeking to get back to nature. For expert advice on where to stay and what to see, connect with me to start your Montana adventure.

Montana

Need to Know

Airport: Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN)

Transportation: Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring Montana because it provides the freedom to visit attractions at your own pace. I can help you square away a rental.

Best Time to Visit: June to September is the best time for pleasant weather and outdoor activities, or from December to March for skiing and winter sports.

Ideal Length of Stay: 4-5 days is great to experience the gorgeous landscape, outdoor adventures, and cultural attractions. If you have longer to travel, Montana is an ideal destination for slow travel. Or a visit to Wyoming and Jackson & Grand Teton National Park.

Bozeman

Big Sky & Bozeman

Only an hour apart, Big Sky and Bozeman offer spectacular access to outdoor activities all year round and deliver two different experiences. Big Sky Mountain Village encompasses mostly a resort area, with an abundance of rentals and hotels nestled at the base of the mountain. The small town of Big Sky sits about 10 minutes east of the mountain resort. Bozeman is a small city, with a bustling downtown area populated with shops and restaurants.

“A River Runs Through It” in Montana

Where to Play in Big Sky & Bozeman

Even though the outdoors is the big draw, Bozeman offers a surprising number of cultural sights. The Museum of the Rockies is a highlight, featuring an impressive collection of dinosaur fossils and exhibits on the region’s natural and cultural history. Charming downtown Bozeman is perfect for perusing boutique shops and art galleries, and don’t miss a live show at theaters like the Emerson Center for the Arts & Culture and Rialto. 

The main attraction in this region of Montana is Yellowstone National Park, which sits less than two hours south of Bozeman (read on for more intel). In addition to Yellowstone, outdoor enthusiasts head to the nearby Gallatin River for world-class fly fishing or tackle hikes like Drinking Horse Mountain Trail and picturesque Hyalite Canyon which is home to stunning waterfalls.

Wintertime is a skier’s paradise, with Big Sky Resort touting almost 300 trails and Bridger Bowl Ski Area offering about 100, providing exceptional skiing and snowboarding without the crowds.

And after a day of outdoor fun, don’t miss the opportunity to relax at the Hot Springs at Bozeman. The hot springs boast 12 different pools, as well as saunas and steam rooms.

Montage Big Sky

Where to Stay in Big Sky & Bozeman

Montage Big Sky: Luxe interior design with room and residences, some with ski-in/out access. Book with me to receive perks like a $100 hotel / resort credit, daily breakfast credit, upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever available.

Kimpton Armory Hotel Bozeman: Downtown gem with rooftop pool and sleek decor. Book with me to receive a $50 hotel credit, welcome amenity, upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever available.

Sage Lodge: A comfortable lodge touting grand common spaces an hour from Bozeman and near Yellowstone. Book with me to receive a $100 food / beverage credit, breakfast daily, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever available.

Grand Prismatic Spring, Yellowstone National Park

Insider’s Guide to Montana: Yellowstone National Park

A vast and awe-inspiring wilderness, Yellowstone is home to geothermal wonders, breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife. Entering the park through the western entrance in Montana, visitors are surrounded by the park’s natural splendor. This gateway is conveniently located near the town of West Yellowstone, giving visitors quick access to the western area of the park, renowned for its dramatic geysers, like Old Faithful. Continue reading to find out where to go and stay near the park. 

Where to Play in Glacier National Park

With such a large area, one of the best ways to see the park is to travel the Going-to-the-Sun route, a 50-mile scenic drive featuring astounding views. Along the route, travelers cross the Continental Divide at Logan Pass; the highest point of the drive at 6,646 feet. Be on the lookout for the park’s impressive wildlife, such as grizzly bears, mountain goats and moose. And for eager hikers, park at the Logan Pass visitor center for convenient access to a variety of trails.

Hikers who tackle the Grinnell Glacier Trail are treated to spectacular sights, including mineral-blue mountain lakes, dramatic waterfalls and serene forested landscapes. For moderate-level hikers, the Highline Trail runs parallel to the Going-to-the-Sun road and offers incredible views. Another option is a short roundtrip on Hidden Lake Overlook, which is less than three miles. Although steep, this short hike is rewarding, with panoramic views of spectacular Hidden Lake and Bearhat Mountain.

The Lodge at Whitefish Lake

Where to Stay near Glacier National Park

The Lodge at Whitefish Lake: Rustic lakeside manor with summertime pool, cozy lobby fireplace and comfortably appointed rooms. 

Under Canvas Glacier: Glamping experience with platform tents, communal campfires and a cafe within seven miles of Glacier National Park. 

Triple Creek Ranch Montana

Insider’s Guide to Montana:
Bonus All-Inclusive Ranches & Secluded Stays

One of the draws of Montana is its wide open spaces, and western Montana has its fair share of gorgeous areas to allot to these hideaways. In this Insider’s Travel Guide to Montana, here are a few favorites that are nestled on sprawling properties. From nature-inspired resorts to all-inclusive ranch stays, discover how to get away from it all and connect with nature while experiencing VIP perks. Here are a few of my favorites that know how to deliver exceptional western experiences.

Paw’s Up Resort Montana

The Resort at Paws Up: About a half-hour east of Missoula, this magical destination sets the scene for a variety of experiences, from luxury platform tents to four-bedroom homes. Delve into activities like cattle drives on horseback, ATV tours and fly fishing on the resort’s 37,000 acres, then balance your adventures with some relaxation at the spa. Multiple dining options are included and cater to a host of tastes, including al fresco chuck wagon dinners, a white-tablecloth dining room and campfire s’mores. Book with me to receive a $300 activity credit, roundtrip airport transfers, a bottle of wine, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever available.

Triple Creek Ranch: In western Montana close to the Idaho border, this destination takes all the worry out of traveling with its all-inclusive rates. Charming log cabins and larger houses make guests feel at home with amenities like full kitchens, fireplaces and outdoor living spaces. Get in touch with your inner cowboy on a cattle ride, or savor mountain views while tubing down a river before diving into the ranch’s upscale dining and wine pairings. Book with me to receive a $100 hotel / resort credit, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever available.

The Ranch at Rock Creek: This original 19th-century homestead combines a luxe getaway with eco–friendly mountain adventure. Set in a river valley, this property epitomizes the mountain-chic vibe. Its cabins tout clawfoot tubs and beamed ceilings and glamping tents boasting rustic chandeliers and brass beds. Cuisine is next level. With the all-inclusive rates eliminating the stress of planning ahead, and a thoughtful menu of activities (including a spa!), even the most particular member of your group will be satisfied. Book with me to secure a $100 hotel / resort credit, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever available.

Riverview Ranch: It’s hard to believe this all-inclusive ranch is only 40 minutes from Missoula. Superb mountain views, serene ponds and majestic forests surround the stylish lodge, which offers well-appointed suites, all equipped with soaking tubs, private decks and fire pits. Western adventures include riding lessons and excursions, as well as white water rafting, mountain biking and outdoor wellness classes. Book with me to receive a resort credit, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever available.

Alpine Falls Ranch: Also close to the Idaho border, Alpine Falls delivers a posh experience amidst rugged surroundings. Think wood-paneled villas with floor-to-ceiling windows and warmly decorated cabins with bunks – perfect for families. All-inclusive packages are available. Activities include the expected horseback adventures and fly fishing, plus a clay course for shooting. Book with me to lock in Tablet Pro Perks like a $25 resort credit, and upgrade and extended checkout whenever available.