Hidden Gems in Montana
Montana is roughly the size of France but almost completely empty. Only a million people live in the entire state, according to the most recent count, making it a popular destination for people who crave solitude and adventure.
Even though there might not be many people in the state, it’s still a wonderful destination for adventure. Montana has more than its fair share of hidden gems – places off the beaten track that only a few lucky souls know about. Well, until now, that is.
The purpose of this post is to take a look at some of the top places to visit in the state so you can cross them off your bucket list.
Garnet Ghost Town
Americans once flocked to Montana in their droves to find riches. However, once the surface mines dried up, entire towns became deserted and people moved on.
Garnet is a great example of this phenomenon in action. The well-preserved remains of the structures and buildings that once made up the urban area remain to this day. Now, there is a museum on site that pays homage to the region’s mining history and the fortunes that were made by then-locals over a century ago.
Lost Lake
Another place you’ll want to check out is Montana’s enigmatic Lost Lake. Found in the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, it’s one of the most popular locations in the US for angling and hiking.
If you decide to visit this far-flung spot of natural beauty, make sure you take plenty of supplies with you. Don’t expect much help if you run out of food on the trails.
Bozeman
Bozeman is also a hidden gem in the vast expanse of Montana. Close to both the Custer Gallatin and Beaver-Deerlodge National Forests, it’s a great place to experience unique food and culture. One Bozeman restaurant, for instance, specializes in “chicken, beer, and vinyl,” which is probably what you need after a long hike in the surrounding nature.
The Gates Of The Mountains
The Gates of the Mountains is another amazing location in Montana. The name refers to a canyon carved out by the Missouri River, almost like a second Grand Canyon. Great cliffs soar into the air, offering stunning views of the surroundings, while the river trickles far below, tempting you to photograph it.
Anaconda Smelter Stack
If you’re heading past Anaconda, be sure to check out the town’s smelter stack. The impressive monument is over 585 feet tall and once held the title of being the tallest masonry-based structure in the world. Again, it is a testament to the pioneering spirit of the area and the type of people who enjoy moving to the state.
Bannack State Park
Finally, you might want to check out the Bannack State Park. Like Garnet, it’s another abandoned mining town that is now a recreational area for people to enjoy. The town attracts people from all over the country, thanks to its beautifully-preserved historic buildings and unique mining-related history.
So there you have it: some of the top hidden gems in the state of Montana. Which do you want to visit?
