Explore Montana’s Epic Vacation Rentals from Glacier’s Peaks to Big Sky’s Slopes
Montana, the Treasure State, is a land of vast wilderness, rugged mountains, and untamed beauty, offering vacation rentals that place you in the heart of its most breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re dreaming of a rustic cabin near Glacier National Park or Beavertail Hill State Park, a luxury lodge in Big Sky, or a cozy home in the historic town of Livingston, Montana’s diverse rentals provide the perfect gateway to adventure. From the awe-inspiring peaks of the Rockies to the rolling plains that stretch to the horizon, Montana invites you to experience the wild beauty of the American West.
In the northern part of the state, Glacier National Park is a must-visit destination, where you can rent a secluded cabin or a charming lakeside retreat just minutes from the park’s iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road. Here, endless outdoor activities await, from hiking to hidden alpine lakes to wildlife watching along the Continental Divide. Further south, the vibrant town of Whitefish offers vacation rentals that provide access to both the natural wonders of Glacier and the lively local scene, with its boutique shops, art galleries, and the popular Whitefish Winter Carnival.
For those drawn to Montana’s cowboy culture, the town of Livingston, located near Yellowstone National Park, offers historic homes and cabins that evoke the spirit of the Old West. Explore the area’s rich history at the Livingston Depot Center, or attend the annual Livingston Roundup Rodeo, a celebration of Montana’s ranching heritage.
Big Sky, known for its world-class skiing, offers luxurious mountain lodges with stunning views and year-round activities, from snow sports to summer hiking and fly fishing. Whether exploring Glacier’s majestic beauty, embracing the Wild West in Livingston, or hitting the slopes in Big Sky, Montana’s vacation rentals promise an unforgettable experience in one of America’s most iconic landscapes.
Top Three Facts about Montana
Melting Glaciers
Despite being named Glacier National Park, the park’s glaciers are dwindling. In 1850, there were around 150 glaciers, but today, only about 26 remain due to climate change.
Sapphires!
Montana is famous for its sapphires. The Gem Mountain Sapphire Mine allows visitors to try their hand at sapphire mining, offering a unique outdoor experience.
Bison Refuge
Montana is home to one of the largest populations of wild bison in the United States. The National Bison Range, established in 1908, is a refuge for these iconic American animals.
Must See Attractions
Glacier National Park
Parks & Nature
Nestled in Montana’s western wilderness, Glacier National Park captivates visitors with its rugged mountains, sparkling lakes, and inspiring glaciers, creating a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Yellowstone National Park
Parks & Nature
Yellowstone National Park, the world’s first national park, extends into Montana and is renowned for its geothermal wonders and diverse ecosystems. Visitors can witness the awe-inspiring eruptions of Old Faithful, explore the colorful Grand Prismatic Spring, and marvel at the dramatic Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.
Bighorn Canyon
Parks & Nature
Bighorn Canyon showcases the breathtaking beauty of rugged canyons and the serpentine Bighorn River, providing a haven for outdoor recreation and a glimpse into the region’s rich geological history.
What’s Nearby
1. Georgetown Lake
Set in the Pintler Mountains, Georgetown Lake is a popular destination for fishing, boating, and water recreation. It provides a serene escape in a mountainous setting.
2. Swan Lake
Tucked away in the Swan Valley, Swan Lake captivates with its pristine waters, surrounded by lush forests and the rugged peaks of the Swan Range.
3. Hebgen Lake
Situated near West Yellowstone, Hebgen Lake is a reservoir with scenic views, popular for fishing and boating, and its proximity to the iconic Hebgen Dam.
4. Flathead Lake
Montana’s largest freshwater lake, Flathead Lake, is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and is surrounded by the stunning backdrop of the Rocky Mountains.
5. Whitefish Lake
Adjacent to the vibrant town of Whitefish, Whitefish Lake is known for its recreational activities, including boating and swimming, against the backdrop of the Rockies.
6. Lake McDonald
Nestled within Glacier National Park, Lake McDonald is a picturesque alpine lake known for its vibrant turquoise waters and the reflections of towering mountain peaks.
7. Hungry Horse Reservoir
Surrounded by dense forests and mountainous terrain, the Hungry Horse Reservoir is known for its activities like fishing and kayaking.
8. Lake Koocanusa
This expansive reservoir, stretching from Montana into Canada, is formed by the Libby Dam and is a haven for water-based activities against a backdrop of rugged landscapes.
Annual Events and Festivals
Huckleberry Days Festival
The Huckleberry Festival in Whitefish, Montana, is an annual celebration that pays homage to the region’s native huckleberry. As huckleberry picking is Montana’s national sport, it only makes sense that a festival is held in this berry’s honor! Attendees can immerse themselves in a delightful atmosphere filled with live music, community camaraderie, and an array of huckleberry-infused treats. From the lively pancake breakfast featuring huckleberry syrup to creative culinary concoctions showcasing prized wild berries, the festival offers a culinary adventure for visitors.
Real Bird Reenactment of the Battle of Little Bighorn
The Real Bird Reenactment of the Battle of Little Bighorn stands as a poignant testament to the historical significance of the region and the bravery of those who participated in one of the most notable conflicts in American history. Taking place near the site of the actual battle, this reenactment is a meticulous and respectful portrayal of the events that unfolded in 1876 between the United States Army’s 7th Cavalry Regiment and the Lakota Sioux, Cheyenne, and Arapaho tribes. The reenactment event brings history to life with authentic costumes, weaponry, and strategic choreography that vividly depicts the intensity and complexity of the battle.
Brash Rodeo Winter Series
The Brash Rodeo Winter Series is a thrilling and dynamic showcase of the rugged spirit and traditions deeply ingrained in the Western way of life. Taking place during the winter months, this series brings together skilled cowboys and cowgirls from various regions to compete in a variety of traditional rodeo events. The series includes heart-pounding activities such as bull riding, barrel racing, team roping, and bronc riding. Spectators are treated to a spectacle of skill, strength, and agility as participants demonstrate their prowess in mastering the untamed energy of the animals they ride.
Top Hiking Trails
Highline Trail
Logan Pass Visitor Ctr Trail, Glacier National Park, Montana
The Highline Trail offers an unparalleled journey through some of the most pristine and awe-inspiring landscapes in the United States. Winding along the towering cliffs of the Continental Divide, the trail provides hikers with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, and dense forests. Stretching approximately 7.6 miles from Logan Pass to the Granite Park Chalet, the Highline Trail is renowned for its narrow path carved into the mountainside, giving adventurers a sense of walking on the edge of the world. Continue on from the Chalet, and the trail becomes mostly downhill for the remainder of the hike, making it a total of about 15 miles. In total, the hike takes an average of seven hours to complete.
St. Mary and Virginia Falls Trail
St. Mary Falls Shuttle Stop, West Glacier, Montana
This 3.6-mile trail meanders along the roaring St. Mary River, treating hikers to the melodic sounds of rushing water and the cool mist rising from cascading falls. The trailhead near the St. Mary Visitor Center sets the stage for a captivating adventure as it leads visitors through dense woodlands and across picturesque footbridges. The highlight of the hike is undoubtedly the majestic Virginia Falls, where the river plunges dramatically over a 50-foot drop into a turquoise pool below.
Lava Lake Trail
498-300 Cascade Creek Rd, Gallatin Gateway, Montana
The Lava Lake Trail in Montana offers a captivating journey through the scenic Gallatin Range, showcasing the rugged beauty of the Montana wilderness. This 6.3-mile trail, located near Big Sky, takes hikers on a challenging yet rewarding ascent leading to the pristine alpine waters of Lava Lake. Lava Lake itself is a jewel nestled within a mountainous amphitheater, inviting hikers to relax by its shores and soak in the serene ambiance. The Lava Lake Trail caters to both nature enthusiasts and those seeking a moderate to strenuous outdoor adventure, making it a popular destination for those eager to explore the untamed beauty of Montana’s backcountry.
Best Golf Courses
Wilderness Club
1885 Sophie Lake Road, Eureka, Montana
Surrounded by the pristine wilderness of northwestern Montana, this 18-hole championship course was crafted by golf legend Sir Nick Faldo and renowned course architect Tim Liddy. The course unfolds against a backdrop of rolling hills, dense forests, and stunning mountain views, offering golfers a unique and immersive experience. The design incorporates strategic bunkering, undulating fairways, and well-placed water features, creating a layout that both tests the skills of seasoned players and provides an enjoyable round for all levels of golfers.
Old Works Golf Course
1205 Pizzini Way Anaconda, Montana
Designed by golf legend Jack Nicklaus, this 18-hole course is situated on the site of a former copper smelter, incorporating remnants of the industrial past into its layout. The course showcases black slag bunkers, a byproduct of the smelting process, providing a distinct and visually striking contrast against the lush green fairways. Golfers are not only treated to a challenging game but also to panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and remnants of the smelter’s towering structures.
Canyon River Golf Club
1268 Bandmann Trail, Missoula, Montana
Canyon River Golf Club, situated in the scenic landscapes of Missoula, Montana, offers golf enthusiasts an extraordinary blend of natural beauty and a meticulously designed course. This 18-hole championship course, designed by renowned architect Robert Trent Jones Jr., winds its way through the stunning Clark Fork River Valley. Surrounded by majestic mountains and lush forests, the course provides a challenging yet enjoyable experience for players of all skill levels.
Water Sports
Montana Whitewater
White water rafting
Whitewater rafting in Montana is an exhilarating adventure that combines the thrill of navigating challenging rapids with the stunning beauty of the state’s diverse landscapes. For an exceptional whitewater rafting experience, look to Montana Whitewater, based in Gallatin Gateway. They provide a range of rafting trips on the Gallatin River, renowned for its exciting rapids and breathtaking scenery, catering to various skill levels.
Montana Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing
Fly fishing in Montana is a revered pursuit, drawing anglers from around the world to its pristine rivers, mountain streams, and alpine lakes. The state’s legendary waters, including the Yellowstone, Madison, and Bitterroot rivers, provide an ideal habitat for trout species like rainbow, brown, and cutthroat.
Far West Boat Tours
Lake cruises
One popular destination for lake cruises is Flathead Lake, the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi. Companies like Far West Boat Tours offer narrated cruises on this expansive lake, allowing passengers to relax on the deck and soak in panoramic views of the surrounding Mission and Swan Mountains. Another noteworthy option is a cruise on Whitefish Lake, where visitors can enjoy the tranquility of the water and the towering peaks of the Whitefish Mountain Resort.
Resorts to Explore
Quinn’s Hot Springs Resort
Recreational, Relaxation
190 Quinn’s Canyon Rd, 135 Paradise, Montana
Bear Creek Resort
Recreational, Family-friendly
995 Blue Slide Rd, Sanders County, Montana
The Resort at Paws Up
Recreational, Luxury
40060 Paws Up Rd, Greenough, Montana 59823
Tips on Vacationing in Montana
Rent a Car or Truck
Montana is vast, and many attractions are spread out. Renting a vehicle provides flexibility and allows you to explore remote areas at your own pace.
Leave No Trace
Montana’s pristine landscapes deserve respect. Follow Leave No Trace principles, stay on designated trails, and practice responsible outdoor recreation to preserve the state’s natural beauty.
Visit National Parks
Montana is home to Glacier National Park and Yellowstone National Park. Plan your visit during off-peak hours to avoid crowds, and consider staying in nearby accommodations for early access.
The Altitude
Montana’s higher elevations can affect individuals not acclimated to altitude. Stay hydrated, take it easy initially, and be aware of altitude-related symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions about Montana
Livingston boasts a charming downtown area and is close to Yellowstone National Park, making it an excellent location for vacation rentals. Options include historic homes, cozy cabins, and luxuriously furnished apartments. Explore rental properties with unique amenities or features, such as a hot tub, outdoor space, or mountain views, for a memorable stay.
Search online platforms like Lake, Vrbo, Airbnb, and RentByOwner to find vacation rentals near Yellowstone National Park. Check out areas like Big Sky, West Yellowstone, or Gardiner for their proximity to the park entrance. Remember that vacation rental prices vary, so book early to visit during peak tourist seasons.
Whitefish is a popular vacation destination in Montana, and you can find numerous options for vacation stays. Look for rentals close to Whitefish Lake for water activities, or consider choosing a property in the downtown area for easy access to local attractions and services. The nearby Whitefish Mountain Resort also offers ski-in ski-out accommodations during the winter season.
Bozeman is a fantastic destination for vacation rentals due to its proximity to ski resorts, the outdoors, and Yellowstone National Park. Look for properties in the downtown area if you want easy access to dining and shopping, or explore options in Bridger Canyon or Gallatin Valley for a more secluded and scenic retreat.
Ranch-style vacation homes offer a unique, rustic experience for visitors to Montana. Popular areas for these types of properties include Paradise Valley, Big Sky, and Bozeman. Look for ranches with amenities such as horseback riding, fishing, and hiking.
Lakefront properties such as lakeside cabins, lodges, and vacation homes with stunning views are great choices. Check out locations around popular lakes such as Flathead Lake, Whitefish Lake, or Swan Lake for beautiful lakefront properties.
Nestled amidst the stunning landscapes of Montana, Flathead Lake stands as the epitome of natural splendor and serenity. Renowned as the largest freshwater lake west of the Mississippi, Flathead Lake captivates visitors with its crystal-clear waters, spanning over 190 square miles. One of its most iconic features is Wild Horse Island, a picturesque gem within the lake, offering a sanctuary for wildlife and a captivating destination for explorers. Flathead Lake is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, providing opportunities for boating, fishing, and hiking, but it also holds cultural significance for the local communities, reflecting a harmonious blend of nature and human connection.