Family Vacations and Outdoor Recreation
In the Rocky Mountains
- The Trailhead for Yellowstone, Glacier and Mount Rushmore National Parks
- Huge recreational lakes and rivers ideal boating, fishing and camping
- Colorful rodeos and Native American powwows bring alive Old West traditions.
- Historical re-enactments and Native American powwows
- National and State Parks to get away to for that perfect vacation.
- Fun community festivals throughout the summer
- Sweeping mountain vistas and beautiful alpine valleys
Catch the Spirit of Lewis and Clark for your Rocky Mountain adventure!
Scroll down the page to view a comprehensive listing of must-see attractions along the Rocky Mountain portion of the Lewis and Clark trail.
SOUTH DAKOTA NORTH DAKOTA MONTANA MISSOURI RIVER COUNTRY GLACIER COUNTRY SOUTHWEST MONTANA YELLOWSTONE BILLINGS
Montana, South Dakota, and North Dakota
1. Vermillion, SD
Some Otoe tribal leaders told Lewis and Clark of a large hill or mound where they believed evil spirits dwelled. Today’s explorers can see this mound at the Spirit Mound Historic Prairie State Park which is eight miles north of Vermillion, South Dakota.
1. Vermillion, SD
Some Otoe tribal leaders told Lewis and Clark of a large hill or mound where they believed evil spirits dwelled. Today’s explorers can see this mound at the Spirit Mound Historic Prairie State Park which is eight miles north of Vermillion, South Dakota.
2. Yankton, SD
The park consists of two stretches of the Missouri River making Yankton a great launching point for canoes and kayaks.
2. Yankton, SD
The park consists of two stretches of the Missouri River making Yankton a great launching point for canoes and kayaks.
3. Lewis and Clark Recreation Area, SD
Resort and Marina includes motel, cabins, swimming pool, restaurant, slip, and boat rentals.
3. Lewis and Clark Recreation Area, SD
Resort and Marina includes motel, cabins, swimming pool, restaurant, slip, and boat rentals.
4. Marty, SD
Yankton Sioux Tribe Reservation with annual powwow, casino/hotel, fishing, and hunting. Visitors can follow the Native American National Scenic Byway going north and into North Dakota.
4. Marty, SD
Yankton Sioux Tribe Reservation with annual powwow, casino/hotel, fishing, and hunting. Visitors can follow the Native American National Scenic Byway going north and into North Dakota.
5. Pickstown, SD
Visit the Fort Randall Dam and Overlook at the northwest entrance to the Missouri River National Recreational Park also includes the Fort Randall historic military post site.
5. Pickstown, SD
Visit the Fort Randall Dam and Overlook at the northwest entrance to the Missouri River National Recreational Park also includes the Fort Randall historic military post site.
6. Chamberlain/Oacoma, SD
Lewis and Clark Welcome Center and Rest Area with its inspiring statue of Dignity of Earth and Sky with a sweeping view of the Missouri River. The nearby Atka Lakota Museum and Cultural Center offers a living lesson on the Native American way of life past, present, and future.
6. Chamberlain/Oacoma, SD
Lewis and Clark Welcome Center and Rest Area with its inspiring statue of Dignity of Earth and Sky with a sweeping view of the Missouri River. The nearby Atka Lakota Museum and Cultural Center offers a living lesson on the Native American way of life past, present, and future.
7. Fort Pierre, SD
On US 83. Includes the Buffalo Interpretive Center and the Casey Tibbs Rodeo Center.
7. Fort Pierre, SD
On US 83. Includes the Buffalo Interpretive Center and the Casey Tibbs Rodeo Center.
8. Pierre, SD
On US 83. Home of the South Dakota State Capitol and the Cultural Heritage Center. Five miles north of the city is the Oahe Dam and the Oahe Dam Visitor Center featuring a Lewis and Clark display and a great view of the Missouri River.
8. Pierre, SD
On US 83. Home of the South Dakota State Capitol and the Cultural Heritage Center. Five miles north of the city is the Oahe Dam and the Oahe Dam Visitor Center featuring a Lewis and Clark display and a great view of the Missouri River.
9. Mobridge, SD
Bordered by Lake Oahe and features the famous Sitting Bull Monument and the Klein Museum with rare Native American artifacts.
9. Mobridge, SD
Bordered by Lake Oahe and features the famous Sitting Bull Monument and the Klein Museum with rare Native American artifacts.
10. Fort Yates, ND
On ND 1806. Fort Yates is the Tribal headquarters of the Standing Rock Indian Reservation. Visitors following the Native American National Scenic Byway up ND 1806 can see live bison, the Lewis and Clark Legacy Nature Center, the Sitting Bull Visitor Center and statue, and a marina and casino.
10. Fort Yates, ND
On ND 1806. Fort Yates is the Tribal headquarters of the Standing Rock Indian Reservation. Visitors following the Native American National Scenic Byway up ND 1806 can see live bison, the Lewis and Clark Legacy Nature Center, the Sitting Bull Visitor Center and statue, and a marina and casino.
Read More >11. Jamestown, ND
Located east of Bismarck along I-94, offers visitors a rich tapestry of historical and cultural attractions. At the North American Bison Discovery Center, guests can explore
Read More >11. Jamestown, ND
Located east of Bismarck along I-94, offers visitors a rich tapestry of historical and cultural attractions. At the North American Bison Discovery Center, guests can explore
Located east of Bismarck along I-94, offers visitors a rich tapestry of historical and cultural attractions. At the North American Bison Discovery Center, guests can explore exhibits dedicated to the American bison and view the museum’s bison herd. Adjacent to the museum is Frontier Village, a re-created prairie town featuring historic buildings, the Louis L’Amour Writer’s Shack, and interactive experiences like scavenger hunts. Art enthusiasts can visit The Arts Center, which hosts rotating exhibits, performances, and community events. History buffs will appreciate the Historic 1883 Stutsman County Courthouse, North Dakota’s oldest courthouse, and the Stutsman County Memorial Museum, housed in the historic Lutz Mansion, showcasing local artifacts. A must-see landmark is the World’s Largest Buffalo sculpture, a 26-foot-tall monument symbolizing the city’s nickname, “The Buffalo City.”
Go to: DiscoverJamestownND.com.
Read More >12. Bismark, ND
Welcome to Bismarck, where every street tells a story and every corner is a gateway to unique experiences. Immerse yourself in the heart of North Dakota
Read More >12. Bismark, ND
Welcome to Bismarck, where every street tells a story and every corner is a gateway to unique experiences. Immerse yourself in the heart of North Dakota
On I-94. North Dakota’s State Capitol rises above the city. Bismarck features the North Dakota Heritage Center and State Museum, the Sakakawea Statue, Theodore Roosevelt Rough Rider Hall of Fame, and State Capitol tours, all of which are free and open to the public. Bismarck also features the Lewis and Clark Riverboat, the Dakota Zoo, North Dakota’s Gateway to Science, and the United Tribes Cultural Arts and Interpretive Center. United Tribes Technical College hosts an international powwow every September.
Go to: NoBoundariesND.com
Read More >13. Mandan, ND
See General Custer’s fort before the Little Big Horn, On-A-Slant Mandan Village, plus Raging River Waterpark
Read More >13. Mandan, ND
See General Custer’s fort before the Little Big Horn, On-A-Slant Mandan Village, plus Raging River Waterpark
West of Bismarck and the Missouri River on I-94. Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park features 3rd person tours of General George Custer’s 1875 quarters, Calvary Square, the Fort McKeen blockhouses, and the On-A-Slant Mandan Indian Village, dating back to the 1500s. It is located 7 miles south of Mandan on ND 1806. While you are in Mandan, you can also enjoy Raging Rivers Waterpark, great dining, events, recreation, and entertainment.
Go to: NoBoundariesND.com
Read More >14. Medora, ND
Medora is surrounded by breathtaking, unspoiled nature with Theodore Roosevelt National Park as its backyard. This historic hub is known for its western culture and is filled with an endless array of activities and events for all ages
Read More >14. Medora, ND
Medora is surrounded by breathtaking, unspoiled nature with Theodore Roosevelt National Park as its backyard. This historic hub is known for its western culture and is filled with an endless array of activities and events for all ages
Off I-94. Nestled at the gateway to Theodore Roosevelt National Park, Medora is where wide-open spaces, Old West charm, and unforgettable experiences meet. Hike towering buttes, spot roaming bison, or saddle up for a trail ride through the breathtaking Badlands. Step back in time as you tour the Chateau de Morès, celebrate cowboy culture at the North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame, or stroll the historic streets lined with shops, cafes, and attractions. When the sun sets, the Medora Musical lights up the night with high-kicking, western-style entertainment for all ages. Savor the flavors of the West with hearty meals and hometown hospitality, and rest easy at cozy lodges, inns, and campgrounds that make you feel right at home. The monumental Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library is scheduled to open July 4, 2026. This new world-class Presidential Library celebrates America’s “Rough Rider” president and is located near Medora’s Burning Hills Amphitheater, home of the Medora Musical. Make memories that last a lifetime —start your story in Medora!
Go to: DiscoverMedora.com.
15. Washburn, ND
On US 83. Fort Mandan State Park features the recreated fort the Lewis and Clark Expedition spent in the winter of 1804/05. Nearby Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center features historic exhibits. The Sakakawea Scenic Byway from Washburn to Stanton includes the Knife River Indian Village National Historic Site, a Mandan earth lodge, the Henry Lorentzen Art Gallery and the McLean County Museum.
15. Washburn, ND
On US 83. Fort Mandan State Park features the recreated fort the Lewis and Clark Expedition spent in the winter of 1804/05. Nearby Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center features historic exhibits. The Sakakawea Scenic Byway from Washburn to Stanton includes the Knife River Indian Village National Historic Site, a Mandan earth lodge, the Henry Lorentzen Art Gallery and the McLean County Museum.
16. Lake Sakakawea, ND
On US 83 and ND Highways 1804 and 1806. The massive 140-mile-long lake to Williston includes Garrison Dam and Pick City and Riverdale. The Audubon National Wildlife Refuge is near Cole Harbor.
16. Lake Sakakawea, ND
On US 83 and ND Highways 1804 and 1806. The massive 140-mile-long lake to Williston includes Garrison Dam and Pick City and Riverdale. The Audubon National Wildlife Refuge is near Cole Harbor.
17. Lake Sakakawea State Park, ND
Offers 192 campsites, cabin rental, visitor center, marina, picnic shelters, boat ramps, fishing boat, and canoe rentals.
17. Lake Sakakawea State Park, ND
Offers 192 campsites, cabin rental, visitor center, marina, picnic shelters, boat ramps, fishing boat, and canoe rentals.
18. Indian Hills State Recreation Area, ND
Provides cabin rental, visitor center, picnic shelters, boat ramps, fishing boat and canoe rentals, hiking and biking trails and horseback riding.
18. Indian Hills State Recreation Area, ND
Provides cabin rental, visitor center, picnic shelters, boat ramps, fishing boat and canoe rentals, hiking and biking trails and horseback riding.
19. New Town, ND
On ND 23. Four Bears Bridge and the Three Affiliated Tribes Museum on the Fort Berthold Indian Reservation. The Mandan Hidatsa Arikara Earth Village offers hiking, biking, kayaking, and cultural interpretation.
19. New Town, ND
On ND 23. Four Bears Bridge and the Three Affiliated Tribes Museum on the Fort Berthold Indian Reservation. The Mandan Hidatsa Arikara Earth Village offers hiking, biking, kayaking, and cultural interpretation.
20. Lewis and Clark State Park, ND
On ND 1804 on Lake Sakakawea features 192 campsites, rural cabins, a group complex, meeting facilities, marina, boat ramps, boat, and canoe rentals.
20. Lewis and Clark State Park, ND
On ND 1804 on Lake Sakakawea features 192 campsites, rural cabins, a group complex, meeting facilities, marina, boat ramps, boat, and canoe rentals.
21. Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site, ND
Near Williston on ND 1804 at the North Dakota/Montana border. The restored Fort Union Trading Post celebrate the days of history of the fur trade. The Fort Buford State Historic Site and the Missouri-Yellowstone Confluence Interpretive Center are nearby.
21. Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site, ND
Near Williston on ND 1804 at the North Dakota/Montana border. The restored Fort Union Trading Post celebrate the days of history of the fur trade. The Fort Buford State Historic Site and the Missouri-Yellowstone Confluence Interpretive Center are nearby.
Visit our North Dakota Partners for more information
Montana
22. Sidney, MT
On MT 200. MonDak Heritage Center and Museum, the Fairview Walking Bridge over the Yellowstone River and the Cartwright Railroad Tunnel.
22. Sidney, MT
On MT 200. MonDak Heritage Center and Museum, the Fairview Walking Bridge over the Yellowstone River and the Cartwright Railroad Tunnel.
23. Glendive, MT
On I-94. Features Makoshika State Park, Montana’s largest state park. Visitors can enjoy the Glendive Dinosaur and Fossil Museum, part of the Montana Dinosaur Trail.
23. Glendive, MT
On I-94. Features Makoshika State Park, Montana’s largest state park. Visitors can enjoy the Glendive Dinosaur and Fossil Museum, part of the Montana Dinosaur Trail.
24. Terry, MT
On I-94. Features the Prairie County Museum and the famous Evelyn Cameron Gallery of Photos.
24. Terry, MT
On I-94. Features the Prairie County Museum and the famous Evelyn Cameron Gallery of Photos.
25. Miles City, MT
On I-94. 1880s-era Main Street, the Range Riders Museum, a 1900s-era saloon and the annual Bucking Horse Sale and Rodeo, art galleries and activities that focus on Montana’s Cowboy Heritage.
25. Miles City, MT
On I-94. 1880s-era Main Street, the Range Riders Museum, a 1900s-era saloon and the annual Bucking Horse Sale and Rodeo, art galleries and activities that focus on Montana’s Cowboy Heritage.
Montana’s Missouri River Country
26. Jordan, MT
On MT 200. East to Sidney and south to Miles City on MT 59. Jordan features the Garfield County Museum and fossils from the area as a part of the Montana Dinosaur Trail. The Hell Creek Recreation Area is nearby.
Jordan, MT
27. Circle, MT
East of Jordan on MT 200 is home to the McCone County Museum.
Circle, MT
28. Culbertson, MT
On US 2. Features the Culbertson Museum. The Lewis and Clark Interpretive Site is on MT 16.
Culbertson, MT
29. Scobey, MT
North of Wolf Point on MT 13, features the Daniels County Museum and Pioneer Town which includes 35 buildings depicting turn-of-the-century businesses and homes.
Scobey, MT
30. Wolf Point, MT
On US 2. Fort Peck Indian Reservation, Wolf Point Area Museum plus the Wild Horse Stampede, one of the West’s most colorful rodeos.
Wolf Point, MT
Read More >31. Fort Peck MT
Consider this your invitation to explore the best of Big Sky Country!
With road trip itineraries spanning badlands, river breaks, and mountain passes, you’re invited to slow down, look around, and embrace the amazing places and spaces between stops.
Fort Peck MT
South of US 2 on MT 117. Montana’s Great Wide Open: Your Invitation to Explore Northeast Montana! If you’re looking for a place that truly defines the “great wide open,” Northeast Montana belongs at the top of your list. With more room to roam and more space to explore, a trip through Montana’s Missouri River Country promises unforgettable adventures, epic scenery, friendly communities, and memories to last a lifetime. The Fort Peck area features the Fort Peck Dam and Lake, Fort Peck Interpretive Center, Lewis and Clark Outlook and Milk River Observation Point. The Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge is along the shores of this huge Missouri River Reservoir.
For more information, go to: MissouriRiverMT.com
32. Glasgow, MT
On US 2. Valley County Pioneer Museum and the Children's Museum of Northeast Montana with its World Wildlife Exhibit.
Glasgow, MT
33. Malta, MT
On US 2. Includes the Great Plains Dinosaur Museum and the Phillips County Museum on the Montana Dinosaur Trail.
Malta, MT
34. Zortman, MT
South of Malta on US 191. Visitors pan for gold in this historic Gold Rush town. For more information, go to: MissouriRiverMT.com
Zortman, MT
35. Havre, MT
On US 2. 10,000-acre Beaver Creek Park, Fresno Reservoir, Havre Beneath the Streets, Wahkpa Chu’gn Buffalo Jump and Fort Assinniboine. The Fort Belknap Indian reservation east of Havre off US 2 features the Mission Canyon Natural Bridge.
Havre, MT
36. Lewistown, MT
South of Havre on US 191 or east of Great Falls on US 87. Visitors can enjoy the Charlie Russell Chew Choo Dinner Train, plus nearby ghost towns of Maiden, Giltedge and Kendall. The Snowy and Judith mountain ranges frame the area.
Lewistown, MT
37. Fort Benton, MT
On US 87. A National Historic Landmark City and the gateway to the Upper Missouri Breaks National Monument which includes the distinctive White Cliffs that are accessible by water at the Coal Banks Campground or Judith’s Landing Campground. Fort Benton also includes the Museum of the Upper Missouri, a reconstructed Old Fort Benton, and the Starr Gallery of Western Art.
Fort Benton, MT
For more information, go to
Western Montana’s Glacier Country
38. Cut Bank, MT
On US 2. Near the eastern boundary of the Blackfeet Indian Reservation and the Lewis and Clark Expedition’s Two Medicine Fight Site—the first military conflict between the United States and a Plains Tribe, and the only violent encounter between the expedition and American Indians on the journey. Note: The site is on private property within the reservation and requires permission for access. Cut Bank hosts the annual Lewis and Clark Festival each July.
Cut Bank, MT
39. Browning, MT
On US 2. The largest community within the Blackfeet Indian Reservation and home to the Museum of the Plains Indian, which highlights indigenous art, culture, and history of the Northern Plains. Each July, Browning celebrates North American Indian Days with a vibrant powwow and rodeo.
Browning, MT
40. East Glacier Park, MT
On US 2. One of the gateways into Glacier National Park. This small community at the park’s eastern entrance is near areas explored and documented by the Lewis and Clark Expedition as they traveled along the Rocky Mountain Front. This community is the home of the historic Glacier Park Lodge.
East Glacier Park, MT
Read More >41. Kalispell, MT
On US 2 and US 93. Kalispell offers Old West charm and a lively arts and cultural scene. Kalispell's historic downtown district features must-stop local restaurants and watering holes, plus art studios and galleries, and shops specializing in goods made right here in Montana. This historic Flathead Valley hub has deep roots in early settlement and trade. Area highlights include the Conrad Mansion Museum and the Northwest Montana History Museum, offering insight into regional history shaped by exploration, travel routes, and commerce.
For more information, go to: GlacierMT.com
Kalispell, MT
On US 2 and US 93. Kalispell offers Old West charm and a lively arts and cultural scene. Kalispell’s historic downtown district features must-stop local restaurants and watering holes, plus art studios and galleries, and shops specializing in goods made right here in Montana. This historic Flathead Valley hub has deep roots in early settlement and trade. Area highlights include the Conrad Mansion Museum and the Northwest Montana History Museum, offering insight into regional history shaped by exploration, travel routes, and commerce.
For more information, go to: GlacierMT.com
42. Flathead Lake State Parks
Encircled by US 93, MT 82, and MT 35. While not direct expedition sites, these parks showcase the vast landscapes encountered by early explorers traveling through Western Montana. State parks include West Shore, Big Arm, Finley Point, Wild Horse Island, Yellow Bay, and Wayfarers.
Go to: FWP.MT.gov/stateparks
Flathead Lake State Parks
Read More >43. Great Falls, MT
On I-15/US 87. The Lewis and Clark Expedition’s portage of five falls of the Missouri River took nearly a month to complete. Today, four of the falls
Great Falls, MT
On I-15/US 87. The Lewis and Clark Expedition’s portage of five falls of the Missouri River took nearly a month to complete. Today, four of the falls can be viewed along walkways and overlooks near the heart of the city. The Lewis and Clark National Historic Trails Interpretive Center is a major stop along the sixteen-state Trail. Great Falls is the location for the annual Lewis and Clark festival which brings the epic story alive. See one of the world’s largest natural freshwater springs at nearby Giant Springs State Park. The C.M. Russell Museum Complex features the works of America’s cowboy artist Charlie Russell. First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park is west off I-15 and offers a panoramic view of the Rocky Mountains and Missouri River Valley.
Go to: FWP.MT.gov/stateparks
44. Gates of the Mountains, MT
North of Helena on I-15. Today’s travelers can board a tour boat to relive the Corps’ voyage through this Missouri River Canyon with cliffs towering 1,200-foot high of either side.
For more information, go to: GlacierMT.com
Gates of the Mountains, MT
For more information, go to
Southwest Montana
Read More >45. Helena, MT
On I-15. Montana’s capitol city traces its history to the 1864 discovery of gold at Last Chance Gulch.
Helena, MT
On I-15. Montana’s capitol city traces its history to the 1864 discovery of gold at Last Chance Gulch. The state capitol dome is made of copper. The Great Northern Town Center features the timeless Great Northern Carousel and the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Experience. The Montana Heritage Center features historical interactive displays, CM Russell art as well as rotating art exhibits. Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest is northeast.
For more information, go to: SouthwestMT.com
Read More >46. Butte, MT
On I-15 / I-90. 43) Butte, MT – On I-15 / I-90. Known as the “Richest Hill on Earth” where copper, molybdenum and silver are still mined
Butte, MT
Butte features the World Museum of Mining, Trolley Tours, Copper King Mansion, Old Butte Adventure Historical Tours, plus live entertainment, a distillery and two breweries. Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park is southwest on MT 2.
For more information, go to: SouthwestMT.com
For more information, go to: FWP.MT.gov/stateparks
Read More >47. Dillon, MT
44) Dillon, MT – On I-15. Lewis and Clark met with the Shoshone Indians at Camp Fortunate
Dillon, MT
On I-15. Lewis and Clark met with the Shoshone Indians at Camp Fortunate, now submerged under the Clark Canyon Reservoir 20 miles south of Dillon. In Dillon, the Visitor Center, Beaverhead County Museum, Clark’s Lookout State Park, and the Lemhi Pass National Historical Landmark chronicle the Lewis and Clark Expedition’s events that occurred nearby. Bannack State Park, a well-preserved ghost town with the fun “Bannack Days Festival with fun re-enactments, is west and accessible on HWY 278.
For more information, go to: FWP.MT.gov/stateparks
48. Hamilton, MT
On US 93. Hamilton, MT follows a key corridor traveled by the expedition. Near Hamilton, the Daly Mansion offers insight into Montana’s post-expedition settlement era and the growth that followed early exploration.
Hamilton, MT
49. Sula, MT (Ross’s Hole)
Going north from Lemhi Pass, Lewis and Clark rode out of the rugged mountain ridges and deep valleys and dropped down into the Bitterroot Valley to a place known as called Ross’s Hole, which is today at Sula. Tourists can parallel Lewis and Clark’s route north on US 93 and see incredible beauty and visit historic sites along the way. Big Hole National Battlefield, an important site on the Nez Perce National Historic Trail, is nearby on US 43 northwest of Wisdom.
Sula, MT (Ross’s Hole)
50. Lolo, MT
On US 93. Travelers' Rest State Park and National Historic Landmark is located at a historic and contemporary crossroads where visitors can walk in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark. The park is at the location of the campsite used by the Corps of Discovery in both 1805, and their return journey in 1806. The Lolo Pass Visitor Center and Travelers’ Rest State Park are at the top of the mountain pass on US 12. The park includes parking, interpretive displays, maps, picnic tables and shelters, and restrooms. US 12 leads into Idaho’s Northwest Passage Scenic Byway and that is central in histories of both the Lewis and Clark and the Nez Perce (Nimiipuu) National Historic Trails.
Lolo, MT
51. Missoula, MT
On US 93. The town features nine historic districts, live theatre, and music venues, shopping. The Historical Museum at Fort Missoula provides additional context on Indigenous history, early military presence, and western expansion. Additional attractions include the Smokejumper Visitor Center, the Montana Museum of Art and Culture, Missoula Art Museum, and the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation Visitor Center. Caras Park in downtown Missoula features kayakers paddling Brennan’s Wave on the Clark Fork River. For more information, go to: GlacierMT.com
Missoula, MT
52. Three Forks, MT
Off I-90 at MT Hwy-2. Missouri Headwaters State Park, where the confluence of the Jefferson, Gallatin and Madison Rivers join to form the Missouri River, features interpretive signage, hiking trails, and scenic views of one of the expedition’s campsites. The Headwaters Heritage Museum in neighboring Three Forks exhibits Native American artifacts and local history. Just down the road near Logan, visit Madison Buffalo Jump State Park, where American Indians stampeded herds of bison off the limestone cliff for food, clothing, shelter, and other provisions. For more information, go to: FWP.MT.gov/stateparks
Three Forks, MT
53. Virginia City & Nevada City, MT
On MT 287 are popular ghost towns that feature gift shops, museums, music halls, train rides and living history programs.
Virginia City & Nevada City, MT
Read More >54. Bozeman, MT
On I-90. A lively college town brimming with great restaurants, shopping, art galleries, live music, and exceptional outdoor recreation. Museum of the Rockies features one of the most important collections of dinosaur fossils in North America.
Bozeman, MT
For more information, go to: SouthwestMT.com
For more information, go to
Montana’s Yellowstone Country
Read More >55. West Yellowstone, MT
U.S. Hwy 20. Located at the West Entrance to Yellowstone National Park, this lively town
West Yellowstone, MT
Read More >55. West Yellowstone, MT
U.S. Hwy 20. Located at the West Entrance to Yellowstone National Park, this lively town
U.S. Hwy 20. Located at the West Entrance to Yellowstone National Park, this lively town makes a great basecamp. Don’t miss the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center, a wildlife sanctuary, or the Museum of the Yellowstone, which offers travelers a glimpse into Yellowstone’s history, including vintage transportation.
For more information, go to: VisitYellowstoneCountry.com
56. Gardiner, MT
U.S. Hwy. 89. Known for the iconic Roosevelt Arch into Yellowstone, Gardiner is also home to the Yellowstone National Park Heritage and Research Center, and the Albright Visitor Center and Museum in Mammoth Hot Springs, which is just a short jaunt from town.
Gardiner, MT
56. Gardiner, MT
U.S. Hwy. 89. Known for the iconic Roosevelt Arch into Yellowstone, Gardiner is also home to the Yellowstone National Park Heritage and Research Center, and the Albright Visitor Center and Museum in Mammoth Hot Springs, which is just a short jaunt from town.
57. Livingston, MT
North of Gardiner on I-90 and U.S. 89. An eclectic mix of artists, writers, outdoor recreationalists and entrepreneurs, Livingston is a historic stop full of great dining and shopping. Stop into the Yellowstone Gateway Museum and the Livingston Depot to learn more about this railroad town that was once the gateway to Yellowstone.
Livingston, MT
57. Livingston, MT
North of Gardiner on I-90 and U.S. 89. An eclectic mix of artists, writers, outdoor recreationalists and entrepreneurs, Livingston is a historic stop full of great dining and shopping. Stop into the Yellowstone Gateway Museum and the Livingston Depot to learn more about this railroad town that was once the gateway to Yellowstone.
58. Big Timber, MT
On I-90. Once the biggest exporter of wool in the U.S., Big Timber is still home to both agricultural and guest ranches. The Crazy Mountain Museum showcases the area’s history, and the nearby Greycliff Prairie Dog Town State Park is a fun side trip to see these native animals in action.
Big Timber, MT
58. Big Timber, MT
On I-90. Once the biggest exporter of wool in the U.S., Big Timber is still home to both agricultural and guest ranches. The Crazy Mountain Museum showcases the area’s history, and the nearby Greycliff Prairie Dog Town State Park is a fun side trip to see these native animals in action.
Read More >59. Red Lodge, MT
On US 212. Located at the base of the iconic Beartooth Highway
Red Lodge, MT
Read More >59. Red Lodge, MT
On US 212. Located at the base of the iconic Beartooth Highway
On US 212. Located at the base of the iconic Beartooth Highway, Red Lodge is a quintessential mountain town. Red Lodge Mountain is a family-friendly ski area just outside of town, and the Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary and Carbon County Museum are also must-see stops.
For more information, go to: VisitYellowstoneCountry.com
Billings Montana
Read More >60. Billings, MT
I-90 and I-94. Welcome to Billings, born from a land of big dreams, big history, big adventure, and big opportunity
Read More >60. Billings, MT
I-90 and I-94. Welcome to Billings, born from a land of big dreams, big history, big adventure, and big opportunity
I-90 and I-94. Anchored by the Yellowstone River and the dramatic Rimrocks, Billings invites travelers to find their path—from iconic day trips that trace the Lewis & Clark story to vibrant neighborhoods filled with local flavor, arts and culture, and welcoming places to stay. Here, you’ll feel the city’s warm, genuine spirit in every encounter—and leave with big memories worth sharing. Billings’ special America 250 events include the Yellowstone International Airshow and the “Banana Ball” celebration August 20 – 23rd.
Start planning at VisitBillings.com.
Billings’ Attractions
The Western Heritage Center – Engaging exhibits and programs that bring the Yellowstone River Valley’s stories to life.
Yellowstone Art Museum – Contemporary and regional art in a welcoming downtown space (plus popular community programs).
Yellowstone County Museum — Perched on the Rimrocks near the airport, this museum highlights Native cultures, frontier life, ranching, railroads, and local legends.
Boothill Cemetery – A small but memorable historic cemetery tied to early-day Coulson and Billings’ boomtown era.
ZooMontana – Nearly 100 animals, a discovery-focused experience, and sensory gardens designed for inclusive enjoyment.
Pictograph Cave State Park – A National Historic Landmark with three caves and rock art that offers a powerful look into the region’s ancient past.
Swords Rimrock Park – Trails, picnic spots, and sweeping views from the Rimrocks—an easy “wow” stop for visitors.
Yellowstone Kelly Interpretive Site – Scenic overlooks and interpretive displays honoring Luther Sage “Yellowstone” Kelly along Chief Black Otter Trail.
Montana Audubon Center – Riverside trails and nature programming along the Yellowstone River—great for birding and family-friendly outdoor learning.
Moss Mansion Historic House – A beautifully preserved 1903 home and cultural center listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Montana’s Pro Rodeo Hall and Wall of Fame – A striking tribute at MetraPark featuring an 18-foot bronze sculpture and memorial walls honoring rodeo legends.\
Easy Day Trips from Billings
Chief Plenty Coups State Park – South of Billings on State Secondary Highway 418. Visitors can tour Chief Plenty Coups’ preserved home and sacred spring, offering a deeper, personal connection to his legacy and the park’s cultural significance. This park features a visitor center and a short walking trail along Pryor Creek honoring the last traditional chief of the Apsáalooke (Crow). For more information, go to: FWP.MT.gov/stateparks
Pompeys Pillar National Monument – East on I-94. See Captain William Clark’s signature and date (July 25, 1806) – one of the few remaining visible pieces of physical evidence from the Lewis & Clark journey. Visitors can walk the interpretive trail to the pillar, explore exhibits on the Corps of Discovery and regional history, and take in sweeping views of the Yellowstone River valley from the overlook.
Read More >61. Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument
Southeast on I-90. A powerful place of remembrance and learning, the monument preserves the site of the June 1876 battle fought between General Custer and the U.S. Army’s 7th Cavalry and a coalition of Lakota, Northern Cheyenne, and Arapaho warriors.
Read More >61. Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument
Southeast on I-90. A powerful place of remembrance and learning, the monument preserves the site of the June 1876 battle fought between General Custer and the U.S. Army’s 7th Cavalry and a coalition of Lakota, Northern Cheyenne, and Arapaho warriors.
Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument – Southeast on I-90. Visitors can explore a visitor center and museum, then follow the 4.5-mile self-guided tour road with interpretive stops across key locations—including Last Stand Hill, the Indian Memorial, and the Reno-Benteen Battlefield. The landscape is marked with memorials and grave markers that help visitors understand the scale and significance of the event, and the adjacent Custer National Cemetery adds another reflective layer to the experience. Ranger programs are offered seasonally, and the site provides meaningful context on the battle’s lasting impact and continuing cultural importance.
Go to: nps.gov/libi
62. The Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area
Via MT 313, south of Hardin to Fort Smith. Dramatic canyon scenery is a great outdoor recreation destination for paddleboarding, boating,
fishing, hiking, and camping fun.
For more information, go to: VisitBillings.com
62. The Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area
Via MT 313, south of Hardin to Fort Smith. Dramatic canyon scenery is a great outdoor recreation destination for paddleboarding, boating,
fishing, hiking, and camping fun.
For more information, go to: VisitBillings.com
Visit our partners’ websites for more information:
Lewis & Clark Trail Experience
Interested in the Lewis & Clark Trail?
Visit LewisandClark.travel and LewisandClark.org to learn more.
