Located in the heart of Montana, Great Falls is a treasure trove of natural beauty, rich history, and exciting outdoor activities. As a popular tourist destination, Great Falls offers a plethora of attractions and experiences that cater to diverse interests and age groups. However, there are many hidden gems and exciting places to visit near Great Falls that are often overlooked. In this article, we’ll explore the top places to visit near Great Falls, Montana, that will take your travel experience to the next level.
Overview of Places to Visit Near Great Falls Montana
From breathtaking national parks and forests to charming small towns and historic sites, the areas surrounding Great Falls are filled with exciting places to explore. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, history buff, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, there’s something for everyone near Great Falls. In this article, we’ll delve into the top attractions and experiences that are within a few hours’ drive from Great Falls, providing you with a comprehensive guide to plan your next adventure.
Get Ready to Explore the Best of Montana
In the following sections, we’ll take you on a journey through the most popular and off-the-beaten-path destinations near Great Falls, Montana. From the stunning Glacier National Park to the historic Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument, and from the charming town of Helena to the scenic Beartooth Highway, we’ll cover it all. So, buckle up and get ready to discover the hidden treasures of Montana!
Exploring the Wonders of Montana: Places to Visit Near Great Falls
Great Falls, Montana, is a treasure trove of natural beauty, rich history, and exciting attractions. While the city itself has plenty to offer, there are many amazing places to visit near Great Falls that are worth exploring. From stunning national parks to charming small towns, here are some of the top destinations to add to your itinerary.
National Parks and Forests
Montana is renowned for its breathtaking national parks and forests, and Great Falls is the perfect base to explore these natural wonders.
- Glacier National Park: A 3.5-hour drive from Great Falls, Glacier National Park is a must-visit destination. Hike the Going-to-the-Sun Road, explore glaciers, and marvel at the stunning mountain scenery.
- Little Belt Mountains: Just an hour’s drive from Great Falls, the Little Belt Mountains offer endless opportunities for hiking, camping, and fishing.
- Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex: This vast wilderness area is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with over 1.5 million acres of untouched beauty.
Charming Small Towns
Montana is dotted with quaint small towns that offer a glimpse into the state’s rich history and culture. Here are a few charming towns near Great Falls that are worth visiting: (See Also: Places To Visit Near Greece)
- Havre: Known for its rich railroad history, Havre is a 2-hour drive from Great Falls. Visit the Havre Beneath the Streets tour and explore the historic downtown area.
- Choteau: This picturesque town is a 1.5-hour drive from Great Falls and is famous for its dinosaur fossils and the Choteau County Fair.
- Fort Benton: Located 45 minutes from Great Falls, Fort Benton is a historic town that offers a glimpse into Montana’s fur trading past.
Scenic Byways and Drives
Montana is home to some of the most scenic byways and drives in the country, offering breathtaking views of the state’s natural beauty.
| Scenic Byway | Description |
|---|---|
| Kings Hill Scenic Byway | This 71-mile byway takes you through the Little Belt Mountains, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. |
| Highway 89 Scenic Byway | This 130-mile byway runs from Great Falls to Browning, passing through the stunning Rocky Mountains and offering breathtaking views of glaciers and alpine lakes. |
Other Attractions
In addition to national parks, charming small towns, and scenic byways, there are many other attractions near Great Falls that are worth visiting.
- The Russell Museum: Located in Great Falls, this museum showcases the art and history of Charles M. Russell, one of Montana’s most famous artists.
- The First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park: This park is a 1-hour drive from Great Falls and offers a glimpse into the history and culture of Montana’s indigenous people.
- The Giant Springs State Park: Located just outside Great Falls, this park is home to one of the largest natural springs in the country, as well as a beautiful lake and hiking trails.
In conclusion, Great Falls, Montana, is surrounded by natural beauty, rich history, and exciting attractions. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, there are plenty of amazing places to visit near Great Falls that are sure to leave you in awe of this incredible state.
Conclusion
Great Falls, Montana, is a treasure trove of natural wonders, rich history, and exciting outdoor activities. In this article, we explored the top places to visit near Great Falls, Montana, that showcase the region’s unique charm and beauty.
From the breathtaking scenery of Glacier National Park to the historic significance of the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument, we delved into the must-visit attractions that offer a glimpse into the region’s fascinating past and present. We also discovered the tranquil beauty of the Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge, the thrilling adventures awaiting at the Showdown Montana Ski Area, and the stunning vistas of the Beartooth Highway.
In addition, we touched upon the charming towns and cities surrounding Great Falls, including Helena, the state capital, and the picturesque town of Choteau. These destinations offer a unique blend of history, culture, and outdoor recreation, making them perfect for day trips or longer excursions. (See Also: Places To Visit Near Cheshire)
In conclusion, Great Falls, Montana, is an ideal base for exploring the natural wonders and rich history of the American West. With its stunning landscapes, fascinating attractions, and charming towns, this region has something to offer for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, history buff, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, Great Falls, Montana, is a destination that is sure to leave you in awe.
So, start planning your trip to Great Falls, Montana, today and experience the beauty, adventure, and hospitality of the Treasure State!
Frequently Asked Questions: Places to Visit Near Great Falls Montana
What are some popular outdoor activities to do near Great Falls, Montana?
Great Falls, Montana is surrounded by beautiful scenery and offers a wide range of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, and whitewater rafting. You can explore the nearby Bob Marshall Wilderness, visit the Giant Springs State Park, or take a scenic drive along the Missouri River.
Is the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument worth visiting?
Absolutely! The Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument is a must-visit attraction near Great Falls, Montana. This historic site commemorates the Battle of Little Bighorn, where the U.S. 7th Cavalry Regiment clashed with the Lakota, Cheyenne, and Arapaho tribes in 1876. The monument offers a museum, a self-guided driving tour, and a memorial to the soldiers and Native Americans who fought in the battle.
What is the best way to experience the scenic beauty of the Missouri River?
The best way to experience the scenic beauty of the Missouri River is to take a guided boat tour or rent a kayak or canoe to paddle down the river. You can also drive along the River’s Edge Trail, which offers stunning views of the river and the surrounding landscape. If you’re looking for a more relaxing experience, consider taking a scenic float trip or a dinner cruise. (See Also: Places To Visit Near Orleans France)
Are there any family-friendly attractions near Great Falls, Montana?
Yes, there are plenty of family-friendly attractions near Great Falls, Montana. The Children’s Museum of Montana is a great place for kids to learn and have fun, while the Great Falls Zoo is home to over 100 animals from around the world. You can also visit the Ursuline Centre, which features a playground, a splash park, and a variety of recreational activities.
Can I visit the nearby Glacier National Park from Great Falls, Montana?
Yes, Glacier National Park is about a 3.5-hour drive from Great Falls, Montana, making it a great day trip or a longer vacation destination. The park offers stunning mountain scenery, glaciers, lakes, and hiking trails, as well as scenic drives and boat tours. Be sure to check the park’s website for up-to-date information on road closures and trail conditions before planning your visit.