Montana is a state of natural wonders, from the majestic Rocky Mountains to the crystal-clear lakes and rivers. It's also a state of unique places to stay, where you can experience the beauty and history of the region in comfort and style. Whether you're looking for a cozy cabin, a luxury treehouse, a historic hotel, or a panoramic skydome, you'll find something to suit your taste and budget in Montana. In this article, we will introduce the top 10 picks for the most unique places to stay in Montana.
About Montana
Montana is a state in the western United States, bordered by Canada to the north, Idaho to the west, Wyoming to the south, and North Dakota and South Dakota to the east. It is the fourth-largest state by area and the eighth-least populous state by population. Montana is known for its diverse natural landscapes, ranging from the Rocky Mountains to the Great Plains, and its rich cultural heritage, influenced by Native American, European, and American settlers. Montana's economy is based on agriculture, mining, tourism, and energy. Some of the state's attractions include Glacier National Park, Yellowstone National Park, Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument, and the Lewis and Clark Trail. Montana's nickname is "The Treasure State," reflecting its abundant mineral resources and scenic beauty.
Getting There
Montana is well-connected by air, with major airports in cities like Billings, Bozeman, and Missoula. If you prefer a scenic road trip, Montana's highways offer breathtaking views. Consider renting a car to explore the state at your own pace.
Best Time to Visit
Montana experiences a range of climates, so the best time to visit depends on your interests. Summer (June to August) is ideal for outdoor activities, while winter (December to February) is perfect for skiing and snow sports.
Must-Visit Destinations
1. Glacier National Park: This park is home to over 700 miles of hiking trails, stunning glaciers, and diverse ecosystems. You can explore the park by car, bike, boat, or foot, and enjoy the views of snow-capped mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and lush forests. You can also spot wildlife such as grizzly bears, moose, elk, and wolves.
2. Yellowstone National Park: This park is famous for its geothermal features, such as geysers, hot springs, mud pots, and fumaroles. You can witness the eruption of Old Faithful, the most iconic geyser in the world, or marvel at the colorful Grand Prismatic Spring, the largest hot spring in the US. You can also see wildlife such as bison, bears, wolves, and eagles.
3. Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument: This monument commemorates the site of the Battle of the Little Bighorn, where the Lakota, Northern Cheyenne, and Arapaho tribes defeated the US Army in 1876. You can learn about the history and culture of the Native Americans and the soldiers who fought in this battle, and visit the graves of the fallen warriors.
4. Museum of the Rockies: This museum is located in Bozeman and features one of the largest collections of dinosaur fossils in the world. You can see skeletons of Tyrannosaurus rex, Triceratops, Stegosaurus, and other prehistoric creatures. You can also explore exhibits on Montana's history, culture, and natural science.
5. Flathead Lake: This lake is the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi River, and a popular destination for fishing, boating, swimming, and camping. You can enjoy the clear water and the scenic surroundings of mountains and orchards. You can also visit the nearby towns of Bigfork and Polson for shopping and dining.
Outdoor Adventures
1. Hiking and Backpacking: With numerous trails and vast wilderness areas, Montana is a hiker's paradise. The Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex and the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness offer challenging and rewarding experiences.
2. Fly Fishing: Montana is renowned for its world-class fly fishing. The Madison, Yellowstone, and Missouri Rivers are prime locations for anglers seeking trout-filled waters.
3. Winter Sports: In the winter, Montana transforms into a snowy wonderland. Skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling are popular activities in places like Whitefish Mountain Resort and Big Sky Resort.
Local Cuisine
1. Bison and Elk: Montana is known for its game meat. Try bison or elk dishes for a taste of the local flavors.
2. Huckleberries: These wild berries are a Montana specialty. Enjoy them in jams, pies, or as a topping on your favorite dishes.
3. Craft Breweries: Montana has a thriving craft beer scene. Explore local breweries and savor unique, Montana-brewed beers.
Top 10 Unique Places to Stay in Montana
Montana, with its vast landscapes and rugged beauty, offers a diverse range of accommodations that go beyond the ordinary. If you're planning a visit to the Treasure State and want an unforgettable experience, consider these top 10 unique places to stay in Montana.
1. Luxury Treehouse Getaway, Whitefish
If you are looking for a unique and relaxing vacation, you might want to consider a luxury treehouse getaway in Whitefish, Montana. This stunning property offers you the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of nature while staying in a comfortable and spacious cabin that is perched among the trees. You can admire the views of the mountains and the forest from your private deck, or cozy up by the fireplace in the living room.
The treehouse has two bedrooms, a full bathroom, a kitchenette, and a dining area. It is equipped with all the amenities you need, such as Wi-Fi, cable TV, heating, and air conditioning. You can also access the shared hot tub, fire pit, and barbecue area on the ground level. The location is ideal for exploring nearby attractions, such as Glacier National Park, Whitefish Mountain Resort, and Flathead Lake. You can enjoy hiking, biking, skiing, fishing, boating, and more. Whether you are looking for adventure or relaxation, you will find it in this luxury treehouse getaway.
2. The Raven's Nest Treehouse, Whitefish
Located in Whitefish, Montana, Raven's Nest Treehouse is a bespoke home that offers luxury and comfort in a natural setting, surrounded by five acres of wooded land. The treehouse is a two-story structure that features a master bedroom with a king-sized bed, a loft with two twin beds, a full bathroom, a kitchenette, a living area with a fireplace, and a wrap-around deck with a hot tub.
The treehouse is designed with artistic details and rustic charm, blending in with the environment and providing stunning views of the forest. You can enjoy the tranquility and beauty of nature, while also having access to modern amenities such as Wi-Fi, cable TV, heating, and air conditioning.
The Raven's Nest Treehouse is conveniently located near many attractions and activities in the area, such as Glacier National Park, Whitefish Mountain Ski Resort, Flathead Lake, and downtown Whitefish. You can explore the outdoors, go hiking, biking, skiing, fishing, boating, or golfing, or visit the local shops, restaurants, and galleries.
3. Clear Sky Resort, Essex
Clear Sky Resorts is a luxury camping and glamping destination near Glacier National Park in Essex, Montana. It offers a unique lodging experience in its plush Sky Domes, which are spacious, comfortable, and equipped with modern amenities. Guests can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains, forests, and skies from their private decks or through the large windows of their domes.
The resort also provides access to various outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, fishing, rafting, and wildlife watching. Clear Sky Resorts is the perfect place to escape the ordinary and reconnect with nature in style.
4. The Izaak Walton Inn, Essex
The Izaak Walton Inn is a historic hotel and resort located in Essex, Montana, near the border of Glacier National Park. The inn was built in 1939 by the Great Northern Railway to accommodate railroad workers who cleared snow from the tracks during winter. The inn is named after the 17th-century English author of The Compleat Angler, a book about fishing and nature. The inn offers various lodging options, including rooms in the main lodge, cabins, cabooses, and railcars.
Guests can enjoy on-site dining at The Dining Car, a restaurant that serves American cuisine. The inn also hosts year-round outdoor activities, such as cross-country skiing, hiking, horseback riding, and rafting. The Izaak Walton Inn is a family-owned retreat that invites visitors to experience the nature, history, and hospitality of Montana.
5. Hungry Horse Cabin, Hungry Horse
Hungry Horse Cabin is a cozy and comfortable vacation rental located in the town of Hungry Horse, Montana. The cabin is surrounded by natural beauty and offers easy access to Glacier National Park, Flathead Lake, and Whitefish Mountain Resort. The cabin features two bedrooms, one bathroom, a fully equipped kitchen, a living room with a fireplace, and a spacious deck with a hot tub.
Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventurous outdoor experience, Hungry Horse Cabin is the perfect place to stay. You can enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, skiing, snowshoeing, and more in the nearby areas, or simply unwind in the cabin and enjoy the views of the mountains and the wildlife. Hungry Horse Cabin is a great choice for families, couples, or solo travelers who want to explore the wonders of Montana.
6. North Forty Resort, Columbia Falls
The North Forty Resort offers 23 individual log cabins and one glamping tent, all set on 40 wooded acres. Each cabin has a gas fireplace, a full kitchen (without an oven), a private bathroom, and handcrafted log furnishings. The glamping tent has an electric fireplace, a mini fridge, and a coffee maker. You can also enjoy the hot tub and sauna facility, the gift shop, and the event center with a full commercial kitchen.
The North Forty Resort is centrally located in the Flathead Valley, close to Whitefish, Kalispell, Bigfork, and the Big Sky Waterpark. You can also engage in various activities such as skiing, golfing, and horse riding. The resort is only 20 minutes away from Glacier National Park, where you can explore the stunning natural beauty of Montana. The North Forty Resort is a great choice for couples, families, groups, and events. You can book your stay online or call (406) 862-7740 for more information.
7. The Historic Murray Hotel, Livingston
The Historic Murray Hotel is a four-story hotel located in downtown Livingston, Montana, across from the Northern Pacific Railway Depot. The hotel was built in 1904 by Josephine Kline as the Elite Hotel to serve the passengers of the railroad. The hotel was financed by the family of James E. Murray, a future U.S. Senator from Montana, who later foreclosed on Kline and renamed the hotel after himself.
The hotel features a 1905 hand-cranked Otis elevator, a rooftop patio with mountain views, and three restaurants: the 2nd Street Bistro, The Murray Bar, and Gil's Goods Cafe. The hotel has hosted many celebrities, such as Buffalo Bill, Calamity Jane, Will Rogers, Sam Peckinpah, and the Queen of Denmark. The hotel has 30 rooms and suites, each with its own bathroom and modern amenities. The hotel is a contributing property to the Livingston Commercial Historic District, a registered National Historic District.
8. Dreamcatcher Tipi Hotel, Gardiner
If you are looking for unique and cozy accommodation near Yellowstone National Park, you might want to check out Dreamcatcher Tipi Hotel in Gardiner, Montana. This hotel offers 10 spacious and comfortable tipis, each with a king-size bed, luxury bedding, electric blankets, fresh towels, and a heater. The hotel also has a communal bathhouse with heated floors and private showers.
You can enjoy a complimentary breakfast with a variety of options, as well as a nightly bonfire with s'mores and adult beverages. The hotel is located in a scenic area with views of the mountains and wildlife. You can also book activities such as hiking, horseback riding, and car hire through the hotel. Dreamcatcher Tipi Hotel is a great place to experience the ultimate Yellowstone glamping adventure!
9. Gallatin River Lodge, Bozeman
Gallatin River Lodge is a small luxury hotel in Bozeman, Montana, that offers a unique experience for travelers who love nature, fishing, and fine dining. The hotel is located near the Gallatin River, a blue-ribbon trout stream that flows through the scenic Gallatin Valley. Guests can enjoy private access to the river, guided fishing trips, and a private casting pond on the property.
The hotel has twelve guest suites, each with a fireplace, a Jacuzzi tub, and a flat-screen TV. The hotel also has an on-site restaurant that serves seasonal dishes made with local ingredients, a full bar with signature cocktails and regional wines, and a cozy lounge with mountain views. Gallatin River Lodge is the perfect place to relax, explore, and enjoy authentic Montana hospitality.
10. The Resort at Paws Up, Greenough
The Resort at Paws Up is a Montana resort that offers an up-close and personal Montana experience coupled with pure luxury. Located on a sprawling 37,000-acre working cattle ranch in western Montana, Paws Up is the ultimate destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers. Whether you choose to stay in one of the 28 private vacation homes or one of the 36 safari-style luxury tents, you will enjoy impeccable service, world-class cuisine, and a myriad of activities to choose from.
You can explore the stunning landscape on horseback, cast a fly in the sparkling waters of the Blackfoot River, experience the thrill of a ropes course challenge, or relax in the world-class spa. Paws Up is where you can reconnect with yourself, your loved ones, and the natural beauty of Montana. Paws Up is truly The Last Best Place.
Wrapping Up
Montana's unique accommodations promise more than just a place to stay; they offer a journey into the heart of the state's natural beauty and rich history. Whether you're drawn to the luxury of high-end resorts, the charm of historic inns, or the adventure of glamping, these top 10 unique places to stay in Montana cater to every traveler's desire for an extraordinary and memorable experience. Embark on a journey that goes beyond the ordinary and discover the hidden gems that make Montana a truly special destination.
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