The U.S. is full of beautiful states, but few have the reputation for natural beauty that quiet Montana does. The sparsely populated state is renowned for its stunning mountains, scenic drives, and scenic open spaces. Known as “Big Sky Country,” Montana is also home to the world-famous Glacier National Park and its wondrous activities.
Every year, millions of visitors take advantage of the short open window to enjoy wonders like the Going-to-the-Sun road. Others take advantage of the many hiking trails to try and get a peak at Glacier National Park’s population of resident bears.
While Glacier National Park is among the most beautiful parks in the country, there are a few drawbacks that can make it difficult to enjoy. The park has a $35 entrance fee, making it one of the more expensive parks in the system. Additionally, the short open season and limited routes mean the park has had to implement a timed reservation system, particularly for the Going-to-the-Sun road.
While Glacier National Park is the most famous Montana attraction, it’s far from the only place to enjoy the state’s natural beauty. A variety of national forests, recreation areas, and state parks are scattered around the state. These underrated Montana wonders might just be worth skipping the mighty Glacier National Park for.
Helena National Forest
Montana’s Helena National Forest is perhaps the best destination in the state for exploring the vast Montana wilderness as it looked hundreds of years ago. Located in the rugged area of west-central Montana, much of Helena National Forest consists of protected wilderness areas, particularly Gates of the Mountains National Wilderness area in the shadow of the stunning Big Belt Mountains.
This area of Montana has a great deal of historical significance in addition to its natural beauty. The famous Lewis and Clark expedition passed through here around 1805, and subsequent legislation preserved the forest and mountain wilderness to retain the same rugged and untamed character as it would have had when Lewis and Clark first explored it more than 200 years ago.
Helena National Forest
Cost:
Varies depending on location and activity
Attractions
Trout Creek Canyon
Crow Creek Falls
Mount Helena Ridge
Best Hiking Trails
Missouri River Beaver Creek Trail
Waterline Trail Loop
Though the Helena National Forest is less developed than most national park sites, there are several great opportunities for outdoor recreation within the park boundaries. The Missouri River Beaver Creek Trail and Waterline Trail Loop are excellent (and accessible) hiking destinations, while spots like Trout Creek Canyon are popular for mountain biking, bird watching, and camping.