8 Interesting Facts About Montana

Fondly nicknamed the Big Sky Country, the western US state of Montana is the perfect spot for a tropical getaway. From the wide expanse of the Great Plains to the rugged Rockies, the state has beautiful topography. Think parks, mountains, forests, rivers, and valleys – Montana has it all.

From road trips to extensive tours, Montana is a great place to indulge the traveler in you. Apart from scenic splendor, the state is also known for its wildlife. It is not just home to the largest migratory elk herd in all of the US, but there are more cattle in the state than people. Now there’s an interesting fact about Montana I bet you didn’t know, read on for another 8 interesting facts about Montana!

There’s a fair bit to explore in Montana. I’ll discuss some of them with you in this article and also share my favorite picks for every suggestion!

1. Places to Visit

Like I told you earlier, Montana is a nature lover’s paradise. Apart from the gold-laden soil and spectacular sapphires, the state is also home to many hidden wonders. From the Boiling River in Yellowstone National Park, the Beartooth Mountains to the Sand Creek Clydesdales Ranch and the Garden of One Thousand Buddhas – the place is rife with natural and manmade wonders.

Take your time to explore the many different hidden gems of Montana and soak in all the beauty it has to offer.

Top Recommendations

My top picks would be the Boiling River for its lukewarm waters. A confluence of Mammoth Hot Springs and the Gardner River, this place is a slice of one of nature’s most peaceful and pristine havens.

Then of course there’s the Garden of One Thousand Buddhas in Arlee, an aesthetically pleasing and rather unique attraction seated in a seemingly unassuming Montana.

2. Things to Do

There are a plethora of tourist-friendly activities you can spend your time doing in Montana. You can run out of time and money, but never of the places and tourist spots in Montana that you can visit. You can travel to every nook and cranny in the world but nothing will compare to the beauty Montana is.

The fact that the people of Montana have a “Right to Hunt and Fish” explains much of its adventures and escapades. You can experience all four seasons when in Montana. Cool yourself in the rivers and lakes, or take a hike along the rocky mountains, there is no limit to the fun and excitement that is packed within the states. If you are lucky to book your tickets on time, you can also partake in a variety of winter games that are held in Montana annually.

Top Recommendations

Learn about the history of Montana at the Museum of the Rockies or get mesmerized by the Renaissance-inspired architecture of the State Capitol in Helena — Montana is a paradise for history buffs and culture connoisseurs alike.

You can indulge in a hike in some of Montana’s famous mountain ranges including the Crazy Mountains, the Bitterroot Mountains, the Gallatin Range, and the Judith Mountains.

3. Things to Eat

It is safe to say that Montana is an absolute delight and a paradise for food lovers. Food is one of the biggest topics of conversation in Montana. Walking down the streets of Montana mostly ends up in a food fest.

Enjoy some delicacies like burgers with bison meat patties, a 17.5-inches meat sub sandwich, a wide option of game meats, tarts made out of fresh, hand-picked cherries, and a hearty steak dinner, and much more. Make sure to wash down all the yummy food with a glass of beer that is brewed across the States.

Top Recommendations

Some of my top picks would be Sir Scott’s Oasis for the perfectly seared steak, The Sip & Dip Lounge for tropical delights, Black Iron Grill & Rotisserie, to have the burger of your dreams, and Over the Tapas to satisfy your Spanish food cravings.

4. Things to Buy

If you want to take a little bit of Montana back with you, some for yourself, and some for your loved ones, or you want to preserve the beautiful memories, I would suggest you a few Montana-exclusive things to purchase.

Top Recommendations

If you have a sweet tooth, make sure to buy a few huckleberry-flavored chocolates and macaroons. Get the best raw honey from the Glacier National Park. If you love yourself a good belt buckle, get one in the shape of Montana.

5. People of Montana

Most Montanas are perceived to be fierce and independent spirits who have a deep-rooted love for their state. Because it is the 43rd most populous state and the 4th most extensive state in the country, the population is huge and diverse. You are bound to find people of all kinds in the cities. However, one common thing between them is how helpful and welcoming they are to their visitors, and their love for the outdoors.

6. Montana’s Historical Jewels

It was in 1852 when gold was first discovered in Montana. This is not the only “golden” fact about Montana. Did you know that the motto of Montana is “Oro y Plata”, which translates to Gold and Silver? The motto takes its inspiration from the many gold and silver deposits that flourish in the state.

Montana was the 41st state to become part of the United States of America. It is also the only place in the USA to share its border with three Canadian provinces, namely Alberta, British Columbia, and Saskatchewan.

A notable fact that adds a feather to Montana’s history cap is that it was the first state in the United States of America to elect a woman in Congress in 1916 — Jeanette Rankin.

7. Topography

Lo and behold! Montana has an expansive stretch of rocky mountains, pristine forests, freshwater lakes, and rivers, natural hot springs, miles of trails to walk and hike along, and a variety of exotic plants and animals that you can only spot in Montana.