Montana is a wonderful state to visit any time of year, but its tourism high season picks up towards the second half of June as the weather clears.
If you’re planning a trip to Montana during the month of June, look no further.
This blog discusses all the ins and outs of visiting the state during the beginning of the summer season: the weather, things to do, what to wear, where to stay, and more!
Being one of the largest states in the USA, it can feel overwhelming to plan an itinerary for your visit to Montana, or even know where to begin.
Read on for your comprehensive guide to visiting Montana in June!
Weather in Montana in June
The climate in Montana in June is fairly mild, with June marking the start of summer. Expect temperatures to hover around 60° and 70°!
Although temperatures are pleasant, Montana can still be rather wet during the month of June.
While less rainy than April and May, you can expect to see some sustained wet weather; June sees an average of 10 days of rain.
By mid-June, however, the high pressure sets in, and precipitation is lowered. Rain tends to be limited to the occasional thunderstorm or passing fronts. Keep in mind that temperatures can differ significantly by altitude!
The following table shows an overview of the average June temperature in Montana, by region.
| Region | Average High | Average Low |
| Northwestern Montana | 72° | 40° |
| Southwestern Montana | 70° | 43° |
| Central Montana | 74° | 42° |
| Eastern Montana | 74° | 49° |
Recommended clothing
You’ll likely feel quite comfortable in a t-shirt in June, but perhaps carry a light sweater for when temperatures drop. Be sure to pack a rain jacket for when those passing fronts come in!
Due to the range of adventurous activities that Montana has to offer, bring your hiking gear so you can really make the most of the state’s wonderful outdoors and national parks.
Things to Do
During June, Montana really comes alive with tourism. Montana’s outdoor attractions become more enjoyable with the warmer temperatures.
If hikes and outdoor adventures get boring, or your legs are tired, there are plenty of other things to do in this beautiful, lively, and large state!
Hiking in Glacier National Park
Unmissable during your trip to Montana is Glacier National Park.
A beautiful showcase of melting glaciers, spectacular lakes, deep forests, gorgeous meadows, and valleys, Glacier National Park is an oasis for wilderness-loving visitors.
Rafting, hiking, and mountain biking are all on the cards. During June, most lodges and campgrounds within the park are open, and you’ll likely beat the crowds that July and August bring! However, it is still recommended that you book your stay in advance.
Glacier National Park is located in the Northwest of Montana, along the spine of the Rocky Mountains. A guided tour is an excellent way to experience Glacier. There are options for guided day hikes, multi-day hikes, raft tours, bus tours, or boat tours.
Visit Yellowstone National Park
Another world-renowned Montana attraction is Yellowstone National Park.
Within its 2.2 million acres, visitors have the opportunity to observe wildlife in their true habitat, explore geothermal areas, view unique hydrothermal wonders, and see geographic masterpieces like the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River and the Mammoth Hot Springs.
While breathtaking, some of the wildlife in Yellowstone can be dangerous (such as bears). Sticking with a guided tour will ensure you stay safe and don’t miss the park’s best attractions!
Explore the Beartooth Highway
Some dub the Beartooth Highway as the most beautiful highway in America. This stretch of road zig-zags across the Montana/Wyoming border and rises to around 10,000 feet.
The highway winds from the northeastern entrance of Yellowstone to Red Lodge and boasts incredible scenery from glaciers to pine forests and alpine tundra.
Plan on at least three hours of driving time to complete the entire stretch, but once you factor in stops for lunch (and for pulling over to take in the breathtaking scenery), this will easily be a full-day adventure!
Some would argue that the Beartooth Highway is best experienced on a motorbike.
You can rent a motorcycle if this sounds like your idea of fun! Certain stretches can be challenging, but if you’re comfortable with hairpin turns and can keep your eyes on the switchbacks rather than the scenery, you’ll be just fine.
Keep an eye on the forecast during your June visit, as snowstorms occasionally shut the pass down.
Go fly fishing in Montana’s rivers
Montana is renowned for its excellent fly fishing!
The state is home to some of the world’s most famous rivers, and its waters support an impressive population of a range of trout species.
Fly fishing is just as enjoyable for complete newbies, as it is for experienced and adventurous trout anglers.
Booking a guided trip is a great way to experience Montana’s fly-fishing. Several companies offer a range of experiences, from single-day guided fishing trips to multi-day packages that include stays at some of the region’s finest accommodations.
Attend a rodeo or cowboy event
Rodeos are a huge part of Montana’s culture, and these events are a highlight of the summer.
During June, they occur almost every weekend – so grab your cowboy hat and get on down!
Rodeos tend to include traditional events like bull riding, bareback, steer roping, and team roping, as well as great live music, drinks, and food. It’s an excellent day out that offers an inside look into the cowboy culture of the state!
Stargazing in the dark skies
Montana is one of the best states in the USA for observing the night skies. Due to its Northern location, clean air, and lack of light pollution, the stars shine brightly across most of the state.
No matter where you are in Montana, you’re almost guaranteed to get an awesome view of the stars on a clear night!
A great place to set out your telescope is the Lost Trail Pass on the Montana/Idaho border.
Being 7000 feet above sea level, you will be treated to a panoramic and unobstructed view of the stars.
If you don’t have access to a telescope, it’s just as impressive with the naked eye. If you’re lucky, you may even be able to spot rare phenomena such as the Northern Lights or Milky Way.
Visit the Museum of the Rockies
Located in Bozeman, the Museum of The Rockies (MOR) is an awesome attraction and makes for an educational day out.
The MOR is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm and promises an enriching and memorable experience.
MOR displays an ever-changing showcase of global treasures and frequently hosts impressive planetarium shows and educational programs. Check the website to see what’s on!
Go white-water rafting
For the thrillseekers, Montana is a prime location to enjoy an adrenaline-filled day out of white water rafting.
Whether you prefer a scenic trip floating through mountain meadows or a squeal-inducing ride through the rapids, there’s something for everyone. Book a whitewater rafting trip in advance to secure your spot during the month of June.
Experience the Montana Grizzly Encounter
The Montana Grizzly Encounter is a Grizzly Bear Rescue & Education Sanctuary located in Bozeman.
The MGE provides a safe and natural home for rescued grizzly bears and is open to the public to educate visitors about these majestic creatures.
See the bears up close in the beautiful mountain setting, and feel confident that you’re supporting an ethical sanctuary that provides these animals with the best possible life.
During June, the sanctuary is open from 10 am-6 pm Wednesday through Monday and the entry fee is $12.50 for adults, $10.50 for children, and free for little ones under 3.
Explore the scenic Flathead Lake
Flathead Lake is the USA’s largest natural lake west of the Mississippi. With over 200 square miles, this natural beauty is truly breathtaking!
Flathead Lake is located in the northwest region of Montana. Sailing, power boating, waterskiing, fishing, and swimming are just some of the ways you may choose to enjoy this lake.
You may even wish to camp around Flathead Lake, for a chance to really disconnect.
Discover the beauty of Lake McDonald
Located in Glacier National Park, Lake McDonald is a natural beauty that’s definitely worth seeing.
The wildlife viewing at Lake McDonald can be incredible; keep an eye out for mountain goats, elk, black bears, and bighorn sheep.
The national park’s snowy mountains provide a spectacular backdrop. If you’re feeling brave, you may wish to take a dip in the gorgeous yet icy mountain waters. This is not for the faint of heart!
Go horseback riding in Montana’s wilderness
Horseback riding is a popular activity across the whole state. Visiting a guest ranch is an excellent way to experience the outback of Montana.
There are adventures awaiting all riding levels. Tune into your inner cowboy (or cowgirl) and enjoy some of the USA’s finest horseback riding.
Enjoy a soak in hot springs
On June’s cooler days, enjoy a soak in one of Montana’s many hot springs.
Montana is home to more than a dozen hot springs resorts, all from natural geothermal sources. After a fun day of adventuring, this can be the perfect way to relax after dusk as the temperature drops.
Places to Stay
Whether you’re after a simple and modest Airbnb or looking to indulge in a resort, Montana offers it all. Keep reading for some of our top recommendations:
The Lodge at Whitefish Lake
Located at Whitefish Lake, The Lodge is a beautiful location to stay during your time in Montana.
Surrounded by alpine landscapes and with the glorious Whitefish Lake on your doorstep, this is a beautiful spot to soak up Montana’s scenery. The Lodge at Whitefish Lake is just 30 minutes’ drive from Glacier National Park!
Many Glacier Hotel
An even closer option to Glacier National Park is the Many Glacier Hotel. This stunning hotel is situated on the spectacular shores of Swiftcurrent Lake, right inside the park.
Numerous activities are offered by the hotel, including Red Bus tours, boat cruises, horseback rides, and more.
The property is rustic, yet comfortable, and offers a range of value, standard, and deluxe lodging options to suit your needs and budget.
The Resort at Paws Up
For a truly deluxe accommodation option, located within unspoiled wilderness, look no further than The Resort at Paws Up.
This luxury resort is located on a working cattle ranch in western Montana.
Choose between one of 27 private homes, or perhaps opt for a luxury camping experience. Enjoy some privacy while overlooking breathtaking views of rolling meadows, magical rivers, and panoramic mountainscapes!
Events in June
Billings Strawberry Festival
The Billings Strawberry Festival is a free community event that happens annually.
It comprises over 125 different vendors, ranging from local retailers to talented craft merchants from around the region showcasing paintings, jewelry, woodwork, sculptures, ceramics, and more.
It’s a great place to collect souvenirs from your trip. As the name would suggest, there are plenty of fresh Montana berries available for purchase. Entry is free!
Annual Montana Folk Festival (Butte)
The Montana Folk Festival happens annually in Butte and is one of the USA’s largest free outdoor music festivals.
The festival features performances and showcases by over 200 of the nation’s best musicians, dancers, and craftspeople!
There are 6 stages dedicated to different types of performances. It’s a great day out for the whole family to enjoy.
Livingston Farmers Market (Livingston)
In Livingston, head over to the Farmers Market to enjoy local, fresh, and healthy food from Montana.
Several farm and ranch vendors sell fresh produce or choose from one of the many prepared-food vendors.
The market runs every Wednesday from 4:30-7:30 pm from June through to mid-September, and is on rain or shine!
Rodeo Season
June marks the beginning of rodeo season in Montana.
As mentioned previously, you cannot miss a rodeo during your visit to Montana – so check out what’s on in your area and celebrate Montana’s cowboy roots!
Food and Drinks
Montana’s open expanses and wilderness yield exceptional food, including bison meat, beef, trout, and gorgeous fresh berries.
Tasting Montana’s exquisite cuisine is a great way to get insight into the local culture.
Huckleberries
Huckleberries are a local gem in Montana. The state’s elevated forests are the perfect growing grounds for these delightful berries!
Eat them straight off the bush, or try them in baked goods. Across cafes over Montana, you’ll see huckleberry muffins, pancakes, jams and cobblers.
The homemade huckleberry pie at Loula’s showcases the huckleberry in true Montana fashion.
Bison
Bison are found throughout Montana’s wide open spaces, making bison meat a long-time staple in the state.
Try it in a burger, stew, or steak! River City Grill in Missoula offers a delicious bison burger.
Montana-style Sub Sandwich
If there’s one thing Montana does well, it’s sub sandwiches. Try an impressive 17.5-inch sub from Pickle Barrel in Bozeman, Livingston, and Billings!
Each sandwich is served with a full-sized dill pickle, in true Montana fashion.
Trout
Renowned for its many rivers, lakes, and excellent trout fishing, it would be rude to visit Montana without tasting trout in one of the state’s many excellent restaurants.
Planning Your Trip To Montana In June
- Summer begins in June, meaning the high season for tourism begins. Advance planning is recommended as Montana hosts the most tourists during this time.
- The weather is excellent in June, warm with only a few rainy days.
- The least expensive flights in June are generally from Denver to Bozeman, though some great deals can be found from the west coast.
- The competition begins for rentals like cars and sports equipment, so reserve as far ahead as you can.
- Logan Pass opens along the Going-to-the-Sun road for tour groups and individuals.
- Lodgings inside Yellowstone and Glacier reopen for overnight guests.
Conclusion
Montana is a spectacular place to visit during June!
Whether you’re seeking a family vacation, a romantic getaway, an adventure, a fishing weekend, or looking to embark on a scenic road trip, you’re sure to find something to excite you in this wonderful state.
This blog post has provided a comprehensive guide to visiting Montana during June including the weather, things to do, places to stay, and food to eat.
With the endless options this state offers, you’ll soon realize that one visit to Montana is simply not enough!