Eastern Montana is a hidden gem often overshadowed by its western counterpart. This vast region boasts diverse landscapes, from rolling prairies to dramatic badlands, and is steeped in rich Native American history and Lewis and Clark expedition lore. In 2024, adventurous travelers will find unexpected treasures and unique experiences in this often-overlooked part of Big Sky Country.
From prehistoric wonders and historical sites to outdoor adventures and authentic Western culture, Eastern Montana offers a refreshing alternative to more crowded tourist destinations. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences, this region has something to offer.
Here are 10 compelling reasons to add Eastern Montana to your travel bucket list this year.
Natural Attractions
Eastern Montana’s landscape is a testament to the raw beauty of nature. From the otherworldly badlands to the vast prairies, the region offers a diverse array of natural wonders that will leave visitors in awe.
1. Makoshika State Park
At a Glance:
- Location: 1301 Snyder St, Glendive, MT 59330, United States
- Website: https://fwp.mt.gov/
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and Fall
- Cost: $8 per vehicle for non-residents
- Reservations: Not required for day use
- Duration: Allow at least half a day
Makoshika State Park, Montana’s largest state park, is a wonderland of badlands formations and dinosaur fossils. Visitors can explore hiking trails that wind through otherworldly landscapes, marvel at prehistoric remains in the visitor center, and enjoy breathtaking views from scenic overlooks. Named after the Lakota phrase for “bad land” or “bad earth,” the park is anything but beautiful.
Makoshika’s unusual geology, abundant wildlife, and rich fossil history reveals Montana’s prehistoric past and natural beauty. Its terrain supports diverse plants and animals, making it a habitat for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
2. Medicine Rocks State Park
At a Glance:
- Location: 1141 MT-7, Ekalaka, MT 59324, United States
- Website: https://fwp.mt.gov/
- Best Time to Visit: Spring through Fall
- Cost: $8 per vehicle for non-residents
- Reservations: Not required for day use
- Duration: Half-day to full day
Medicine Rocks State Park is a hidden gem with unique sandstone rock formations shaped by erosion. Native Americans considered this area sacred with its striking hoodoos and intricate rock sculptures. Visitors enjoy hiking, rock climbing, and photography. At night, the park’s dark skies make it an ideal spot for stargazing.
Explore ancient petroglyphs and experience the park’s peaceful atmosphere. Its unique geology and cultural history make it an ideal destination for those wanting to connect with nature and the past.
Historical & Cultural Attractions
Step back in time and immerse yourself in the rich history of the American West. Eastern Montana’s historical sites and cultural attractions offer a glimpse into the region’s fascinating past, from Native American heritage to the Lewis and Clark expedition.
3. Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument
At a Glance:
- Location: Battlefield Tour Rd, Crow Agency, MT 59022, United States
- Website: https://www.nps.gov/
- Best Time to Visit: Summer months
- Cost: $15 per person, $20 per motorcycle, $25 per vehicle, $40 per commercial van
- Reservations: Not required
- Duration: 2-3 hours
Visit the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument to step back to the 1876 battle between the U.S. Army’s 7th Cavalry and several Native American tribes. The site honors both fallen soldiers and Native American warriors. Explore exhibits at the visitor center, take a self-guided tour, and reflect on this key moment in American history.
The monument offers a meaningful experience, shedding light on the impact of westward expansion on Native American cultures. Through memorials and programs, it honors all who fought and provides a balanced view of this historic event.
4. Pompeys Pillar National Monument
At a Glance:
- Location: Pompeys Pillar, MT
- Website: https://www.blm.gov
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early fall
- Cost: $7-$20 per standard vehicle, $25-$100 per commercial vehicles
- Reservations: Not required
- Duration: 1-2 hours
Pompeys Pillar is a sandstone butte with the only remaining physical evidence of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Captain William Clark’s signature is carved into the rock in 1806. The site also has interpretive exhibits and offers stunning views of the Yellowstone River Valley.
This National Monument connects visitors to the historic journey of Lewis and Clark across the West. This monument marks an expedition that highlights the landmark’s role in American history.
Outdoor Activities
For adventure enthusiasts, Eastern Montana is a playground waiting to be explored. With its expansive lakes, winding rivers, and diverse terrain, the region offers a wide range of outdoor activities for all skill levels.
5. Fort Peck Lake
At a Glance:
- Location: Montana, USA
- Website: https://www.visitmt.com/
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early fall
- Cost: Free for general access
- Reservations: Required for some campgrounds
- Duration: Full day to multiple days
Fort Peck Lake, formed by the Fort Peck Dam on the Missouri River, is ideal for outdoor activities. With over 1,500 miles of shoreline, it’s great for fishing, boating, and water sports. Anglers can catch walleye, northern pike, and lake trout, while wildlife watchers can spot animals along the shores.
The lake’s vast wilderness areas are perfect for camping, hiking, and bird-watching. Surrounded by the Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge, Fort Peck Lake offers endless opportunities for nature and photography lovers.
6. Yellowstone River Floating
At a Glance:
- Location: Various access points along the river
- Website: https://fwp.mt.gov
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early fall
- Cost: Varies by outfitter if guided; free if self-guided
- Reservations: Required for guided trips
- Duration: Half-day to multi-day trips
Float or kayak the Yellowstone River, the longest free-flowing river in the contiguous United States. This journey reveals Eastern Montana’s beauty, with chances to see wildlife, fish for trout, and enjoy peaceful landscapes. Choose a guided trip or go on your own for an unforgettable experience.
The river’s diverse ecosystems offer rich plant and animal life, making each trip a potential nature safari. From gentle sections for families to challenging rapids for experienced paddlers, the Yellowstone River has something for every adventurer.
Local Towns & Culture
Experience the authentic charm of Eastern Montana through its small towns and cultural events. These communities preserve the spirit of the Old West while offering unique attractions and warm hospitality.
7. Miles City Bucking Horse Sale
At a Glance:
- Location: 42 Garryowen Rd, Miles City, MT 59301, United States
- Website: https://buckinghorsesale.com/
- Best Time to Visit: Third full weekend in May
- Cost: Varies by event; budget-friendly general admission options are available.
- Reservations: Recommended for popular events and only for the main wooden grandstand seats
- Duration: 1-4 days
Miles City, the “Cowboy Capital” of Montana, hosts the annual Bucking Horse Sale—a mix of rodeo, horse sale, and western festival. This event features bronc riding, parades, concerts, and top bucking horse sales, capturing the spirit of the American West.
Visitors can dive into Western traditions by watching rodeo events, enjoying live country music, and exploring Western art. The friendly atmosphere and community spirit make it a great way to experience Eastern Montana’s culture.
8. Fort Peck Theater
At a Glance:
- Location: 201 Missouri Ave, Fort Peck, MT 59223, United States
- Website: https://www.fortpecktheatre.org/
- Best Time to Visit: Summer season (May-August)
- Cost: $22-$28 per adult, $6 per child age 5 and under, $13-16 students grade K-12
- Reservations: Recommended
- Duration: 2-3 hours per show
Visit the historic Fort Peck Theater for an unexpected cultural experience in Eastern Montana. Built in the 1930s during Fort Peck Dam’s construction, this Art Deco venue now hosts summer plays and musicals. Enjoy quality performances in a unique setting filled with history and charm.
The theater also has a small museum detailing the Fort Peck Dam project and local history. Located near Fort Peck Lake, it’s easy to pair a show with outdoor activities for a complete Eastern Montana experience.
Hidden Gems
Venture beyond the well-known attractions and discover Eastern Montana’s best-kept secrets. These hidden gems offer unique experiences and a chance to explore the region’s lesser-known wonders.
9. Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge
At a Glance:
- Location: 333 Airport Road, Lewistown, MT 59457
- Website: https://www.fws.gov/refuge/charles-m-russell
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and Fall
- Cost: Campground fees vary, as they are managed by different agencies. Some campgrounds are free.
- Reservations: Not required for day use
- Duration: Full day to multiple days depending on activities
The Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge spans over 1 million acres of prairie, making it perfect for wildlife viewing, hiking, and photography. Visitors may see elk, bighorn sheep, and over 230 bird species, with designated areas open for hunting and fishing.
This refuge showcases the rugged beauty of the American prairie. Its varied habitats, from river valleys to grasslands, support diverse wildlife. The remote, vast landscapes offer solitude and a rare chance to experience true wilderness.
10. Glendive Dinosaur & Fossil Museum
At a Glance:
- Location: 139 State St, Glendive, MT 59330, United States
- Website: https://creationtruth.org/
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round
- Cost: $35-75 half-day digs, $150 per dig and fossil prep, $30 per annual pass, $75 per family annual pass
- Reservations: Recommended since bookings fill up quick
- Duration: half a day to a whole day
The Glendive Dinosaur & Fossil Museum highlights Eastern Montana’s rich paleontological history. As Montana’s second-largest dinosaur museum, it features impressive displays of dinosaur skeletons, fossils, and interactive exhibits, all from a creationist perspective.
Exhibits include a full-size Tyrannosaurus rex cast and local fossils, with interactive displays on fossil formation and paleontology. While its views differ from mainstream science, the museum offers a unique take on the area’s prehistoric finds and encourages thoughtful discussion on science and belief.
Final Words
With its untamed beauty, extensive history, and genuine Western character, Eastern Montana provides an unparalleled experience. Visitors can discover a side of Montana that feels timeless and untouched by its vast landscapes, cultural sites, and hidden natural wonders. There is something truly unique for every tourist in Eastern Montana, from prehistoric fossils to cowboy culture and vast wilderness.
Learn about the history, animals, and customs of Eastern Montana and experience the authentic essence of the American West. You’ll discover the unadulterated beauty and enduring experiences that can only be found in this area if you set aside time for it.