More than Glacier & Yellowstone: Montana Has 56 Magical State Parks

Bannack State Park CREDIT Visit Montana

After visiting Montana’s iconic Glacier and Yellowstone National Parks, explore our other wonders and find out why some of Montana’s 56 State Parks really do rival our National Parks. We can give you 56 reasons but instead we’ll focus on just a few.

Bannack State Park
Experience the magic of the ‘Old West’ and relive the gold rush era at Bannack State Park, the site of Montana's first major gold discovery in 1862. Wander wooden boardwalks lining the deserted street and peak into 50 buildings that remain - and you can explore inside many of them. Grasshopper Creek still flows nearby and the cemetery and gallows remain. Summertime living history demonstrations including panning for gold and free daily tours make this a lively destination. This National Historic Landmark has a campsite, bird watching, bicycling, hiking, and a rental teepee.

Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park

Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park CREDIT Visit Montana

Montana’s first state park, Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park, offers a glimpse into history along with modern-day adventure. Explore the most highly decorated limestone caverns in North America on a guided tour, or hike through one of the parks challenging multi-use trails. Take in sweeping views of the Tobacco Root Mountains, and over 200 species of wildflowers. It is a go-to destination for a day of hiking and exploring, an afternoon of fishing, or a whole weekend of camping.

Makoshika State Park

Makoshika State Park CREDIT Visit Montana

You’ll find Montana’s largest state park in the eastern region of the state. Makoshika State Park features eroded sandstone formations that include the fossil remains of Tyrannosaurus Rex, Triceratops and other prehistoric life. Within the park are scenic drives through pine and juniper studded badland formations, hiking trails, camping sites, an outdoor amphitheater, and special events throughout the year such as full moon hikes and campfire programs. Makoshika is part of Montana’s Dinosaur Trail which includes 14 museums across the state.

First People's Buffalo Jump State Park

First People's Buffalo Jump State Park: CREDIT Visit Montana

Believed to be the largest bison cliff jump in North America, First People’s Buffalo Jump State Park tells the story of the people, animals and landscape of the buffalo culture. This historic mile-long sandstone cliff was used for hundreds of years by Native Americans to aid in hunting. It enabled them to stampede herds of bison in vast numbers over the cliff, utilizing them for food, clothing, shelter and provisions. Now the jump provides spectacular views of the Rocky Mountain Front and the buttes and grasslands that characterize the high plains. It includes a Visitor Center with buffalo culture exhibits and several hiking trails.

Wild Horse Island State Park

Flathead Lake: CREDIT Visit Montana

Wild Horse Island National Park sits on the largest island in the largest natural freshwater lake (Flathead Lake) west of the Mississippi and is only accessible by boat. The park is noted for its wildlife, and lucky visitors may catch a glimpse of the park’s handful of wild horses. Kootenai Indians were reported to have kept their horses here to keep them from being stolen by other tribes. The island's scenic shoreline is a favorite of hikers, boaters, swimmers and sailboat enthusiasts. Take a kayak tour to the island and discover its mystery.

*Source: THE GREAT AMERICAN WEST: AUSTRALIA / NEW ZEALAND:
Davidson Communications – Account Manager RMI AUNZ
Caroline Davidson - caroline@davcomm.com.au