10 days in MT

Question

What would the top 5-10 things to do in MT over the summer with a teen. Would love tips on specific things to do in a city or an amazing scenic area. Thanks!

Answer

Montana offers a fantastic blend of outdoor adventure, scenic beauty, and vibrant cities, making it a perfect place for a summer trip with a teen. Here are the top 5-10 things to do in Montana that will appeal to both you and your teen:

1. Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is a must-see for any visitor to Montana. It's perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and offers stunning views, scenic drives, and a wide range of activities. Some ideas for a teen-friendly adventure include:

Going-to-the-Sun Road: This iconic road takes you through the heart of the park with breathtaking views. It’s a must-do for anyone visiting the area.
Hiking: There are hikes for all levels, from easy strolls to more challenging routes. Popular teen-friendly hikes include the Avalanche Lake Trail or the Hidden Lake Overlook.
Wildlife Watching: The park is home to grizzly bears, bighorn sheep, moose, and a variety of birds. Spotting wildlife can be a thrilling experience.

2. Yellowstone National Park

If you have more time, consider heading to Yellowstone National Park, which is a bit of a drive but well worth it. The park has spectacular geothermal features like Old Faithful, and it’s full of wildlife and outdoor activities.

Old Faithful: Watch the famous geyser erupt, and explore the surrounding thermal features.
Wildlife Safaris: Take a guided tour to see bison, elk, wolves, and possibly even bears.
Hiking and Exploring: Yellowstone offers many easy-to-moderate hiking trails that will give you a great view of the park’s unique landscape.

3. Whitewater Rafting

Montana is known for its beautiful rivers, and whitewater rafting is a fun, adrenaline-pumping activity for teens. You can find rafting tours on rivers like the Gallatin River, the Yellowstone River, and the Flathead River. These tours range from beginner to advanced, and they provide an exciting way to experience the state’s stunning scenery.

4. Bozeman

Bozeman is a vibrant city with plenty to offer, from outdoor adventures to cultural activities. It's a great spot for a mix of city and nature. Here are some things to do in Bozeman:

Bridger Bowl Ski Area: If you're visiting in late summer or early fall, Bozeman is a gateway for skiing and snowboarding in the winter, but in summer, the area offers hiking and wildlife viewing.
Museum of the Rockies: A great museum for teens interested in dinosaurs, Native American history, and the history of the West.
Hiking: The Bozeman area has plenty of scenic trails like the "M" Trail, which gives you a great view of the city.

5. Missoula

Missoula is known for its outdoor activities and cultural vibe. It's also a great base for exploring nearby attractions.

Rattlesnake National Recreation Area: This area is perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and swimming in the summer. There are some wonderful trails and lakes.
Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail: Learn about the famous expedition with some historical stops in and around Missoula.
Downtown Missoula: Explore the city's lively downtown with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.

6. Flathead Lake

Flathead Lake, the largest freshwater lake in the western United States, is ideal for water sports and outdoor activities. You can go boating, swimming, fishing, or rent a paddleboard. It’s also a great place for a picnic by the lake or to just relax and enjoy the beautiful views.

7. The Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park

For a unique experience, take a guided tour of the Lewis and Clark Caverns. These stunning limestone caverns are full of stalactites, stalagmites, and other interesting formations. It's a fun and educational experience that will interest both adults and teens alike.

8. Big Sky Resort

If you're visiting in summer, Big Sky Resort offers great hiking and zip-lining, along with beautiful mountain views. It's a great place to enjoy the outdoors, and it's close to Yellowstone National Park, so you can combine the two for a more adventurous itinerary.

9. Museum of the Rockies (Bozeman)

If you're in the Bozeman area, don’t miss the Museum of the Rockies. It’s an engaging museum with exhibits on dinosaurs, Native American history, and the region’s geology. It’s also home to the largest collection of dinosaur fossils in the world, which will definitely fascinate a teen interested in science.

10. Scenic Drives

Montana has some of the most scenic drives in the country. If you love road trips, consider taking a drive along the Beartooth Highway or the Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park. Both offer incredible views of mountains, valleys, and lakes, making them perfect for a memorable summer trip.

Montana is a dream destination for those who love the outdoors, and there’s something for everyone, from scenic hikes to thrilling water sports and historic sites. Whether you're exploring vibrant cities or discovering the wilds of the national parks, your teen will have a blast!

10 days in MT

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