Towns and cities are a little more dispersed than in other large states because Montana is the fourth-largest state in the union, with a little over a million residents. Known as “Big Sky Country” or “The Last Best Place,” this breathtakingly beautiful state is home to hundreds of little villages that have existed for more than a century.
Being able to drive an hour or more to the grocery store—even Target!—may be a deal breaker for some people, but after over three years of living in a small Montana town, I can assure you that it is well worth the sacrifice!
Living in a small town is ideal because you can get to know your neighbours, never have to lock your doors, are close to the mountains, and can lead a more relaxed lifestyle.
Montana’s terrain is mostly hilly, with vast expanses of prairie, expansive skies, and a drier environment on the eastern half, which is split down the middle. People typically associate Montana with its larger, western region, which has an abundance of national parks, snow-capped peaks, mountain communities, and skiing.
Are you looking for a genuine Montana experience? Explore one of the following charming tiny villages located in Big Sky Country.
1. Hamilton / Corvallis
The nearby communities of Hamilton and Corvallis, which are nestled in the southernmost region of the 40-mile-long Bitterroot Valley, are among the fastest-growing in the entire state!
These two charming, rich in wild west history villages are nestled between the majestic, snow-capped Bitterroot Mountains to the west and the Sapphire Mountains to the east.
Although the two towns are very close to one another, I’ve combined them into one for this list because they have distinct personalities.
Corvallis is slightly smaller, with a population of around 1,800, but Hamilton has a population of about 4,800 and is constantly expanding.
The main thoroughfare in Hamilton is home to amazing eateries and bakeries, while ‘The Merc’, a deli/gas station in Corvallis, is the centre of town and serves some of the greatest homemade food around!
The Bitterroot Mountains offer countless routes across their peaks and canyons, and the weather is milder than the rest of the state, which is why residents of these towns—as well as the neighbouring Bitterroot communities to the north and south—have a strong affection for the region.
This place is a true haven for outdoor enthusiasts. You can get whatever facilities you would require in an hour’s drive, as Missoula, a nearby city, is just 40 miles away.
2. Stevensville
Situated in the shadow of St Mary’s Peak, one of my favourite climbs in the Bitterroot, Stevensville is another little hamlet in the Bitterroot Valley, sandwiched between Hamilton and Missoula.
This and the neighbouring Lolo were actually visited by Lewis and Clark during their renowned trip, which is officially acknowledged as the first permanent settlement by non-Indigenous people.
Walking trails along the Bitterroot River in the neighbouring Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge are excellent for observing wildlife and taking in some peaceful time. Kootenai Creek is yet another well-liked hiking path, and the foliage is especially striking in the autumn!
3. Whitefish
To visit Whitefish, one of the most opulent tiny towns on this list, travel up north. Whitefish is a well-liked retreat for the wealthy and famous who wish to experience small-town Montana. It is home to Big Mountain Ski Resort, which has some of the greatest powder I have ever skied in my life.
While there are many upscale restaurants and hotels in the central area, you may also get more reasonably priced food.
When visiting Whitefish, it is imperative to take advantage of the great outdoors, and there are countless ways to do so. Experience the alpine slide at Whitefish Mountain Resort during the summer, go on a backcountry tour in a small plane, ski all out at the neighbouring ski resorts, cross-country ski on the nordic paths, or go snowshoeing on the paved cycling tours.
4. Livingston
Located near Bozeman, a larger adjacent city, Livingston is a charming tiny town that is sometimes referred to as one of the gates to Yellowstone National Park. Located about 45 miles from the north gate to Yellowstone, Livingston is an excellent starting place for visitors to the park, including multiple art galleries, mouthwatering food options, museums, breweries, and much more.
Although the story takes place in Missoula, “A River Runs Through It” was filmed in Livingston because Main Street and the neighbouring Gallatin River provided Robert Redford with the nostalgic atmosphere he required for his film version. Livingston is home to a large number of other well-known figures, and the neighbourhood is appropriately called Paradise Valley.
Fly fishers flock from all over the world to take advantage of Livingston’s world-class rivers and creeks, and nearby Bozeman is an incredible city full of historic houses, new-age dining, shops, and museums. Bozeman is one of the larger cities in Montana, but still maintains a small-town charm and should be on your list of places to visit in the area.
5. West Yellowstone
West Yellowstone is located near the western entrance to Yellowstone National Park and the borders of Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming. For those who like to spend a few days discovering Yellowstone’s geysers and scenic grandeur, the park’s close vicinity is ideal. Yellowstone is America’s first national park.
Don’t worry if you don’t get lucky enough to view bears or wolves while visiting the park; you can still see these magnificent creatures by visiting The Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Centre in West Yellowstone. The Centre provides visitors with an opportunity to get up close and personal with injured or orphaned animals that cannot be sent back into the wild.
6. Choteau
The enormous plains extend to the east of the quaint little town of Choteau, which is situated at the base of the Rocky Mountains. There are practically countless opportunities for outdoor enjoyment as the granite walls of the Rockies abruptly emerge out of the meadows. Less than a hundred miles southwest is the Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex, one of the biggest wilderness regions in the country.
The closest cities are Great Falls and Browning, both of which are more than 50 miles distant, and the night skies in Choteau are genuinely amazing. It’s true what they say about Montana being Big Sky country! The night skies, sunrises, and sunsets are all incredibly beautiful.
Just like most small towns in Montana, the restaurants in Choteau are chock full of delicious homestyle cooking. Stop at the Log Cabin Cafe for breakfast, or grab a drink at the Antler Bar. The golf clubs in town offer great views of the mountains, and there are several outfitters in town if you’re looking to get into the backcountry. However you decide to spend your time in Choteau, you’ll be treated with warm hospitality by the friendly locals.
7. Red Lodge
Situated on picturesque State Highway 212, close to the picturesque Beartooth Mountains, Red Lodge is a small town with a population of less than 2,400, approximately one hour’s drive from Billings. Like other small communities in Montana, Red Lodge has a warm and inviting population! With a Nordic centre for cross-country skiing and a ski resort (Red Lodge Mountain) just a short drive away, outdoor fans will adore the range of activities available in Red Lodge.
Starting at Red Lodge, the world-famous beautiful Beartooth Highway winds its way towards Yellowstone National Park. A popular route dubbed “the most beautiful drive in America,” it winds through the rocky and rugged Beartooth Mountains, some of the highest and most untamed mountains in the nation.
The road itself reaches elevations of over 11,000 feet, so be prepared to feel a little out of breath when you stop to take in the views!
Be sure to visit the Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary, which houses animals from the surrounding areas and from Yellowstone National Park who have been injured and unable to return to their wild habitat. Here you can see bison, wolves, mountain lion, bobcats, coyotes, birds of prey, and bears, and they all come from the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. The animals at this sanctuary serve as ambassadors for their species and provide education for all who visit.
FAQ’S:
Q1. What makes Montana small towns unique for a visit?
Montana small towns offer a distinctive charm with their picturesque landscapes, friendly communities, and a slower pace of life. Each town on this list has its own character, history, and attractions that make them a must-see for any traveler seeking an authentic Montana experience.
Q2.What dining options are available in these small towns?
Despite their size, these Montana towns boast a variety of dining options. You can find everything from cozy cafes and family-owned restaurants to upscale dining establishments. Local cuisines often highlight regional flavors and locally sourced ingredients.
