Top activities for kids in Montana – suitable for toddlers to teens

Montana's breathtaking nature creates the perfect environment for a holiday filled with unforgettable childhood memories and experiences.

Vast landscapes ignite the imagination, and the Western spirit inspires adventure far from home. With its stunning scenery, abundant wildlife, and exciting activities, Montana promises to create lasting memories for kids.

Is Montana a good destination for kids?

Any adult would be fortunate to see Montana through a child's perspective. With its abundant nature and welcoming communities that prioritize early education, children can have a truly transformative experience in the Treasure State. The same sense of Western adventure that has drawn explorers, artists, and conservationists to Montana also fuels a child's imagination.

The state offers a variety of family-friendly hiking paths, accessible campgrounds, and easy outdoor exploration options. However, you don’t need to be an outdoor enthusiast to fully enjoy what Montana has to offer. It's rich in history, and you'll find plenty of enjoyment in its museums, ghost towns, and frontier charm.

That said, don't underestimate the vastness of Montana – not just in terms of geography. Every experience here carries a sense of grandeur, making even a simple community river trail feel like a mini-adventure. This leaves a lasting impression of Montana long after your visit, but it can also lead to overstuffed itineraries. It's wise to plan for a couple of extra days.

Which locations in Montana are ideal for kids?

The university towns of Bozeman and Missoula make excellent basecamps for family-friendly getaways. Both offer easy access to hiking trails, outdoor adventures, and a variety of community attractions for all ages. Likewise, other major cities in Montana, like Great Falls, Billings, and Helena, feature children's museums and inviting natural spaces.

Top activities in Montana for infants and toddlers

1. Unwind at Whitefish City Beach

Pack the baby bonnet and sunscreen for a laid-back day at Whitefish Lake, just a short drive or bike ride from the picturesque town of Whitefish. With plenty of sandy shores and shaded grass, it’s perfect for lounging while enjoying mountain views. Older kids can take refreshing dips in the cool water or paddle around in seasonally available kayaks.

2. Enjoy family activities along the Missoula riverfront

Scenic mountain vistas and family-friendly attractions line both banks of the Clark Fork River in downtown Missoula. Caras Park serves as the central hub for free community events, right next to the unique A Carousel for Missoula and the multi-level Dragon Hollow Playground. The stroller-accessible path connects these spots and features a viewing platform for watching kayakers navigate Brennan’s Wave, a manmade wave on the river.

Top activities for families in Montana

1. Cycle the Hiawatha bicycle trail

Stretching over seven trestle bridges and 10 railroad tunnels, the 15-mile Route of the Hiawatha is considered the highlight of Montana’s rail-to-trail projects. With most of the trail sloping downhill, minimal pedaling is needed, making it accessible for nearly all ages. (A shuttle bus is available to take you back to the starting point.) The adventure begins at Lookout Pass on the Idaho border, where you can arrange for trail passes and mountain bike rentals. It’s advisable to book in advance.

2. Discover the animals at the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center

West Yellowstone serves as Montana’s gateway to Yellowstone National Park and is an excellent location for wildlife viewing. For guaranteed encounters in a safe setting, visit the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center at the town’s edge, where you can observe bears and wolves that cannot return to the wild. Families should arrive early to secure a spot in the Keeper Kids program, held twice daily, where children can hide food for the bears and then watch as they find it.

3. Experience a night under the stars in Glacier National Park

Enjoy thrilling adventures during the day and breathtaking views at night in Glacier National Park. Secure a campsite or a sought-after lodge room in this renowned natural wonder, known as 'the Crown of the Continent,' and discover why Glacier is designated as an International Dark Sky Park. Throughout July and August, free astronomy programs are held nightly on both sides of the park, attracting families from all over.

4. Discover Montana’s ancient history at the Museum of the Rockies

Visitors of all ages can step back into the late Cretaceous period while exploring the Museum of the Rockies in Bozeman. This Smithsonian-affiliated institution houses one of the most extensive collections of North American dinosaurs in the world. In addition to a mounted T. Rex and numerous triceratops skulls, the museum features a well-loved planetarium and various interactive exhibits.

5. Go underground at Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park

Explore the wonders of Montana’s first state park at Lewis and Clark Caverns, which boasts one of the largest known limestone caves in the Pacific Northwest. To witness the stunning stalagmites and soda straws, join a guided tour along the paved and illuminated pathways. There are three tour options available, with two suitable for children under 14. The easiest choice is the 90-minute Paradise Tour, offered daily from May to September, and it's free for kids under four.

Top activities in Montana for teens and tweens

1. Spot mountain goats in Jewel Basin

The challenging uphill hike becomes a delight when breathtaking views greet you right away. Begin at the misleadingly named Camp Misery Trailhead for a more accessible trek into the distinctive Jewel Basin Hiking Area in Flathead National Forest (high-clearance vehicle needed). This rugged mountain terrain is characterized by alpine lakes and a resident herd of mountain goats, offering numerous hiking trails, including panoramic vistas of Flathead Lake.

2. Fly fish in pristine waterways

Introduce a child to fly fishing in Montana, and they may just get hooked, given the abundance of blue-ribbon trout waters like the Blackfoot, Bitterroot, and Big Hole rivers. Hiring a local guide, such as Montana Angler from Bozeman, can help simplify the logistics of a river adventure.

3. Explore the remnants of Garnet Ghost Town

Prepare for a steep journey to reach Garnet Ghost Town, located an hour's drive into the mountains east of Missoula. Managed by the Bureau of Land Management, this well-preserved 1890s mining town allows visitors to stroll through its dusty streets for a $3 admission fee, exploring general stores and boarding houses to experience life during the gold rush.

Travel Tips

In Montana, cities are generally more walkable and stroller-friendly if you stay close to the center. However, having a personal vehicle is essential for exploring beyond the city limits or accessing outdoor areas, especially with family gear in tow.

Montana experiences four distinct seasons, often showcasing the extremes of each throughout the year. Summers can bring heat waves, while winters are known for heavy snowfall, significantly impacting your Montana vacation experience. Locals often say there’s no bad weather here, only poor clothing choices.

During the summer, hotels and campgrounds in popular Montana spots like Glacier National Park fill up quickly, making reservations almost essential.