Hidden Gems: 9 Underrated Destinations for Your Montana Road Trip

Montana's vast landscapes are filled with hidden wonders that many travelers miss while rushing between the state's famous national parks. While Glacier National Park and Yellowstone's northern reaches certainly deserve their spotlight, some of Montana's most magical experiences happen in the lesser-known corners of Big Sky Country.

Here's our guide to the underrated destinations that deserve a spot on your Montana road trip itinerary, with Great Falls serving as your perfect home base.

1. Missouri River Breaks National Monument

Just a scenic drive northeast of Great Falls, the Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument offers breathtaking badlands scenery and a chance to follow in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark. Float trips on this stretch of the Missouri reveal white cliffs and rock formations that appear unchanged since the explorers passed through in 1805.

Insider tip: Visit the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center in Great Falls before heading out to gain historical context that will make your experience even more meaningful.

2. The Little Rockies & Fort Belknap Reservation

North of Great Falls in Blaine County, the Little Rocky Mountains rise unexpectedly from the plains, offering forest hiking trails and Montana's smallest mountain range. The nearby Fort Belknap Reservation provides opportunities to learn about Aaniiih and Nakoda cultures through guided tours and cultural events.

Why it's special: These mountains hold the historic mining town of Zortman, where you can experience authentic Montana small-town life far from the tourist crowds.

3. Giant Springs State Park

Located right in Great Falls, this natural wonder is often overlooked by tourists rushing between national parks. As one of the largest freshwater springs in the country, Giant Springs pumps 156 million gallons of crystal-clear 54°F water daily. The spring feeds the Roe River, once listed as the world's shortest river.

Perfect for: A relaxing afternoon picnic between longer adventures, or fly fishing in the nearby Missouri River.

4. First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park

Just southwest of Great Falls near Ulm, this archaeological site features one of the largest buffalo jumps in North America. Indigenous peoples used this site for approximately 2,000 years before European contact. The interpretive center offers insights into the hunting techniques and cultural significance of these places.

Learn about: How multiple plains tribes coordinated complex buffalo jumps that were essential to their survival and way of life.

5. Sluice Boxes State Park

This hidden gem in Belt Creek Canyon, just 30 minutes from Great Falls, features limestone cliffs and remnants of Montana's mining past. Abandoned railroads, mining camps, and historic structures can be found throughout the park's rugged terrain.

Adventure option: Wade through Belt Creek on a hot summer day, exploring the cool canyon and historic relics along the way.

6. Malmstrom Air Force Base Museum & Air Park

Aviation and military history enthusiasts will appreciate this free museum in Great Falls. The outdoor Air Park displays historic aircraft, while the indoor museum houses artifacts from the Cold War era and the Minuteman missile program that once dominated central Montana's landscape.

Did you know? Great Falls played a crucial role in America's nuclear deterrence strategy during the Cold War, with hundreds of missile silos scattered across the surrounding countryside.

7. Freezout Lake Wildlife Management Area

Bird enthusiasts should not miss this wetland complex between Great Falls and Choteau. During spring and fall migrations, tens of thousands of snow geese and other waterfowl stop here, creating one of North America's most spectacular bird-watching events.

Best time to visit: Late March to early April for the spring migration, when the sky fills with snow geese heading north.

8. Square Butte

This distinctive flat-topped butte southwest of Great Falls was immortalized in several paintings by famed Western artist Charlie Russell. A scenic drive around the butte offers spectacular photo opportunities, especially at sunrise or sunset when the light transforms the landscape.

Photography tip: The view of Square Butte from Geraldine (about an hour from Great Falls) offers some of the most dramatic Western landscapes you'll ever photograph.

9. The Hi-Line Experience

Take a day trip north of Great Falls along Highway 87 to experience Montana's legendary Hi-Line. Small agricultural communities like Fort Benton (Montana's oldest town), Havre, and Chinook offer authentic Montana experiences, from riverside walks on the historic Missouri to underground tours of Havre's surprising past.

Cultural highlight: Visit the Havre Beneath the Streets tour to see the underground businesses that operated after a devastating fire in 1904.

Plan Your Montana Road Trip

Great Falls serves as the perfect base camp for exploring these hidden gems. With comfortable accommodations, plenty of dining options, and easy access to both I-15 and Highway 87, you can venture out on day trips while returning to modern conveniences each evening.

Whether you're visiting Montana for the first time or returning to dig deeper into Big Sky Country, these underrated destinations offer authentic Montana experiences without the crowds. Pack your sense of adventure and hit the road—Montana's hidden treasures await!