Gateway to the Rockies - Montana

Make your spring break count in Big Sky Country. Catch the last of Montana’s winter activities before the temperatures start to rise, or head to West Yellowstone for an unforgettable adventure in Yellowstone National Park. Head to the cultural hub that is Missoula for attractions like the Montana Museum of Art and Culture, or get in some outdoor fun at the nearby Rattlesnake National Recreation Area. Head to southern Montana for adventurous cities like Bozeman and Billings – and enjoy a picnic at the Missouri Headwaters State Park, or some wine at the 2012 MSU Billings Wine and Food Festival. Its all happening this spring in Montana.

One of Montana’s largest cities, Bozeman is home to Montana State University – Bozeman, plus museums, ski areas and great outdoor recreation. This spring, catch the last days of fun at the Bridger Bowl ski area, or take a break from the cold and stroll through the Museum of the Rockies. Check out other Bozeman attractions like the Montana Arboretum and Gardens, or take the whiz kid in your family to the American Computer Museum, and the musician to the Gibson Guitar Factory.

As the spring temperatures start to rise, enjoy beautiful outdoor Montana with a day at the Missouri Headwaters State Park. Less than an hour’s drive northwest of Bozeman on Interstate 90, the Missouri Headwaters State Park is a U.S. National Historic Landmark thanks to famed explorers Lewis and Clark marking the spot in 1805. Visit this Montana state park for picnics, short hikes, and nature photography, or swing by on the weekends for the Saturday Night Speaker series. Head to Three Forks this spring for a day at the 532-acre Missouri Headwaters State Park, and enjoy your night at the Best Western hotel in Bozeman.

Just two hours east of Bozeman is the city of Billings, set along Interstate 90 in southern Montana. Another homebase to Montana State University, Billings is a beautiful city to visit in the spring. Check out the 2012 MSU Billings Wine and Food Festival from May 14th through the 19th. Attend this 20th annual celebration – a fundraiser to benefit the MSU Billings Foundation – and try some treats from the executive chef at Billings’ Rex Restaurant Bar & Grill, and returning chef Phil Estipular. Enjoy foods and folks at the 2012 MSU Billings Wine and Food Festival, and continue your spring adventure in Big Sky Country.

Set in northwestern Montana, Kalispell is a festive city and front door to the Glacier National Park. Open throughout the year, this national park offers everything from hiking and biking to fishing and picnicking. Reel in some whitefish from Lake McDonald starting in May, or try hiking through the St, Mary Valley, and cross the bridge over Avalanche Gorge along the Cedars Nature Trail. Have your most adventurous spring yet in Big Sky Country.