These Montana towns are big on charm and small on crowds.
Size is a relative concept in Montana.
The mountains here could certainly be called big.
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Big Sky Country, as it’s colloquially known, is actually an understatement.
The opposite is true of the population centers across the state.
Yet for many an outsider, anywhere in Montana is a small town.
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Now a growing number ofvisitors are sticking around, validating its worth as a destination in its own right.
This prime positioning affords easy access to all manner of outdoor play, regardless of the season.
Check outLoula’s Cafefor lunch,Tupelo Grillefor dinner, and theGreat Northern Bar & Grillfor nightcaps.
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The facades of Main Street seem largely unchanged since the place was founded near the end of the 1800s.
Make time for theRavalli County Museum, which showcases local art and history of the region.
Livingston
By now, you probably knowall about Bozeman.
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As does most of the country, evidenced by therising cost of real estatein the trending enclave.
But about 25 miles east along Interstate 90, Livingston offers enviable quaintness with a fraction of the hype.
Just see to it to get some prime cuts of steak from Montana’sRib & Chop Housebefore you go.
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In fact, it’s the closest town toYellowstoneacross all three states that it occupies.
And it does a great job of preserving a Wild West motif.
You might even spy some healthy herds of elk or buffalo roaming the outskirts of town.
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Rentals are available at half a dozen outposts.
Ennis
Ennis sure has a lot going on for a town of less than a thousand.
Most of the buildings downtown feature wooden facades, evoking a Wild West feel.
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Virginia City
Not far from Ennis lies this former hub of the region’s 19th-century gold rush.
In its 1865 heyday, it attracted upwards of 10,000 prospectors looking for a piece of the action.
In fact, it’s older than the state by some 48 years.
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Just confirm you do more than merely pass through Red Lodge along the way.
This idyllic destination of approximately 2,300 is home to disproportionate levels of charm.
Glendive
This former railroad town is the only entry from eastern Montana to make the list.
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As such, the terrain is quite less mountainous than the rest.
Nevertheless, nature lovers will be compelled by the stark beauty ofMakoshika State Park.
It’s home to totem-like rock formations and fossil remains of prehistoric origin.
You’ll get a better glimpse of the latter at theGlendive Dinosaur & Fossil Museumin the heart of town.
