7 Charming Small Towns in Montana

When you think about moving to Montana, bustling cities like Billings or Missoula may come to mind. However, this province has a lot to offer. From small towns to community festivals, Montana’s small towns are perfect for anyone who wants to experience what life is like in its quiet corners. In this Redfin article, we’ll discuss 7 charming towns in Montana, each with its own unique character and plenty of reasons to call it home.
1. West Yellowstone, MT
West Yellowstone Real Estate | West Yellowstone real estate
West Yellowstone is the gateway to Yellowstone National Park, making it an area full of outdoor recreation and natural beauty. Visitors flock here to reach some of the country’s most iconic landmarks, including Old Faithful and the Grand Prismatic Spring. The Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center is a popular attraction where visitors can learn about the region’s wildlife. Additionally, you may get a chance to see grizzly bears and wolves up close. In the winter, West Yellowstone becomes a popular destination for snowmobilers and cross-country skiers. This is due to its proximity to world-class trails and the annual Yellowstone Ski Festival. After a day of exploring, locals and visitors enjoy relaxing in one of the cozy lodges or grabbing a bite at Wild West Pizzeria.
2. Stevensville, MT
Real estate for sale in Stevensville | Real estate in Stevensville
Stevensville, often referred to as “Montana’s first permanent settlement,” is a city with deep historical roots. St. Mary’s Mission, founded in 1841, is a central location where visitors can explore Montana’s early history and the role the town played in shaping the country. Every summer, Stevensville hosts the Creamery Picnic, a local festival dating back to 1911. An event with parades, live music, and plenty of local food. Nature lovers will appreciate the town’s location in the Bitterroot Valley, with easy access to the Bitterroot River for fishing, rafting, and hiking.
3. Thompson Falls, MT
Thompson Falls Real Estate | Real estate in Thompson Falls
Thompson Falls is a small town along the Clark Fork River. The town’s name comes from nearby Thompson Falls, a beautiful waterfall that draws visitors to its beautiful riverside park. There are many outdoor activity opportunities in Thompson Falls. Some of them include boating, hiking, and fishing in the surrounding mountains and forests. Every September, the town hosts the Sanders County Fair and Rodeo, where locals gather for rodeo events, carnival rides, and a local agricultural fair. History buffs will enjoy the Old Jail Museum, which highlights the town’s past as a logging and frontier settlement.
4. Red Lodge, MT
Red Lodge Real Estate | Apartments for rent in Red Lodge
Red Lodge is a beautiful town located at the foot of the Beartooth Mountains. The town serves as the starting point for the famous Beartooth Highway, a scenic drive that leads to Yellowstone National Park. Every July, Red Lodge hosts the Home of Champions Rodeo. This is a long-standing tradition where people gather for rodeos, parades, and fireworks. In the winter, the town transforms into a ski resort with Red Lodge Mountain Resort, offering slopes for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels.
5. Ronan, MT
Ronan Houses | Houses in Ronan
Located in the heart of Mission Valley, Ronan is a small town surrounded by views of the Mission Mountains and Flathead Lake. Agriculture plays a major role in the town’s identity and every August, Ronan hosts the Lake County Fair. During the event, locals show off their livestock, crops, and crafts, all while enjoying carnival rides and live music. The nearby Ninepipes Museum of Early Montana offers a fascinating look at the region’s Native American and pioneer history, making it a popular stop for tourists. Outdoor enthusiasts love this area’s access to Flathead Lake, perfect for fishing, boating and swimming.
6. Choteau, MT
Houses in Choteau | Houses in Choteau
Known as the gateway to both Glacier National Park and the Bob Marshall Wilderness, Choteau has endless opportunities for outdoor exploration. Other favorite things to do include hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching. Additionally, this town is famous for its paleontological significance. Nearby Egg Mountain is one of the most important dinosaur fossil sites in North America. Visitors can learn more about the region’s early history at the Old Trail Museum, which includes exhibits on local history, dinosaurs, and Native American culture.
7. Three forks, MT
Three Forks Real Estate | Apartments for rent in Three Forks
The Three Forks are located at the confluence of the Gallatin, Madison, and Jefferson rivers, which form the Missouri River. This historic site is commemorated at Missouri Headwaters State Park, where you can explore the Lewis and Clark Expedition’s journey through the region. Each summer, Three Forks hosts the annual Three Forks Rodeo. This is a fun event that brings the community together for rodeo competitions, live music, and great food. Additionally, downtown Three Forks is home to historic buildings and great restaurants like the Iron Horse CafĂ©, where you can enjoy a delicious breakfast.
How to do it: The median home sales price ranges from Redfin Data Center.
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