Montana is a premier vacation destination, no matter when you choose to visit. With its mountainous landscapes and so many activities to partake in, you can’t go wrong with a vacation here!
Wondering what time of year would be best for you to come visit? Lucky for you, we've gathered together some of our favorite things to do every season here in Montana. Read our seasonal guide on the best time to visit Montana so you can make an informed decision about your next trip!
Spring in Montana (March - May)
Spring in Montana is quite beautiful! The mountains are still snowcapped from wintry days, and the valleys are just starting to bloom with greenery and flowers. The grey weather on rainy days makes for perfect fishing conditions, too! Grab your fishing pole—the rivers are full of trout this time of year!
If you’re ready to head out on a hiking adventure, spring is a great time to visit Montana. Hiking trails begin to open up again this time of year, and with temperatures not quite so cold as winter and not as sizzling as summertime, it’s a great time to hit the trails. They’re often less crowded this time of year, too! Enjoy the beautiful sights of wildflowers on the mountains and watch Montana come alive again this spring. Notable trails include those in Yellowstone National Park and the Bitterroot National Forest.
Average Temperatures by Month:
March: 34°F (Highs: 47°F, Lows 35°F)
April: 43°F (Highs 56°F , Lows 33°F)
May: 52°F (Highs 65°F, Lows 41°F)
Spring Events:
- MSU Spring Rodeo: Come experience the thrill of the rodeo at MSU! Participants from all over the region come out to test their skills at this beloved annual event.
- Montana Brewers Association Spring Rendezvous: A popular event featuring local brews, food, and live music, drawing both locals and visitors.
Summer (June - August)
There’s even more to do in Montana in the summer! Summer is peak tourist season here, with warm weather and long days perfect for exploring the great outdoors. Montana's amazing national and state parks are at their best during these months, offering a range of activities from hiking to wildlife viewing.
With numerous trails and campgrounds, summer is ideal for exploring Montana’s natural beauty. Popular hikes include the Drinking Horse Mountain Trail and, if you're in for more of a drive, the Beehive Basin Trail near Big Sky. Horseback riding is another popular summer activity—take a detour and traverse the road less traveled on a horse!
There are also beautiful lakes and rivers, such as Flathead Lake and the Madison River, that offer excellent opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water sports. You can even brave the rapids and go white-water rafting! There’s no shortage of things to do in the summer in Montana.
Average Temperatures by Month:
June: 60°F (Highs: 74°F, Lows 48°F)
July: 68°F (Highs 83°F , Lows 54°F)
August: 66°F (Highs 82°F, Lows 52°F)
Events:
- Montana Folk Festival in Butte: One of the largest free outdoor festivals in the Northwest, featuring music, crafts, and food. (July 12th-14th 2024)
- Big Sky Country State Fair: Held in Bozeman, this fair includes rodeos, concerts, and carnival rides, providing entertainment for all ages. (July 17th-21st 2024)
- Sweet Pea Festival: See music of all genres, immerse yourself in local theater, and visit over 100 arts and crafts vendors throughout this 3-day festival that honors the local art scene in Bozeman. (August 2nd – 4th 2024)
- Bozeman Stampede: This thrilling rodeo event brings together the best of Western culture, with bull riding, barrel racing, and fun for the whole family. (August 8th – August 10th 2024)
Fall (September - November)
The weather starts cooling back down during fall in Montana. The cooler temperatures make it a great time to get out on the hiking trails while they’re less crowded. It’s also prime hunting and fishing season if you’re looking to get out on the hunt!
The fall foliage in Bozeman is a sight to see; take in the stunning views of the leaves as they turn all shades of red, orange, and yellow in the crisp fall air. Take a drive through the Gallatin Valley or hike the trails in the Bridger Mountains and Hyalite Canyon to enjoy the spectacular fall colors.
Average Temperatures by Month:
September: 56°F (Highs: 71°F, Lows 43°F)
October: 43°F (Highs 57°F , Lows 33°F)
November: 31°F (Highs 41°F, Lows 23°F)
Events:
- Bozeman Made Fair: Explore a modern handcrafted market featuring 195+ artists selling goods of all kinds! (October 18th – October 19th 2024)
- Bridger Raptor Festival: Held at Bridger Bowl, this festival celebrates the migration of raptors with educational programs and family-friendly activities. It’s a unique and exciting event for all ages. (October 5th – October 6th 2024)
Winter (December - February)
Winter in Montana is not for the faint of heart! It can get pretty cold around these parts, but if you can brave the weather, you’ll find that it’s a truly magical place to spend a winter vacation.
Winter in Montana offers a different kind of beauty; it looks like a snowy wonderland! Montana is a paradise for avid skiers and snowboarders, with world-class resorts like Big Sky offering some of the best slopes in the region. There are also ample opportunities to go snowmobiling on one of Montana’s many well-groomed trails.
When it’s time to warm up, there’s nothing better than relaxing in one of Montana’s natural hot springs, like Bozeman Hot Springs. Soak in the warmth and let the soothing waters melt away the chill, providing a perfect end to your adventurous day.
Average Temperatures by Month:
December: 21°F (Highs 31°F, Lows 14°F )
January: 22°F (Highs 32°F, Lows 14°F )
February: 26°F (Highs 37°F, Lows 18°F )
Events:
- Bozeman Ice Festival: This premier ice climbing event features clinics, competitions, and films, attracting climbers from around the world. Even if you’re not a climber, it’s a fascinating event to watch. (December 11th – 15th 2024)
- Christmas Stroll: Kick off the holiday season with festive lights, music, and activities in downtown Bozeman. It’s a magical way to get into the holiday spirit! (December 7th, 2024)
Book Your Montana Vacation with Mountain Home!
You can’t go wrong with a trip to Montana, no matter what time of year you decide to visit! Once you’ve decided when you want to come, it’s time to get that vacation booked.
Mountain Home is here to help you every step of the way, whether you’re looking for a long-term rental, a rental with a hot tub, or want to bring your pet along. Browse our available vacation rentals today and book your next Montana summer vacation directly with Mountain Home Montana Vacation Residences!