Montana is a peaceful place, but that doesn’t mean life in the Last Best Place is always relaxing. If you’ve had a busy or stressful year, you’re probably dreaming of a quiet retreat in the new year. Here’s where to go to get away from it all after winter.
1. Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge
Located in the southwest corner of Montana near Lima, Red Rock is an underrated gem. The refuge boasts the largest wetland complex within the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Camping and picnics are permitted here, but you'll definitely want to wait until summer for all that.
2. Hyalite Canyon
The Hyalite Canyon Recreation Area is popular for a reason -- it's incredible. And with three campgrounds, two day use areas, and plenty of hikes, it's the perfect place to spend time in nature.
3. Humbug Spires Wilderness
The Humbug Spires Primitive Area is popular with rock climbers, but you certainly don't have to be that daring to enjoy it. Located in Silver Bow County about 24 miles from Butte, it's a beautiful place for a day hike.
4. Kintla Lake Campground
This campground sits in one of the most remote parts of Montana, just 40 miles from the Canadian border at Glacier National Park. It's rustic, quiet, and perfectly peaceful.
5. Seeley Lake
Surounded by the Mission and Swan mountain ranges, Seeley Lake makes a relaxing getaway in any season. Summers are stunning, and Winterfest will warm up your January.
6. Natural Bridge State Park
Located in Big Timber, this secluded park is a little piece of paradise. The natural sandstone arch from which this park takes its name is quite a sight.
7. Wild Horse Island
You may not see any wild horses on this island, but you will see some of Montana's finest scenery. Wild Horse Island sits in the middle of Flathead Lake, and it's popular for wildlife viewing and its incredibly scenic shoreline.
8. Tizer Botanical Gardens & Arboretum
This collection of gardens In Jefferson City will completely relax you. They're open for viewing daily from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., weather permitting.
9. Werner Peak Lookout
Whitefish is a charming place, but it definitely draws crowds. But if you rent the Werner Peak Lookout, which is one of several fire lookouts in Montana where you can spend the night, you'll have a nice secluded spot with the best views in town.
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