The vast majority of Montanans love small-town living (and visiting). That being said, it’s easy to overlook those little towns that tend to fly under the radar — but sometimes, those are the best spots to visit. Hardin happens to be one of the most underrated small towns in Montana and one you must visit. Keep reading below to learn about some things to do in Hardin, Montana, and why you should visit.

Hardin is a small city in Big Horn County with a history founded in farming and cattle ranching,
Don Barrett / Flickr
The area was settled by cattle ranchers and later by sheep ranchers in the late 1800s.
In 1907, the railroad depot was moved from Lodge Grass to Hardin, increasing the population and popularity.
Wikipedia
You can still see the depot at the Big Horn County Historical Museum.
And while checking out the Big Horn County Historical Museum is a must, simply walking around town will give you a dose of local history.
Jimmy Emerson, DVM / Flickr
This is the Lee Building, which dates back to 1918 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Walking through downtown Hardin feels like going back in time in the best way.
Don Barrett / Flickr
Between the century-old buildings and the friendly locals, visiting feels downright pleasant.

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While you won't find hundreds of restaurants in town, there are definitely some tasty dining options, like 3 Brothers Bistro.
management / TripAdvisor
The pizza and pasta here are delicious.
Hardin is close to some impressive attractions, like the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument...
Steve Waiser / Flickr
... and the beautiful Bighorn River is a mere mile away.
Loren Kerns / Flickr
It's the perfect place to enjoy a day of fly fishing.
There's really a lot to love about Hardin, easily one of the most underrated small towns in Montana.
Don Barrett / Flickr
It's in a part of Montana that often gets overlooked, but when you visit, you'll discover an underrated gem.

Have you ever visited Hardin, MT? Do you agree that it’s one of the most underrated small towns in Montana? What are some of your favorite things to do in Hardin, Montana? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!

Here are some other underrated small towns in the Treasure State that you should add to your bucket list.

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More to Explore

underrated small towns in Montana

Beth C. | August 04, 2021

What are the most charming small towns in Montana?

  • Whitefish
  • Big Timber
  • Choteau
  • Stevensville
  • Lewiston
  • Libby
  • Columbia Falls
  • And many more ...

 

When most people think about Montana, visions of mountains, rivers, and wildlife typically come to mind. Yet the Treasure State is just as famous for its lovely small towns. Some of the most charming small towns in Montana include Whitefish, Big Timber, Choteau, Stevensville, Lewistown, Libby, Columbia Falls, Hamilton, Eureka, and Augusta. How many of these charming small towns in Montana have you visited?

What are some hidden gems in Montana?

Filled with gorgeous scenery and breathtaking natural wonders, Montana is a state that everyone should explore. When it comes to hidden gems in Montana, there are several that belong on your radar. The following is a list of places that locals tend to keep to themselves since they're so incredible: the Rimrocks in Billings, Makoshika State Park, Blue Mountain Observatory, Bridger Canyon, Yaak Valley, Passage Falls, Charles M. Russell Wildlife Refuge, Gibson Dam, and Missouri Headwaters State Park. Learn more about these incredible hidden gems in Montana.

Does Montana have any ghost towns?

Yes! If you're fascinated by the idea of abandoned ghost towns, you'll find that Montana won't disappoint. Some fascinating ghost towns in Montana that you can explore include Garnet, Elkhorn, Montana City, Bannack, Castle Town, Coloma, Hell Gate, and Taft. Did you know that these abandoned ghost towns in Montana existed? You can learn more by exploring our previous article: Visit These Creepy Ghost Towns In Montana At Your Own Risk. In fact, we even put together a road trip that highlights some of the most abandoned places in Montana. If you're interested, be sure to check out this Haunting Road Trip Through Montana's Ghost Towns That You Won't Soon Forget.

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Hardin, MT 59034, USA