Recreation & Entertainment

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As a vast, mountainous state, Montana offers numerous year-round outdoor recreation options. Lively communities host many events, while cities present visitors with numerous cultural opportunities.

Hikers, bikers and campers enjoy the myriad of trails and campsites at Glacier National Park, majestic Yellowstone National Park or one of Montana’s 47 state parks, such as Painted Rocks or Thompson Falls. Fishing is another popular recreation activity, in a number of streams, lakes and cricks or one of Montana’s spectacular rivers, such as the Yellowstone. Montana’s mighty rivers also offer world-class rafting. White water enthusiasts enjoy Montana’s swifter gorges, while wildlife viewers may relax on scenic float trips. Other warm weather activities include rock climbing, canoeing and kayaking.

Winter also offers a plethora of outdoor options. Downhill skiers and snowboarders have more than 14,000 acres (5,666 hect.) and 16 ski areas to choose from, including Big Sky Resort and Teton Pass. Private companies also offer backcountry ski trips. Cross-country skiing offers amazing scenic opportunities and is available in many parks, private centers and public areas, including Elkhorn Hot Springs and Helena National Forest. Other winter activities include snowmobiling, ice skating and ice sailing.

Montana hosts many year-round community events as well. Summer events include farmers’ markets, fairs, such as the huge Montana State Fair, rodeos and festivals, including the Billings Micro Brew Festival. Winter events include the Winter Carnival in Whitefish, which offers music, games and food, and the Winterfest in Seeley Lake.

Cities such as Billings, Helena, Bozeman and Missoula are home to cultural activities, such as theaters and museums. The Alberta Bair Theater for the Performing Arts , in Billings, is the largest theatre between Seattle and Minneapolis. Museums include the Yellowstone Art Museum, in Billings, the Montana Historical Society Museum, in Helena, and the Museum of the Rockies, in Bozeman.

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