Transportation

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Montana contains a unique transportation system, adapted to meet the needs of a large state and dispersed populace. Road, rail and air systems connect Montana internally, and with the nation and the world.

There are approximately 71,000 miles (114,263 km) of roads in Montana. Major interstates traverse much of the state. I-15 runs 397 miles (639 km) through Montana, from Sweetgrass, at the Canadian border, south through important cities such as Salt Lake City and Las Vegas, before ending in San Diego. I-90 provides direct access to both coasts. It runs 597 miles (961 km) through Montana, connecting to major metropolitan areas, including Seattle, Chicago and Boston. I-94 begins in Billings and connects Montana to important northern markets, such as Minneapolis and Detroit. Greyhound, Rimrock Trailways and Powder River Trailways all provide convenient passenger bus service through many cities, while numerous transportation companies provide commercial overland transport.

Approximately 3,400 miles (5,472 km) of rail track connect Montana. Major regional and transcontinental carriers service Montana, including Burlington Northern/Santa Fe and Union Pacific Railroad. Amtrak provides passenger service as part of its Chicago-Seattle route.

There are more than 100 airports in Montana, as well as two heliports and a seaplane base. Billings Logan International Airport is the largest airport, with seven passenger airlines and 12 cargo and mail carriers.

Montana’s vast transportation network makes both passenger travel and commercial transport convenient to regional, national and international centers.

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