Things to do in Montana, United States: The Best Canyons

May 12, 2022 Enriqueta Cusson

No matter where you look in Montana, you’ll find unspoiled nature, charming small towns and relaxing hospitality. Explore Glacier and Yellowstone National Parks, then hit the road to discover more natural wonders. You can hike, bike or horseback ride through rugged mountain landscapes, fly-fish blue ribbon trout streams, paddle scenic rivers and lakes, or spend winter days carving fresh powder at ski resorts — then end your day wandering a vibrant main street or relaxing in a cozy lodge.
Restaurants in Montana

1. Black Canyon

Yellowstone National Park, WY
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

Scenic section of the Yellowstone River that is excellent for fishing and other outdoor activities.

2. Gallatin Canyon

Bozeman, MT
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5.0 based on 132 reviews

Gallatin Canyon

Reviewed By VacationsRWanderful

The drive between Bozeman and West Yellowstone along The Gallatin River is a great way to see the beautiful scenery and wildlife outside of Yellowstone NP. It’s about a 90 mile drive one way. We saw elk and moose along the way.

3. Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone

Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190 https://www.yellowstonepark.com/things-to-do/grand-canyon-of-the-yellowstone-colors
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5.0 based on 5,017 reviews

Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone

Reviewed By USN_Seabee_Wife - Chehalis, United States

#1 Rule: Don't forget your camera, make sure your batteries are charged and that you have plenty of SD cards for your digital camera. What is here: The dramatic, 1,000-foot-deep Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone rewards visitors with dazzling views of multi-hued rock walls and majestic waterfalls. With walking and hiking trails for all abilities, and learning opportunities for the whole family, it’s easy to spend an entire day in this unique area of the park. The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone is roughly 20 miles long and varies from 1,500 to 4,000 feet wide. Geologists believe it was formed as the Yellowstone River eroded softer, less resistant rock that had been weakened by hydrothermal gases and hot water. The colorful canyon is a natural work of art: streaks of red, orange, gold, black, and even green decorate the canyon walls. Several miles of trails connect 10 primary overlooks that afford dramatic views from both sides of the canyon. When we went there had been snowfall and it made the most beautiful pictures since it was combined with all of the colors of the canyon. Whether it’s your first visit to Yellowstone, or you visit regularly, everyone loves a summer day in the park. Here’s how to get the most out of yours. The best way to experience all the different facets of the canyon’s charm is to pick a trail and go for a hike. There are many trails along both canyon rims, from short jaunts to all-day treks. Here are a few of our favorites: Brink of the Lower Falls Trail (moderate): Descend 600 feet on a steep trail to get an up-close and personal view of the Lower Falls in all its thundering power. 0.7 miles, round-trip Seven Mile Hole Trail (strenuous): You’ll want to commit a whole day to this trail – the only one that leads to the canyon bottom.10.2 miles, round-trip Point Sublime Trail (easy): After visiting the Artist Point overlook, follow the South Rim Trail beyond Artist Point to this less-traveled path, which meanders along the canyon rim to the aptly named Point Sublime. 1.3 miles from Artist Point to Point Sublime View the Canyon and Falls While some views of the canyon and falls are only accessible by trail, you can still get to the following overlooks by car and a short walk from the parking lots on paved, accessible walkways. From North Rim Drive: View the Lower Falls from Lookout Point, Red Rock Point, Grand View, and Inspiration Point. Both waterfalls are visible from Brink of the Lower Falls. From South Rim Drive: See the Upper Falls from two viewpoints at Uncle Tom’s Point. View the Lower Falls at Artist Point. Several of the canyon overlooks and trails, which were originally built in the 1930s, are being rehabilitated with support from Yellowstone Forever. Over the years, they have been hammered by unforgiving weather, compromised by soil erosion, and damaged by increased visitation. In recent years, these conditions have prompted some temporary or long-term closures.

4. South Rim Trail

Yellowstone National Park, WY
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4.5 based on 237 reviews

South Rim Trail

Considered by many to be the best area to view and explore the Grand Canyon.

Reviewed By jesseo582 - Jackson, United States

This easy trail is accessible in segments from various locations all the way from Chittenden Bridge to Artist Point. It’s highly recommended for showing different aspects of a portion of this amazing yellow canyon unimagined by visitors who stand at maybe two overlooks and leave with only that limited perspective. Like walking along the rim of Arizona’s Grand Canyon, this walk will bring it alive for you.

5. Bear Trap Canyon

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4.0 based on 1 reviews

Cutting its way through 1500 feet of granite rock of the Madison Range, the canyon offers great recreational opportunities including white water challenges.

6. Yankee Jim Canyon

Scenic canyon along Montana's Yellowstone River.

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