The Last Best Season: Montana Autumn

Montana is truly beautiful year-round, but when the leaves start to change, and the weather cools down from the heart summer, it is truly special. Montana is a stunning place, with absolutely breathtaking scenery and a great variety of outdoor activities to enjoy. While every season here has its own special charm, there's something truly magical about Big Sky Country in the autumn. From the vibrant and changing colors of the leaves to the crisp, cool air, here are 10 reasons why Autumn is one of the best times to visit our great state.

FALLING LEAVES

If you're somebody who loves to watch the leaves turn from green into a rich array of red, gold, copper, and yellow, this is the time and place you'll need to find yourself. The absolute best months to see the ever-changing fall foliage in Montana is typically in late September through mid-October! This is of course depending on the elevation and weather conditions, but whether it's a rainy fall day or a glowing autumn paradise, Montana shows up with crisp colors. Some of the absolute best places to see the ever-changing leaves include Glacier National Park, the Beartooth Highway, and the Bitterroot Valley. As you're driving or hiking through the mountains, you'll be surrounded by a sea of vibrant colors! From the gorgeous, golden aspens to the fiery red maples. It's a truly breathtaking sight that you will not want to miss. So make sure to grab your camera, book your flight, and hit the road to experience the autumnal beauty of Montana in the autumn.

WILDLIFE WATCH

Autumn is a really great time to spot wildlife in Montana. As the temperatures start to cool down, the native animals become more and more active and visible. You may even see elk, moose, bighorn sheep, and if you're really lucky, bears! Bears will be ready to settle down, as they fatten up prepare for their hibernation in winter. Many of the wildlife tours and guided hikes that are available during this time will be giving you the opportunity to see these majestic creatures up close and personal! And in the comfortable coolness of the falltime weather. Just be sure to remember to keep a safe distance, use proper outdoor etiquette, and respect their natural habitat.

SUMMER COOL OFF

One of the top reasons to visit Montana in the autumn is the cooler temperatures. After a hot summer, the crisp air is a welcome relief and makes for perfect hiking weather. The average temperature in Montana during the fall is around 60 degrees Fahrenheit, making it comfortable to explore the outdoors without feeling too hot or too cold. Plus, the cooler temperatures also mean fewer crowds, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of Montana without the hustle and bustle of peak tourist season.

LESS CROWDS

Montana is becoming more and more popular, where it used to be sort of a hidden and mysterious gem. This means that one of the biggest advantages of visiting Montana in the autumn is the lack of crowds. Summer has passed, and people who are looking for that Montana summer vacation will have already gotten their fix. With fewer tourists around, you can actually enjoy the peace and serenity of the state's natural beauty without feeling rushed, annoyed, or crowded. This is especially true for the more popular tourist destinations like Yellowstone National Park, where the summer crowds and tourist groups can be overwhelming. In the fall, you can peacefully take your time exploring the park's stunning landscapes, without feeling like you're competing for precious space with other visitors. You can also ensure that what you do see will be more exclusive, and animals will feel more comfortable with less crowded groups passing through. So, if you're looking for a peaceful, beautiful, and relaxing vacation, Montana in the golden autumn season is the perfect choice.

HARVEST FESTIVALS

Known for the incredible community and produce grown in Montana, one of the best things about visiting Montana in the autumn is the abundance of harvest festivals!! From the classic Montana Bale Trail Festival, to the charming and historic Montana State Fair, there are plenty of opportunities to celebrate the season and enjoy the local food, music, and culture. You can sample unbelievably fresh produce, watch live entertainment, and even participate in our traditional activities like pumpkin carving and hayrides! Harvest festivals are truly a great way to experience the local community and get a good taste of Montana's completely unique culture.