National Parks in Montana
10 NPS units in Montana — complete visitor guides with fees, hours, hiking, camping, and seasonal tips.
Visiting National Parks in Montana
Montana is home to 10 units managed by the National Park Service, ranging from 2 full national parks to historic sites, monuments, and recreation areas. Whether you're planning a weekend road trip or a multi-week adventure, Montana's national parks offer some of the most spectacular scenery in the United States.
Before your visit, make sure to check current entrance fees, operating hours, and any active alerts — all updated daily on each park's page. The America the Beautiful Annual Pass ($80) covers entrance to all NPS units and is highly recommended if you plan to visit multiple parks in Montana.
National Parks in Montana
Glacier
A showcase of melting glaciers, alpine meadows, carved valleys, and spectacular lakes. With over 700 miles of trails, Glacier is…
Full visitor guide →
Yellowstone
On March 1, 1872, Yellowstone became the first national park for all to enjoy the unique hydrothermal wonders. Today, millions…
Full visitor guide →Other NPS Units in Montana
Big Hole
National Battlefield
On August 9, 1877, gunshots shattered a chilly dawn on a sleeping…
Bighorn Canyon
National Recreation Area
The vast, wild landscape of Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area offers visitors…
Fort Union Trading Post
National Historic Site
Between 1828 and 1867, Fort Union was the most important fur trade…
Grant-Kohrs Ranch
National Historic Site
Wide open spaces, the hard-working cowboy, his spirited cow pony, and vast…
Ice Age Floods
National Geologic Trail
At the end of the last Ice Age, 18,000 to 15,000 years…
Lewis & Clark
National Historic Trail
The Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail winds nearly 4,900 miles through…
Little Bighorn Battlefield
National Monument
This land is a place to honor and reflect on the sacrifices…
Nez Perce
National Historical Park
Since time immemorial, the valleys, prairies, mountains, and plateaus of the inland…
Planning Your Montana National Park Trip
- →Best time to visit: Shoulder seasons (May and September) offer the best combination of good weather, open facilities, and manageable crowds across Montana's parks.
- →America the Beautiful Pass: At $80/year, this annual pass covers entrance to all 10+ NPS units in Montana and all other NPS units nationwide.
- →Book early: Lodging and campsite reservations at popular parks fill up months in advance. Plan and book as early as possible, especially for summer visits.
- →Check alerts: Road closures, fire restrictions, and seasonal closures can affect your plans. Check each park's page for current alerts before you go.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many national parks are in Montana?
Montana has 2 designated national parks and 10 total NPS-managed units, including monuments, recreation areas, and historic sites.
What is the best national park to visit in Montana?
The best park depends on your interests. Glacier is one of the most popular options. Browse the parks above to find the one that matches your travel style.
Do I need a pass to visit national parks in Montana?
Most NPS units in Montana charge an entrance fee. The America the Beautiful Annual Pass ($80) covers entrance to all of them and is great value if you plan to visit more than 2-3 parks.
About the Author
James R. Mitchell
Founder & Lead Writer — National Park Data
James has visited all 63 designated US national parks and has been writing about outdoor travel for over 12 years. He spent 8 years as a wilderness guide in the Rocky Mountains before founding National Park Data to help visitors plan better, safer, and more enjoyable park trips.