Glendive Travel Guide

Discover the natural beauty and cultural attractions of Glendive, Montana with our comprehensive travel guide. Plan your trip today.


Introduction to Glendive

Glendive is a small town in Custer Country, in eastern Montana, USA. It is located along the Yellowstone River and is known for its stunning natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and rich history. With its charming downtown, friendly residents, and endless opportunities for adventure, Glendive is the perfect destination for those seeking an authentic Montana experience.

List of Places to Visit in Glendive

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Glendive is steeped in history, and there are many museums and historical sites to explore. Some of the top attractions include:

  • Frontier Gateway Museum: Learn about the area’s history and see exhibits on everything from fossils to early settlers.
  • Makoshika State Park: Discover a geological wonderland with unique rock formations, badlands, and dinosaur bones.
  • Glendive Dinosaur and Fossil Museum: See fossils and dinosaur exhibits from all over the world, including a full-scale replica of a Triceratops skull.
  • Dawson County Historic Courthouse: This stunning courthouse was built in 1910 and is now a museum showcasing the area’s history.

Natural Attractions of Glendive: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Glendive is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery and outdoor adventures. Some of the must-see places include:

  • Yellowstone River: The longest free-flowing river in the United States, the Yellowstone River offers endless opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and tubing.
  • DCP Trails: Hike or bike these trails for stunning views of the Badlands and Yellowstone River.
  • Paddlefish Season: Between May and June, you can catch paddlefish in the Yellowstone River. It’s an experience you won’t forget!
  • Terry Badlands: Located just north of Glendive, the Terry Badlands are a beautiful area for hiking and exploring.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Glendive

Glendive offers many hiking and biking trails for all levels of experience. Some of the top routes include:

  • Makoshika State Park Trails: With over 11 miles of trails, Makoshika State Park offers breathtaking views of the Badlands and unique rock formations.
  • Dry Creek Trail: This three-mile round-trip hike offers stunning views of the Yellowstone River and Glendive.
  • Dunaway Mountain/Mt. Moriah: This strenuous hike takes you to the top of Dunaway Mountain for stunning panoramic views of the area.
  • DCP Trails: Hike or bike these trails for stunning views of the Badlands and Yellowstone River.

Best Things to Do in Glendive: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of things to do in Glendive, including:

  • Fishing: Yellowstone River is a top-rated fishing destination, with plenty of trout and paddlefish to catch.
  • Horseback Riding: Saddle up and see the beauty of the area from a different perspective.
  • Kayaking/Canoeing: Paddle down the Yellowstone River and enjoy the scenic beauty of the area.
  • Dinosaur Bone Dig: Experience Montana’s paleontological history and uncover real dinosaur bones with a guided dig.
  • Yellowstone Trail Tour: Take a guided tour of the Yellowstone Trail, which runs through Glendive and showcases the town’s history and heritage.

Week-Long Itinerary for Glendive

If you’re planning to spend a week in Glendive, here’s a sample itinerary to make the most of your trip:

  • Day 1: Visit the Frontier Gateway Museum and explore downtown Glendive.
  • Day 2: Hike the Dry Creek Trail and enjoy the stunning views of the Yellowstone River.
  • Day 3: Go paddlefish fishing on the Yellowstone River.
  • Day 4: Take a guided tour of the Yellowstone Trail and visit Makoshika State Park.
  • Day 5: Relax and enjoy a scenic horseback ride.
  • Day 6: Go on a dinosaur bone dig and visit the Glendive Dinosaur and Fossil Museum.
  • Day 7: Enjoy a final day of kayaking or canoeing on the Yellowstone River.

Food and Drink Scene of Glendive

Glendive offers a variety of dining options where visitors can enjoy local cuisine and beverages.

Must-Try Dishes

Some of the must-try dishes in Glendive include:

  • Bison burger: A classic Montana dish, bison burgers are both delicious and nutritious.
  • Montana Ribeye: Montana is known for its beef, and the Montana ribeye is no exception.
  • Huckleberry Ice Cream: Made with locally-sourced huckleberries, this sweet treat is the perfect way to end your meal.

Local Beverages

Montana is known for its microbreweries and wineries, and Glendive has plenty of options to choose from. Some of the best local beverages include:

  • Yellowstone Cellars & Winery: This winery produces a variety of reds, whites, and fruit wines.
  • Bitter Root Brewing: This microbrewery offers a variety of craft beers and has a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
  • The Crossings Bar and Grill: Enjoy a Montana-made beer or whiskey while taking in the stunning views of the Yellowstone River.

Where to Stay in Glendive: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Glendive offers a variety of lodging options to suit any budget or preference. Some of the best places to stay include:

  • North Dakota Guest House: A cozy and comfortable bed and breakfast with a homemade breakfast.
  • La Quinta Inn & Suites: A family-friendly hotel with a pool and hot tub.
  • Astoria Hotel and Suites: A budget-friendly option with clean and comfortable rooms.
  • Yellowstone River Lodge: A luxury hotel with stunning views of the Yellowstone River.

What to Buy in Glendive: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for souvenirs and local products to bring home, consider:

  • Montana-made honey: Locally-produced honey is both delicious and a great way to support local farmers.
  • Glendive T-shirts and Sweaters: Show off your Glendive pride with a t-shirt or sweater.
  • Agate Fossils: These unique rocks can only be found in Montana and make for a great conversation starter.

Local Culture and Customs of Glendive

Montana is known for its friendly and welcoming residents, and Glendive is no exception. Visitors should expect a slow-paced lifestyle and plenty of small-town charm.

Best Time to Visit Glendive

Glendive is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is between May and September when the weather is pleasant, and outdoor activities are in full swing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Glendive

Do:

  • Do try some of the local cuisine and beverages.
  • Do take advantage of the many outdoor activities available in Glendive.
  • Do take time to explore the area’s history and cultural attractions.

Don’t:

  • Don’t forget to pack for the changing weather in Montana.
  • Don’t underestimate the distance between destinations in Montana.
  • Don’t forget to be respectful of the local residents and their customs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Glendive

Glendive is generally a safe destination, but visitors should take precautions while enjoying outdoor activities, such as hiking, fishing, and kayaking. It’s always best to be prepared for changing weather conditions.

Health in Glendive

Visitors to Glendive should ensure they have the necessary vaccinations and travel insurance before embarking on their trip. Montana is known for its rugged terrain, and visitors should be prepared for outdoor activities and stay hydrated in the dry climate.

Getting to Glendive: Transportation Options and Logistics

Glendive can be reached by car or plane.

Airports Near Glendive

  • Dawson Community Airport: Located just two miles from Glendive, Dawson Community Airport offers daily flights to Billings.

Bus Stations Near Glendive

  • Glendive DART: Offers daily bus service to and from Billings.

Other Options

  • Car rental: There are several car rental companies in Glendive, making it easy to explore the surrounding area.

How to Get Around in Glendive

Glendive is a small town, and most attractions can be easily reached by foot or bike.

Where to Go Next from Glendive: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

With so much to see and do in Montana, visitors should consider exploring the surrounding area. Some of the top nearby destinations include:

  • Medora, North Dakota: This charming nearby town offers plenty of outdoor activities, as well as the famous Medora Musical.
  • Billings, Montana: This bustling city is home to several museums, parks, and cultural attractions.
  • Yellowstone National Park: Located just a few hours from Glendive, Yellowstone National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Montana.

Conclusion

Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, history buff, or foodie, Glendive has something for everyone. With its stunning natural beauty, friendly residents, and unique attractions, Glendive is the perfect destination for your next Montana adventure. Start planning your trip today!

Glendive city hall Glendive city hall