Missouri River Country Travel Guide

Explore the scenic beauty of Missouri River Country in Montana, United States of America. Discover natural attractions, cultural landmarks, and outdoor adventures with our comprehensive guide.


Introduction to Missouri River Country

Missouri River Country, located in the Rocky Mountains region of Montana, is a destination for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and nature lovers. The area is known for its stunning landscapes, river views, and rugged terrain that provide endless opportunities for adventure. The region is home to several Native American tribes, whose customs and traditions are still celebrated today. Missouri River Country is a great place to unplug and reconnect with nature, whether it’s camping, hiking, or fishing.

List of Places to Visit in Missouri River Country

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Fort Peck Interpretive Center and Museum: The Fort Peck Interpretive Center offers visitors an opportunity to explore the history of the area, including the construction of the nearby Fort Peck Dam.
  • Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center: Located in Great Falls, the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center highlights the journey and discoveries of the famed explorers.
  • Makoshika State Park: Makoshika State Park boasts unique rock formations, diverse wildlife, and fossils that date back over 70 million years. The park has several hiking trails, camping sites, and picnic areas.

Natural Attractions of Missouri River Country: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Missouri River: The Missouri River runs through the heart of Missouri River Country and provides opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and riverboat tours.
  • Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge: The Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge spans over two million acres and offers scenic views, hiking trails, and camping sites.
  • Garnet Ghost Town: Garnet Ghost Town is a preserved gold-mining town from the late 1800s that offers visitors a glimpse into Montana’s mining history.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Missouri River Country

  • The River’s Edge Trail: The River’s Edge Trail, located in Great Falls, is a 40-mile trail that runs alongside the Missouri River. The trail is open to bikers and hikers and offers scenic views of the river and rugged terrain.
  • Hell’s Canyon Wilderness Trails: Hell’s Canyon Wilderness Trails is a network of trails that offers hikers and bikers an opportunity to explore the rugged canyon country of the Missouri Breaks.
  • Pryor Mountain Wild Horse Range: The Pryor Mountain Wild Horse Range has several hiking trails that offer views of scenic landscapes and wild horses.

Best Things to Do in Missouri River Country: Activities and Tours

  • Fly Fishing: The Missouri River is a world-renowned destination for fly fishing, with opportunities to catch rainbow and brown trout.
  • Horseback Riding: Several outfitters offer guided horseback riding tours, allowing visitors to see the scenic landscapes of Missouri River Country from a different perspective.
  • River Rafting: River rafting on the Missouri River provides an exhilarating experience with Class I and II rapids.

Week-Long Itinerary for Missouri River Country

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center in Great Falls
Day 2 Explore Makoshika State Park, hike the trails, and enjoy a picnic
Day 3 Take a riverboat tour of the Missouri River
Day 4 Spend the day fly fishing on the Missouri River
Day 5 Go horseback riding with a guided tour
Day 6 Visit Fort Peck Interpretive Center and Museum
Day 7 Explore the Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge

Food and Drink Scene of Missouri River Country

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bison Burger: Try a classic American bison burger, a leaner and healthier alternative to beef.
  • Huckleberry Pie: Huckleberry pie is a Montana favorite made with the region’s native huckleberries and a buttery crust.
  • Montana Trout: Trout from the Missouri River is a local delicacy and can be prepared in several ways, including pan-seared or grilled.

Local Beverages

  • Montana Microbrews: Montana has several local microbreweries that offer a range of craft beers.
  • Huckleberry Wine: Huckleberry wine is a sweet dessert wine made from the local huckleberries and pairs well with a variety of dishes.
  • Montana Whiskey: Montana whiskey is a unique blend of local grains and pure spring water from the Rocky Mountains.

Where to Stay in Missouri River Country: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Missouri River Country offers a range of accommodations to suit different tastes and budgets. Visitors can choose from luxury hotels, rustic cabins, cozy guesthouses, and budget-friendly hostels.

  • The Great Falls Historic Trolley: The Great Falls Historic Trolley offers a unique experience with railcar-themed rooms and vintage train memorabilia.
  • Fort Peck Hotel: The Fort Peck Hotel is a restored 1930s hotel that offers cozy rooms and an on-site restaurant.
  • Makoshika State Park Campgrounds: Makoshika State Park offers camping sites for visitors who want to stay close to nature.

What to Buy in Missouri River Country: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Native American Jewelry: Several Native American tribes call Missouri River Country home, and visitors can buy unique pieces of handcrafted jewelry made from local materials.
  • Montana Made Crafts: Montana is known for its locally made crafts, including pottery, textiles, and woodwork.
  • Huckleberry Jam: Huckleberries are a Montana native fruit and are used to make delicious jams, syrups, and preserves.

Local Culture and Customs of Missouri River Country

Missouri River Country is home to several Native American tribes, including the Assiniboine and Sioux tribes. Visitors can learn about their customs and traditions through cultural events, tribal powwows, and the many museums and historical landmarks.

Best Time to Visit Missouri River Country

The best time to visit Missouri River Country is in the summer months, from late May to early September. During this time, the weather is mild, and many outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, and camping are available. Spring and fall can also be excellent times to visit, with fewer crowds and lower prices.

Do’s and Don’ts of Missouri River Country

Do:

  • Respect Native American culture and customs.
  • Check weather and river conditions before participating in any outdoor activities.
  • Be prepared for changes in weather and pack layers accordingly.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage natural landmarks.
  • Enter private property without permission.
  • Disrupt wildlife or disturb their habitats.

Safety and Health

Safety in Missouri River Country

Visitors should always be prepared for changes in weather conditions and should carry appropriate gear and clothing. It’s important to be aware of potential wildlife encounters, especially when camping or hiking in remote areas.

Health in Missouri River Country

Visitors to Missouri River Country should be prepared for varying altitudes and should stay hydrated to avoid altitude sickness. It’s also essential to pack any necessary medications and to be aware of any pre-existing medical conditions.

Getting to Missouri River Country: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Missouri River Country

The closest major airport to Missouri River Country is the Great Falls International Airport, which is serviced by several major airlines.

Bus Stations Near Missouri River Country

Greyhound offers bus service to Great Falls, which is the nearest major city to Missouri River Country.

Other Options

Many visitors opt to rent a car to explore the area. Car rental businesses are easy to find in major cities like Great Falls and Billings.

How to Get Around in Missouri River Country

Tourists can get around Missouri River Country by car, bike, or on foot. Several local tour companies also offer guided tours of the area.

Where to Go Next from Missouri River Country: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Yellowstone National Park: Yellowstone National Park is a three-hour drive from Missouri River Country and offers stunning landscapes, dramatic geysers, and diverse wildlife.
  • Glacier National Park: Glacier National Park is a six-hour drive from Missouri River Country and offers breathtaking views of mountain peaks, glaciers, and lakes.
  • Billings: Billings is Montana’s largest city and offers visitors cultural attractions, shopping, and dining options.

Conclusion

Missouri River Country is a hidden gem in the Rocky Mountains and offers visitors a chance to disconnect from their everyday lives and reconnect with nature. With its stunning landscapes, outdoor adventures, and vibrant Native American culture, this area is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves the great outdoors.



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