Malta Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Malta, Montana with our comprehensive travel guide featuring top attractions, hiking/biking routes, food scene, where to stay, and more.


Malta, Montana may be a small town, but it’s big on outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, and local culture. This comprehensive travel guide will help you plan your trip to Malta, including top attractions, hiking and biking routes, food scene, where to stay, and more. So, let’s dive in!

Introduction to Malta

Malta is a town in Phillips County, Montana, located in the Rocky Mountains and Missouri River Country of the United States of America. The area is known for its ranching, farming, and outdoor recreation opportunities, making it a perfect destination for those who love the great outdoors.

List of Places to Visit in Malta

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Phillips County Museum: showcases the history of the county, including the 10,000 artifacts of the Mashkawisen Exhibit, which tells the story of the Gros Ventre and Assiniboine tribes.
  • Great Plains Dinosaur Museum and Field Station: Displays over 50,000 dinosaur fossils, making it one of the largest dinosaur museums in the world.
  • Malta Centennial Library: offers books on local history, culture, and wildlife.

Natural Attractions of Malta: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Sleeping Buffalo Hot Springs and Resort: Relax in one of the natural hot springs pools surrounded by beautiful views of the valley.
  • Bowdoin National Wildlife Refuge: home to over 300 species of birds and various wildlife such as moose, elk, and coyotes.
  • Frenchman River: popular for fly fishing and scenic hikes.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Malta

  • Malta Reservoir: offers various trails to hike or bike around the reservoir.
  • Sleeping Buffalo Loop Drive: A scenic drive with opportunities to stop and hike at various spots.

Best Things to Do in Malta: Activities and Tours

  • Hunting and fishing: Malta hosts various hunting and fishing opportunities throughout the year.
  • Star Gazing: The clear skies of Malta are perfect for observing the stars.
  • Cowboy Poetry Gathering: every year in October, the town hosts a gathering of cowboy poets, musicians, and artists.

Week-Long Itinerary for Malta

Day 1: Visit the Phillips County Museum, followed by a relaxing evening at Sleeping Buffalo Hot Springs. Day 2: Explore the Great Plains Dinosaur Museum and Field Station, then stop by the Malta Centennial Library. Day 3: Spend the day fishing or hiking at Bowdoin National Wildlife Refuge. Day 4: Take a scenic drive along the Sleeping Buffalo Loop and stop for hikes along the way. Day 5: Participate in a hunting or fishing excursion. Day 6: Attend the Cowboy Poetry Gathering in October. Day 7: Enjoy a day of shopping for local souvenirs and products to bring home.

Food and Drink Scene of Malta

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bison burgers: Malta is known for its bison burgers, a popular menu item at local restaurants.
  • Huckleberry Jam: made with locally grown huckleberries, this jam is a perfect souvenir to take home.

    Local Beverages

  • Huckleberry wine: produced from locally grown huckleberries.
  • Phillips County Brewing Company: a local brewery that serves a variety of craft beers.

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

  • Sleeping Buffalo Hot Springs and Resort: offers cabins and campsites near natural hot springs.
  • Malta Motor Inn: a budget-friendly motel located in the heart of Malta.
  • Frenchman Valley Campground and Cabins: offers camping sites and cabins near Frenchman River.

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

  • Huckleberry Jam: made with locally grown huckleberries, this jam is a perfect souvenir to take home.
  • Cowboy art: pick up a piece of local cowboy art, such as a painting or sculpture, to commemorate your trip.

Local Culture and Customs of Malta

Phillips County has a deep western cowboy heritage, and Malta embodies that culture. Locals take pride in cattle ranching, hunting, farming, and their way of life.

Best Time to Visit Malta

Summer (June to August) is the prime time to visit Malta, Montana, as the weather is warm and perfect for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Malta

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Dress appropriately for the weather.

    Don’t:

  • Litter in the natural areas or parks.
  • Trespass on private land without permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Malta

The town of Malta is a safe and friendly place, but visitors should always take precautions while hiking, fishing, or hunting.

Health in Malta

There are no major health concerns in Malta. However, visitors should stay hydrated and protect their skin from sun exposure.

Getting to Malta: Transportation Options and Logistics

  • Airports Near Malta: The closest airport is Havre City County Airport, approximately 90 miles east of Malta.
  • Bus Stations Near Malta: Greyhound Bus Lines have stops in Glasgow, approximately 75 miles east of Malta.
  • Other Options: Car rentals or private shuttle services are available from the airports or bus stations.

How to Get Around in Malta

The town is small, and visitors can easily get around by car or bike. Some hiking trails are only accessible by foot.

Where to Go Next from Malta: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Glasgow, Montana: located approximately 75 miles east of Malta, Glasgow offers excellent fishing opportunities on the Missouri River.
  • Medicine Rocks State Park: located approximately 50 miles west of Malta, the park is sacred to both the Assiniboine and Sioux tribes.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or just looking for a quiet getaway, Malta, Montana, is a must-see destination in the Rocky Mountains. From natural hot springs to hiking and fishing opportunities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this charming town. Plan your trip today and experience the western cowboy culture of Montana!