Russell Country Travel Guide
Plan your trip to Russell Country, Montana with our comprehensive guide featuring top attractions, hiking trails, accommodations, and more.
- Introduction to Russell Country
- List of Places to Visit in Russell Country
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Russell Country
- Best Things to Do in Russell Country: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Russell Country
- Food and Drink Scene of Russell Country
- Where to Stay in Russell Country: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Russell Country: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Russell Country
- Best Time to Visit Russell Country
- Do’s and Don’ts of Russell Country
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Russell Country: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Russell Country
- Where to Go Next from Russell Country: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Russell Country
Russell Country is a breathtaking region located in the state of Montana, in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. It offers a blend of natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and outdoor adventures. The region boasts a population of approximately 240,000 people, with Great Falls being the largest city. Russell Country is a land full of history that includes important sites from the Lewis and Clark expedition, the Battle of the Little Bighorn, and the realm of Charlie Russell, a famous cowboy artist and conservationist. Whether you’re looking for adventure, history, or relaxation, Russell Country has something for everyone.
List of Places to Visit in Russell Country
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- C.M. Russell Museum: A museum dedicated to the life and works of Charles M. Russell, featuring a collection of over 4,000 works of art.
- Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center: Located in Great Falls, it offers exhibits and films that showcase the famous journey of Lewis and Clark and their encounters with the people and landscapes of the West.
- Gates of the Mountains: A gorgeous and unique canyon composed of towering limestone walls, where Merriwether Lewis saw a vision of opening the West.
- Headwaters Heritage Museum: A museum located in Three Forks depicting the history of the area from prehistoric times to those of the present day.
Natural Attractions of Russell Country: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Glacier National Park: Known for its stunning glaciers, crystal-clear lakes, and diverse wildlife, this national park is an ideal destination for hikers, wildlife enthusiasts, and photographers.
- Missouri River: A river containing more than 28 fish species, offering breathtaking landscapes and providing a variety of water activities such as boating, kayaking, fishing and swimming.
- Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument: This monument near Crow Agency is an important site, famous for the Battle of the Little Bighorn between the US army and Lakota Sioux and Cheyenne warriors.
- Crystal Park: A peaceful place also located near the town of Wise River. Crystal Park boasts of rock formations with quartz crystals where visitors can dig up and take home numerous sparkling souvenirs.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Russell Country
- Trail of Cedars: It’s a two-mile flat path near the Avalanche Creek in Glacier National Park. It is wheel-chair accessible and offers a wooden boardwalk through towering old growth cedar trees while also featuring scenic views of the Avalanche Lake.
- Marias River Rim Trail: A beautiful trail along the Marias River that offers stunning mountain views along the way, and is best explored by bike or by foot.
- Mount Helena Ridge Trail: A popular trail that offers an impressive view for hikers, providing a theatrical view of Helena city from the peak.
- LeGrande Cannon Trail: A tranquil trail located in the Gates of the Mountains Wilderness providing panoramic views of the Missouri River drainage and the surrounding wilderness.
Best Things to Do in Russell Country: Activities and Tours
- Fly-fishing excursion: Experience the excitement and adventure of fly-fishing in the pristine rivers of Montana’s Russell Country.
- Horseback Riding: Explore the endless miles of trails in Russell Country on horseback.
- Wildlife Viewing: Bison, elk, antelope, wolves, and bears are just a few of the animals that can be spotted during a wildlife viewing trip.
- Montana Cowboy Trail Rides: Take a guided horseback tour through the very land where Charlie Russell rode, creating some of the most iconic cowboy art of all time.
Week-Long Itinerary for Russell Country
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Visit the C.M. Russell Museum |
| Day 2 | Explore Glacier National Park |
| Day 3 | Take a fly-fishing excursion |
| Day 4 | Visit the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument |
| Day 5 | Go horseback riding |
| Day 6 | Do the Trail of Cedars hike |
| Day 7 | Have a day trip to Crystal Park and Sip and Savor Wine tour |
Food and Drink Scene of Russell Country
Must-Try Dishes
- Bison burgers and steaks: Montana is known for its bison meat, which is lean, flavorful, and high in protein.
- Huckleberry ice cream: Huckleberry is a favorite fruit in Montana, and its ice cream is a must-try for all visitors.
- Grass-fed beef: Montana is home to some of the best grass-fed beef in the world.
Local Beverages
- Big Sky Brewing Company: This is a famous brewery based in Montana that produces a range of fantastic beers. Try the famous Moose Drool Brown Ale here.
- Montana Distillery: Here you will taste the best Russel Country vodka and 16 other spirits, including gin, whiskey, and rum.
Where to Stay in Russell Country: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- The Grand Hotel in Great Falls: A stunning historic hotel located in the heart of Great Falls, offering luxury amenities and exquisite dining options.
- Rocking Z Guest Ranch: An all-inclusive guest ranch located near Helena that offers numerous outdoor activities and comfortable accommodations.
- Airbnb: Customers looking for a more affordable and authentic experience can find several Airbnb options in Montana.
What to Buy in Russell Country: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Cowboy and Cowgirl boots and hats: A classic purchase when in Montana, cowboy boots and hats are an excellent way to bring the Wild West home with you.
- Huckleberry products: Huckleberry jam, jelly, syrup, and even whiskey make ideal and popular souvenirs.
- Western Apparel: Visitors can get souvenirs like jackets, denim shirts, t-shirts, and vests from local shops.
Local Culture and Customs of Russell Country
Russell Country has a rich and rugged heritage influenced by Indigenous and Western cultures. It is essential to respect the culture and traditions of the land and its people. Visitors must also practice responsible tourism by minimizing their impact on the environment and taking care of the attractions they visit.
Best Time to Visit Russell Country
The best time to visit Russell Country is during the late spring and early fall months. During these months, the weather is mild, and visitors can find more comfortable accommodation options. During the summer, the area experiences high tourist flows, and accommodation prices skyrocket.
Do’s and Don’ts of Russell Country
Do:
- Respect the environment and the culture of the land and its people.
- Hire licensed tour guides who know the area well.
- Wear comfortable and appropriate clothing for outdoor activities.
Don’t:
- Leave traces or litter in the parks or wilderness areas.
- Disturb or harm the wildlife.
- Leave without gaining knowledge about the area’s history and culture.
Safety and Health
Safety in Russell Country
Russell Country is generally considered a safe area, but visitors should still take precautions to ensure their safety. Be careful with wildlife, keep your distance from wild animals, and use bear spray if necessary. Visitors should also be aware of the road conditions during winter.
Health in Russell Country
Visitors should carry enough water and sunscreen when visiting the famous parks and wilderness areas to avoid dehydration and sunburn. It is essential to get vaccinations before a trip to the region to avoid health complications brought about by water, disease-carrying insects, and the weather.
Getting to Russell Country: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Russell Country
The closest major airport to Russell Country is Great Falls International Airport, with flights from major US cities such as Seattle, Salt Lake City, Denver, and Minneapolis.
Bus Stations Near Russell Country
Several Greyhound bus stations are all around Montana, including the ones in Billings, Bozeman, and Butte.
Other Options
Visitors can also self-drive or rent a vehicle to get to Russell Country. The region has a reliable road network with stunning views along the way.
How to Get Around in Russell Country
The best way to get around the vast region of Russell Country is by renting a car. Alternatively, local buses or shuttles can be used, but the schedule might not always be convenient for tourists.
Where to Go Next from Russell Country: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Banff and Jasper National Parks: Located in Canada, these two national parks are a short road trip away from Russell Country, and feature stunning glaciers and lakes.
- Yellowstone National Park: A popular and stunning geothermal escape in the neighboring state of Wyoming.
- Mount Rushmore: A famous memorial to four of the greatest American presidents, located in South Dakota.
Conclusion
Russell Country offers endless adventure for travelers who want to experience the beauty of Montana’s Rocky Mountains, rich history, and culture. From outdoor activities to indoor museums and historical tours, there is a myriad of experiences to be had in Russell Country. Visitors can stay in rustic ranches, luxurious resorts, or even try Airbnb to fit their budget. Bottle of Montana vodka and local honey is a perfect souvenir for drinks lovers and honey enthusiasts alike. Plan your trip to Russell Country now and start creating unforgettable memories!
