Lewistown Travel Guide

Plan your visit to Lewistown, Montana with this comprehensive tour guide featuring must-see attractions, outdoor adventures, places to eat, stay, and buy souvenirs, as well as local culture and customs, safety and health, logistics, and nearby destinations.


Introduction to Lewistown

Welcome to Lewistown, a charming town in Russell Country, Montana, surrounded by the majestic Rocky Mountains. Here you’ll find a perfect blend of natural beauty, history, and local culture that make it an ideal destination for travelers who love outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Founded in 1880, Lewistown has a rich history that is preserved in its museums, historic sites, and cultural events. But it’s not just a town frozen in time. Contemporary attractions, bustling farmer’s markets, and local businesses offer plenty of opportunities to enjoy the present as well.

Whether you’re an avid hiker, a history buff, or a foodie, Lewistown has something for everyone. From exploring the countryside, enjoying outdoor activities, and dining at local eateries, to experiencing the town’s culture and visiting the nearby destinations, you will leave Lewistown with unforgettable memories.

List of Places to Visit in Lewistown

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Central Montana Historical Museum: Featuring Montana’s history, natural and cultural landscapes, and artifacts from the early settlers, homesteaders, and Native Americans.
  • The Lewistown Art Center: Exhibiting local and regional artists and offering art classes, workshops, and events.
  • Frank Day Park: A restored homesteader’s cabin and a museum showcasing the town’s history.
  • The Upper Musselshell Museum: Featuring exhibits that explore the history of mining, ranching, and farming in Central Montana.

Natural Attractions of Lewistown: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Little Belt Mountains: A range of mountains with hiking and biking trails, fishing streams, and scenic drives.
  • Crystal Lake: A natural lake surrounded by a forest of pine and fir trees, offering fishing, camping, and hiking trails.
  • The Judith Mountains: A scenic area with fossils, hiking trails, and historic ghost towns.
  • The Snowy Mountains: A range of mountains with scenic drives, winter sports, and summer recreation such as fishing, camping, hiking, and horseback riding.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lewistown

Judith Mountains

  • Middle Fork Trailhead to Crystal Lake Trailhead: 7-mile hike with a 1,983-foot elevation gain.
  • Dry Fork Trailhead to Big Baldy Trailhead: 6.5-mile trail with a 2,362-foot elevation gain.
  • Big Baldy: A 9.6-mile spur trail with a 2,314-foot elevation gain.

Little Belt Mountains

  • Crystal Lake Trail: A 6-mile round-trip hike with a 1,200-foot elevation gain.
  • Silver King Lake Trail: A 3.5-mile round-trip hike with a 1,105-foot elevation gain.
  • High Ore Line Trail: A 13.5-mile point-to-point trail with a 2,360-foot elevation gain.

Best Things to Do in Lewistown: Activities and Tours

  • Fly Fishing: The area is known for its excellent fly fishing spots such as Big Spring Creek, the Judith River, and the Missouri River.
  • Horseback Riding: Take a trail ride in the mountains or on the open fields.
  • Farmer’s Market: Enjoy the fresh produce, baked goods, crafts, and music at the Lewistown Farmer’s Market.
  • Buffalo Jump Archaeological Site: Learn about the history of the Native Americans and see the location where they herded buffalo over the cliffs for food.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lewistown

Day Activity
1 Hike to Crystal Lake in the Little Belt Mountains.
2 Visit the Central Montana Historical Museum and the Lewistown Art Center.
3 Horseback ride in the Montana countryside and dine at the Luna Lounge.
4 Explore the natural wonders of the Judith Mountains and visit the ghost town of Gilt Edge.
5 Go fly fishing on the Missouri River and enjoy a picnic lunch.
6 Shop for souvenirs and local products at the Trade Center and the Big Spring Creek Gifts.
7 Take a scenic drive to the Snowy Mountains and hike around the Pole Creek Trail.

Food and Drink Scene of Lewistown

Must-Try Dishes

  • Montana Burger: A beef burger topped with bacon, cheese, and BBQ sauce, served with fries and a side of ranch dressing.
  • Trout: Freshly caught trout prepared grilled or smoked and seasoned with herbs and spices.
  • Huckleberry Fudge: A local specialty made with huckleberry and chocolate, perfect for dessert.

Local Beverages

  • Big Spring Creek Brewery: A microbrewery with a rotating selection of craft beer, cider, and root beer.
  • Montana Coffee Traders: A coffee shop featuring organic and fair-trade coffee beans, sandwiches, and baked goods.
  • Winery at Wilcoxson’s: A winery and tasting room featuring local wine varieties and small plates.

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

  • Calvert Hotel: A historic hotel in downtown Lewistown, offering spacious rooms, a restaurant, and a lounge.
  • Yogo Inn: A modern hotel with an indoor pool, fitness center, and on-site restaurant.
  • Judith Mountain Lodge: A wilderness lodge located in the Little Belt Mountains, offering private cabins, hot tubs, and outdoor activities.

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

  • Bison and Elk Meat: A local delicacy and a great souvenirs for foodies.
  • Montana-made Crafts: From pottery to woodworking, Lewistown is known for its handmade products.
  • Huckleberry Jam: A sweet jam made from wild huckleberries, a perfect souvenir to remind you of your trip.

Local Culture and Customs of Lewistown

  • Dress Code: Montana has a casual dress code, so dress comfortably and warm, especially in the winter.
  • Tipping: A standard tip is 15-20% in restaurants, bars, and cafes.
  • Small Talk: Montanans are friendly and enjoy small talk, so don’t hesitate to start a conversation with a local.

Best Time to Visit Lewistown

The best time to visit Lewistown is from May to October when the weather is mild and outdoor activities are abundant. The average temperature in the summer is around 80 degrees, while the winter can be quite cold and snowy. If you prefer a quieter time to visit, consider traveling in the off-season months.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lewistown

Do:

  • Respect the wildlife and preserve nature.
  • Take a sturdy pair of hiking boots, sunscreen, and a water bottle.
  • Try the Montana specialty cuisine such as the Montana burger and locally brewed craft beer.

Don’t:

  • Smoke in public areas.
  • Litter or leave your trash behind when hiking or spending time in nature.
  • Ignore the weather warnings and advisories.

Safety and Health

Safety in Lewistown

Lewistown is generally a safe town, but like any place, it’s important to take precautions. Be aware of your surroundings when walking alone at night and keep your valuable items locked in the hotel safe or your car. When hiking or camping, be aware of the hazards such as wild animals, uneven trails, and harsh weather.

Health in Lewistown

Montana doesn’t have any particular health risks, but it’s always recommended to bring your prescription medication and proof of your health insurance. If you need medical attention, the Central Montana Medical Center is in Lewistown and provides a 24-hour emergency room and hospital services.

Getting to Lewistown: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Lewistown

  • Lewistown Municipal Airport: A small airport offering domestic flights from Billings and Helena.
  • Great Falls International Airport: A major international airport 120 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Lewistown

  • Greyhound Bus Lines: A bus line with stations in Billings and Great Falls.
  • Jefferson Lines: A bus line connecting Missoula, Bozeman, and Billings.

Other Options

  • Car Rental: You can rent a car at the airports or in Lewistown if you need transportation during your stay.
  • Private Car Service: You can also book a private car service to get you to and from Lewistown.

How to Get Around in Lewistown

The best way to get around Lewistown is by car. You can rent a car at the airports, or in Lewistown from a local car rental. Taxis are also available in Lewistown. If you prefer to explore the nature on foot, Lewistown has a few walking trails, but keep in mind that some attractions are located outside the town and require transportation.

Where to Go Next from Lewistown: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Glacier National Park: A national park with stunning lakes, glacier-formed landscapes, and hiking trails, located about 220 miles northwest of Lewistown.
  • Yellowstone National Park: America’s first national park, known for its geysers, hot springs, and natural wonders, located about 200 miles southeast of Lewistown.
  • Missoula: A charming town with a lively cultural scene, local breweries and wineries, and outdoor recreational opportunities, located about 150 miles west of Lewistown.
  • Billings: The largest city in Montana, with a rich history, museums, and art galleries, located about 130 miles east of Lewistown.

Conclusion

Lewistown is a hidden gem for anyone who truly wants to experience the beauty and nature of Montana. From outdoor recreational opportunities and scenic views to cultural excursions and dining, Lewistown will surprise and delight you with its many attractions and friendly locals. Plan your trip today and explore this charming town in the heart of Montana’s Rocky Mountains.

Main Street, Lewistown Main Street, Lewistown