As we turn the calendar to another year, Southeast Montana beckons with wide-open spaces and unhurried moments waiting to be discovered. From ancient badlands to living history, this region offers authentic experiences that capture the spirit of the American West. We've gathered 25 must-do activities for 2025.

1. Rent a pontoon boat at Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area: Enjoy water activities, hiking, and wildlife viewing in this stunning, colorful canyon with falls up to 1,000 feet high.
2. Put on your cowboy hat and explore Miles City: Experience the cowboy culture, visit the Range Riders Museum, and attend events like the Bucking Horse Sale in May each year.
3. Go antiquing! Shopkeepers are walking historians, proudly showcasing everything from hand-forged ranching tools that worked the vast prairies to delicate glassware that traveled west in settlers' wagons. See our must-stop shops here.
4. History buffs unite at Big Horn County Historical Museum and delve into the history of the Battle of Little Bighorn through exhibits and artifacts. 

NOTE: The Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument is currently undergoing a major renovation. For the most up-to-date information on construction, and restrictions, see the website at https://www.nps.gov/libi/index.htm

5. Stay in a yurt: A new camping alternative at Makoshika State Park, it comes complete with stunning views – day and night. Or, try the teepee or sheepherder’s wagon sites. 
6. Pictograph Cave State Park: Pictograph, Middle and Ghost caves were home to generations of prehistoric hunters. A loop trail allows visitors to view the rock paintings, known as pictographs, that are still visible in Pictograph Cave. Start your visit at the new visitor center.
7. Become a Burger Boss: Embark on a burger lover's paradise across Southeast Montana, where a whopping 25 restaurants beckon with irresistible options that'll leave you struggling to choose a favorite! Visit Southeast Montana Burger Trail for more information.
8. Terry Badlands Wilderness Study Area: Hike through the rugged and scenic badlands that are relatively untouched and include two natural bridges.
9. Try fry bread at Custer Battlefield Trading Post and Café. 

10. Dig for Dinosaurs: Glendive offers multiple dinosaur and fossil digs. Check out MTDinoTrail.com to learn more about the prehistoric passport.
11. Explore Baker: Visit the town and its attractions, stop for lunch at Heiser’s Bar for a true Montana dining experience of small-town USA.
12. Saddle a horse: Explore ranches that showcase Montana's agricultural history. Check out Dryhead Ranch or Malhstedt Ranch for a true hands on butt-in-the-saddle experience.
13. Go to the zoo: ZooMontana in Billings is a captivating blend of wildlife conservation, educational programs and family-friendly exhibits, offering a memorable and enriching day for visitors of all ages. We especially like that exterior exhibits feature animals from the 45^th parallel around the globe.

14. Attend Crow Fair in August: Open to the public and non-tribal members are welcome to come and learn about Apsáalooke, or Crow, tribal culture.
15. Pack a picnic and head to Medicine Rocks State Park: Marvel at the “Swiss-cheese-like” sandstone formations and enjoy the natural beauty. Plains tribes considered this a place of “good medicine.”
16. Grab your clubs: With over 10 scenic golf courses spread across the region, you’ll enjoy great views and a relaxing day on the greens. Ready to plan your next round? Explore courses and locations here.
17. Grab a beer: Put on your most comfortable hiking shoes and explore along the Billings Brew Trail. Sample local creations from nine breweries, three distilleries, a cider mill and a winery.

18. Gaze at the stars: Our big skies come alive at night. Check out Montana’s Trail to the Stars for multiple locations; keep watching the website for upcoming events to be added. 
19. Explore Pompeys Pillar National Monument: Visit this landmark and see William Clark's signature from the Lewis and Clark Expedition more than 200 years ago. Be sure to use your National Parks Pass for entrance, or buy one there.
20. Fish at Tongue River Reservoir: Cast a line and enjoy fishing in this reservoir. For early morning, grab your camper or tent and stay overnight. 
21. Dive into archeological wonders at Carter County Museum: Explore paleontological and archaeological exhibits, including dinosaur fossils, at Montana’s oldest county museum.
22. Take a walk in Roundup: The Heritage Trail and RiverWalk offers beautiful scenery right on the Musselshell River. We especially recommend this for spring and fall strolls.
23. Check out Chief Plenty Coups State Park. Situated within the Crow Indian Reservation, 40 minutes south of Billings, this day-use park preserves the log home, sacred spring, and farmstead of Chief Plenty Coups. This state park is a National Historic Landmark.
24. Makoshika State Park: Hike and explore the unique badlands landscape and dinosaur fossils in Montana’s largest state park.

25. Hunt for treasure: Rockhounding for Yellowstone Agates. Southeast Montana is a rockhound's paradise, especially famous for its beautiful Yellowstone agates. These unique gemstones, created by ancient volcanic activity, can be found along riverbeds and gravel bars throughout the region. Each agate tells its own story through distinctive patterns and colors that make them true Montana treasures.

There’s so much to do out here – all you need to do is get off the highway and start exploring. For more ideas, follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest.