In the vast expanse of Southeast Montana where rugged badlands meet winding rivers and endless horizons stretch in every direction, there's a remarkable destination that captures the very essence of Montana's wild beauty. Nestled perfectly between the ancient landscapes of Makoshika State Park and the life-giving waters of the Yellowstone River, Glendive, Montana stands as proof that sometimes the most extraordinary places are found where to least expect them.
This remarkable community sits between two of Montana's greatest natural treasures: Makoshika State Park and the winding Yellowstone River. The river draws anglers, kayakers, and rock enthusiasts from around the world, particularly during spring's prehistoric paddlefish season. Beyond fishing, visitors enjoy riverside camping, floating, and photography along its scenic banks.
The dramatic badlands of Makoshika State Park provide hiking trails, disc golf courses, and archery ranges set against stunning fossil-rich landscapes. Above it all, Montana's Big Sky offers spectacular sunrises, sunsets, and incredible stargazing thanks to minimal light pollution.
NOWHERE BETTER FOR GIANT DISCOVERIES.
Makoshika State Park (Ma-ko'-shi-ka) is a variant spelling of a Lakota phrase meaning 'bad land' or 'bad earth'. Today, as Montana's largest state park, the badlands of Makoshika are set aside for visitors to see and enjoy. Included within the park are scenic drives, 11 dedicated hiking trails, 28 camping sites, a group picnic area, and an outdoor amphitheater. Activities include archaeology, archery, camping, bird watching, disc golf, day and night hikes, educational and cultural events, biking, star and planet gazing, photography, and much more!
Baisch's Dinosaur Digs is located just east of Glendive on a private ranch, you can play paleontologist while you hunt for and excavate dinosaurs. Experienced guides will show you what to look for and how to excavate fossils. Book a half or full day adventure! Tools and supplies for collecting are provided, making this a hands-on experience that brings prehistoric Montana to life. Another guided tour for dinosaur digs is Dino Dave Adventures.
The Glendive Dinosaur and Fossil Museum is a 20,000 square foot facility featuring more than 23 full-sized dinosaur and fossil exhibits plus a myriad of singular fossils. This impressive museum presents its fossils in the context of biblical history and offers additional dinosaur dig opportunities for those wanting to extend their paleontological adventures.
NOWHERE BETTER FOR EPIC ADVENTURES
The Yellowstone River is a favorite for boating, kayaking, fishing, and floating. The third week of May brings the prehistoric paddlefish down the river and it's a spectacular time to watch fishermen bring them in or try to snag one for yourself! These living fossils, unchanged for over 300 million years, create an angler's paradise that draws visitors from across the globe. River access points include the boat ramp located off Glendive Boat Ramp, Black Bridge Ramp, Stipek, and Intake Dam & Campground.
Yellowstone River Adventures is everything from kayaking to jet boating along the Yellowstone River. Enjoy the rich history of Lewis and Clark and take in the exceptional views of the river banks and eastern Montana wildlife. Eagles, blue herons, deer, and beaver are frequently seen during these guided adventures. Some activities include fossil and agate hunting below high-water mark, photography and animal viewing—with picnics available by request.
Agate Hunting is a favorite among anyone who walks along the Yellowstone River! To find agate rocks on the Yellowstone River, look for gravel bars along the active river channel during low water levels in early spring or late fall. Look for potato-shaped or irregular rocks that appear translucent when held up to sunlight or rinsed in water. If you're new to rockhounding, consider taking a guided tour with a local outfitter like Yellowstone River Adventures for a customized agate and fossil boat tour.
Glendive Short Pine OHV Area is a 2,800 acres recreation area classified by the BLM as a limited area; which means operators are limited to existing roads and trails for motorcycles, four wheelers, four-wheel drive trucks and sport-utility vehicles. The vast array of trails crisscrossing the landscape gives motorists the option of an easy ride or a steep challenge. There’s something for every skill level out there.
NOWHERE BETTER TO EXPERIENCE SMALL TOWN CHARM
Historic Downtown Walking downtown will take you past beautiful architecture and the historic Bell Street Bridge which lights up each night. Spend a day immersing yourself in the history of Glendive and enjoy the bronze sculpture and mural trail throughout town and local art at The Gallery downtown.
Want to have a REAL cowboy or cowgirl experience? Mahlstedt Ranch offers specialized packages to ride horses, herd cattle, and experience authentic ranching life. Eastern Montana is rich with genuine ranches and local farms where you can witness miles and miles of wheat, corn, and soybeans grown in this corner of the state.
NOWHERE BETTER FOR A TRULY STELLER EVENING
Under Montana's famous Big Sky, Glendive offers some of the most spectacular celestial viewing in the country. The open sky provides a canvas of spectacular sunrises, sunsets, and incredible star-gazing due to limited light pollution. Here, away from the glow of major cities, the night sky reveals itself in all its glory. The Milky Way stretches overhead like a cosmic river, and countless stars twinkle with an intensity that urban dwellers rarely experience.
Watch the sun paint the badlands in shades of gold and crimson at dawn, or lie back to count shooting stars on a clear night – Glendive's skies provide a daily reminder of the natural world's incredible beauty.
NOWHERE BETTER TO GET A TASTE OF MONTANA
Start your day with a hearty meal at one of Glendive's local eateries. Bloom & Vine offers a coffeehouse and bistro experience with seasonal wine and beer options, while Penny's Diner serves up classic American-style meals with breakfast available all day in this 24-hour restaurant. These local favorites promise to satisfy your taste buds with genuine Montana hospitality.
In Glendive, Montana, every moment promises a glimpse into the rich history and natural beauty of Eastern Montana. From prehistoric paddlefish to ancient dinosaur fossils, from thrilling off-road adventures to peaceful stargazing, you'll find yourself captivated by the charm and hospitality of this unforgettable Western town.
