Montana in October in 2023: Everything You Need to Know

Are you looking to plan a visit to Montana in October?

Montana in October is simply breathtaking. Montana is known for its delightful towns, mountainous landscape, endless sights and activities to explore, and for its wildlife encounters. 

As the fall temperatures begin to sweep through the state and the leaves begin to change, Montana in October is vibrant, picturesque, and the perfect place to visit for those looking for a tranquil fall getaway.

We have traveled to many places during the month of October, all throughout the United States. We truly believe there is something so special about visiting Montana in October.

Whether you are looking for outdoor adventures, to enjoy the peace and simplicity of nature, or to explore one of Montana’s bustling towns or cities, Montana in October is unmatched and the perfect place to vacation on an autumn vacation.

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Montana in October Weather

You can typically expect highs to be in the mid 60’s and lows to be in the mid 40’s when visiting Montana in October. 

Be sure to keep in mind that temperatures will be colder when visiting mountain towns and cities with higher elevations. 

Additionally, many places will experience their first big snow during the month of October so be sure to check the weather forecast in advance and pack accordingly!

The Best Things to Do in Montana in October

1. Discover All That Bozeman Has to Offer

Bozeman is located in southwestern Montana and known for its delightful downtown area filled with restaurants, breweries, bars, and local shops. 

Due to its close proximity to the mountains, Bozeman is a great destination to visit for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers. 

For those looking to explore a city that has a lively atmosphere, vibrant art scene, delicious food, and endless outdoor recreational activities to embark on, Bozeman is the place for you!

Be sure to check out this article on the best free things to do in Bozeman so that you can explore all that the city has to offer and maybe save a little money while you are it!

2. Explore Glacier National Park

We adore visiting National Parks throughout the U.S. and the autumn season is the perfect time to visit Glacier!

One of the best things to do when visiting Montana in October is exploring Glacier National Park. 

This famous park is known for its incredible alpine lakes, rugged mountainous landscape, immense wildlife, and countless outdoor recreational activities to embark on. 

Be sure to check out one of the most epic drives in the United States, the Going-to-the-Sun Road located in Glacier National Park.

This road is typically open from July to October and one of the most spectacular road trips to embark on with endless mountain views and the beautiful Montana landscape surrounding you. 

For those looking to hit the trails when visiting the area, be sure to check out the Hidden Lake Trail.

This hike is roughly 5 miles out and back and considered to be a moderately challenging route. This is the perfect trail for those looking to get a little exercise in and to take in the incredible mountain views within Glacier National Park. 

3. Go Horseback Riding

One of the most epic adventures to embark on when visiting Montana in October is to go horseback riding! This is a great opportunity to spend some time in nature and experience the fall foliage and landscape from a new perspective. 

4. Visit Yellowstone National Park

Another fabulous place to visit when exploring Montana in October is Yellowstone National Park. 

Visiting Yellowstone in October is incredible because the crowds begin to die out, the fall foliage begins to burst with vibrant colors, and you may be able to see quite a few animals roaming around the park such as elk, bear, or moose! 

Additionally, hiking in Yellowstone National Park during the fall months is truly unmatched. The temperatures are perfect for spending a few hours out on the trails, the views are breathtaking due to the fall foliage, and the trails are a bit less crowded than during the summer season. 

For those looking for a great hike in the area, we recommend checking out the Upper Geyser Basin and Old Faithful Observation Point Loop.

This hike is a roughly 5 mile loop and gives you some incredible views of geysers and Old Faithful. Be sure to bring along your favorite electrolytes, energy food, or energy bars for hiking so that you stay healthy and happy while on the trail!

Yellowstone National Park is one of the best day trips in Montana and you must check it out for its unbelievable scenery and endless things to do!

5. Head Up to Big Sky

One of the most pristine towns in the state of Montana is Big Sky. This town is known for its incredible skiing in the winter and for being one of the best resorts to snowboard in the United States. 

Although this town is typically known for being an epic winter destination, Big Sky has so much to offer during fall in Montana! 

Whether you would like to hit the trails and go on a trek or soar through the mountains on a bike, you can embark on some truly incredible outdoor adventures in Big Sky in October. 

6. Get Outdoors While Visiting Missoula 

Missoula is home to the University of Montana, the Missoula Farmers Market, a lively college town atmosphere, and an abundance of outdoor recreational activities. 

Whether you would like to visit the area to discover all that the college town has to offer or you would like to plan a visit to discover some of the hikes, camping, and mountain biking in the area, Missoula has so much to offer and is a great place to visit when exploring Montana in October. 

7. Go Fishing at Flathead Lake

Flathead Lake is the largest natural freshwater lake in the western part of the United States. This is a great place to visit for those looking to cast a line and reel in some incredible trout. 

Be sure to bring your favorite fishing gear including your go-to tackle box and favorite long sleeve fishing shirt so that you are prepared to have the most ideal experience fishing on this gorgeous lake in Montana. 

8. Head to the Capital of Helena and Explore Montana City Life

For those looking to explore one of the most lively cities within the state of Montana, look no further. Helena is the state capital of Montana and is known for its rich history, great restaurants and shopping, and close proximity to the mountains. 

9. Discover the Small Town of Red Lodge

Red Lodge is located right near the Beartooth Highway and is a great place to stay for those looking to embark on scenic drives, incredible hikes, or for those looking to discover some of Montana’s best hidden gems. 

10. Relax at Quinn’s Hot Springs Resort

For those looking for a unique and relaxing experience when visiting Montana in October, be sure to check out Quinn’s Hot Springs Resort. 

This is the perfect place to soak in the natural hot spring water and take in the surrounding Montana scenery. 

Not only is this a great place to visit on a day trip for its hot springs but you can also stay at one of the lodges or cabins onsite if you would rather spend a few days exploring and rejuvenating! 

What to Wear in Montana in October

Montana in October weather can be pretty chilly so we recommend wearing plenty of layers! In general we recommend wearing long pants and a sweater or long sleeve shirt. 

Additionally, we recommend carrying a jacket with you so that you stay warm and toasty while exploring the great outdoors of Montana. 

Festivals in Montana in October

• Stevensville Scarecrow Festival – For those looking for a unique autumn festival to attend when visiting Montana in October, look no further. The Stevensville Scarecrow Festival is the perfect way to jump into the fall festivities and get excited for Halloween around the corner! This event will be held October 6th-7th through October 15th of 2023.

• The Great Northwest Oktoberfest – This is the perfect event for craft beer lovers and Oktoberfest enthusiasts. Be sure to head to Whitefish, Montana where you can eat delicious Barvarian inspired foods, drink delicious beer, and celebrate with locals and visitors alike. This event will be held September 28th-30th and October 5th-7th of 2023.

Where to Stay in Montana in October

There are countless places to stay in Montana in October! Below is a list of our favorite places to check out during the autumn months. 

📍 Bozeman

Known for its lively downtown, close proximity to the mountains, and delicious restaurants and breweries, Bozeman is a great place to stay when visiting Montana in October.

We recommend staying at the Kimpton Armory Hotel Bozeman due to its unbelievable location, beautiful aesthetic, and great amenities.

👉🏼 Book your stay at the Kimpton Armory Hotel Bozeman here!

📍 Big Sky

Often known for its fabulous skiing, Big Sky is an incredible mountain town to visit during October because of its outdoor recreation activities including hiking and mountain biking! 

Be sure to check out the Big Sky Resort for one of the best hotels in the area. The location is great right in the village center and the resort has a beautiful mountain vibe!

👉🏼 Check out this link to book your stay at the Big Sky Resort!

📍 Helena

Helena is the state’s capital and known for its lively atmosphere, vibrant art scene, and city vibes. This is a great place to visit for those looking for a city experience in Montana.

We recommend staying at the Best Western Premier Helena Great Northern Hotel because of its great location and amenities.

👉🏼 Be sure to check out this link to learn more about rates and availability at the Best Western Premier Helena Great Northern Hotel!

📍 Missoula

For those looking to explore one of Montana’s college towns with a close proximity to the mountains and outdoor adventures, look no further. Missoula is a great place to visit for those looking to get outside and hang with the locals. 

Be sure to check out the AC Hotel by Marriott Missoula Downtown! The location is great right in the heart of downtown and the rooms are modern and chic.

👉🏼 Click here to book your stay at the AC Hotel by Marriott Missoula Downtown!

How to Get Around Montana

The easiest way to get around Montana is by driving your own vehicle! If you are traveling from nearby, it is definitely the best option to drive your own car.

For those traveling from far away, the best option is to fly into one of Montana’s larger cities and then rent a vehicle from there. 

For one of the best and easiest airports to fly into in the state, we recommend flying into the Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport.

Additionally, be sure to grab our favorite travel insurance from SafetyWing before embarking on your journey to Montana!

Things to Know Before Visiting Montana in October

• Wear Layers – Montana’s weather can be pretty chilly during October so be sure to wear plenty of layers! Wearing layers is essential so that you can take them off when it is warm and you are spending time in the sun but they are also incredible for when it is chilly outside and you can pile on layers to stay toasty and comfortable.

• Enjoy the Great Outdoors – Montana is known for its gorgeous rugged landscape and endless outdoor adventures. Be sure to spend a significant amount of time in the great outdoors enjoying all that Montana has to offer from hiking to mountain biking and pretty much anything in between!

• Try Fly Fishing – Whether you are a beginner or an expert, be sure to try one of Montana’s most popular outdoor recreational activities, fly fishing! This is a great way to get outside and learn a new hobby.

• Plan Ahead – Montana is rising in popularity and many people are starting to plan vacations to this gorgeous state. Be sure to plan ahead and book flights, accommodations, excursions, and dinner reservations in advance. 

• Visit a National Park (or several) – One of our favorite things about Montana is the beautiful national parks within the state! Make sure to plan a visit to one or multiple of these jaw dropping national parks for an experience you are sure not to forget!

FAQs About Montana in October

Is October a good time to visit Montana?

October is a fabulous time to visit Montana. The summer crowds have begun to die out, the weather is perfect for autumn activities, and it is the perfect time to embark on outdoor adventures. 

What is the weather in Montana like in October?

You can typically expect weather in Montana in October to be in the highs of mid 60’s and in the lows of mid 30’s.

Is Montana cold in October?

Montana has the perfect fall temperatures for enjoying autumn festivities and spending time in the great outdoors. 

It is important to note that Montana can get pretty cold in the evenings during the month of October and it is not uncommon for Montana to experience its first big snow in the month of October so be sure to check the forecast in advance and pack accordingly! 

What is the best time of year to visit Montana?

We believe the best time to visit Montana is during the autumn months! The crowds begin to diminish, the fall foliage is in full swing, the temperatures are perfect for outdoor adventures, and there is so much to see and do!

Final Thoughts on Montana in October

Montana in October is truly magical and a great time to plan a visit to this mountainous state. You are able to spend time in the great outdoors, enjoy fall festivals and celebrations, and experience Montana in all of its glory!