A Guide To Traverse City Beach – 10 Best Beaches To Explore

Jan 17, 2023

Last Updated on: Mar 12, 2026

Travel Blog

Planning to check out the Traverse City beach sometime soon? But what beach will you go to – there are so many beautiful beaches in this area of the United States that you will be left spoilt for choice – we know we were! So, the next time you are planning a trip to the beach, don’t forget about Traverse City.

Keep reading to find out!

A Guide To Traverse City Beach – 10 Best Beaches To Explore!

There are so many beautiful hotels that you will b spoilt for choice – so choosing the location based on the popular hotels of the area would be a wrong choice. Instead, how about finding out which is the prettiest beach first before you can book your hotels?

But here’s a list of hotels to help you out anyway!

  1. Bayshore Resort,
  2. The Baywatch Resort,
  3. Grand Beach Resort Hotel,
  4. Delamar Traverse City,
  5. Parkshore Resort,
  6. Cherry Tree Inn & Suites,
  7. Sugar Beach Resort Hotel,
  8. Pinestead Reef Resort,
  9. The Beach Haus Resort, and
  10. Pointes North Beachfront Resort Hotel.

Once you are done going through the hotels, scroll down to read about the prettiest beaches in Traverse City.

1. West End Beach:

West End Beach is perhaps our favorite Traverse City beach – it was so pretty and, more importantly, not crowded. Perfect for your next weekend getaway, you can’t miss out on this pretty little beach.

Review By Kasey Chappel:

Beautiful serene views, relaxing by the bay is bar none! Watching the sailboats listening to the birds, and staring at the water is very relaxing! I recommend anybody stop by, hang up a hammock and chill out for a while ?”

2. Clinch Park:

There are several beaches in Traverse City but none like the beautiful beaches in Clinch Park. Not just the internet but our personal experience tells us that these beaches are hand down the prettiest!

Review By Desi Carpenter:

Chilled little water pad & “obstacle” course for the kids. The beach area is usually (always) clean, with friendly people and amazing views right on the pier. Great area to park and be able to access downtown or walk behind the buildings on the boardwalk.

3. Haserot Beach:

Honestly, Haserot Beach is a gem – one of the prettiest hidden gems that we came across on our trip to the different beaches in and around Traverse City. Plus, this beach is free from rocks and comes with a nice picnic area, vault toilet, and playground.

Review By Sebastian Cowgill:

Great swimming spot with a nice scenic drive on the way in. On the day we went there were only two other groups so it was nice and private. It was the only beach we went to in the area that wasn’t crowded. There’s also a great boat launch right there so you can drop in easily.

4. Traverse City State Park Beach:

Another Traverse City beach we really loved was the Traverse City State Park Beach. It’s so family-friendly and perfect for anyone planning to travel to the beach with children.

Review By Doug Smith:

This is a fairly long beach that runs West of the entrance and all the way to the Pinestead Reef timeshare resort. It used to be a deep beach but the water levels are up (can’t fault the park). Picnic tables and benches are well maintained (many beaches lack these). Long grassy area (another plus that many lack). Pedestrian bridge from the state campground on another side of the highway.

5. East Bay Park:

It’s highly possible that you might not be a fan of those big city beaches that are always crowded and even the water’s so deep. In that case, the beaches in East Bay Park are perfect for you – it’s relatively less crowded and the water’s pretty shallow.

Review By Citallwic:

I’ve visited a number of the parks and trails in the East Bay Regional Park District over the years, most recently enjoying May afternoon walks on the Contra Costa Canal Trail and the new George Miller Trail. Briones Regional Park remains my favorite component of the district system, and I especially like to be there when the raptor migration is in full swing. I am SO grateful for all the hard work and cooperative efforts that have made the East Bay Regional Park District one of the finest park/trail systems in America.

6. Bryant Park:

Amongst the different Traverse City beaches, the ones in Bryant Park are perhaps the most popular amongst the local residents. So, if you want a local beach flavor then heading over to Bryant Park is a great idea.

Review By Lucky M:

This beach is lovely. The parking lot is really small, which can be a problem, but it also limits the crowds. There is lots of room on the expanse of nice, clean sand to spread out. The water is mostly pretty shallow, so it’s great for the kids to play safely, and there’s also a great playground. There is a nice bathhouse with flush toilets and sinks. For visitors with disabilities, there is a special path all the way down the beach that a wheelchair can easily navigate, and a special bench to accommodate them. In fact, the path is so nice that everyone was using it to walk on! The city has really done a beautiful job with this beach.

7. M.C. Beach:

Another one of our favorite Traverse City beach is located at M.C. Beach! It’s beautiful, and the beach has cute tables – up for a gateway with your girl gang? Then this one’s surely your best shot!

Review By B9008UBmichaelm:

We have known the Marbella Club for many years, but due to circumstances this is the first time we have been back for a few weeks in 3 years. The significant and noticeable development always invites us to spend the days and evenings there. Especially for lunch the last few days at MC Beach – to enjoy the warm welcome by Federica, the cool service and the delicious recommendations by Benjamin, Borja or Tani (in no particular order) cannot be surpassed in terms of professional nonchalance. The entire team does a terrific job and it is a great pleasure to be there. Bravo and chapeau! We are already looking forward to lunch today.

8. Taylor Park Long Lake Township:

You don’t need to search with terms like ‘beach traverse city Michigan’ – if you are looking for a beach that’s local and small, then definitely head over to the beaches at Taylor Park Long Lake Township!

Review By Mitchman1964:

I am a local Realtor residing in Long Lake Township who spends a great deal of time recreating on Long Lake with friends and family. I’ve sold many lakefront homes on this gorgeous inland lake located just 10-15 min. West of Traverse City. The roughly 3,000 acre all-sports lake is popular for swimming and boating with its 5 islands, nesting bald eagles and loons, deer and other wildlife. It’s crystal clear waters, sandy bottom and relatively shallow depth make for a user friendly experience for families and fishing.

There are two public boat launch access points, one at he North end of the lake just West of the Village and the other on the West side of Long Lake off of Crescent Shores. This is one of the most desirable inland lakes and bodies of water in all of the Grand Traverse Region. For more info, I can be reached at (231) 645-2323 and I’m happy to assist you in your vacation plans or finding the lakefront property of your dreams!

Read More: Discovering The 11 Most Beautiful Places Of Adventure In The World

9. Sunset Park:

While people will recommend the sugar beach traverse city area, it will be so much better to just head over to Sunset Park – it’s pretty and perfect, plus you get to see one of the most beautiful sunsets.

Review By Susan Page:

Very nice, quiet park. It’s very clean. There are swings and another piece of playground equipment. Close to the water and far enough from the road. It’s fairly quiet and has benches and picnic tables. Can enjoy a terrific sunset. Parking is plentiful. Enjoy this park.

10. Suttons Bay Beach:

If you find Suttons Bay gorgeous, then there’s no point in not visiting Suttons Bay Beach! It’s beautiful – again, people might recommend the grand beach resort traverse city, but it’s better to just hit the area around Suttons Bay for the perfect beach weekend getaway.

Review By Mike Gardner:

Nice little beach right behind the downtown area. Not far from restaurants and shops. For your convenience, you will find two private unisex restrooms to use to change and clean up in private. This is a family-friendly beach with a nice playground for the kid as well.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Check out the most frequently asked questions related to the Traverse City beach mentioned below in detail!

1. What Town Has The Best Beach In Traverse City?

Ans: Perhaps, the most popular beach in Traverse City is located in Clinch Park, just minutes away from downtown. The stretch is beautiful and runs along the entire West Grand Traverse Bay – it’s only a very short walk from different shops, restaurants, and coffee bars.

2. What Is The Prettiest Beach In Michigan?

Ans: The prettiest beaches in Michigan are as follows,

a. South Haven,
b
. P.J. Hoffmaster State Park,
c
. Grand Haven,
d
. Warren Dunes State Park, and
e
. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.

3. What Are The Best Swimming Lakes Near Traverse City?

Ans: One of the best swimming lakes near Traverse City is Perch Lake. While there are several lakes located in Michigan that go by the same name, the one we are talking about spreads over 40 acres in the East Bay Township, just outside of Traverse City.

4. Which Great Lake Has The Prettiest Beaches?

Ans: The prettiest beaches in Great Lake are as follows,

a. The Grotto – Lake Huron,
b.
Bluffer’s Park Beach – Lake Ontario,
c.
Pancake Bay Beach – Lake Superior,
d.
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore – Lake Michigan, and
e.
Long Point – Lake Erie.

And It’s A Wrap!

So which is your favorite Traverse City beach – which one do you plan to check out any of these days? We can’t wait to find out! If you do plan a trip to Traverse City, don’t forget to let us know about your experience in the comments below!

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Barsha Bhattacharya builds stories for a living and seeks mountains for everything else. An English major and remote content strategist, she travels every month, structuring her life around movement rather than routine. Her journeys are rooted in mountaineering and rock climbing, with a deep preference for tents over hotels and cold mornings over comfort. Barsha believes the mountains demand clarity, patience, and presence - the same qualities that shape her work. For her, travel is not an escape but immersion: long routes, rough terrain, and nights under open skies where the line between work and wilderness disappears.

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READ MORE custom itineraries

Are There Minimal Group Sizes Or Custom Itineraries?

BY  Sibashree Sep 5, 2025

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Portals To The Unknown: Exploring Natural Gravity Vortex!

BY  sagnika Oct 5, 2023

Were you planning on a trip somewhere? Are you someone who likes spookier experiences? Want to experience something out of the blue? Check out the natural gravity vortex locations in this article. Reverse gravity, or having gravity at a certain angle, shows how water can flow upwards or humans can stand at a weird angle. In the article, I will highlight the concept of reverse gravity and how it questions Earth's natural events and elements. The natural gravity vortex locations are natural phenomena that can often be misinterpreted regarding aliens or ghosts. It questions the sanctity of scientific research and development of human beings! Read the article to learn about different Earth places with natural gravity vortexes. The Gravity Vortex Was Sometimes Considered Paranormal, But It Is A Natural Development! Often, scientists associate a black hole with the gravitational vortex! The existence of a gravitational vortex means going reverse with gravitational pull. It also questions the general relativity theory of Albert Einstein! Like a dark hole, plunging everything inside itself can be identified concerning the gravitational vortex! Is the gravitational anomaly occurring in Oregon Vortex or Santa Cruz Mystery Spot in the United States bound to suck everything in? No, the experience you will have in these places is more relatable with standing at an odd angle or objects staying at an abnormal angle! Humans and things are supposed to fall in weird angles, yet they don't! It proves that these anomalies are more of an angular development where reverse gravity ensures that your climb is more relaxed, or a car moving uphill is more of a relaxed movement than an experience that is forced and takes a lot of effort. Portals To The Unknown: Exploring Natural Gravity Vortex! In the 17th century, Isaac Newton, an English Physicist, discovered the concept of gravitation, which ensures that everything falls! We walk instead of fly, or everything goes down instead of up! However, some gravitational anomalies prove that there are more things in the world than we know. The locations where such geographical anomaly occurs are considered a place that does not follow the law of physics. The question arises concerning the natural elements around us while people create legends, folklore and spooky background stories to justify the place, event or experience. The technical interpretation of the event or the experience of gravitational void or reverse is where objects push against or away from each other. Under certain contrived circumstances, gravitation is reverse or void, leading to places that represent it. A Geographical Anomaly! Mystery spots are what natural gravity vortex places are called! A geographical anomaly is good; it shows phenomena different from what we already know. However, the point is to understand why it is happening. We are far behind on the whole aspect! The brain of a human being is a mysterious place to be, but the irony is that it cannot accept unnatural objects, events or happenings! A geographical anomaly raises questions such as aliens, ghosts, magnetic forces, extraterrestrial entities or otherworldly portals. The anomalies mostly tend to evoke shock and curiosity among people! People sometimes want to experience them, especially if the whole place is made up of an amusement park, hike, or trail, but at times, it can be difficult for them to accept it. Places Where Gravity Does Not Work! Based on everything around us, gravitation is an integral part of our nature and lives! Without gravity, we will float in the air instead of walking on land! There will not be any semblance to our lives, especially with construction, housing, transportation and much more. Places where the law of gravity is not followed by nature are present worldwide! Water moving upward or a heavy boulder staying at an unnatural angle without rolling down the slope are signs that they are in a gravitational vortex! No one knows how the vortex came to be. Thus, it is spookier! When you enter these regions, you feel like you have come to an unknown world through a portal. Even animals are scared of crossing the region, confirming the suspicion of spookiness! I am listing down some of the places where gravity does not work! Oregon Vortex, United States A roadside attraction in the US, the Oregon Vortex is located in Gold Hill on Sardine Creek. Several interesting facts will question your understanding of gravity, thus leading to optical illusions. Sometimes, the proprietors claim these are the paranormal properties across the area. It is one of the oldest gravitational vortices discovered and gives a sense of a strange world, especially when there is no relatability with natural phenomena! The construction at that location proved something different concerning the place. The natural physical facts were reversed, along with Amerindians calling the site a forbidden territory. Even travelers observed that the horses did not want to cross the region. The plumb lines, bubble levels, yardsticks and balls rolling uphills prove the point. There is a Mystery Shack also known as house of mystery Oregon to prove the vortex and the abnormalities; in other words, it is a tourist trap! It is popular for Roadside Americana. Mount Aragats, Armenia The mountain is a beauty that will blow your mind! Located between Armenia and Turkey on the borders, Mount Aragats is a tourist attraction with thousands of travelers yearly! The anti-gravity phenomena across the gravity hill are incredible to witness! You will further experience the gravitational vortex when you put a car into neutral, and without a driver, it will move upwards on the hill! 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There is a 130-foot height difference between the rock below and the water's origin. The gravitational pull of the Earth is not active here. Hence, the water goes upward in this place. While traveling there, the last stretch of the road is bumpy and narrow! The best time to visit the waterfall is during the monsoon as it is during this season that the wind speed is at the highest! Try to return from the location by 4 p.m. Santa Cruz Mystery Spot, United States One of the secret spots in the US, Santa Cruz Mystery Spot, was first discovered by a group of surveyors in 1939. They later opened this place up to the public in 1940! It became a popular visiting spot, especially when it is a strange, weird, but interesting experience! The location is Santa Cruz, just 150 feet from the circular site deep inside the Redwood forests where people walk but look like they are leaning over! The lean is so abrupt and weird that it feels like they will fall anytime, but they don't! The location is a 45-minute guided tour where you can go on a hiking trail! Along with the mystery spot, there are gift stores where you can get something. The whole experience will be exciting and refreshing! There are many theories related to this spot. However, more is needed to come up with some evidence. Some say that metal cones have been buried in the earth to become earthquake-guidance systems for outside spacecraft! While others say the whole spacecraft is there! People keep connecting this anomaly to something extraterrestrial, especially when they have no justified reason except the gravitational vortex! Spook Hill, Florida When you stop a car and stop the engine, you will see that the vehicle is going down the slope! Spook Hill is a place in Florida where the reverse happens! If you stop the car on a certain white mark on the road and shut down the engine, you will notice that the vehicle is not gliding down the slope. The car moves in the opposite direction of the slope at the Lake Wales Ridge of Florida, and it is very well because there is no gravitational pull! The dip on the fifth street between Spook Hill Elementary School and Burn Avenue. According to the curator of the exhibits and collections of the Lake Wales History Museum, Anderson Hanna, the gliding of the car opposite the slope of the road is an optical illusion. It was during the 1950s that the location became popular. Spook Hill in Florida is also known as Magnetic Hill and is one of the oldest gravity hills in the country! Many popular legends and folklore are further related to the location. Reverse Waterfall, England Another place where gravity does not work is a waterfall located in England! The waterfall is in the Derbyshire Peak District near Hayfield, where a river flows. The river is known as Kinder, which flows downwards to a specific point and starts flowing upwards! There are strong wind storms due to which the water flows upwards, but that question goes again. It does not follow the natural rule of nature. Hence, the question arises of the gravitational vortex. The place is popular, especially with the beauty it surrounds itself with. The water at the Kinder Downfall blows backwards, which is shocking, especially when the water is 98ft high. The strong winds make it possible, but it is not natural. It is spectacular to watch! When the water blows back from the waterfall, it blows into nothingness. A tourist spot near Mallerstang Edge, the spectacle defies the laws of gravity! The Devils Tower, United States In the United States, a natural monolith is located in the Crook Country across northeastern Wyoming near Sundance and Hulett! The Devil's Tower is the first National Monument in the US, which is 867 feet high from the base to the summit. There is a river called Belle Fourche River, while the monument is 5112 feet above sea level. It is one of the most important sites in Wyoming as the mount's size and shape are perfect. It is also sometimes identified as a mystery hill museum! Two people first climbed on the mound in 1893! William Rogers and William Ripley were two local ranchers who used a wooden ladder of 350 feet. It is considered one of the premier climbing areas by people who regularly hike and climb. It is a unique place with a history related to Native American Tribes. The monument was highlighted first by President Theodore Roosevelt, who designated the structure as the first national monument in 1906. Annually, 500,000 visitors come to visit the monument! The Hoover Dam, Nevada, United States Another tourist attraction in the United States, the Hoover Dam in Nevada, is a natural gravity vortex with no gravitational pull. The dam is 221.4m high, and based on certain experiments, it has been observed that objects float or water goes upward if you pour it while standing on the dam. 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It is a once-in-a-lifetime experience when you learn about natural objects that defy gravity and the secret of the places. Comment below to let us know which one of the places you want to visit and why! Read Also: Walking On Sunshine: Exploring The Magic Of Vietnam’s Golden Hand Bridge! These Are The 30+ Things To Do In Mexico City That You Must Try!

READ MORE montana national parks

Top 12 Montana National Parks You Must Visit In 2024!

BY  Ankita Jun 6, 2023

Are you thinking about visiting Montana National Parks but are not really sure about which ones should you visit while you are there? Well, there is no need for you to worry. I have you covered! There are a number of national parks that are located in the United States. Whether you want to check out the national parks in Wyoming or Zion, the list is endless. But if you want to try out a new place, Montana might just be the right one for you! In this article, I will be focusing extensively on the best national parks in Montana that you must visit when you are in the states. So, if that is something that you want to know, keep reading the article till the end… Best Montana National Parks That You Must Visit! The fourth-largest state in the US, Montana, lies in the northwest of the country on the border with Canada. It is pretty sparsely populated. It boasts delightfully diverse landscapes. The west is very mountainous. While the east’s endless plains and prairies are only occasionally punctuated by breathtaking badlands and bluffs. Hidden away among its wild and remote realms are incredible wildlife species. There are moose, grizzly bears, and mountain lions all inhabiting its numerous national parks and state parks. Are you planning to travel to the States and Montana, to be specific? You need to check out this list of the best Montana National Parks that you need to visit in 2023: 1. Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area sprawls over a vast zone and straddles both Montana and Wyoming. It is home to stunning scenery and landscapes. The area is made up of two delightfully distinct districts. It is a treat to explore, with a wealth of recreational activities to try out. The main feature of the park is the breathtaking Bighorn Canyon. It towers over the large lake and roaring river of the same name. Its craggy cliffs form a formidable backdrop to the tranquil waters below, which offer fantastic fishing, kayaking, and boating. Hiking and camping are very popular. However, the area also has a range of archaeological and cultural treasures to check out. As well as being home to historic ranches, a third of its area is located on the Crow Indian Reservation. Part of the park is a range for wild horses. Visitors can learn all about its history, geology, and nature at one of the site’s two centers. 2. Big Hole National Battlefield The Big Hole National Battlefield is the location of the battle that took place on August 9th and 10th during Nez Perce Flight of 1877. By early August, over 800 nimí·pu· (Nez Perce) and over 2,000 horses were passing peacefully through the Bitterroot Valley after crossing Lolo Pass into Montana. Their leaders believed the military would not pursue them even though many had premonitions warning otherwise. When the nimí·pu· arrived at ?ıckumcılé.lıkpe (known today as Big Hole National Battlefield) on August 7th, they did not know the military was close behind them. On the morning of August 9, 1877, U.S. troops surprised the sleeping nimí·pu· with a dawn attack on the encampment. And that is where and when everything happened that made this area a national historic place. The park's visitor center offers museum exhibits, a film, and a book sales area. The award-winning film Weet'uciklitukt: There's No Turning Back, Battle at Big Hole provides an introduction to the Nez Perce Flight of 1877 and the battle that took place at this site. The film is shown throughout the day and is close-captioned. Audio and braille guides are available upon request. Big Hole National Battlefield is one of the 38 sites that make up the Nez Perce National Historical Park. Together they tell the story of the nimí·pu· (Nez Perce). These sites are spread over much of the traditional homeland of the nimí·pu· in present-day Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington. Staff are located here at the Big Hole National Battlefield, as well as at the visitor center in Spalding, ID, and at the Bear Paw Battlefield. To visit all of the park sites could take a substantial amount of time and cover many hundreds of miles. 3. Glacier National Park Home to stunning scenery, landscapes, and nature, the gorgeous Glacier National Park can be found in the northwest of Montana on the border with Canada. Founded in 1910, it protects a vast swathe of unspoiled wilderness and fully deserves its nickname, the ‘Crown of the Continent’. Very mountainous, it is home to two rugged ranges, with vast valleys and rocky ravines left behind by the gigantic glaciers after which the park is named. Dotted about these damaged yet delightful landscapes are over 130 twinkling turquoise lakes, with gorgeous waterfalls and sparkling streams found here and there. As over half of the park is coated in verdant forests, it is a great place to go wildlife watching with moose, mountain goats and grizzly bears inhabiting its isolated areas. With scenic trails weaving their way amidst the towering trees and mountains and cozy campsites to stay at, Glacier National Park really is one of the most awe-inspiring places to visit in the whole of the States. 4. Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site Next on the list of the best Montana National Parks is Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site. Between 1828 and 1867, Fort Union was the most important fur trade post on the Upper Missouri River. Here, the Assiniboine and six other Northern Plains Tribes exchanged buffalo robes and smaller furs for goods from around the world, including cloth, guns, blankets, and beads. A bastion of peaceful coexistence, the post annually traded over 25,000 buffalo robes and $100,000 in merchandise. Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site and its visitor center in the Bourgeois House are open daily throughout the year except for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Years Days. The Trade House, including the trade room and the clerk's office, is open seasonally. There are a number of things that you can do here. One of them is visiting the Fort Union’s Trade House, which was one of the most important buildings at Fort Union. It was in the Reception Room where Tribal leaders met with the American Fur Company Traders to discuss the terms of the trade and also where stories were told, and small feasts were held. Apart from that, you can also plan a great trip with your kids as they can become a Jr. Ranger and Jr. Trader at this historic National Park. 5. Grant-Kohrs Ranch National Historic Site Located almost equidistant between Missoula and Bozeman is the Grant-Kohrs Ranch National Historic Site, which commemorates the cattle industry and cowboy culture of the American West. Lying on the banks of the charming Cottonwood Creek, this colossal living history ranch now offers a fascinating look into the frontier cattle era that shaped the nation. Founded in 1862 by the Canadian fur trader Johnny Grant, the ranch was later bought as well as expanded by the successful cattle baron Conrad Kohrs. At its zenith, over 50,000 head of cattle roamed about his ranch, which sprawled as far as the eye could see. Nowadays, visitors can tour around its historic buildings and see the ranch in operation. Blacksmiths as well as cowboys use techniques that would have been used in the 19th century. 6. Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument Lying about an hour’s drive to the east of Billings, this moving national monument and memorial commemorates the famous Battle of Little Bighorn. It was here on June 25 and 26, 1876, that General Custer made his ‘last stand’ and lost his life alongside many of his cavalry at the hands of the local Native Americans. At the sprawling battle site, visitors can learn all about the epic encounter that came to symbolize the clash of cultures. The Native Americans fought to protect their nomadic way of life and stop themselves from being forced onto reservations. It was a short but momentary victory for the Native Americans against the ever-expanding advances of the US Army. Through interesting and informative tours, you’ll learn all about the battle as well as its aftermath. Moreover, you will also learn about the legendary Lakota leaders Crazy Horse and Sitting Bull as well. In addition, you can visit the numerous markers and memorials scattered about what is now part of the Crow Indian Reservation. 7. Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail Also considered to be one of the best national parks in Oregon, the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail winds nearly 4,900 miles through the homelands of more than 60 Tribal nations. It follows the historic outbound and inbound routes of the Lewis and Clark Expedition of 1803-1806 from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to the Pacific Ocean. Follow the trail to find the people, places, and stories that make up the complex legacy of the expedition. Boasting lots of large limestone caverns and stunning stalactites as well as stalagmites, Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park makes for a spectacular sight. Located just under an hour’s drive to the northwest of Bozeman, it is one of the most popular parks to visit in the state. First documented by the Lewis and Clark Expedition, after which it is named, the caves cover a substantial underground area. It has illuminating tours that take you around its most fascinating features. Lit up by flickering candles and fairy lights, its subterranean sculptures and formations are a treat to explore. Above ground is equally delightful. The state park’s lovely woods and shimmering streams lend themselves perfectly to hiking. It also offers mountain biking, and camping, with fishing and canoeing also on offer. 8. Ice Age Floods National Geologic Trail Glacial Lake Missoula, a 3,000 square-mile body of water encircling Missoula, Montana, was a result of an ice dam in northern Idaho. It happened at the conclusion of the last Ice Age, between 18,000 and 15,000 years ago. Floodwater came out when the dam burst, traveling across Washington, Oregon, and the Columbia River before reaching the Pacific Ocean. The Ice Age Floods affected the people and terrain of the Pacific Northwest, profoundly. The majority of geologists thought that glaciers and streams slowly eroded rock formations to create Washington's Channelled Scabland. Geologist J Harlen Bretz postulated that cataclysmic floods were responsible for the formation of the Channelled Scabland after finding geologic data that contradicted this theory. Bretz's theory was initially mocked, but it was later proven correct thanks to new technology like satellite photography. By the 1970s, everyone agreed that the Ice Age Floods were to blame for the ravaged terrain of the northwest United States. Today, the terrain is littered with remnants of these Ice Age Floods. It includes massive basalt coulees, dry falls, and big boulders. They have traveled hundreds of miles, high water lines, as well as tremendous current ripples. The Ice Age Floods National Geologic Trail includes spectacular examples of cataclysmic flood geology, breathtaking landscapes, and locations for scientific study. 9. Lone Pine State Park Lying just to the southwest of Kalispell is the lovely Lone Pine State Park. It looms over the city and Flathead Valley. As it is home to wonderful nature and scenic trails, it is very popular with locals and tourists. It also has plenty of recreational activities on offer. Founded in 1941, the park boasts delightful landscapes, with flower-filled meadows and lush forests coating its hilly confines. Reaching 1,110 meters in height, there are more than ten kilometers of trails to explore. It also has fabulous vistas visible from its upper reaches. Besides hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding along its peaceful paths, visitors can go wildlife watching and birdwatching. In addition, there is an archery range and volleyball court to try out. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are on offer in the winter months. 10. Bannack State Park Once a thriving mining town, Bannack became a ghost town as the seams of glittering gold ran out, and so did the prospectors moved on. Set in a scenic yet remote spot in the southwest of the state, the eerie yet enticing ghost town is now under protection as part of a state park. Nestled away among Montana’s majestic mountains are more than 50 decaying buildings for visitors to explore, with log cabins lying alongside a school, hotel, and Methodist church. Although they have long been abandoned to the elements, most of them are in remarkably good condition. As such, it makes for an unsettling experience wandering around the empty streets. One of the best times to visit is in July, during the ‘Bannack Days.’ Re-enactors transform the town into what it would have been like during the gold rush. The rest of the year, visitors can take tours of Bannack or rent bikes and set off hiking from the nearby campsite. Read More: Top 8 List Of National Parks In North Carolina 11. Giant Springs State Park Giant Springs State Park lies just to the northeast of Great Falls on the banks of the Missouri River. It has sparkling springs all around, from which it derives its name. It is a top-rated place with many recreational activities on offer. That is mostly due to its proximity to the city and its peaceful and picturesque nature. Blackfeet Nation has used Giant Springs for centuries. Moreover, it is one of the largest freshwater springs in the States. First described by the Lewis and Clark Expedition in 1805, its waters originate in the Little Belt Mountains. It took around 3,000 years to travel the 100 kilometers underground to surface again at the springs. Besides visiting the springs, visitors can wander around the park’s gorgeous green spaces. They explore the scenic shoreline of the river. As well as its picnic areas and playgrounds, it also offers some great fishing, boating, and birdwatching. 12. Yellowstone National Park Last but definitely not least, we have another immensely famous option. It is a very popular and widely visited Yellowstone National Park. Most of Yellowstone lies within the wilds of Wyoming. Some picturesque parts of the popular park sprawl over into Idaho and Montana. An absolutely incredible place, it is awash with astounding natural sights. There are mighty mountain towers above sweeping valleys, verdant forests, and roaring rivers. The oldest national park in the world came to be in 1872, delighting and dazzling countless generations ever since. Its diverse and dramatic scenery is spectacular. However, it is most known for its more than 10,000 geysers as well as hot springs. There are also thermal features dotting its craggy confines. Of these, one of the most popular is the Grand Prismatic Spring due to its kaleidoscopic colors. Old Faithful never fails to amaze with the staggering size and scale of its spurting spring. Moreover, you cannot miss out on Yellowstone National Park. It has lots of wildlife residing within its remote realms and exquisite hiking, camping, and boating on offer. Wrapping It Up! In case you were searching for the best as well as must-visit Montana national parks, I hope that this article has been of help to you. If there are any other queries related to the same, feel free to let me know. All that you need to do is scroll down till you reach the bottom of the page. Then leave your queries and suggestions in the box below. Read Also: A Guide To National Parks In Wisconsin A Complete Guide For National Parks In Illinois Best National Parks In Missouri That You Must Know