Montana is the definition of wide-open country: soaring mountains, endless plains, and some of the last truly uncrowded land in America. For those craving space, few places compare.
Here are seven of the best small towns in Montana for wide-open country living.
1Whitefish
A stylish mountain town near Glacier National Park, Whitefish pairs a lively downtown with world-class scenery.
2Red Lodge
At the foot of the Beartooth Highway, Red Lodge is a friendly mountain town with dramatic surroundings.
3Livingston
A historic railroad town near Yellowstone, Livingston blends arts, rivers, and big-sky character.
4Bigfork
On the shore of Flathead Lake, Bigfork offers waterfront living and an artsy village feel.
5Hamilton
In the scenic Bitterroot Valley, Hamilton combines ranch country with mountain views and a real downtown.
6Philipsburg
A colorful, restored mining town, Philipsburg offers history and access to wide mountain landscapes.
7Ennis
A small town on a legendary trout river, Ennis is ranching and fly-fishing country under enormous skies.
Montana rewards those who want space and nature, but winters are serious and some scenic towns have grown pricey, so plan for both.
If wide-open country is the dream, these Montana towns deliver room to roam under the biggest skies in the country.