Every season in Montana is special, but summer just hits differently. Long days filled with sunshine, cool nights under the stars, and community in the outdoors: it’s the time of year locals and visitors live for. Montana in July fills the sweet spot between unpredictable spring weather and the dog days of August when families return to school schedules. There’s a lot to do this time of year, but these activities for the whole family bring you some of the best ways to connect to Montana.
Warm July days are best for Montana river floats. The water’s flowing, but the rivers have slowed down after spring runoff. And anglers love the fishing out here.
On some stretches of river, it’s safe and easy to rent a float tube and DIY shuttle drop-offs and pick-ups, while on others you might want to keep it simple and sign on with a guided river trip for a scenic float or whitewater adventure.
Just be sure to stay safe on the river and help protect the natural spaces you visit.
In Southwest Montana, plan a stay at the Butte KOA Journey or Ennis RV Park to float:
When you stay near Yellowstone in Gardiner, Bozeman, or Livingston, don’t miss a float down:
In Glacier Country near Starry Night’s Whitefish and West Glacier vacation rentals, you shouldn’t skip the Flathead River:
The Middle Fork
Regenerative tourism best practices involve giving back to the community when you travel. And exploring a local market is a great way to support local businesses and take home some goodies, too. Montana in July is bustling with community markets.
Here are a few of the recurring farmers markets to check out around the state:
It wouldn’t be Montana in July without some local festivals to fill warm summer days. Get connected with arts and culture in Montana with a few of these annual July events.
In Butte, don’t miss Montana Folk Festival and Headwaters Country Jam.
Staying in Bozeman makes it easy to attend Big Sky’s Music in the Mountains, every Thursday night starting in late June.
Under the Big Sky music festival and rodeo is waiting when you visit the Flathead Valley, with a stay in Whitefish or West Glacier.
Combine a visit to Yellowstone with a stop at the Festival of the Arts at Livingston Depot.
Some of the best Montana memories are made in the down time spent on the porch or around the campfire. Take it slow, make time to explore, and book your stay at a Starry Night property in Big Sky Country to see what Montana in July holds this year.