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Great Falls, Montana, is named after the largest of five waterfalls that make up a small part of the Missouri River Basin. Read below to see some of the best outdoors things to do in Great Falls. The Falls Great Falls first became known to the United States during the Lewis and Clark expedition of the Louisiana Purchase territory in 1805. Each of them offers breathtaking views of carved out mountainside, forests, grasslands, and running water. From different access points a little off the beaten path, visitors can walk along trails that will take them by each of the waterfalls, as well as the dams that help power the state. This landmark has been a major spot of exploration for the past 160 years. The view from the top of the Great Falls of the entire region is amazing. The Ryan Dam, which generates power from the Great Falls, is a testament to human ingenuity. Rainbow Falls produces a vibrant display in its 50-foot cascade. Black Eagle Falls has a park that offers a great view of the convergence of the Missouri River with the Sun River. The amount of sightseeing and exploring in this area seems nearly endless. more For more information on all of the waterfalls and dams that make up this attraction, check out their website. Giant Springs State Park Giant Springs also became part of Lewis and Clark's expedition and is home to one of the country's largest freshwater basins. It has a flow rate of 156 million gallons of water per day, which keeps the water clean and steady at a crisp 54 degrees. The area around the park is very popular and includes the Great Falls, river outlooks, a fish hatchery, and the city. There are over 20 miles of trails to be explored within the 4,600 acres of front and backcountry at Great Springs. Visitors will often picnic, hold group functions, go hiking, take one of the tours, fish, hunt, or watch the birds. There are special events and activities for children as well. Giant Springs State Park is loaded with things to do and amazing scenic views. For more information on park activities, amenities, and events, go to their official website run by the State of Montana. Malmstrom Museum and Air Park Located just through the gate of the Malmstrom Air Force Base on the east side of Great Falls, this museum chronicles the United States' air power and missile capabilities from World War II through the Cold War with the Soviet Union, and down to today. There are a large number of military vehicles, aircraft, weapons systems, and missile silos on display to the public for free. The Malmstrom Museum and Air Park is open to the public Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. There are special tours that can be arranged by contacting their commercial office at 406-731-2705. Between the parks, waterfalls, and other outdoor activities in Great Falls, there are hours of fun to be had by people of all ages and walks of life. The next time you're thinking about going outside for the day, try out one of these activities. Image by JoshuaDavisPhotography via cc by-sa 2.0

Great Falls is in a gorgeous part of Montana, and many people visit to see some of the state's best natural beauty — namely, sights like Giant Springs State Park. However, you don't have to put on your hiking shoes and slap on some sunscreen to enjoy life in the city. If the weather doesn't permit outdoor activities and you just need to escape the elements, try one of these indoor activities in the area. C. M. Russell Museum The C. M. Russell Museum is one of the most popular attractions in Great Falls, indoors or otherwise. The museum is named for Charles Marion Russell, an artist and cowboy who was born and raised in Great Falls. Russell was known for his thousands of paintings, including many breathtaking landscapes and scenes depicting life in the western United States. You can see some of Russell's best works at the C. M. Russell Museum. It can be found at 400 13th St. N. The museum's open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. more Paris Gibson Square Museum of Art The Paris Gibson Square Museum of Art is a fantastic choice for a cultural experience in Great Falls. Located at 1400 1st Ave. N., the museum is unmissable as the architecture alone makes the site worth visiting. Inside, you'll find a rotating selection of exhibits exploring life in Montana, as well as national culture and significant events. The museum also hosts a variety of events, including first Friday art walks and the Arts on Fire festival auction. The Paris Gibson Square Museum of Art is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday from 5-9 p.m., and Saturday from noon-5 p.m. It's closed every Sunday. Admission is free. Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Interpretive Center For a look at the significant role that this area played in an important part of U.S. history, visit the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Interpretive Center. This center sits along the Missouri River and is located at 4201 Giant Springs Road in Great Falls. You can attend events such as film festivals, documentaries, and public art projects. The center is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and closed every Monday. Great Falls Ice Plex If you love ice skating or hockey, Great Falls Ice Plex is the right place to spend some time. While public skating is one of the most popular activities here, you can also attend lessons to learn how to skate and watch or play hockey. The rink hosts several leagues. Great Falls Ice Plex is situated at 4001 29th St. SW. It's open for public skating Sunday afternoons starting Oct. 1. Other events and special daily openings are posted on the rink's calendar. Great Falls is a beautiful city with lots to do, but you don't have to settle for outdoor activities. Consider one or all the above indoor activities the next time you're planning an afternoon or evening in the area. Image by m ark6mauno via CC BY 2.0

Great Falls is the perfect place to enjoy outdoor activities throughout any season, particularly in the winter. With the decline of visitors during the colder months and the city's proximity to numerous forests and mountains, you can relish peace and quiet and some striking views of nature. If you're in the area during the cold time of the year, here are a few fun activities you can look forward to. Snowshoeing If you're a fan of hiking, you don't have to let the best trails in Great Falls go unexplored just because the snow has stacked high. Instead, strap on some snowshoes for a rigorous winter activity. Though the weather can make hiking more difficult, there's a greater chance for seclusion compared to spring and summer. more Caving This part of the state is known for some deep and gorgeous caves. While it might be more comfortable to explore them when the weather is warm, the stunning experience of seeing huge icicles and frozen rock formations makes it worth bundling up and hiking out to some popular spots around Great Falls. The best part is that there are some lower elevation caves in the island mountain ranges that are excellent for beginners. Great Falls is also a starting point for more experienced hikers who plan on exploring caves along the Rocky Mountain Front. Ice Skating Ice skating and hockey are year-round favorites in Great Falls thanks to a fantastic local rink. However, if you appreciate these sports, you can try them outside and have an unforgettable winter experience. Gibson Park is one of the most popular places for ice skating and hockey in the city. Ice Fishing Ice fishing is another popular local activity that takes advantage of the freezing temperatures. You'll need to dress warm and invest in some fishing gear, but this sport is unique and a way to relax on a pristine day in Montana. With the Missouri River cutting through the city and feeding into many other lakes and streams nearby, the area is full of opportunities to enjoy this pastime. Holter Lake is one popular spot where you can catch perch. Wadsworth Pond and Bynum Reservoir are two other optional locations for ice fishing. Cross-Country Skiing Numerous remote trails are within a short drive from Great Falls, giving visitors quality options for a challenging pursuit that will reward them with spectacular sights. For something closer to the city, check out Eagle Falls Golf Course. It stays open in the winter and gives cross-country skiers access to a local selection that spans two miles. For something more rigorous but still tailored to this sport, visit the Silver Crest Trails in the Lewis and Clark National Forest. Don't let the frigid weather keep you cooped up in Great Falls. Several national forests and mountain ranges are waiting for you to explore. During the warmer seasons, you can plan your adventures ahead of time. Image by Jeff Pang via CC BY 2.0

Every state has its own unique and unusual sites, and Montana is no different. Not only is this area of the country known for its beautiful scenery and large national parks, but it also has some quirky local roadside attractions. Check out these unusual places in Montana that you can drive to from the Great Falls area. Hill 57 Hill 57 overlooks the town of Great Falls. Most residents know exactly where the hill stands, but they don't know where it got its name. According to some, It all started in the 1930s when Art Hinck, a local pickle salesman for the Heinz company arranged the whitewashed rocks in the form of the number 57 as an advertisement for the Heinz product line. There are also some people who believe the name for the hill came from James J. Hill, the chief executive officer of the Great Northern Railway. more Big John - Cowboy Muffler Man Big John is a 22-foot tall cowboy that has stood under the Big John Casino sign since 1999 and is one of the Muffler Men that you can see throughout the country. Big John once stood at a hotel along interstate I-94 but he disappeared from that location sometime in 1995 and then soon reappeared in Great Falls in 1999 where he remains. Big John is a cowboy standing with his hands extended down as if he is about to draw his pistols, but he doesn't have any. The Sip 'N Dip Lounge: Mermaids The O'Haire Motor Inn on Seventh Street in S. Great Galls Montana features a wall-size window that allows people in the lounge to see into the pool. On New Year's Eve in 1995, the manager of the Sip 'n Dip and her mother convinced one of the inn's housekeepers to put on a mermaid suit and swim around in the pool. It was such a hit that there are now six mermaids that regularly swim around in the pool entertaining the customers in the bar. The Ringing Rocks About two and a half hours from Great Falls in Pipestone, Montana, there is a large pile of rocks that ring like bells when you hit them with a hammer. The location of the rocks is a bit out of the way out on Road #2, but it is worth the trip. You can get to Road #2 by taking exit 241 off I-90 and following a gravel road that runs almost parallel to the highway for a 3/4 of a mile where you'll find the marker for the road. Make sure to bring a hammer and bear spray. You'll also want to wear comfortable shoes because there is a short walk to get to the rocks from the parking lot. There is a large forest service sign at the entrance describing the rocks when you get to the location, so you'll know you are in the right spot. Check out these fun and unusual places in Montana. You can find some right in Great Falls, and others within a short drive. Image by Tim Evanson via CC BY 2.0

While Montana is more famous for its big skies and open views than its nightlife, you can still find places to relax and enjoy yourself when you're in a Montana city like Great Falls. Set along the banks of the Missouri River, Great Falls has plenty of things to do, both before and after the sun goes down. Sip 'n Dip Lounge The Sip 'n Dip Lounge is an unusual bar located in the O'Haire Motor Inn on 7th Street South. The Sip 'n Dip is an old-fashioned tiki bar with retro seafoam-green seats, a thatch roof, and an electric organ for live music events. The lounge also has a glass window behind the bar that lets you see into the hotel's swimming pool, where every evening they put on a mermaid show to entertain the guests. The Sip 'n Dip Lounge is internationally famous after being featured in a 2003 GQ article and for making stellar drinks. Celtic Cowboy You'll find the Celtic Cowboy Irish pub and restaurant near the western end of 1st Avenue South. The pub is a recent addition to the Great Falls nightlife, but it takes its name from the Welsh immigrant Robert Vaughn, who was the first European settler in the county and got the nickname "the Celtic Cowboy" thanks to his success in ranching. The pub serves meals all day, and they have a long list of Irish and international beers on tap for you to enjoy between noon and closing time. The Do Bar and Casino The Do Bar and Casino sits right where the 3rd and 4th Streets meet north of the Missouri River. The place stays open most of the day, from 8 a.m. to 2 a.m., and there's plenty to do while you're here. They offer the usual pub games like pool and have a stage where you can catch live shows or sign up for an open mic night. You can also head over to the casino room and try your luck at one of the slot machines and electronic games. For drinks, the Do Bar offers several unique cocktails and local brews. Steinhaus The Steinhaus is a German-style bar located in the heart of downtown Great Falls on 1st Avenue North. The bar offers a rotating list of beers that includes a lot of Montana microbreweries and has a friendly, social atmosphere. Steinhaus has a full menu of German pub food available, but regulars often get their food from the local pizzeria Howard's Pizza next door instead. If you end up stopping by, make sure you order a Ghost beer. While many people come to Montana to enjoy the open ranges, the tall mountains, and the thick forests, the cities in the state have their own appeal. With bars, lounges, and even casinos on offer, Great Falls, Montana, has an active nightlife that gives locals and visitors alike plenty to do after the sun sets. Image by marco monetti via CC BY-ND 2.0

Great Falls, Montana, is a city packed with history. Head to one of these historical spots or museums this weekend to learn more about the fascinating past of this wonderful place. more C.M. Russell Museum If you want to learn more about life in the Midwest during the 19th and 20th centuries, this is a wonderful place to learn more. The artist for whom the museum is named, C.M. Russell, is best known for his paintings that captured how Great Falls went from frontier land to a settled city. There are 15 galleries inside the museum where you can see paintings, sculptures, and letters from C.M. Russell. Also on the premises are Russell's original home as well as his cabin which he used as an art studio. The cabin is set up just as it was when he used it to create his works. For those that want to see what life looked like in Great Falls back during the cowboy days, you'll love getting a peek into the past at this museum. Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail Interpretive Center Great Falls was an important place along the Lewis and Clark trail. If you head to the Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail Interpretive Center, you can learn about their journey, what they found when they first arrived in the region, and why it was such an important place as the frontier was settled. The interpretive center is very hands-on. There are films to watch, lectures given every week, and you can even go on a ranger-led tour along the nearby trails to learn more about the area. Inside the center, you'll find permanent exhibits like the interactive boat along the Missouri River. Test your strength to see if you can pull the boat along the river's current. In addition to telling the story of Lewis and Clark's journey, the interpretive center also teaches you about the lives of the Plains and Northwest Indians who were native to the Great Falls region. Learn about the plants and animals that Lewis and Clark discovered. First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park There's something very unique to Great Falls in the First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park. Only a short drive from downtown Great Falls, this state park is home to a prehistoric Native American buffalo jump. A buffalo jump is a cliff edge that was used by the Native Americans to drive the buffaloes to their death. Be sure to stop into the visitor center to learn exactly how the Native Americans drove the buffalo to this particular jump. You'll also learn about the devastation of the buffalo population once this area of the west began being settled. From the visitor center, it's a short walk to the buffalo jump. Alternatively, you can drive to the cliff edge. The views from the jump over the prairie are some of the best in the area. From here you can hop onto several walking trails. The park often hosts different events like yoga or photography classes during the warmer summer months. Check out one of these historic sites and museums this weekend to learn more about the history of Great Falls and its people. Image by AllAroundTheWest via CC BY-SA 2.0

There are so many stunning spots to get outdoors around Great Falls, Montana. Whether you want to hike, mountain bike, swim, or simply soak in the sunshine, get out to one of these local parks this weekend before the winter chill creeps in. more Giant Springs State Park A ten-minute drive from downtown Great Falls, the Giant Springs State Park is an easy place to head for a little outdoor adventure. The park is home to one of the largest freshwater springs in the country. Fascinatingly, the water temperature is exactly the same year round. It is always a cool 54 degrees Fahrenheit. The park was founded by Lewis and Clark on an expedition in 1805. You can head into the welcome center to learn more about the history of the place. Head here for the well-kept hiking and biking trails. There are over 20 miles worth of single-track trails to keep you busy. You can also come to Giant Springs to go fishing, hunting, and bird watching. River's Edge Trail The River's Edge Trail is one of the easiest ways to enjoy the great outdoors from Great Falls. The trail is almost 60 miles long and winds along and across the Missouri River. Much of the trail is completely paved, which makes it great for walking, running, biking, rollerblading, and wheelchair users, too. If you enjoy fishing, you can access the river from the trails easily. Along the way, you'll also spot 18 public art pieces and up-close views of all five of the river's nearby waterfalls. The trail starts in the downtown Great Falls area in Warden Park and goes all the way to Giant Springs State Park. You can access the trail from several areas if you only want to enjoy part of it. Gibson Park For a good place to take the kids, Gibson Park is one of the best outdoor options in Great Falls. There is a huge playground area with slides, climbing frames, swings, and monkey bars. Older kids will love the skate park, where they can learn some tricks and get better at rollerblading, skateboarding, or using a scooter. There is also a lake where you can go fishing or simply feed the ducks and geese. It's part of the River's Edge Trail, so you can go for a nice jog or bike ride through the park. There are plenty of picnic tables around the area, so be sure to pack a lunch so you can spend the day enjoying the park. Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge If you enjoy seeing wildlife, Benton Lake is the best place in Great Falls to go. The best route to take to see wildlife is the Prairie Marsh Wildlife Drive. It's a 9-mile drive that will bring you as close as you can get to the park's residents. The refuge is also a popular place to come for hunting waterfowl. It's only permitted during the fall in the designated hunting areas. If you're unsure where that is, head to the visitor center for information. Now get out and enjoy the natural beauty in Great Falls this weekend! Image by greaterfalls via CC BY-ND 2.0

Looking to be pampered? There's no better place than a spa or salon to relax and unwind. Great Falls has a number of lush spas and salons, staffed by beauty and relaxation experts who can take your me-time to a whole new level. Here are our top three favorite spots to be pampered in Great Falls. Linda Michaels Salon and Spa Linda Michaels Salon and Spa offers a huge range of services, from expert hair care to manicures to facials. This full-service salon and spa is a great place to spend a few hours unwinding and relaxing while enjoying any one of the many services offered by the experts at Linda Michaels Salon and Spa. Hair services include cuts, foil, Brazilian Blowouts, and more. If there are any products you particularly love, you can also grab a few bottles to take home for your next home spa day! Their specialty massages and facials are also fantastic. Favorites include the Clodagh Libra Experience, their most luxe offering. more You can also get waxing performed here, as well as manicures and pedicures to keep your nails looking pretty. They offer acrylics, gel manicures, and your standard range of other polish options. The salon and spa is located at 125 Northwest Bypass, Suite H. Studio Montage Salon and Day Spa Get ready for the next level of pampering at Studio Montage Salon and Day Spa. With an expertly crafted menu of salon services plus customized hair care, Studio Montage Salon and Day Spa is the peak of luxury. An Aveda salon, they use only the best products throughout the salon and every service is tailored to fit the needs of their guest. All employees, including massage therapists, spa aestheticians, and beauty consultants, undergo an immersive training program once they begin at Studio Montage to ensure the best, most professional care for guests. The space is calm and relaxing, a wonderful spot to get away from the world and just focus on yourself. Studio Montage Salon and Day Spa is located at 118 Central Ave Suite 2 in downtown Great Falls. You can book your services ahead of time to ensure your spot! The Living Room Spa A charming neighborhood oasis, The Living Room Spa is an intimate, relaxing spot where you can enjoy the spa experience without the bustle of a large facility. Get your makeup professionally done or indulge in one of their many spa services, including facials and waxing. They also offer hair care services such as cut and color, Brazilian Blowout, and hair facials. Enjoy personalized care and pampering in a quaint space with some of the most talented spa professionals in Great Falls. You're family at The Living Room, and the talented employees go a long way to make sure guests feel at home. Before entering the spa, The Living Room does request that cell phones are silenced. Services can be booked ahead of time. The Living Room Spa is located at 614 Central Avenue. These three spas are some of the best that Great Falls has to offer. Image by Hotel Europaeischer Hof Hamburg License via CC BY-NC 2.0

Great Falls, Montana, is named after the waterfalls found all along the Missouri River on which it is located. With a rich history — due to the Lewis and Clark expedition that made its way through the town as well as plenty of natural attractions like Giant Springs — it's not difficult to find fun things to do in Great Falls. Here are three things you can only experience in this Montana town. more Enjoy Wildlife at Benton Lake The Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge is a few minutes north of Great Falls and covers over 12,000 acres of land. This is a shallow wetland teeming with wildlife and beautiful views of nature. Bird-watchers will love the opportunity to take in the abundance of different species that make their homes in and along this grassy lake. But birds aren't the only wildlife you'll get to enjoy during your visit, as 28 various species of mammals have also settled here. Be on the lookout for different types of geese, swans, antelope, and deer, among others. Visit the Largest Freshwater Spring in the US Lewis and Clark first discovered Giant Springs during their expedition in 1805. This is the largest freshwater spring in the country, with 156 million gallons of water flowing from it each day. Supplied by the Madison Aquifer in the Little Belt Mountains — a section of the larger Rocky Mountains — the water that flows from Giant Springs keeps a fixed 54-degree temperature no matter the season. Thanks to the steady temperature of the water, a visit in the winter will offer views of beautiful, billowing clouds of steam. Although many people visit this awesome display of flowing water, Giant Springs offers even more to do. As Montana's most-visited state park, Giant Springs has 4,500 acres of land welcoming visitors to explore. With over 20 miles of trails, the spring is a huge draw for hikers, runners, and cyclists. Trails range from paved and flat to rocky and hilly, so there's sure to be something for everyone's skill level. Fishing and picnicking are also favorite activities of the park's regular visitors. Enjoy a Drink With Mermaids The legendary Sip ‘n Dip Tiki Lounge is known as one of the most interesting bars worth visiting in the United States. When you visit, you'll see a glass wall along the bar with a pool on the other side. Enjoy a little whimsy while you relax with a drink, as mermaids swim along the glass wall in the pool. Open throughout the week, it's always a great time to head to Sip 'n Dip. Other features of the lounge include various gaming machines, live piano bar performances, and an outdoor patio with a full bar. Clark & Lewie's Pub and Grill is located right next door and offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Grab and burger and then head over to Sip 'n Dip afterward for a drink. Taylor's Auto Max — Great Falls, Montana's premier used car Supercenter — is a great place to shop for your next vehicle. Stop by to check out their awesome selection and head out for a test drive or two. Image by SheltieBoy, Licensed via CC BY 2.0

Once you're behind the wheel of your new Nissan Armada, you'll want to put its impressive 8,500-pound towing capacity to the test. Experienced anglers, as well as those new to the sport of fishing, can hook up their boats and head out for a fishing adventure. Need a vehicle to reach your destination? Shop our Sierra 1500 Limited trucks for sale or try a Sierra 2500 at Taylor's Auto Max. Our Buick, GMC & Nissan dealer boasts a wide selection of vehicles to choose from. You can also shop offers on used cars, trucks & SUVs if you're not looking to buy new. Whatever you're looking for, browse our vehicles for sale in Great Falls, MT today! Great Falls, Montana, is an ideal spot for outdoor lovers of all kinds. Thanks to its many nearby bodies of water, there are several great spots to fish. The Missouri River and the Smith River both flow through the area, bringing many different species of fish with them. You'll find lots of blue-ribbon trout and whitefish. Reservoirs, lakes, streams, and ponds abound in this natural paradise, so you'll never be short on fishing-location options. If you're looking to get out in the boat, here are four good spots to visit. more Ulm Bridge Ulm Bridge is a fishing access site located in one of the many bends of the Missouri River. Here you'll enjoy peaceful waters full of sturgeon, burbot, pike, and much more. With many local outfitters nearby, you'll be well-supported in your endeavors, with plenty of bait and equipment available. Right near the bridge, you'll find a boat lunch and toilets. This site is open all season long and is only a 15-minute drive southwest from Great Falls on Interstate 15. This 163-acre area is also great for plenty of other activities. Before or after fishing, don't miss out on a chance to hike, view some wildlife, or head back another day for some great hunting. Big Bend Directly south of Great Falls is the Big Bend fishing area. This is a smaller spot covering only 17 acres, but it offers both a boat ramp and bathrooms. You can head here for a relaxing and enjoyable time fishing or hunting. As this site is also along the Missouri River, you'll find many of the same fish you would at Ulm Bridge as well as some sheepshead and rough fish. Giant Springs State Park If you're looking for a chance to fish and see the largest freshwater spring in the country, you'll want to visit Giant Springs State Park. This park offers 675 acres of beautiful land and water. Here you can go boating, hiking, bicycling, bird-watching, and, of course, fishing. With plenty of picnic tables, this would be a great spot for a group fishing trip and maybe some afternoon grilling. Use the boat launch to head out into the Missouri River, or start out in the pond if you have some young anglers along for the trip. You'll find tons of picture-worthy trout in these waters and even some walleye and catfish. Black Eagle Dam and Falls Along the Missouri River, just before the water flows into the town of Great Falls, you'll find Black Eagle Dam and Falls. This fishing access site offers loads of great fish like catfish, walleye, brown and rainbow trout, and carp. Those who bait-cast, fly-fish, or spin, will all find a welcoming environment here. No matter which spot you choose for your fishing fun, be sure to check the Montana Fish and Wildlife website for information on closures as well as fish activity. Shop Vehicle Lease Deals & Finance Offers in Great Falls, MT Don't forget to stop by our car dealership in Great Falls! Check out our lease and finance prices on Buick, GMC & Nissan inventory: Buick lease deals & finance offers Nissan lease deals & finance offers GMC lease deals & finance offers Image by Forest Service, USDA, Licensed via Public Domain

Every summer, Great Falls spoils its residents and visitors with a great lineup of exciting events and activities — and this blistering hot season is no exception. Check out these four fun-filled events coming up this summer. more Pet and Doll Parade The Pet and Doll Parade is an annual event in which kids dress in costumes and march down Central Avenue with their pets and dolls. Each year, the parade has a different theme — this year, it will be "Beach Party" — and all participants are encouraged to dress to impress, as they will be judged on the originality of their costumes. Participants will be judged in eight divisions — pets, doll, cartoon, circus, occupation, sports, characterization, and frontier — with each division consisting of 6 to 20 categories. The parade will begin in front of the Civic Center on July 26 and is free both to participate in and attend. Montana State Fair Montana State Fair is the largest summer event in Great Falls. This year, it celebrates its 87th anniversary from July 27 to Aug. 4 at the Montana ExpoPark. Fairgoers will have opportunities to enjoy various carnival rides, eat delicious fair food from local vendors, and stroll through exhibit halls. The musical lineup includes Brothers Osborne, Midland, the Temptations, Jeff Foxworthy, and Seether. Free shows will also be held at the 3 Rivers Stage. Lewis and Clark Festival Taking place in Gibson Park, the Lewis and Clark Festival takes you back to Central Montana in 1805, as it recreates the events of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Re-enactors dress in the period attire, as they take part in the adventures of the Corps of Discovery, exhilarating visitors with tales of their lives along the Missouri River. In addition to fine art and satiating food, the festival will feature a bluegrass concert, fun activities for the kids, Native American dancers and drummers, and more. This year, the festival is scheduled from Aug. 24 to Aug. 26. Sun River Valley Excursion This event is organized by the Sun River Valley Historical Society and is created specifically for history buffs and anyone who wants to learn about Montana's beginnings. Sun River Valley Excursion is part of the Lewis and Clark Festival and will explore "the wagon/stagecoach routes through the Sun River Valley and the Birdtail and Mullan Trails." You will tour the Robert Vaughn Ranch in Sun River and small — but historically significant — towns such as Simms, Fort Shaw, and Sun River. Along your route, you will get to see the old stone barn between Vaughn and Sun River and learn about the soldiers who were stationed at Fort Shaw. You will hear stories of the legendary Piegan chief Little Dog, his people, and their battle with the Crow. The tour is scheduled for Aug. 25 from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. The tickets are $60 per person or $100 per couple and include lunch. If you happen to be in Great Falls this July or August, make sure to attend one or all of these events. And remember, these are just the highlights of what's coming up this summer in Great Falls. Image by Tracy, Licensed via CC BY 2.0

Lewis and Clark National Forest is a stunning park in the north and central area of Montana. It sits along the upper Missouri River and the nationally acclaimed trout stream, Smith River. It's tucked into the mountains with an elevation that ranges from 4,500 feet to 9,362 feet above sea level. With its location in the mountains, surrounded by forest, and along the river, you can imagine that there are plenty of outdoor activities to keep you busy on your next trip to Lewis and Clark National Forest. more Hiking Lewis and Clark National Forest is packed with trails that take you along tree-lined trails, across bridges, and into open prairie. One of the great things about hiking in Lewis and Clark National Forest is that you can actually follow in the footsteps of the famous adventurers themselves. The landscape is vast and many of the trails take you up in elevation, so be sure to pack plenty of supplies. It's also good to check in with the nearest park station to let them know your plans for the day. The area is home to tons of wildlife, including grizzly bears, gray wolves, and elk, so take precautions and stay on the trails. Fishing There is so much fishing to do at Lewis and Clark National Forest. Depending on what type of fish you want to catch, you can either head over to Smith River or you can get knee deep in some of the calmer areas of the Missouri River. If you want to catch freshwater trout, there's no better place in Montana than the Smith River inside the National Forest. There are 14 boat camps along the river where fishermen can set up for the weekend and store any fish they catch. There are even places where you can cook them after a day on the water. Be sure to book these camps in advance, especially during peak summer season. Bird Watching Lewis and Clark National Forest is home to quite a few types of migrating river birds. Throughout the year you can find different types of waterfowl like wood ducks, sandhill cranes, and trumpeter swans. The park is also home to peregrine falcons and bald eagles. Always ask at the nearest ranger station for recent sightings and to find out the best location for bird watching in a given season. Rafting For those seeking even more heart-pounding adventure, get yourselves on the roiling whitewater of the Missouri River. At different locations throughout the park, you can enter the river with a tour group and experienced whitewater rafting guide and test your steering skills. Depending on your skill level and what the water is like, tours go out daily from late spring to early fall. Always check reviews on any tours you book with to make certain that you are rafting with a safe and reputable company. Whether you're looking for a fun and relaxing day out in nature or you want to get your blood pumping on something more adventurous, there is plenty to keep all levels of outdoor enthusiasts busy at Lewis and Clark National Forest. Image by Forest Service Northern Region, Licensed via CC BY 2.0