Montana is a vast, wild northwestern US state nicknamed 'Big Sky Country' for its sweeping vistas and dramatic open landscapes. From Glacier National Park's jagged peaks to the rolling prairies of the Great Plains and the geothermal wonders of Yellowstone's northern reaches, Montana rewards visitors with breathtaking scenery, world-class outdoor adventure, and a deeply authentic frontier culture.
Montana ranks among the safest US states for domestic and international visitors. Violent crime rates in cities are low. The primary safety concerns are wilderness-specific: wildlife encounters (grizzly bears, mountain lions, bison), rapidly changing mountain weather, remote road conditions, and sparse cell coverage. Urban crime is minimal; standard precautions suffice in cities.
Current safety advisory
Very Safe
Essential safety tips
Practical advice that applies everywhere.
Keep copies of important documents (passport, insurance) in separate locations.
Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots.
Use registered taxis or rideshare apps. Avoid unmarked vehicles offering rides.
Trust your instincts — if a situation feels wrong, remove yourself from it.
Common scams to avoid
Recognise and sidestep tourist-targeted scams.
Health considerations
Staying healthy on your trip.
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- Altitude sickness
- Advice
- Glacier and Beartooth Highway reach 8,000–10,900 feet. Ascend slowly; stay hydrated; avoid alcohol on the first day at altitude. Symptoms include headache, nausea, and dizziness.
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- Bear spray
- Advice
- Carry 7.9+ oz EPA-approved bear spray within arm's reach on all trails in grizzly country (Glacier, Yellowstone area, Bob Marshall Wilderness). Aim slightly downward in a wide arc at an approaching bear.
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- Water safety
- Advice
- Tap water is safe statewide. Backcountry water sources require filtration (e.g., Sawyer Squeeze, $35 USD) or chemical treatment due to Giardia risk.
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- Sun exposure
- Advice
- UV intensity is high at elevation and low-humidity conditions. Wear SPF 30+ sunscreen and reapply every 2 hours. Snow reflects UV and can cause sunburn even on overcast days.
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- Tick awareness
- Advice
- Rocky Mountain wood ticks are active April–July in lower-elevation grasslands and forests. Wear long pants, use DEET repellent, and check clothing after hiking.
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- Medical facilities
- Advice
- Major hospitals in Billings (Billings Clinic, 406-657-4000), Missoula (St. Patrick Hospital, 406-543-7271), Bozeman (Bozeman Health, 406-414-5000), and Great Falls (Benefis, 406-455-5000). Rural areas have limited medical access — carry a first-aid kit and PLB in backcountry.
Safety for specific travellers
Tailored advice for different groups.
Emergency contacts
Numbers to know before you go.
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