While the Big Sky State is the fourth largest in the U.S., it only ranks 45th for population thanks to an abundance of undeveloped land including open plains and towering mountain ranges.
The state boasts nearly 30 million acres of public use land, one million acres of Glacier National Park, and plenty of fishing, hiking, and skiing opportunities across the state. And don’t forget the unique animal population, which includes more than 1,500 grizzly bears.
Montana boasts two national parks – Glacier National Park which should not be missed. The northern tip of Yellowstone National Park is also in Montana, including the steamy Mammoth Hot Springs.
With so much to explore, it’s no wonder that visitors flock to the state. See below for the best modern cabins to rent during your tour of the state.
Ski Cabin in Big Sky
This two-bedroom and three-bathroom rental is located in Big Sky with the opportunity to ski-in/ski-out at the Stagecoach lift at Big Sky Resort as well as extraordinary views of Ulery’s Lake.
Soak in your private hot tub outside after a long day on the slopes or exploring Gallatin National Forest or relax in front of one of the four TVs. Warm your bones in front of the wood fireplace and put together a meal inside or outside on the gas grill.
If skiing isn’t your thing, you can also head out for a hike at Beehive Basin or Cinnamon Mountain or head into Big Sky for shopping and a variety of eateries.
Cabin with Flathead Lake Views
This two-bedroom and one-bathroom cabin is located in Polson with ample views of Flathead Lake as well as Montana’s endless sky. Located on two acres of land, you’ll be able to take those in with a great amount of privacy. And with enormous windows throughout, you can even get those views from the comfort of indoors.
Roast marshmallows around the fire pit at night or spend a few hours watching for wildlife movement, such as turkeys, deer, and sometimes even a bear. Jump into the hot tub after a long day out playing or try your hand at shuffleboard in the loft. You can cook your meals in the kitchen or use the propane grill out on the deck.
Head to Finley State Park, just two miles away for water activities in the warm months, or head an hour north up to Blacktail Mountain to hit the slopes in the winter.
Swan Riverfront Rental
This three-bedroom and three-bathroom rental is located in Big Fork, right on the shores of Swan River where you can float, kayak or fish.
You can take in the sights from the deck or from the floor-to-ceiling windows in the living room. You can also enjoy your meal dining inside or al fresco. Gather around the fire pit at night and take in the dark skies or some smores.
In addition to Swan River, you can head to Flathead Lake for water recreation or Jewel Basin for hiking. And don’t miss exploring Glacier National Park which is less than an hour away.
Cabin on Georgetown Lake
This stunning four-bedroom and three-bathroom cabin is located on Georgetown Lake, where you can flyfish and water ski in the warmer months or ice fish when it’s colder. You are also not far from winter activities at Discovery Ski Area.
Cook a meal in the fully equipped kitchen and take in the amazing views of the Pintler Mountains from inside or out on your deck. Warm-up by the gas fireplace after adventuring outside.
In addition to the ski area, you can also cross over the highway for a cross-country trail or explore over 100 miles of usable snowmobile trails.
Livingston Cabin in the Wild
This three-bedroom and two-bathroom cabin is located in Livingston, where you’ll have ultimate privacy on ten acres, with no other houses in sight.
Cool off or fish at the creek located on the property and cook a meal in the full kitchen with any herbs or veggies that you can find out in the garden.
You are only about 35 minutes from Bozeman for outdoor recreation, entertainment, and dining, and 40 miles from adventuring at the northern entrance to Yellowstone National Park.
Ski In/Ski Out Cabin in Whitefish
This two-bedroom and two-bathroom log cabin is located within the outdoor playground of Whitefish with ski-in/ski-out access to Whitefish Mountain Resort and walking distance to the resort’s eateries and shops.
Warm-up by the gas fireplace in the living room while relaxing in front of the TV. Cook outside on the grill or stay cozy inside and use the fully equipped kitchen. Hop into the outdoor hot tub after a day of adventuring.
In the warmer months, you can enjoy water activities like fishing, boating, and rafting as well as hiking and biking.
A-Frame Near Whitefish
This two-bedroom and two-bathroom rental is located in Whitefish with convenient access to Whitefish Mountain Resort as well the downtown’s many restaurants and shops.
Make a meal in the full kitchen or outside on the propane grill. Relax in front of the wood-burning fireplace. Take in lake views and sunny skies from the front deck or head to the back deck for privacy and shade.
You are also only about 25 minutes from Glacier National Park, several golf courses, Flathead Lake, Whitefish Lake, and many other adventure opportunities including biking, ziplining, and hiking.
Glamping in Livingston
This two-bedroom and one-bathroom rental is located in Livingston, and close to Bozeman’s entertainment and shops as well as endless recreation in Gallatin National Forest and Yellowstone National Park’s northern entrance.
Enjoy a night in with the fully equipped kitchen or explore the area restaurants. Take in the natural light from the ample windows or head out to the patio to take in some fresh air with amazing views.
In addition to Bozeman, Gallatin, and Yellowstone, you are also only 20 minutes from skiing at Bridger Bowl Ski Area.