Things To Do in Montana

Your Adventure Starts Here

Welcome to Montana, a land of breathtaking natural beauty and endless outdoor adventures! At the Jefferson Inn, we're not just a place to stay; we're your gateway to an unforgettable Montana experience. Our "Things to do in Montana" page is your go-to resource for planning an action-packed and memorable stay in Whitehall.

Montana is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, and we're here to help you make the most of it. Whether you're into hunting, fishing, hiking, sightseeing, birding, or exploring our world-renowned national parks, you'll find a wealth of information and recommendations right here. From the rugged peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the pristine waters of our rivers and lakes, this page is your compass to the wonders of the Treasure State.

We understand that every traveler is unique, and that's why we've curated a diverse range of activities and experiences to suit all interests and skill levels. Whether you're an adrenaline junkie seeking the thrill of the hunt, a serene nature lover looking for a tranquil escape, or a family eager to create lasting memories, Montana has something special for you.

So, dive into our guide, explore the possibilities, and let the adventure begin. Montana is waiting to be discovered, and the Jefferson Inn is your trusted partner in making it happen. We're excited to be a part of your Montana journey, and we can't wait to see you embark on the incredible experiences that await in our picturesque corner of the world.

Let's start planning your Montana adventure today!

Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is a 1,583-sq.-mi. wilderness area in Montana's Rocky Mountains, with glacier-carved peaks and valleys running to the Canadian border. It's crossed by the mountainous Going-to-the-Sun Road. Among more than 700 miles of hiking trails, it has a route to photogenic Hidden Lake. Other activities include backpacking, cycling and camping.



Website:

Visit their website

Address:

64 Grinnell Drive, West Glacier, MT 59936

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is one of the most awe-inspiring places in the United States, boasting natural beauty and diverse wildlife that attracts millions of visitors every year. With so much to see and do, planning a trip to Yellowstone can be overwhelming. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, adventure seeker or just looking to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, there's something for everyone in Yellowstone. In this post, we'll explore some of the must-see attractions and popular activities that make Yellowstone National Park a truly unforgettable destination.

Website:

Visit their website

Address:

2 Officers Row, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190

FISHING

The Jefferson in Whitehall, Montana - adventure begins here!

Reminder: March 1st begins the NEW license year in Montana, required for everyone 12+ 

UPDATE Fishing Report by David Corrado   davidcorrado4@gmail.com



The Jefferson in Whitehall, Montana - adventure begins here!

Reminder: March 1 st begins the NEW license year in Montana, required for everyone 12+

July 28th 2025

General Overview –

The Jefferson in Whitehall, Montana - adventure begins here!

Reminder: As we move into July, water temperature should be a consideration when fishing

Below 65 degrees – Trout are happy, Hungry and ready for a fight

65 to 68 degrees – Trout are slowing down and feeling the heat, use heavier tippet to land the fish

quickly and be patient, trout will need extra time to recover before release.

Above 68 degrees – IT IS TOO WARM TO FISH

June 28, 2025

General Overview –

The “runoff season” has come to an end here. The weather has settled into a more normal summer

pattern with warm afternoons and cool evenings. This is a great time to get out and fish. The Gallatin

and Big Hole, both freestones, have seen flows come down from their peaks and are now in prime

condition. The next big hatch is the PMD hatch and as with most timing will be everything. The

double nymph rig will be the “go to” setup until the fish start rising, think Pat’s rubber legs, golden

stones, Pheasant tails, Frenchies, Zebra midges and Perdigons are all good patterns. Streamers are

another great choice Sculpzillas, Sparkle minnows, woolly buggers or home invaders can all turn

heads.

Beaverhead River

The Beaverhead is now open. The river flow at Barretts is 592cfs. It is best fished from a small drift

boat but can be waded in places like Henneberry and Poindexter Slough.

Big Hole River –

The Big Hole is primarily a nymph and streamer river. The river flow at Maiden Rock is 778 with

water temps in a sweet spot, running between 57 and 62 degrees. There are a lot of bugs on the

menu right now with PMD’s, caddis, yellow Sallies and Golden stones all hatching. Streamers are

producing fish in the riffle water. This is a great time for a dry dropper!

Jefferson River –

The Jefferson is a combination of rifles, runs and deep pools. While it doesn’t have the number of

fish in some of the more popular rivers it makes up for that with fish size and a lack of competition

from other anglers. It’s a great choice for those looking to get away from the crowd and explore. Early

mornings are the time to fish the Jefferson as the water temperature in the afternoon has been getting

up around 70 degrees.

Gallatin River –

The Gallatin River is running 1280cfs at Gallatin Gateway and 705cfs near Big Sky with water temps

between 50 and 56 degrees. The river is in prime condition. The lower flow is just in time for the

Salmon flies. Usa a dry dropper rig to peak interest and keep a bend in the rod.

Madison River –

The upper Madison is at 770cfs because of an increase in the release from Hebgen lake. This is an

unusually low flow for the upper river at this time of year and a great chance for wade fisherman to

get to areas not normally accessible on foot so get out and explore. Nymphs and streams are giving

the best results with dry fly fishing happening as the water warms from morning lows. Pat’s rubber

legs or a stonefly nymph with a trailing zebra midge or pheasant tail are good starting points. PMD’s,

yellow sallies, lots of caddis and golden stone flies all have the fish looking up from late morning to

early afternoon.

The lower Madison is running 1170cfs and the recent cool weather has dropped water temps back to

63 degrees making the river again fishable. Keep in mind that water temperatures above 65 degrees

stress the trout and above 68 is unfishable so fish early and watch the water temps.

Missouri River –

The Missouri river flow is regulated and is currently at 3510 with water temperatures between 57 and

61 degrees. The Missouri is a great shape and gives anglers the opportunity to fish gin clear water

with lots of rising fish. The river can be either waded or floated. Rainbows are the primary trout

species on the Missouri. PMD’s and caddis are both on the water. If they are not rising try a split back

PMD nymph with a trailing midge or small perdigon.

Ruby River –

The Ruby has dropped to 265cfs below the reservoir and has reached a wader friendly flow. The

river below the reservoir fishes best between 200 and 300cfs. Above 300cfs the wading becomes

difficult. The Ruby River above the reservoir is currently at 150cfs. The river holds Browns, Rainbows,

Cutthroat and Grayling all very willing to eat dry flies.

RAFTING

Montana’s rivers offer thrilling whitewater rafting and scenic floats for every adventurer. Take on the Gallatin River’s legendary "Mad Mile" for a heart-pounding Class IV experience, float through history at Missouri Headwaters State Park, or explore the diverse waters of the Madison River. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline or a peaceful journey, Montana’s rivers deliver unforgettable adventures.

Ready to hit the water? Plan your rafting trip today!