Exploring Montana’s Scenic Byways by Bicycle: Eco-Tourism and Adventure in Big Sky Country
Published 1:45 pm Monday, May 19, 2025
Spring is here and that means it’s the perfect time to go outdoors and spend some quality time in nature. After a long winter where we often feel too sluggish to move around, spring is the perfect season to be active and explore the outdoors.
Some start with their morning jogs while others prefer to cycle to work or school. Cycling is also a great way to promote sustainable methods of transport and to get some much needed physical activity.
Apart from cycling to get errands done, you can also go on an adventure and explore new cities and countries with your bike.
If you’re not sure which state to head to first, we suggest giving Montana a chance. Montana—also nicknamed Big Sky Country—is a land of breathtaking views and jaw-dropping mountain peaks.
You’ll get to set your own pace, make your own route and enjoy some alone time or invite some friends to join you, it’s completely up to you.
In this post, we’ll dive into why cycling around Montana is such a smart, sustainable choice and how it perfectly aligns with the principles of ecotourism.
Why choose Montana for your trip
Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a casual rider with an adventurous spirit, Montana offers a vast playground for every kind of rider. The state has gradually become a tourist attraction with more than 12.5 million tourists visiting it every year.
Advantages of eco-tourism in Montana
Cycling as a means of travel is more than just an enjoyable hobby—it aligns beautifully with the values of eco-tourism. This form of responsible travel aims to conserve the environment, uplift local communities, and educate visitors along the way.
However, many are hesitant to pick up their bikes and hit the road. Montana is still missing the proper infrastructure for cyclists and this is a major concern among the cycling community.
Bicycle accidents are known to happen and it’s usually due to the fact that cyclists have to use the same roads as car drivers, making them vulnerable to incoming traffic.
Don’t be discouraged by this, even if an accident does happen, you can count on the help of Montana bicycle accident law firms that will help guide you through the process and ensure you get a fair settlement.
Minimal environmental impact
A well-known fact is that cars emit greenhouse gases and contribute to pollution. But bicycles? Not so much.
Cycling produces zero emissions, reduces noise pollution, and causes far less wear on roads and trails. This low-impact mode of travel helps protect Montana’s pristine ecosystems. For countries rich in nature, it’s important to ensure these areas don’t get polluted by the constant traffic.
Cycling is a great way to minimize pollution and promote a healthy lifestyle for all.
Support for local economies
Many small towns along Montana’s scenic byways, like Whitefish, Livingston, and Red Lodge, have embraced cyclists with open arms. Riders often stop for food, lodging, repairs, or even just a chat. This steady trickle of visitors helps fuel local businesses and creates jobs in places that don’t always benefit from mass tourism.
Educational and cultural engagement
Eco-tourism encourages travelers to connect more deeply with the places they visit. On a bike, you’re far more likely to chat with a local farmer at a roadside stand or visit a Native American heritage site you might otherwise zoom past.
Many areas in Montana offer opportunities to learn about tribal history, sustainable ranching, and conservation efforts—all while supporting those initiatives directly. You can also make a route for yourself and check out all the monuments and important historical landmarks that you’re interested in.
Physical and mental wellness
Let’s not forget the personal perks. Cycling is great for your health, both physically and mentally. The physical aspect of cycling is familiar to all of us but the benefits it has for our mental health are much more important.
You’ll feel refreshed both physically and mentally after your trip, we guarantee that.
The key takeaways
In Montana, adventure is part of the landscape—and so is the opportunity to experience it responsibly. Cycling through this incredible state lets you slow down, enjoy the scenery, and connect with communities in a way that traditional tourism often misses.
So gear up, grab your map (or GPS), and get ready to ride. Montana is truly a wonderful state to explore and it has so much to offer to anyone who desires to get familiar with its wildlife and nature.