It’s National Montana Day! 20 Fun Facts You Didn’t Know About This U.S. State

1. “Treasure State” Nickname

Montana is nicknamed the “Treasure State”. This catchy name hails from the days when people found gold and silver in its hills during the 1800s.

Even today, Montana’s soil is a trove of minerals, including sapphires and copper! This massive state with its stunning landscapes still carries the legacy of those shiny discoveries.

2. Fourth Largest U.S. State

Did you know that when it comes to size, Montana is really something special? It’s the fourth biggest state in all of the United States! Not as huge as Alaska, but it’s got plenty of room to roam.

3. Name Means “Mountain”

Do you know how Montana got its name? Montana’s name has its roots in the Spanish word “montaña,” meaning mountain. It’s not just a name; it’s a tribute to the state’s majestic landscapes that will greet you on your adventures!

4. More Cattle Than People

In this sprawling state, cattle easily outnumber humans! Yes, that’s right. There are more of these mooing residents than people living under the Big Sky. With a human count shy of 1.1 million and cattle figures stepping well past this, you’ve got to admit, that’s pretty impressive.

5. Largest Migratory Elk Herd

Montana has a spectacular natural scene you won’t want to miss; it’s home to the largest migratory elk herd in the nation. These majestic creatures journey through Montana’s wilderness, showcasing the wild heart of the region. It’s a sight so grand, you’ve got to see it with your own eyes!

6. Ancient Glaciers

Did you know that within Montana’s Glacier National Park, there are ancient pieces of ice that have been around for over 7,000 years? Some of the glaciers you see today started forming in the time of the early Egyptians!

7. Triple Divide Point

Montana has a unique spot called Triple Divide Peak, and what happens there is pretty remarkable. It’s the only state with a triple divide that allows water to flow into the Pacific Ocean, Atlantic Ocean, and Hudson Bay. This happens because of the way the land lies – it’s like a natural split in the road.

8. Statehood in 1889

On November 8, 1889, Montana shook hands with the rest of the United States and became the 41st state to join the party. It’s a pivotal moment that started the state’s journey in the great American story.

9. First U.S. Dinosaur Fossils

The very first dinosaur fossils in North America were found in this ruggedly beautiful state. In 1854, near Judith Landing, Montana made history with this groundbreaking find.

Dinosaurs like the enormous Apatosaurus and the fearsome Tyrannosaurus Rex called Montana home. And, with over 75 dinosaur fossils unearthed here, your footsteps might not be the first—dinosaur tracks could be right under your hiking boots!

10. Trumpeter Swan Population

Montana has the largest breeding population of trumpeter swans in the lower United States. These majestic birds, with their grand wingspans that can reach up to 7-8 feet, find a perfect home here. They’re not just any swans; they’re the heaviest flying birds in North America!

11. Inhabited For Over 12,000 Years

Montana has been home to people for more than 12,000 years, making its history as fascinating as its landscapes. Our ancient ancestors left behind artifacts like tools and artwork, letting us peek into a time when mammoths and saber-toothed cats roamed.

12. Sapphire Digging

The state has a sapphire range where anyone can go and dig for their own sapphires! You can find your own blue beauties in the Treasure State’s public mines. In places like the Gem Mountain area, you can spend a sunny day searching for these glimmering stones.

13. First National Park

Yellowstone National Park holds the title of the very first national park in the entire world, established way back in 1872. Imagine walking the same paths that explorers and nature lovers have trekked since the days of horse-drawn carriages!

14. World’s Shortest River

Forget the majestic Mississippi; the Roe River is a quick jaunt at just 201 feet long, and once held the title for the world’s shortest river in Guinness World Records. The Roe flows with a depth of 6-8 feet, so it’s much deeper than it is long.

15. Montana’s State Gem

Did you know that Montana has not just one, but two state gems? Montana Sapphires are unique because they flaunt their beauty just as much under the sun as they do beneath a lamp. These sapphires vary in shades too, offering a rainbow from yellows to purples.

Now, the Yogo sapphire, Montana’s pride and joy. These little blue marvels are the crown jewels among the various colors. Their cornflower blue shade is so special, it comes from a specific spot called Yogo Gulch.

Montana is the only place in the entire U.S. to produce these glittering gems.

16. Little Bighorn Battlefield

Did you know that one of the most famous battles in American history happened right under the big blue skies of Montana? The Battle of the Little Bighorn, often called Custer’s Last Stand, was an epic showdown that took place in the rolling hills and valleys of Montana back in 1876.

17. Largest Snowflake Ever Observed

Imagine a snowflake so big that it could cover your whole face; that happened in Montana, believe it or not. Back in 1887, residents in Fort Keogh saw snowflakes as large as 15 inches wide. This snowflake is still in the record books today as the biggest one ever seen!

18. Rare Painite Deposits

Montana is home to significant deposits of Painite, a super rare mineral that was once considered the world’s rarest. Found only in a few spots around the globe, Montana’s got bragging rights as one of those places where you can find this unique mineral. Painite is a real head-turner, with a rich, deep color that catches the light in an amazing way.

19. Montana’s Flathead Lake

Montana has a real jewel in its crown—Flathead Lake. Not only is it a dazzling sight with crystal-clear waters, but it’s also one of the cleanest lakes around the globe. The size of this lake is impressive. It’s the largest natural freshwater lake in the western U.S. beyond the Mississippi.

20. Elk & Deer Outnumber Humans

In Montana, you’re more likely to have an elk, deer, or antelope as your neighbor than another human. Yes, it’s true! The elk, deer, and antelope populations collectively surpass the number of residents in this vast and beautiful state.