Montana Residents Invited to Vote for Favorite Scenic Spots

Montana Historical Society launches 'Montana Madness Bracket' contest to crown the state's top iconic location

Mar. 12, 2026 at 9:08pm

The Montana Historical Society is inviting residents across the state to vote for their favorite scenic spots in the 'Montana Madness Bracket', part of a new publication celebrating Montana's iconic locations. The contest features 16 different sites from the state's six main tourism regions, including the First Peoples Buffalo Jump, Going-to-the-Sun Road, and Lewis and Clark Caverns. Voting is open now through the society's website, with the bracket being narrowed each week until a final winner is announced.

Why it matters

Montana is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, from the rugged peaks of Glacier and Yellowstone National Parks to the vast open plains of the Big Sky country. This contest allows residents to have a voice in celebrating the state's most iconic and treasured locations, fostering a sense of state pride and highlighting the diverse landscapes that draw millions of visitors each year.

The details

The Montana Historical Society selected the 16 sites featured in the 'Montana Madness Bracket' during the organization's annual Montana History Conference. The locations span the state's six main tourism regions, including Central Montana, Glacier Country, Missouri River Country, Southeast Montana, Southwest Montana, and Yellowstone Country. Some of the featured sites include the First Peoples Buffalo Jump, Going-to-the-Sun Road, Fort Peck Dam, Lewis and Clark Caverns, and the Three Forks of the Missouri.

  • Voting is now open through the Montana Historical Society's website.
  • The bracket will be narrowed each week until a final winner is announced.

The players

Montana Historical Society

A non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the history and culture of Montana.

Martha Kohl

Outreach and education program manager for the Montana Historical Society.

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What they’re saying

“Montana has no shortage of extraordinary places, and we think Montanans will have a strong opinion about which one deserves the top spot. We can't wait to see how this plays out.”

— Martha Kohl, Outreach and education program manager

What’s next

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The takeaway

This contest allows Montana residents to celebrate the state's most iconic and treasured locations, fostering a sense of state pride and highlighting the diverse landscapes that draw millions of visitors each year.