The 12 Best Places to Propose in Montana for a Romantic Moment Outdoors

With the help of a local expert, we've narrowed down the top proposal spots across the state.
Paradise Meadows in Montana
Photo: Film Adventure | Shutterstock
Brittany Barber
by Brittany Barber
Updated Oct 17, 2024

Planning to get down on one knee? Along with romantic ways to propose, you're likely considering the perfect spot for that special moment. When it comes to the best places to propose in Montana, there are plenty of romantic locations to choose from—especially if you're looking for a scenic spot out in nature.

Our editors consulted Kira Rideout, a wedding and family photographer based in Missoula, to help us put together this proposal guide. She gave us recommendations on places to propose in Montana, along with some tips on choosing the right photographer. "I would say to make sure you're hiring local since so many spots need certain permits or have seasonal closures, etc., and you want someone who knows what they are doing so they can help you with that," she advises. "There are lots of factors such as the weather, the season and wild animals to be aware of and a local will be able to help you with that much better."

Rideout also highlights the significance of choosing a photographer not just for their style, but for their personality. "Make sure you like their style, obviously, but even more so make sure you like them as a person because you are going to be working with them to capture one of your most intimate moments, so you want to make sure you get along," she says. Keeping Rideout's advice in mind, compiled a list of 12 breathtaking Montana locations that are perfect for a proposal. While you're at it, create your wedding proposal checklist to make sure you have everything ready for the big day.

Pro tip: Find local proposal photographers, proposal planners, proposal packages and more on The Knot Vendor Marketplace.

Flathead Lake State Park (West Shore), Lakeside, MT

Flathead Lake State Park (West Shore), Lakeside, MT
Photo: Aimiphotography | Shutterstock

With crystal-clear waters and mountainous views, this gorgeous proposal spot is on the shore of Flathead Lake—which is a stellar pick for a special moment out in nature. "There's a dock but there's also just a strip of rocky shoreline that's really pretty," Rideout recommends. "This one is fairly secluded when you get to the shore, so it's a great place for a little privacy."

Hyalite Canyon, Bozeman, MT

Calling all wilderness buffs! If you and your partner love exploring the outdoors, Hyalite Canyon is a gorgeous option for a Montana proposal. "If you're willing to hike a bit, this place is stunning and has tons of great options," Rideout suggests. The trails range from easy walks to more challenging hikes, so you can decide how intense you want your trek to be.

Bison Range, Moiese, MT

Are you and your spouse-to-be total animal lovers? Then surround yourselves with the majestic wildlife and dramatic mountain ranges of Bison Range. Nestled within the Flathead Indian Reservation, Rideout recommends heading over to this location for a beautiful place in Montana to propose. "The Bison Range is really cool, especially if you love animals because you're bound to see them," Rideout says. "This one is nice because you have a great view right from the road, but there are also hikes you can take for a more private spot."

Holland Lake Falls, Condon, MT

Situated in Flathead National Forest, this location features the serene Holland Lake (which sits at the base of Swan Mountain Range). Rideout recommends Holland Lake Falls, which is a giant waterfall at the end of a 1.6-mile hike. Overlooking Holland Lake, Rideout says the falls are pretty year-round, but especially so in the winter. "The view from up there is incredible and it's never super crowded, which is nice," she adds.

Rattlesnake National Recreation Area, Missoula, MT

This lush, accessible wilderness is just a short drive from downtown Missoula, making it an excellent proposal spot for city dwellers who need an escape. From dense forests to open meadows and clear streams, it provides a stunning backdrop for getting down on one knee. "This National Recreation Area has lots of beautiful hikes with overlooks that are perfect for a proposal and never very busy," Rideout says.

Blue Mountain Road, Missoula, MT

When it comes to Blue Mountain Road, you really can't go wrong. With its sweeping views of the Missoula Valley and access to natural wilderness areas, this location is fantastic for couples who appreciate a scenic drive. "There are endless options here, lots of overlooks and trails as you drive the road," Rideout says. "So many pretty options, just make sure your vehicle can handle the gravel road."

Whitefish Mountain Resort, Whitefish, MT

Whitefish Mountain Resort in Montana
Photo: Nathan Dugan | Shutterstock

While the area is gorgeous in the summer, Whitefish Mountain Resort transforms into a snowy wonderland in the winter, making it an amazing choice for couples who love to ski. The chairlift ride to the summit itself is quite the experience, presenting panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys—making it an exhilarating option for a memorable proposal.

Glacier National Park, West Glacier, MT

Glacier National Park is one of the best places to propose in Montana because of its awe-inspiring natural beauty and diverse landscapes. That being said, you'll want to plan your timing carefully with your photographer or proposal planner—especially if you don't want to get stuck in a crowd. "You don't need a permit to take engagement photos here like you do elopements, which is nice, but it is always very crowded in the summer and you need a parking pass as well as a reservation to drive the Going-to-the-Sun Road during certain hours," Rideout explains.

Paradise Meadows, West Glacier, MT

If you're drawn to Glacier National Park, Rideout recommends popping the question at Paradise Meadows. "This is the classic Glacier look with a beautiful meadow, wildflowers in season and giant mountains in the background," she says. Keep in mind that it is a pretty crowded spot, but if that doesn't phase you, Rideout says it's worth it for the views.

Lake McDonald, West Glacier, MT

Generally accessible all year round, Rideout recommends proposing at Glacier National Park's Lake McDonald. "About anywhere along the lake is going to be perfect, but there's also a really picturesque spot with a long dock at the bottom of the lake and a beautiful beach too," she says. "It's usually pretty busy in the summer and fall, but you can generally find a private spot along the lake."

Garden of One Thousand Buddhas, Arlee, MT

Garden of One Thousand Buddhas in Montana
Photo: Gregory Johnston | Shutterstock

This peaceful site is surrounded by the natural beauty of Montana's landscape, making it a lovely locale for a quiet proposal. The Garden of One Thousand Buddhas provides a calm, contemplative environment, which is perfect for couples who want to share a tranquil and meaningful experience.

Renova Hot Springs, Whitehall, MT

Renova Hot Springs is a rustic, natural hot spring with a few small rock pools that have been built up by the local community. "You take a gravel road and a short walk to get there, so you need a capable vehicle and make sure to bring bug spray, but it's worth it," Rideout advises. "It can get busy on the weekends, but it's not too bad most weekdays."

Rideout also explains that if you choose Renova Hot Springs, you need to make sure you're respectful of the area. "It's super important to practice 'leave no trace' principles here and be respectful of the land or it will be closed to the public," she says. "The conditions change frequently, so just make sure to do your research before deciding on this spot."

Bonus tip: Once you're officially engaged, check out our step-by-step guide on what to do next.

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