Attractions and Places To See around Malmstrom Afb - Top 12

The area around Malmstrom AFB is rich in natural beauty, primarily centered around the Missouri River. You can visit Giant Springs State Park, one of the largest freshwater springs in the country, discovered by the Lewis and Clark Expedition. The city of Great Falls is named after a series of five waterfalls on the Missouri River, including Black Eagle Falls, which can be viewed from Black Eagle Memorial Island. Additionally, Sluice Boxes State Park offers dramatic cliffs and canyons for a more rugged experience.

Yes, the region offers several significant historical sites. The Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Interpretive Center provides an in-depth look into the expedition's journey. You can also explore First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park, a historical site offering insight into ancient hunting practices. Black Eagle Memorial Island is historically significant as the site of Great Falls' first hydroelectric dam power plant.

Great Falls boasts several cultural attractions. The C.M. Russell Museum is dedicated to the renowned Western artist Charles M. Russell, featuring his paintings and historic home. The Paris Gibson Square Museum of Art showcases modern art. For military history enthusiasts, the Malmstrom Air Force Base Museum and Air Park offers exhibits on the base's history and various aircraft displays. Non-military ID holders should contact the museum or visit the Visitor Center for access information.

The River's Edge Trail is an extensive trail system along the Missouri River, perfect for biking, walking, and rollerblading, offering scenic views of mountains, prairies, and waterfalls. For hiking, you can find various routes, including easy options like the "Riverside Park loop" or more challenging ones like the "Missouri River North Shore Trail." You can explore more hiking options on the Hiking around Malmstrom Afb guide.

Many attractions in the area are suitable for families. Giant Springs State Park is a great spot for a relaxing visit with cascades and opportunities for fishing. Gibson Park features a pond with ducks, geese, and swans, walking paths, and a playground. The Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Interpretive Center offers educational programs for all ages. The River's Edge Trail is also family-friendly for walks and bike rides.

For easy hikes, the River's Edge Trail offers many accessible sections, including paved paths. Specific easy routes include the "Riverside Park loop" and "River's Edge Trail via Giant Springs State Park." These trails provide scenic views without significant elevation changes. More details on these and other routes can be found in the Hiking around Malmstrom Afb guide.

The region offers several excellent viewpoints. Rainbow Dam Overlook provides views of the hydroelectric Rainbow Dam on the Missouri River and has a paved parking lot. Steamboat Island Overlook, located along the River's Edge Trail, offers picturesque views of Steamboat Island. You can also view Black Eagle Falls from Black Eagle Memorial Island.

Yes, non-military ID holders can visit the Malmstrom Air Force Base Museum and Air Park. However, you will need to contact the museum directly or visit the Visitor Center at the 2nd Avenue North gate for access. It's advisable to check their specific access requirements and hours before planning your visit. You can find more information on their website: greatfallsmuseums.com.

Yes, several parks and attractions offer amenities. Gibson Park, a central park in Great Falls, has parking, restrooms, and a playground, and connects to the River's Edge Trail. Rainbow Dam Overlook also provides a paved parking lot for visitors. The Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Interpretive Center and First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park also have visitor centers with facilities.

The city of Great Falls is named after five waterfalls on the Missouri River. While some are partially submerged by dams, you can still view them from various points. Black Eagle Memorial Island offers views of Black Eagle Falls. The River's Edge Trail provides numerous scenic overlooks and access points along the river, allowing you to experience the river's power and beauty, including glimpses of the falls and dams like Rainbow Dam from the Rainbow Dam Overlook.

Yes, the natural areas around Malmstrom AFB offer chances for wildlife viewing. Giant Springs State Park is home to various fish species and waterfowl. Gibson Park's pond is frequented by ducks, geese, and swans. The extensive Lewis and Clark National Forest, located about 8 miles from Malmstrom AFB, provides a habitat for diverse wildlife, including larger mammals and birds, making it a good spot for nature observation.