Nestled halfway between Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks sits one of Montana’s most famous natural attractions, the Gates of the Mountains. Located about 20 miles north of Helena, this stunning canyon on the Missouri River is best seen on a boat tour. One of the coolest things to do in Montana for nature lovers, you’ll pass incredible scenery that includes limestone cliffs, wooded slopes, and rugged rock formations on an open-air boat. During the tour, you’ll learn why Meriwether Lewis named this place the Gates of the Mountains in 1805 during the iconic Corps of Discovery expedition.