Majestic Madison County is one of the richest recreational areas in Montana and is as beautiful as it was when discovered in 1805. The historic Sportsman’s Lodge is a perfect home base while exploring Southwest Montana, including comfortable and clean rustic cabins, a full-service restaurant and bar, and a casino.
Here is a list of the top Things To Do in Ennis, Montana, and the surrounding area:
Fishing a Blue Ribbon Trout Stream
The Madison River is a Blue Ribbon Trout Stream. This renowned river is what brings many to Madison Valley specifically the section running through Ennis. The pristine water, snowcapped mountains to your east and west, and wide-open nature on the banks, provide incredible views along with top-notch fishing.
Sportsman’s Bar and Casino
Catch up with sports after a day out fishing or hunting, or give Lady Luck a run for her money while you sample your way through the largest craft beer menu in Ennis. With 18 gaming machines in our casino, along with multiple HD TVs and a full bar, you won’t run out of ways to pass the time. *NOW FEATURING NFL SUNDAY TICKET* Catch every game every Sunday this football season at the Sportsman’s Lodge!
Visit a Ghost Town
Virginia City, Montana, is a National Historic Landmark District and a living ghost town. A piece of the old west frozen in time. After gold was discovered in Alder Gulch in 1863, the stampede to this area was on, many cities popped up during this time including Ennis. Stop at Cousins Candy Shop for a real treat.
Hiking
Explore and take in the views of three breathtaking mountain ranges, including the Gravelly Range, the Madison Range, and the Tobacco Root Mountains that surround Ennis. The Bear Trap Canyon National Recreation Trail is a great spot to hike or take your dog for a run. *Safety note – this is a popular hunting area, so make sure to wear orange in the fall. Make sure you know before you go.*
Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone became the first national park in 1872. It is located 72 miles from Ennis, making it just far enough away from the crowds and close enough for a day of adventure in the park. Visit and be wowed by the unique hydrothermal and geologic wonders.
Willie’s Distillery
Montana’s legendary premiere destination distillery. A small-batch distillery located on main street and the banks of the Madison River offering moonshine, whiskey, liqueur, vodka, and brandies.
Golf
Madison Meadows Public Course has welcomed golfers since 1982. The 9-hole course, designed by Frank Hummel, is a par-36 golf course measuring over 3200 yards from the back tees. Madison Meadows is another big draw to Ennis and something that the whole family can enjoy.
History
The Madison Valley is full of history. The Madison Valley History Museum’s mission is to develop a museum to preserve artifacts, photographs, and stories of historical importance to the Madison Valley and interpret them through display and education. It is located four miles west of Ennis on the way (Montana Highway 287) to Virginia City. There is no admission fee, but donations are appreciated.
It’s not only the recreation in Madison Valley that makes it special; it’s the people.
Visit and enjoy our Big Sky hospitality!
Learn more at the Ennis Chamber of Commerce: https://www.ennischamber.com/where-to-go-what-to-do
Ennis was named one of the top 10 cowboy towns in America in 2021.
