Where Are You Most Likely To See Rattlesnakes In Montana?

I don't know about you guys and gals, but snakes are not exactly my favorite creatures. They give me the full-on heebie-jeebies. Thankfully, living here in Montana, we don't have to worry about them most of the year, thanks to our colder climate. Even better—unlike other states crawling with all kinds of venomous snakes—we only have to look out for one.

Montana's only venomous snake is the Prairie Rattlesnake (Crotalus viridis), and while it's not something to panic about, it's definitely worth being aware of—especially if you're out hiking, hunting, or fishing in some of their favorite spots. Prairie rattlesnakes tend to avoid human interaction, but if you accidentally sneak up on one, you might hear that unmistakable rattle. If you didn't know... that's your cue to back off.

So, where are you most likely to come across these "nope ropes"?

Here are some of the top rattlesnake hotspots in Montana:

• Eastern Montana: This whole region is prime rattler habitat. Think areas like Miles City, Glendive, and the badlands.
• The Missouri River Breaks: Beautiful and rugged terrain—and also rattler central.
• Billings & the Rims: Yep, even in and around city limits, especially near rocky outcrops and hiking trails.
• Bighorn Canyon & Pryor Mountains: These rocky, sagebrush-filled areas are basically rattlesnake paradise.
• Yellowstone River corridor: From Livingston to Glendive, you might run into one sunning itself along a trail or bank.

Rattlesnakes are typically active late spring through early fall, especially on warm days. So, keep your eyes peeled, stay on the trail, and maybe skip flipping over rocks.

Get our free mobile app

Got your own rattlesnake run-in story? Let us know—we'd love to hear it (and cringe with you)!