I’ll never forget standing in the rotunda of the Montana State Capitol Building in Helena last autumn, listening to a local choir perform “Montana” as morning light streamed through the stained glass dome above.
The lyrics about treasure-bound mountains and golden plains suddenly made perfect sense—I was surrounded by murals depicting exactly what songwriter Charles Cohan had put to music over a century ago.
That moment transformed what I’d dismissed as just another state anthem into something deeply moving, a musical love letter to a place that had already stolen my heart.
Understanding the state song is just one piece of appreciating Montana State Symbols, but it’s perhaps the most emotional way to connect with Big Sky Country’s identity.
- “Montana” became the official state song in 1945, with music by Joseph E. Howard and lyrics by Charles C. Cohan
- The song was actually written in 1910, making it older than many realize
- You can hear it performed at the State Capitol, sporting events, and various Montana festivals
- Montana also has an official state lullaby and several unofficial anthems worth knowing
- The lyrics reference specific Montana landscapes you can actually visit today
- Best places to experience the song: Helena, Butte, and University of Montana events
The Birth of Montana’s Official State Anthem
The story behind Montana’s state song isn’t as straightforward as you might expect. During my research trip to the Montana Historical Society in Helena last summer, I spent hours poring through archives that revealed a surprisingly dramatic path to official recognition.
“Montana” was composed in 1910 by Joseph E. Howard, a prolific Broadway composer who had actually never lived in Montana. His collaborator, Charles C. Cohan, penned the lyrics that would eventually become synonymous with the state’s identity.
Here’s what fascinates me: the song existed for 35 years before Montana officially adopted it in 1945. That’s longer than many Montanans today have been alive.
Joseph E. Howard: The Man Behind the Music
Joseph E. Howard wasn’t your typical state song composer. Born in New York City in 1878, he made his name writing Broadway musicals and popular tunes of the early 20th century.
His most famous work, “I Wonder Who’s Kissing Her Now,” became a nationwide hit. But it’s “Montana” that secured his legacy in the American West.
Howard visited Montana briefly, reportedly falling in love with the landscape during a theatrical tour. That brief encounter inspired a melody that would outlive him by generations.
Charles C. Cohan: Putting Montana Into Words
Charles C. Cohan had the arguably harder job—translating Montana’s vastness into lyrics that could fit a three-minute song. Based on what I’ve learned from local historians in Butte, Cohan drew inspiration from descriptions and photographs rather than extensive personal experience in the state.
Yet somehow, his words capture something authentic. Lines about “mountains of sunset fire” and “land of shining mountains” resonate with anyone who has watched the Rockies turn orange at dusk.
I’ve stood at that exact moment in Glacier National Park, and Cohan nailed it without ever seeing it himself.
The Full Lyrics: What They Mean and Why They Matter
Before I break down the lyrics, let me share them in full. When I first read them carefully—rather than hearing them sung quickly at a hockey game—I was struck by how specifically they describe Montana’s landscape.
Complete Official Lyrics of “Montana”
Tell me of that Treasure State
Story always new,
Tell of its beauties grand
And its hearts so true.
Mountains of sunset fire
The land I love the best,
Let me grasp the hand of one
From out the Golden West.
Montana, Montana,
Glory of the West,
Of all the states from coast to coast,
You’re easily the best.
Montana, Montana,
Where skies are always blue,
M-O-N-T-A-N-A,
Montana, I love you.
Each country has its flower;
Each one plays a part,
Each bloom brings a longing hope
To some lonely heart.
Bitterroot to me is dear
Growing in my land,
Sing then that glorious air,
The one I understand.
Breaking Down the Meaning
The phrase “Treasure State” in the opening line directly references Montana’s State Nickname. During my visit to Butte last spring, I learned this nickname originated from the incredible mineral wealth extracted from Montana’s mountains—gold, silver, copper, and more.
“Mountains of sunset fire” perfectly describes what happens along the Rocky Mountain Front. I’ve driven Highway 89 from Choteau to Browning specifically to witness this phenomenon, and it’s not artistic exaggeration.
The reference to Montana’s State Flower, the bitterroot, in the second verse connects the song to other official state symbols. This wasn’t accidental—Cohan clearly did his homework about Montana’s adopted identity markers.
The Path to Official Adoption
Here’s where the story gets interesting. “Montana” wasn’t automatically embraced as the state song. It took decades of unofficial popularity before the Montana State Legislature made it official.
During my interview with a historian at the Montana Historical Society, I learned that the song competed with several other contenders throughout the 1920s and 1930s. Some legislators favored songs written by actual Montanans.
The debate finally ended on February 20, 1945, when the 29th Montana Legislative Assembly officially adopted “Montana” as the state song.
Why 1945?
The timing wasn’t coincidental. World War II was still raging, and states across America were embracing patriotic symbols. Montana wanted to solidify its identity during this period of national unity.
Soldiers from Montana were serving overseas, and having an official state song gave them something to rally around. Several veterans I’ve spoken with at Memorial Day events in Montana told me their fathers or grandfathers sang this song during their service.
Where to Hear Montana’s State Song Today
One of the most common questions I get from travelers is where they can actually experience the state song being performed. Here’s my comprehensive guide based on years of Montana travel.
Montana State Capitol Building
This is hands-down the most meaningful place to hear “Montana.” The acoustics in the rotunda are incredible, and various groups perform there throughout the year.
I attended a Montana Day celebration in February where a Helena high school choir performed the song. The experience of hearing those lyrics echo off marble walls, surrounded by Charlie Russell paintings and the state’s history, was unforgettable.
Free public tours are available daily. Call ahead to ask about any scheduled performances.
University of Montana Grizzlies Games
If you’re visiting Missoula during football season, Grizzly games at Washington-Grizzly Stadium offer an electric atmosphere for hearing the state song. It’s performed before kickoff, and 25,000 fans singing along creates goosebumps.
I attended the homecoming game last October, and the crowd’s rendition of “Montana” before the Brawl of the Wild rivalry game against Montana State was genuinely moving.
Montana State University Bobcats Games
Not to be outdone, MSU in Bozeman also performs the state song at athletic events. The atmosphere at Bobcat Stadium is slightly different—perhaps a bit more agricultural and ranching-oriented in the crowd makeup—but the enthusiasm matches Missoula’s.
Pro tip: The annual Cat-Griz game alternates locations each year. If you want to experience the state song at both schools, plan accordingly.
State Fair and Local Festivals
The Montana State Fair in Great Falls every July opens with the state song. During my visit two summers ago, a local country band performed their own arrangement that somehow made the 1910 composition feel contemporary.
Smaller town celebrations—like the Sweet Pea Festival in Bozeman or Whitefish’s Huckleberry Days—often incorporate the song into their opening ceremonies.
Montana Historical Society Events
The historical society in Helena hosts regular events where the state song makes appearances. Their Montana Day programming in February is particularly good for this.
I also recommend their exhibits for understanding the broader context of Montana’s State Seal and other symbols that complement the song’s themes.
Montana’s Other Official Musical Symbols
Most travelers don’t realize Montana has more than one official song. The state also recognizes a state lullaby and a state ballad.
Montana State Lullaby: “Montana Lullaby”
In 2007, Montana adopted “Montana Lullaby” as its official state lullaby—making it one of only a few states with such a designation. Written by Wylie Gustafson of the band Wylie & the Wild West, this gentle song is meant to be sung to Montana children.
I first heard it at a storytelling event in Livingston and was immediately charmed. For more details, check out my full piece on Montana’s State Lullaby.
Unofficial Anthems Worth Knowing
Beyond official designations, several songs have become unofficial Montana anthems. “Montanans Never Die” and various folk songs about specific regions pop up at local gatherings.
For a deeper dive into the musical landscape, including songs written about Montana by contemporary artists, see my article on Montana Songs that capture the state’s spirit.
The Landscapes Described in the Song: A Travel Guide
What makes “Montana” such an effective state song is that you can literally visit the places it describes. Here’s my guide to experiencing the lyrics firsthand.
The “Treasure State” References
To understand the “Treasure State” lyrics, head to Butte. The Berkeley Pit and the World Museum of Mining tell the story of Montana’s mineral wealth better than any song could.
I spent a full day in Butte last year and came away understanding why early Montanans felt they were living atop an underground treasure chest. The sheer scale of extraction that occurred there is both impressive and sobering.
“Mountains of Sunset Fire”
For this, you have options. My favorite spot is the Rocky Mountain Front, particularly the stretch of Highway 89 between Choteau and Dupuyer.
Arrive about 45 minutes before sunset on a clear evening. Park at one of the pullouts and watch the mountains transform. The color progression from gold to orange to deep red is exactly what Cohan was describing.
Glacier National Park’s east side offers equally spectacular sunset views, especially from Many Glacier or Two Medicine areas.
“Land of Shining Mountains”
This phrase actually comes from a Native American name for the region that predates European settlement. The Salish people called it something similar.
The Continental Divide, visible from countless points in Montana, exemplifies this imagery. On my most recent trip, I drove Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier just after a summer rainstorm. When the sun broke through, the wet rock faces genuinely shone like polished metal.
“Skies Are Always Blue”
This might be poetic license. Anyone who has experienced a Montana winter knows the skies aren’t always blue.
However, Montana does enjoy roughly 265 sunny days per year in many locations. The eastern plains, in particular, see remarkably clear skies.
For the quintessential “Big Sky” experience, drive Highway 200 across central Montana. The horizon seems to stretch infinitely, and on clear days, the blue really does dominate everything.
Practical Information for Visitors
Here’s a quick reference table for planning your Montana music heritage trip:
| Location | Best Time to Visit | State Song Connection | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Montana State Capitol, Helena | Weekdays, especially February (Montana Day) | Live performances, historical context | Free |
| University of Montana, Missoula | Football season (September-November) | Pre-game performances | $25-65 (game tickets) |
| Montana Historical Society, Helena | Year-round | Archives, exhibits on state symbols | Free-$5 |
| Montana State Fair, Great Falls | Late July | Opening ceremonies performance | $10-15 admission |
| Rocky Mountain Front | June-September evenings | “Mountains of sunset fire” landscapes | Free |
Connecting the Song to Other Montana Symbols
The state song doesn’t exist in isolation. It’s part of a broader tapestry of official symbols that tell Montana’s story.
The Bitterroot Connection
As mentioned in the lyrics, the bitterroot flower plays a central role in Montana’s identity. This small pink flower blooms in late spring and early summer, particularly in the Bitterroot Valley south of Missoula.
I’ve hiked in the Bitterroot Mountains in June specifically to see these flowers in bloom. They’re smaller than you might expect—delicate and close to the ground—but unmistakably beautiful.
Wildlife References
While the song doesn’t directly mention wildlife, the landscapes it describes are home to Montana’s State Animal, the grizzly bear, and Montana’s State Bird, the western meadowlark.
Hearing a meadowlark sing while watching those sunset mountains captures something the song’s writers probably couldn’t have anticipated.
Color and Design Elements
The song’s references to gold and blue align with Montana’s official state colors. You’ll see these colors throughout the state—on Montana’s State Flag, in university athletics, and even on highway signage.
When you understand these connections, the state song becomes a key that unlocks deeper appreciation for Montana’s intentional branding of itself.
Teaching the Song to Your Kids
If you’re traveling with children, learning Montana’s state song before your trip adds educational value to your vacation.
The spelling portion of the chorus—”M-O-N-T-A-N-A”—makes it surprisingly kid-friendly. My friend’s children learned it during a road trip, and they still sing it whenever they see a Montana license plate.
YouTube has several recordings, but I recommend finding a version that includes the full lyrics rather than just the chorus. The complete song tells a more complete story.
Montana’s Musical Heritage Beyond the State Song
While researching Montana’s state song, I discovered the state has a rich musical heritage worth exploring.
Native American Music
Long before “Montana” was written, Indigenous peoples of the region had their own musical traditions. The Blackfeet, Salish, Kootenai, and other tribes have musical heritage spanning thousands of years.
The Museum of the Plains Indian in Browning and the Peoples Center in Pablo offer opportunities to learn about these traditions. Some powwows welcome visitors and feature traditional songs and drumming.
Mining Songs
Butte’s mining history produced its own catalog of work songs and ballads. These aren’t official state songs, but they’re part of Montana’s musical DNA.
The World Museum of Mining occasionally hosts performances featuring these historical songs. During my visit, a local folk group performed several mining-era tunes that transported me back to the copper king era.
Cowboy and Ranch Music
Montana’s ranching culture has its own musical traditions. Cowboy poetry gatherings across the state often include traditional songs about life on the range.
The annual Montana Cowboy Poetry Gathering and Western Music Rendezvous (locations vary) is worth planning a trip around if this interests you.
Where the State Song Fits in Montana Culture Today
During my travels throughout Montana, I’ve been struck by how the state song appears in unexpected places.
Local radio stations sometimes play it as a station identifier. School assemblies across the state teach it to students. Wedding receptions in Montana occasionally include it—I’ve witnessed this twice.
It’s not omnipresent like some state songs that blast from every speaker. Instead, it appears at meaningful moments, which somehow makes it more significant.
Controversies and Criticisms
No discussion of state symbols is complete without acknowledging criticisms. Some Montanans have pointed out that the song was written by non-Montanans, questioning its authenticity.
Others note that the lyrics focus entirely on natural beauty while ignoring the state’s Indigenous heritage or complex history with mining and environmental issues.
These are valid points worth considering. However, from my observation, most Montanans seem to embrace the song despite its limitations.
Potential Future Changes
There have been occasional legislative discussions about adding additional official songs or revising the existing one. Nothing has gained serious traction as of my last research update.
For now, “Montana” remains the sole official state song, and I’d be surprised if that changes anytime soon.
Planning Your Montana State Song Experience
If experiencing Montana’s state song is part of your travel goals, here’s how I’d structure a trip.
Weekend Itinerary: Helena Focus
Fly into Helena or drive from Bozeman (about 90 minutes). Spend your first afternoon at the Montana Historical Society, understanding the broader context of state symbols.
The next morning, tour the State Capitol. Ask about any scheduled performances or events. Even without live music, the rotunda acoustics mean you can quietly sing the song yourself and hear it resonate beautifully.
Visit the Original Governor’s Mansion and the Cathedral of St. Helena to round out your Helena experience.
Extended Itinerary: Following the Lyrics
For a deeper experience, plan a week-long trip that visits landscapes described in the song.
Start in Butte for the “Treasure State” connection. Head to the Bitterroot Valley for the flower references. Drive the Rocky Mountain Front for “mountains of sunset fire.” End in the eastern plains for “skies are always blue.”
Along the way, you might spot Montana’s State Fish, the blackspotted cutthroat trout, or encounter Montana’s native plants that color the landscapes the song describes.
Final Thoughts: Why the State Song Matters for Travelers
After years of traveling throughout Montana, I’ve come to appreciate how the state song encapsulates something real about this place.
It’s not just patriotic filler or government-mandated enthusiasm. The lyrics describe actual experiences you can have here. The “mountains of sunset fire” exist. The blue skies are genuine (most of the time). The treasure-state heritage shaped communities you can still visit.
When you stand in Glacier National Park or drive across the vast eastern plains, the song’s words take on new meaning. You understand why someone in 1910—even someone who hadn’t spent much time here—felt compelled to put Montana to music.
Learning the state song before your trip transforms how you experience Montana. Suddenly, you’re not just seeing landscapes; you’re seeing the landscapes that inspired a lasting tribute.
And when you find yourself humming “M-O-N-T-A-N-A, Montana, I love you” while watching the sunset paint the mountains gold, you’ll understand why this song has endured for over a century.
That’s the power of a good state song. It doesn’t just describe a place—it makes you feel like you belong there, even if you’re just passing through.
For more context on Montana’s official designations, explore other symbols like Montana’s State Motto, the unique story of Montana’s State Fossil, or the beloved Montana State Fruit, the huckleberry. Each symbol, like the state song, reveals another facet of what makes Montana unforgettable.
And next time you’re at a Montana sporting event or standing in that Capitol rotunda, don’t just listen to the state song. Sing along. You’ll be continuing a tradition that stretches back more than a century, connecting you to generations of Montanans who felt the same awe you’re feeling now.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the official Montana state song and when was it adopted?
Montana’s official state song is ‘Montana’ with lyrics by Charles C. Cohan and music by Joseph E. Howard, adopted in 1945. The song celebrates the state’s natural beauty with the famous opening line ‘Tell me of that Treasure State’ and is often performed at official events and sporting games throughout Big Sky Country.
Where can I hear the Montana state song performed during my visit?
You can hear ‘Montana’ performed live at University of Montana Grizzlies football games in Missoula, Montana State Bobcats events in Bozeman, and at the State Capitol building in Helena during official ceremonies. I’d also recommend checking local rodeos and county fairs during summer months, where it’s commonly played alongside the national anthem.
What landmarks mentioned in the Montana state song should I visit?
The lyrics reference Montana’s ‘mountains grand’ and ‘prairies free,’ which you can experience at Glacier National Park, the Beartooth Mountains, and the vast eastern Montana plains. The ‘Treasure State’ nickname in the song refers to Montana’s rich mining history, best explored in Butte’s World Museum of Mining and the historic town of Virginia City.
What is the best time to visit Montana to experience state heritage sites and cultural events?
The best time to explore Montana’s cultural heritage, including state song performances, is June through August when festivals, rodeos, and outdoor events are in full swing. Helena’s Governor’s Cup in June and various county fairs throughout July often feature patriotic ceremonies where you’ll hear the state song performed live.
How much does it cost to visit Montana State Capitol where official ceremonies feature the state song?
Visiting the Montana State Capitol in Helena is completely free, with guided tours available Monday through Saturday. I recommend budgeting around $100-150 per day for your Helena visit, covering a mid-range hotel ($80-120/night), meals, and nearby attractions like the Cathedral of St. Helena and Last Chance Gulch.
What should I pack for a Montana heritage and culture trip?
Pack layers regardless of season since Montana temperatures can swing 30-40 degrees in a single day, plus comfortable walking shoes for exploring historic sites like the State Capitol and mining towns. Bring a camera for the stunning landscapes that inspired the state song’s lyrics, sunscreen for high-altitude sun exposure, and a light jacket even in summer for cool mountain evenings.
How far is Helena from major Montana attractions mentioned in travel itineraries?
Helena sits roughly 115 miles south of Glacier National Park (about 2.5 hours), 90 miles north of Yellowstone’s west entrance (2 hours), and 100 miles east of Missoula (1.5 hours). This central location makes Helena an ideal base for experiencing both Montana’s official heritage at the State Capitol and the natural wonders celebrated in the state song’s lyrics.
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