Malta: Dinosaurs, History and Nature

Malta combines the Montana Dinosaur Trail with a Carnegie library and nearby Bowdoin National Wildlife Refuge. This means the choices range from dinosaurs to local history and nature experiences east of town. When looking for a vacation rental, first consider whether you want to focus on the Malta trail stop, activities at the Refuge, or a mix of both. The kind of vacation you want will help narrow down your accommodation options: should dinosaurs set the tone, or would you also like to make time for nature watching and other interests?

Dinosaurs and Local History

Malta is a notable stop on the Montana Dinosaur Trail, with two facilities along the trail. This gives dinosaurs a clear place in your trip planning without requiring your stay to focus exclusively on the subject. For families interested in dinosaurs, it can provide a shared thread for conversation and discovery. At the same time, local history and the nearby natural area offer other perspectives. You can combine different interests during one trip rather than planning every day in the same way.

The Phillips County Carnegie Library in Malta was built in 1917 and was the last of 17 Carnegie libraries constructed in Montana. Its construction date places its history at a specific point in time, while its distinction as the last in the series also connects it to a broader Montana story. In contrast to the dinosaur theme, the library offers a cultural and historical perspective on the town. If you’d like to experience Malta through more than just recreational activities, it offers another way to explore the town’s history.

Nature at Bowdoin National Wildlife Refuge

Bowdoin National Wildlife Refuge is seven miles east of Malta. A self-guided auto tour through the Refuge is 15 miles long. Public activities include hunting, fishing, wildlife observation, photography, environmental education, and interpretation. This range spans active pursuits as well as observing and learning. Check route conditions and access rules before your visit.

Another option is the Display Pond Trail at the Refuge: the paved, accessible path is 0.4 miles long. An accessible parking space, an observation blind, picnic tables, and benches round out the amenities. Compared with the 15-mile auto tour, this is a much shorter walk and a different way to spend time at the Refuge. The two distances and modes of travel can help you choose between a drive and a short walk.

Golf and Getting There as Additional Planning Factors

Marian Hills Golf Course in Malta is a nine-hole, par-36 course. Golf is therefore a well-defined focus for trip planning, alongside dinosaurs and nature activities. If you’d like to include it, you can plan your time in Malta around the balance of culture, nature, and golf you want during your stay.

There is no ticket counter at the Malta Amtrak Station. An enclosed waiting area and restrooms are available during station hours. Station arrangements may change, so check the details before you travel. This can help you decide which of these interests will shape your trip most.

For the broader travel overview: Phillips County.