Montana, like a lot of other northern states, is known for its weather. We can go from one extreme to the other in a hurry. In fact, temperature swings of 100 degrees or more within a day can happen here. Other times, we'll get stretches of beautiful sunshine that make you wonder why anyone would ever want to live anywhere else. 

Unpredictable Conditions: A Montana Adventure

The one thing you can always count on, though, is that Montana weather is unpredictable. That's especially true if you're heading into the mountains or the backcountry. A calm summer day can quickly turn into strong winds, lightning, heavy rain, or even snow at higher elevations. 

July in the Big Sky: Hot or Not?

July is no exception. 

READ MORE: Storm Wreaks Havoc on Montana Tourist Spots

While it's typically one of Montana's warmest months, it's not always hot. One of the things that makes summers here bearable is how much temperatures can cool off once the sun goes down. But history also shows that some Julys have been surprisingly chilly. 

Keep scrolling for the top 10 coldest Julys in Montana.

We looked at the 10 hottest Julys on record in Montana, based on statewide averages from NOAA dating back to 1895. This time, we're going in the opposite direction. 

READ MORE: Montana’s Hottest Julys on Record Since 1895

Some of Montana's coldest Julys had average temperatures that only reached the upper 50s. It's a good reminder that even in the middle of summer, Mother Nature can still throw a curveball. 

If you're planning a trip into the backcountry, heading to the lake, or spending time in the mountains, always be prepared, no matter what time of the year. Dress in layers, pack extra clothing, and don't assume the weather will stay the way it looks when you leave home. 

Record-Breaking Cold: Montana's Top 10 Coldest Julys

Here's a look at the 10 coldest Julys in Montana history, according to NOAA records dating back to 1895.