The Higher
Knowledge Guide
Learn about cannabis strains, indica, sativa, hybrids, terpenes, cannabinoids, concentrates & more.
Recreational Cannabis 101
Know Before You Get Elevated
Recreational cannabis comes with a few important rules worth knowing. From age and purchase limits to where cannabis can be enjoyed, understanding the basics makes it easier to shop responsibly and stay within Montana law. Here's what you need to know before heading out on your next adventure
How old do I have to be?
You must be 21 or older to purchase, possess, or consume recreational cannabis in Montana. A valid, unexpired government-issued photo ID is required for every purchase.
Do I need a medical marijuana card?
No. Adults 21 and older do not need a medical marijuana card to purchase recreational cannabis in Montana. You only need a valid, unexpired government-issued photo ID.
How much cannabis can I purchase?
Adults 21 and older may purchase up to 1 ounce (28 grams) of cannabis or its equivalent per transaction in Montana.
Where can I consume cannabis?
Cannabis may be consumed only on private property where the property owner allows it. Public consumption is illegal.
Can I bring cannabis into Yellowstone National Park?
No. Yellowstone National Park is federal land, and possessing or consuming cannabis anywhere inside the park is prohibited—even if it was legally purchased in Montana or you have a medical marijuana card.
DUI on Marijuana
Yes. Driving while impaired by cannabis is illegal in Montana. A driver may be charged based on impairment, and Montana also sets a legal THC limit of 5 nanograms per milliliter of blood. Do not drive or take physical control of a vehicle after consuming cannabis—always arrange for a sober ride.
How much Should a beginner use?
Everyone responds to cannabis differently, so start low and go slow. For edibles, begin with 2.5 milligrams of THC or less—half of a 5-milligram serving—and wait at least four hours before considering more. Avoid high potency flower, or vapes.
What should I tell my bud tender?
Tell your budtender whether you’re new to cannabis, what kind of experience you’re looking for, your preferred consumption method, desired strength, budget, and any products you’ve enjoyed—or disliked—in the past.
Looking for more information?
For complete and current rules and regulations regarding adult-use cannabis in Montana, visit the
Indica, Sativa & Hybrid:
What's the Difference?
Sativa
Sativa-labeled cannabis is traditionally associated with uplifting, energizing, and cerebral effects. Many customers choose it for daytime use, creative activities, or social settings. Experiences vary by person and product, so consider the potency, terpenes, and cannabinoids not just the label.
Hybrid
Hybrid cannabis combines characteristics traditionally associated with both sativa and indica varieties. A hybrid may lean uplifting, relaxing, or offer a more balanced experience depending on its genetics and chemical profile. Check the product description or ask your budtender to help find a hybrid that matches your preferences.
Indica
ndica-labeled cannabis is traditionally associated with calming, relaxing, and body-centered effects. Many customers prefer it for quiet evenings, unwinding, or settling into a slower pace. Effects vary between products and individuals, so pay attention to the potency, terpene profile, and recommended serving size.
Cannabinoids
Cannabinoids are naturally occurring compounds found in cannabis that interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system. THC and CBD are the best known, but others like CBG, CBN, and THCV give cannabis its complex chemistry and help distinguish one product from another.
THC
THC — The primary intoxicating cannabinoid in cannabis, responsible for many of its psychoactive effects.
CBN
CBN — A mildly psychoactive cannabinoid that forms largely as THC ages and is commonly associated with nighttime products.
CBD
CBD — A non-intoxicating cannabinoid commonly associated with relaxation and overall wellness.
THCV
THCV — A cannabinoid structurally similar to THC with distinct effects that can vary considerably depending on dose.
CBG
CBG — A minor, non-intoxicating cannabinoid often called the “mother cannabinoid” because other cannabinoids develop from its precursor.
CBC
CBG - A non-intoxicating minor cannabinoid being studied for how it interacts with other components of cannabis.
Terpenes
Terpenes are aromatic compounds that give cannabis its distinctive scents and flavors from citrus and pine to fruit, herbs, and earth. Different strains contain unique terpene profiles, which contribute to the overall character and experience of each strain.
Myrcene
Earthy, musky and herbal, with notes sometimes reminiscent of hops or ripe fruit.
Caryophyllene
Peppery, spicy and woody, also naturally found in black pepper and cloves.
Limonene
Bright and citrus-forward, commonly producing lemon, lime and orange aromas.
Linalool
Floral and lightly sweet, with a lavender-like aroma.
Pinene
Fresh and piney, with the crisp aroma associated with pine needles and many herbs.
Terpinolene
Fresh, herbal and complex, often combining floral, citrus and pine-like notes.
Concentrates 101
Rosin
Rosin is a solventless cannabis concentrate made using heat and pressure to extract the plant’s oils. It’s valued for preserving the plant’s natural cannabinoids and terpenes without the use of chemical solvents.
Resin
Resin, especially live resin, is produced using solvent-based extraction, often from fresh-frozen cannabis to preserve its aromatic compounds. The result is a terpene-rich concentrate known for retaining much of the plant’s original flavor and aroma.
Distillate & Liquid Diamonds
Distillate is a highly refined cannabis oil concentrated around cannabinoids such as THC, while liquid diamonds generally use highly concentrated THCA-derived cannabinoids combined with a terpene-rich liquid fraction. Distillate emphasizes cannabinoid purity and consistency, while liquid-diamond products are typically formulated to retain or reintroduce more flavor and aroma.
Explore Popular Cannabis Strains
Explore popular cannabis strains and discover what makes each one unique from cannabinoid content and terpene profiles to aroma, flavor, potency, and commonly reported effects. Understanding these details can help you look beyond the strain name and find products that better match the experience you’re seeking.
01
Blue Dream
Blue Dream — A sativa-dominant hybrid commonly associated with myrcene, caryophyllene, and pinene, delivering a sweet blueberry and berry aroma with herbal and earthy notes. It is generally THC-dominant with relatively low CBD, although individual batches vary.
03
Runtz
Runtz — A balanced hybrid commonly featuring caryophyllene, limonene, and linalool, with a distinctive sweet candy, tropical fruit, citrus, and creamy aroma. Runtz is typically THC-dominant and low in CBD, with exact cannabinoid concentrations depending on the cultivar and batch.
05
Gelato
Gelato — A popular hybrid commonly associated with caryophyllene, limonene, and myrcene, giving it a sweet, creamy, citrusy, and fruity profile with earthy undertones. Gelato is generally THC-dominant with relatively little CBD, with cannabinoid content varying by phenotype and producer.
07
OG Kush
OG Kush — A classic hybrid commonly associated with myrcene, limonene, and caryophyllene, creating its recognizable earthy pine, fuel, citrus, and spicy profile. OG Kush is typically THC-dominant with relatively low CBD, with considerable variation among phenotypes.
09
Apple Fritter
Apple Fritter — A hybrid commonly associated with caryophyllene, limonene, and pinene, producing sweet apple, pastry-like, vanilla, earthy, and spicy notes. It is typically THC-dominant with low CBD, although its cannabinoid and terpene profile varies by grower.
02
Donny Burger
Donny Burger — An indica-dominant hybrid with a bold, savory profile featuring caryophyllene, limonene, and myrcene. Its aroma and flavor are often described as garlicky, peppery, earthy, funky, and diesel-forward. Donny Burger is typically THC-dominant with low CBD, though cannabinoid levels vary by grower and batch.
04
Wedding Cake
Wedding Cake — An indica-leaning hybrid commonly featuring caryophyllene, limonene, and myrcene, producing sweet vanilla, earthy, peppery, and slightly fruity flavors and aromas. It is typically THC-dominant with low CBD, though potency varies considerably between batches.
06
Sour Diesel
Sour Diesel — A sativa-dominant cultivar known for a terpene profile often featuring caryophyllene, limonene, and myrcene, alongside its unmistakable diesel, citrus, herbal, and skunky aroma. It is generally THC-dominant and low in CBD, although laboratory results vary.
08
Grandaddy Purple
Granddaddy Purple — An indica cultivar commonly featuring myrcene, caryophyllene, and pinene, known for its sweet grape, berry, earthy, and lightly herbal aroma and flavor. It is generally THC-dominant with low CBD, though exact cannabinoid concentrations depend on the batch.
10
Pineapple Express
Pineapple Express — A sativa-leaning hybrid commonly featuring caryophyllene, limonene, and pinene, with tropical pineapple, citrus, pine, and lightly earthy flavors and aromas. It is generally THC-dominant with low CBD, with potency and minor cannabinoids varying by batch.
West Yellowstone, Montana