There’s this place in Montana that might just surprise you. A place where you’ll find solitude, untouched wild spaces and adventure just minutes from gourmet restaurants, funky local shops and a killer music scene. It’s a place surrounded by mountains, with trails that start right outside your door and rivers crisscrossing the city. Missoula is a place of families and students, fine dining and food trucks, arts and culture. And it’s time to see this place for yourself.
Call 1.800.526.3465 or visit destinationmissoula.org/gc for more information.
Welcome to Western Montana
Thanks so much for considering a visit to Western Montana’s Glacier Country. Natural wonders abound here, plus warm Montana welcomes and plenty of small-town allure. You’ll also find two Tribal Nations, unforgettable western experiences, guest ranches, farm-to-table restaurants, incredible cultural events and one-of-a-kind moments. Please recreate responsibly and make the most of your trip by planning ahead.
Contact Center
Get up-to-date information on Western Montana, including road status, current conditions, snow reports and more. Open year-round.
800.338.5072
Live chat on GlacierMT.com
Airline Travel
Choose from a variety of year-round and seasonal flights on multiple airlines to Western Montana’s two major airports, Missoula (MSO) and Glacier Park (FCA). Please note, FCA is undergoing renovations in July of 2026. See iflyglacier.com/ runway-rehabilitation for more information before you make travel plans.
Travel by Train
Amtrak’s Empire Builder carries passengers across Glacier Country and Montana, departing regularly from Seattle and Portland as well as Minneapolis and Chicago.
Driving to Western Montana
Major highways include interstate highways 90 and 15 as well as U.S. highways 93 and 2. There are four border crossings into Western Montana from Canada: Roosville/ Grasmere (British Columbia) and Chief Mountain, Piegan/Carway, and Del Bonita (Alberta).
Road Conditions
Know before you go: mdt.mt.gov/travinfo 511mt.net
Trail Info
Use the onX Maps app for hiking, hunting, backcountry, offroad and other trail adventures.
ROADTRIP MILES
Missoula to: Coeur d’Alene, ID 165 miles
Bozeman, MT
202 miles
Billings, MT
343 miles
Boise, ID
366 miles
Salt Lake City, UT 524 miles
Denver, CO 896 miles
Missoula to Kalispell: 117 miles
Kalispell to: Glacier National Park West Entrance 34 miles
While spending time in the great outdoors, it’s important to recreate responsibly. When recreating on tribal and public lands and trails, in Glacier National Park, and everywhere in between, we can all do our part to preserve and protect this very special place.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Plan Ahead and Be Prepared
Adequate legwork ensures safer, more enjoyable travels and minimizes impact on Montana’s resources and lands. Before you head out, know what’s open and when; be aware of fire restrictions, road closures and weather forecasts; figure out where gas stations and EV charging stations are; be aware that cell service may be spotty; and consider your skill level and activity limits. If you’re recreating with pets, know where they are and are not permitted, and follow posted regulations.
PLAY IT SAFE
Pack the Right Gear and Know Your Limits
Knowing your physical limitations, engaging in activities that match your skill level and traveling with the appropriate provisions (water, food and safety gear—depending on the situation) all reduce your risk of injury. When you’re headed into the backcountry during the winter months, avalanche safety should be top of mind. Get educated, stay within bounds at ski resorts and, when in doubt, go with a guide. When it comes to water, know how to swim and always wear a personal flotation device. Keep in mind that Montana waters can be cold year-round.
Exploring local parks, trails and public spaces is a privilege that comes with responsibility. Being mindful of your impact on these environments ensures they remain enjoyable for everyone. Be good stewards of the land, and also embrace inclusivity in the outdoors by respecting fellow adventurers. Additionally, support our communities and small businesses by patronizing local establishments with kindness, patience and respect.
LEAVE NO TRACE
Minimize Your Impact
Please respect all public lands, waterways, tribal lands and local communities by leaving what you find, traveling and camping on durable surfaces, disposing of human and pet waste properly, minimizing campfire impacts and respecting wildlife. Leave these spaces better than you found them, ensuring that their natural allure remains intact for generations to come. Please treasure the Treasure State.
TREAD LIGHTLY
Take Care of Our Trails and Waterways
When recreating on motorized vehicles, we can ensure our trails, rivers and lakes are accessible, healthy and beautiful for all to enjoy. Please do your part by staying in designated areas and keeping trails and waterways clean and litter free, minimizing your impact. Take the initiative to understand and uphold responsible recreation practices tailored to your specific motorized activities.
KEEP OUR WATERS CLEAN
Help Prevent Aquatic Invasive Species
Preserving the health of Montana’s waters is imperative to safeguarding the delicate balance of aquatic ecosystems. Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS)—non-native plants, animals and pathogens—pose a significant threat to Montana’s environment and economy. Preventing their spread is crucial. Please adhere to Clean.Drain.Dry. principles and comply with watercraft inspection requirements to help preserve the purity and vitality of our waterways.
BE WILDLIFE WISE
Act Responsibly Around Wild Animals
It’s important to be smart around wildlife to keep both you and them safe. View wildlife from a safe distance. Never approach, touch or feed wildlife. Let wildlife know you’re nearby by speaking loudly or calling “hey bear” every so often as to not surprise them. When hiking, be sure to carry bear spray and know how to use it properly. It’s also vital to help preserve and enhance wildlife habitat by practicing Leave No Trace principles.
RESPECT TRIBAL LANDS
Be Considerate in Sacred Places
It’s crucial to recognize and acknowledge when you enter tribal lands; they hold significant cultural and spiritual value. Mindfulness and reverence for a tribe’s distinct culture, history and traditions are paramount. Prior to visiting, familiarize yourself with tribal policies and guidelines, ensuring compliance and understanding the protocols for entry (including where you are and are not allowed). Additionally, secure a tribal conservation permit before engaging in recreational activities on tribal land.
FOLLOW FIRE SAFETY
Help Prevent Wildland Fires
Western Montana is susceptible to wildland fire in the dry summer months. Before you head out, know what fire restrictions (and stages) are in place, if any, and follow them accordingly. Attend to and extinguish your campfire properly and completely. Act responsibly in areas where wildland fires are burning. Also practice safe towing of boats, RVs and trailers; dragging chains can throw sparks on roadways. Your vigilance can help protect our cherished landscapes and communities from the devastating impact of wildland fires.
Read more about recreating responsibly here:
MISSOURI RIVER
SOUTHWEST
Glacier National Park
A PLACE YOU HAVE TO SEE TO BELIEVE
NON-RESIDENT VISITOR INFORMATION
Non-resident visitors to the United States should be aware of additional entrance requirements and fee options when planning a trip to Glacier National Park. The America the Beautiful Non-Resident Annual Pass is available for $250. This pass covers one private vehicle, two motorcycles, or the passholder plus three additional adults. Without an America the Beautiful Pass, non-resident visitors aged 16 and older must pay a $100 non-resident fee in addition to the standard park entrance fee.
A LANDSCAPE CARVED BY GLACIERS
Glacier National Park is altogether stunning. Massive prehistoric glaciers once cut through this landscape, leaving 1 million acres of awe-inspiring terrain carved into jagged mountain peaks, hanging valleys and high alpine meadows. Today, the park is home to hundreds of lakes, more than 700 miles of trails, rolling foothills, striking rock faces, cascading waterfalls, 25 glaciers and some of the most jaw-dropping views in the world.
THE ICONIC GOING-TO-THE-SUN ROAD
If it’s your first visit to the park, you’re welladvised to set out on the Going-to-the-Sun Road. This 50-mile drive is both an engineering marvel and National Historic Landmark, and it’s pretty easy on the eyes. The road connects West Glacier and St. Mary—winding through some of the country’s most beautiful scenery and cresting the Continental Divide at 6,646 feet at Logan Pass.
GUIDED WAYS TO SEE THE PARK
You can drive private vehicles (size restrictions apply) on park roads, but plan to soak up the sights and leave the driving to someone else by booking an interpretive red bus tour with Glacier National Park Lodges or a Blackfeet interpretive tour with Sun Tours. Both tours operate June to October and are an insightful and educational way to learn about the park, its history and its terrain. Sun Tours offers the chance to see the park from the cultural and historical perspective of the Blackfeet Tribe.
BEYOND THE GOING-TO-THE-SUN ROAD
The Going-to-the-Sun Road is the most visited place in Glacier National Park, but the park is also home to other exceptionally beautiful areas. Visit the North Fork—home to Kintla and Bowman lakes—Two Medicine, Many Glacier and Goat Haunt.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
There will be no vehicle reservation system in 2026; visitors may enter Glacier National Park by personal vehicle at any time. Park shuttles begin July 1; they operate by advance online reservation only and stop exclusively at Logan Pass and The Loop.. Parking at Logan Pass will be limited to three hours. Visitors wanting to stay longer than three hours may be dropped off or reserve shuttle service in advance.
ON THE WATER, TRAIL AND SADDLE
Exploring the park by water and trail is easy, with concessionaires, businesses and outfitters in and around the park providing a variety of travel options. Inside the park, take a guided hiking or biking trip with Glacier Guides, hop aboard one of Glacier Park Boat Company’s historic wooden boats, set out on a horseback trail ride with Swan Mountain Outfitters or embark on a multiday hiking trip with Glacier Institute. Outside the park, sign up for a whitewater or scenic float trip on the Middle Fork of the Flathead River (which borders the park) with one of the rafting companies in West Glacier.
A PARK FOR ALL SEASONS
Summer sees the most visitors here, but it’s important to note that Glacier National Park is open for adventure all year long. During fall, wildlife-watching opportunities are in abundance and the autumn foliage is some of Montana’s most vibrant. Winter transforms the park into a life-size snow globe, and fresh, pristine powder is ideal for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and backcountry exploration. Spring is a draw for hikers and bikers, with early-season access on the Going-to-the-Sun Road before it opens to vehicular traffic. Though services within the park are limited during non-peak seasons, the communities just outside the park offer lodging and amenities.
Please travel and recreate responsibly. That means planning ahead and being prepared. Monitor park dashboards and social channels for weather and gate information, parking lot availability, and closures: glaciermt.com/gtsr Have a backup plan in the event that the park is at capacity. Learn more at glaciermt.com/outside-glacier-park
Chances are, you’re here to see Glacier National Park—but there are some pretty incredible things to see and do beyond park boundaries as well—especially during the high season of summer or when services within the park are limited. Here are some of our favorites.
1. Stop by Kyiyo Mercantile , west of Browning, for baked goods, unique gifts, local art and more.
2. Enjoy a nostalgic stagecoach ride from Bigfork Stagecoach Rides & Rentals through scenic Wrangler Springs Ranch.
3. Visit the quirky and fun Goats of Glacier for some goat yoga on this working farm in Coram.
4. Play mini golf in Columbia Falls at Camp Scout + Gather and visit the mercantile while you’re at it.
5. Put on your cowboy hat and experience an adrenaline-packed Brash Rodeo in Columbia Falls.
6. Go fly-fishing on the North Fork of the Flathead River with Glacier Angers & Outfitters
7. Experience off-road excitement on rugged terrain in Hungry Horse with Glacier Ridge Runners .
8. Explore art galleries, cozy eateries and quaint shops in the charming village of Bigfork
9. Head to Home Ranch Bottoms in Polebridge for live music, food and drinks in a rustic Montana setting.
10. Explore The Clarke Gallery in East Glacier Park for artwork from renowned Montana artists.
TRIP TIP: Note that some of our roads are a bit rural and cell service can be spotty. We like it this way, and we suspect you will, too.
For more information and itineraries, visit glaciermt.com/outside-glacier-park and glaciermt.com/glacier-park-itineraries
A great place for your family and friends to stay after you relocate. When they visit you in your new home town, they’ll just be steps from all that makes Missoula so magical!
Relax in a gracious open-space setting along the Clark Fork River just steps from walking trails, vibrant shopping, dining, museums, farmers markets and more! A stay at the Holiday Inn Missoula Downtown puts you in the center of it all. MISSOULA’S LARGEST FULL-SERVICE HOTEL
Newly Renovated Premium Guest Rooms
20,000 sf of Flexible Meeting Space
Expansive Outdoor Venue
Pet-Friendly • Lobby Bar
Breakfast Restaurant
Grab and Go Market • Espresso Bar
COMPLIMENTARY FEATURES
Guest Parking (a rarity downtown) Indoor Pool • Fitness Center
Airport Shuttle • High-Speed Wi-Fi Area-Wide Transportation Conference Service Support
A MONTANA ROAD TRIP
Glacier to Yellowstone
Many travelers to Montana wisely plan their trips to include both our national parks: Glacier and Yellowstone. To help make the most of your time, we’ve put together four ideal road-trip routes that all offer an unforgettable park-to-park experience, with plenty of sightseeing along the way.
Glacier Bitterroot Valley Yellowstone
ROUTE : West Glacier to West Yellowstone, 465 miles
After exploring Glacier National Park and traversing the jaw-dropping Going-to-the-Sun Road, get off the beaten path. Begin your journey from West Glacier and stop in the storybook village of Bigfork before traveling south along the east side of Flathead Lake—dotted with fruit stands selling Flathead cherries in late summer. Then travel toward Missoula through the Flathead Indian Reservation. Highlights along the way include the Miracle of America Museum , Three Chiefs Cultural Center and views of the Mission Mountains. Stop in Missoula and grab a bite. From there, drive south along the Bitterroot River exploring the small towns along the way. Don’t miss the Daly Mansion and the Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge. Spend the night in Stevensville or Hamilton. Just west of Wisdom, explore the Big Hole National Battlefield and then make your way to Wisdom and the ghost towns of Bannack, Virginia City and Nevada City before landing in West Yellowstone.
Glacier Seeley Swan Valley Yellowstone
ROUTE: West Glacier to Gardiner, 512 miles
This scenic route takes you through the pristine Seeley Swan Valley along one of the prettiest roads in all of Montana. After a Glacier National Park adventure, make your way from West Glacier to Bigfork—an idyllic community on the northeast shore of Flathead Lake. From there you’ll take the Seeley Swan scenic drive between Swan Lake and Seeley Lake, stopping along the way at Holland Lake. If you’re up for an adventure, the Clearwater Canoe Trail is a must. This peaceful float is exceptionally scenic and perfect for families. Next up, don’t miss the chance to pull over in the tiny town of Ovando before passing through Helena, our state capital. From there, explore historic Butte, the hip university town of Bozeman and the vibrant community of Livingston. As you make your way south to Gardiner—the northeast entrance to Yellowstone National Park—take in the exceptional beauty of the Paradise Valley along the Yellowstone River. Have your fly rod ready, and also be sure to stop for a soak at one of two hot springs in the area.
Glacier Missoula Yellowstone
ROUTE: West Glacier to West Yellowstone, 430 miles
This route is mostly freeway, but, around here, even those are scenic. Hit the road from West Glacier and travel south along the west side of Flathead Lake. Stop in Polson at the southern tip of the lake on the Flathead Indian Reservation. Between Polson and Missoula, visit the Pablo and Ninepipe national wildlife refuges and the Ninepipes Museum of Early Montana , which features a walking trail and Mission Mountain views. The Allentown Restaurant is right next door. In Missoula, you’ll want to do it all. Explore downtown, overflowing with artisan breweries, distilleries, culinary hot spots, galleries and eclectic local shops. Walk the Riverfront Trail along the Clark Fork River and watch the surfers at Brennan’s Wave before settling in for a stay at any number of incredible lodging options. From Missoula, travel past the richest hill on earth—Butte’s Berkeley Pit, named for the estimated $48 billion worth of metal extracted here—and Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park. In Ennis you’ll find phenomenal fly-fishing on the Madison River. Cast a line before you land in West Yellowstone.
Glacier Rocky Mountain Front Yellowstone
ROUTE: St. Mary to Gardiner, 378 miles
If you want to hit Montana’s open roads and experience the wonder of the Rocky Mountain Front—aka where the plains meet the Rocky Mountains—this is the route for you. After traversing one of the most beautiful drives in the U.S., the Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park, your journey starts in St. Mary on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation. Don’t miss a visit to the Museum of the Plains Indian , in Browning, for a look at the richly varied arts of the Northern Plains Tribal peoples. From there, the Rocky Mountain Front scenery will blow you away. Stop in the tiny communities of Choteau and Augusta for a quaint glimpse of life in smalltown Montana. Visit local shops and watering holes, and explore easily accessible hikes and lakes in the area. You’ll pass through Montana’s capital city of Helena— where it’s worth stopping to explore the Montana Heritage Center Museum for an engaging look at the state’s history and culture—before landing in Bozeman. There’s so much to do in Bozeman it warrants an overnight. Then, follow the famed Yellowstone River to Gardiner via the awe-inspiring Paradise Valley.
ROUTE: Eastern Montana to East Glacier Park, 449 miles
Begin your road trip on Montana’s Hi-Line in beautiful Missouri River Country, where you’ll explore the unique land formations of the Great Plains. Attractions along the way include Fort Peck Lake and the Bowdoin National Wildlife Refuge. Next, make your way to Central Montana. In Havre, visit Havre Beneath the Streets, Beaver Creek Park and the Historic Railroad District, and top off the day at a local brewery or distillery. In Shelby, don’t miss the Carousel Rest Area of Shelby and the Marias Museum of Art and History. Your next stop is Cut Bank, home to plenty of western adventures and abundant outdoor opportunities in the beautiful Rocky Mountain Front. The Cut Bank area offers a golf course and a walking trail, as well as services for guided fishing trips and birding trips. Stop by the Glacier County Historical Museum to explore exhibits that share the area’s history and stories of the Hi-Line, then browse locally made and sourced goods and gifts at Marketplace on Main . Moving on, develop a deeper connection with the natural world from the Siksikaitsitapi (Blackfoot) perspective through a cultural workshop hike from Iron Shield Creative, and explore the Museum of the Plains Indian, Lodgepole Gallery, Western Curios and Faught’s Blackfeet Trading Post. End your drive in East Glacier Park, the perfect place to begin a Western Montana adventure. As one of the gateways to Glacier National Park, this community is down-to-earth, complete with friendly locals serving up home-cooked meals, coveted huckleberry ice cream and insider tips on area attractions.
Southeast Montana: A Road Trip
ROUTE: Baker to East Glacier Park, 592 miles
Start your journey in Baker, where small-town hospitality meets history at the O’Fallon Historical Museum, home to the world’s largest steer and an impressive collection of local artifacts. Continue west to Miles City, the heart of cowboy country. Visit the Range Riders Museum and WaterWorks Art Museum, or time your trip for the legendary Miles City Bucking Horse Sale each May. Follow the Yellowstone River to Pompeys Pillar National Monument, where explorer William Clark left his signature in the stone, before arriving in Billings, Montana’s largest city. Enjoy a walkable downtown filled with art galleries, local shops and restaurants serving regional flavors. From there, head north to Great Falls to explore the C.M. Russell Museum and Giant Springs State Park—home to one of the country’s largest freshwater springs. Continue toward the Rocky Mountain Front to Choteau, where dinosaur lovers can explore prehistoric discoveries at the Old Trail Museum and birders can spot migrating waterfowl at Freezout Lake Wildlife Management Area. Your final stretch brings you to East Glacier Park, the eastern gateway to Glacier National Park, where lodge stays, access to the Many Glacier region, scenic boat tours and some of the park’s most spectacular hiking—and even a round of golf—create an unforgettable finale to your Montana road trip.
The Glaciers to Geysers travel resource helps you plan your trip between Glacier and Yellowstone national parks, exploring the regions called Western Montana’s Glacier Country, Southwest Montana and Montana’s Yellowstone Country along the way. Find routes, maps and inspiration for year-round adventure.
Itineraries available for:
• Motorcycling scenic highways and byways
• Relaxing in natural hot springs
• Exploring museums and cultural stops
• Snowmobiling Montana’s powder trails
• Nordic skiing through quiet forests
• Downhill skiing at mountain resorts
Order your free print guides for: Hot Springs • Motorcycling • Snowmobiling
A Story Centuries in the Making
LEARN MORE ABOUT THIS LAND BEFORE IT WAS MONTANA
Please be a responsible traveler while visiting Tribal Nations. Know when you’re on tribal land, be respectful, and secure tribal recreation permits. Learn more here:
TRIBAL NATIONS IN WESTERN MONTANA
Western Montana’s Glacier Country sits on the traditional, ancestral territory of the Amskapi Piikani, Ksanka, Séliš, and Qlispe’ people. The tribes have a rich oral history and a spiritual tradition of respect for the natural environment.
What is now Glacier National Park, as well as the land east of the park (what is now the Blackfeet Reservation), was the original home of the Blackfeet Indian Tribe. The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes (CSKT) traditionally inhabited the valleys east of the Continental Divide and hunted on the eastern plains. Each tribe observes and celebrates its own distinct story and heritage, which is a rich tapestry of tradition, art, music, dance, storytelling, adventure, industry and leisure.
LEARN MORE about experiencing Tribal Nations in Montana at glaciermt.com/tribal-nations and visitmt.com/indian-country
There are many opportunities for recreation on both reservations, including hiking, fishing and boating, trail rides, guided trips and more. Please note, a tribal recreation permit is required.
Support tribally owned businesses—like Two Sisters Cafe (seasonal) in Babb, Backpacker’s Ferry (seasonal) in East Glacier Park, Kwataqnuk Resort & Casino in Polson and Indigenous Made Montana market events in Missoula—and look for Native American Made in Montana products throughout the region.
For thousands of years, the Blackfeet have occupied the Rocky Mountain region. Originally nomads following the buffalo migration, the Blackfeet are made up of four bands—North Piegan, South Piegan, Blood and Siksika, though members of the Blackfeet Nation in the U.S. primarily descend from the South Piegan.
The Blackfeet Indian Reservation sits along the eastern edge of Glacier National Park encompassing nearly 1.5 million acres of rolling plains and Rocky Mountain Front terrain.
Long before it became a national park, this landscape was part of the Blackfeet’s seasonal migration pattern—where they hunted, gathered and followed the rhythms of the land.
Learn More About the Blackfeet Nation
Book a day trip with Sun Tours or Iron Shield Creative. Visit Museum of the Plains Indian, Lodgepole Gallery, Western Curios and Faught’s Blackfeet Trading Post, all in Browning. Join the gatherings at North American Indian Days, 4th of July Veterans Powwow and Heart Butte Indian Days
Guiding Glacier INDIGIKITCHEN
At Indigikitchen in Babb, Montana, chef and cultural educator Mariah Gladstone, of the (Amskapi Piikani) Blackfeet Tribe and enrolled member of the (Tsalagi) Cherokee Nation, draws you into a rich journey from land to table—where each ingredient carries story and purpose. She reclaims Indigenous foodways by gathering native plants, tending a garden and transforming ingredients like bison, heirloom grains and foraged roots into vibrant, contemporary dishes rooted in ancestral knowledge. Her work extends far beyond the table through Indigikitchen’s online recipes and YouTube cooking videos, where she shares Indigenous ingredients, techniques and stories with a wider audience. Through this digital space, Indigikitchen continues to foster cultural resiliency, honor the land and create meaningful connections between people and place.
“The recipes that I dream up draw on ingredients we’ve had for thousands of years, but are also things that make sense in the modern kitchen.”
Mariah Gladstone, Founder, Indigikitchen
Discover the story of Indigikitchen by scanning the QR code and exploring our Guiding Glacier series.
The Flathead Indian Reservation is home to the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes (CSKT), comprising the Bitterroot Salish, Pend d’Oreille and Kootenai tribes.
The Flathead Indian Reservation encompasses 1.32 million acres, including the southern part of Flathead Lake. As you drive along U.S. Highway 93, look for CSKT road signs with placenames in the Salish or Kootenai languages along with their translations.
In the heart of the reservation, you’ll find the CSKT Bison Range. This beautiful, 18,500-acre wildlife conservation area is managed by the CSKT and is open to the public. It’s the perfect place for a day trip, complete with a visitor center and Mission Mountain views.
Guiding Glacier CSKT BISON RANGE
Established in 1908, the CSKT Bison Range is home to one of the oldest conservation herds in the country and remains a vital sanctuary for wildlife and cultural history. Spread across 18,500 acres of prairie, forest and wetland, the range offers close-up opportunities to see bison, elk, deer, birds of prey and more. At the visitor center, exhibits share the story of the Salish, Kootenai and Pend d’Oreille peoples— their relationship to the land, the reservation and the herd—told in their own voices. Scenic drives and walking paths give visitors a deeper sense of this place and its significance. The 2020 restoration on the range to the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes represents a powerful continuation of a much older story—one rooted in generations of stewardship, cultural responsibility and connection to this place.
“We try to incorporate our culture, language and values for your visit.”
Stephanie Gillin, Information and Education Program Manager, CSKT Natural Resources, Bison Range
Learn More About the Confederated Salish & Kootenai Tribes
Visit Three Chiefs Cultural Center in Pablo, Ninepipes Museum of Early Montana in Charlo and Four Winds Indian Trading Post in St. Ignatius. Join the gatherings at Arlee Espapqeyni Celebration and Standing Arrow Powwow
Discover the story of the CSKT Bison Range by scanning the QR code and exploring our Guiding Glacier series.
When you think of Montana, the first thing that probably comes to mind is mountains. That being the case, one extraordinary destination—Flathead Lake—tends to fly under the radar, which is surprising since it’s over 27 miles long, nearly 15 miles wide and 300 feet deep. As the largest natural freshwater lake in the West, Flathead Lake provides unparalleled fishing and recreational opportunities like stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, boating, fishing and sailing. Plus, with 185 miles of shoreline, there are plenty of places to stop, stay, play and tee up for golf—the Flathead Valley offers several courses. There are multiple islands on the lake, the largest of which is Wild Horse Island. Created more than 17,000 years ago by heavy glacial activity, this 2,160-acre island serves as a day-use state park. Only accessible by boat, Wild Horse Island is well worth exploring and a prime wildlife-watching destination. The island is home to wild horses, bighorn sheep, coyotes, deer and a variety of birds. The easiest way to access Flathead Lake is by way of its seven state parks, which, in addition to Wild Horse Island, include Big Arm, Finley Point, Somers Beach, Wayfarers, West Shore and Yellow Bay.
LEARN MORE about Flathead Lake at glaciermt.com/flathead-lake
EAT + DRINK: Taste Flathead flavor by picking up the coveted local delicacy— Flathead cherries—at various fruit stands around the lake. For local eats and finely crafted drinks, visit The Raven , The Shoe , Finley Point Grill , The Sitting Duck or The Durham . Find more at glaciermt.com/eat .
STAY: A variety of lodging options can be found around the lake. Be sure to check out these properties: The Cabins at Blacktail in Lakeside, Somers Bay Cabins in Somers, The Cottages at Bigfork and Flathead Lake Resort in Bigfork, Big Arm Resort in Big Arm and Polson Motorcoach Resort in Polson. Find more at glaciermt.com/stay .
PLAY: Take a boat tour with Far West or charter a sailboat with Go Sail Flathead Lake . Local outfitters, like Hooked on Montana , offer guided fishing excursions on the lake, and Base Camp Bigfork offers kayak and stand-up paddleboard rentals. For something truly unique, try a translucent kayaking experience with Rocky Mountain Glass Kayak Company . Get inspired at glaciermt.com/things-to-do-in-the-water
EXPLORE: The vibrant communities around the lake—including Big Arm, Bigfork, Dayton, Elmo, Lakeside, Polson, Rollins and Somers—offer the kind of small-town hospitality for which Montana is known, with amenities ranging from lakeside lodging to live theater and friendly taprooms. Visit glaciermt.com/flathead-corridor
It’s time to venture outside. From hiking and biking to playing golf and fly-fishing our famous waters, there’s an outdoor playground here for every type of adventure seeker. Gear up and get out—or go with a guide. The mountains are calling.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: Conservation Licenses are required for ages 12 and older to access most state lands, including wildlife management areas, fishing access sites and wildlife habitat protection areas. This requirement does not include state parks. Learn more at fwp.mt.gov/buyandapply/conservation-license
Water Recreation
PADDLE, FLOAT OR FISH A MONTANA RIVER
From legendary fly-fishing to whitewater thrills, Western Montana’s rivers invite every kind of water adventurer. Cast from the bank, paddle through rapids or float beneath wide-open skies—these waterways promise connection and discovery at every turn.
GET TO KNOW THE RIVERS
Bitterroot River: Meandering through the Bitterroot Valley from its source south of Hamilton, the Bitterroot River joins the Clark Fork River near Missoula. This freestone river is ideal for wade and float fishing, with calm stretches, gravel bars and scenic backdrops framed by the Bitterroot Mountains.
Blackfoot River: Made famous by Norman Maclean’s “A River Runs Through It” the Blackfoot is a blue-ribbon stream enjoyed by anglers and boaters alike. Deep pools, boulder gardens and mountain views make it a classic Montana float.
Clark Fork River: Originating near Anaconda and flowing through downtown Missoula, the Clark Fork offers both mellow drifts and lively whitewater sections—perfect for rafting, tubing and drift-boat fishing.
Flathead River: The Flathead River is a unique glacial-fed river consisting of three distinct branches: the North Fork, South Fork and Middle Fork, all parts of the National Wild and Scenic River System. These three forks deliver both adrenaline-pumping whitewater and serene stretches for fishing and floating.
Kootenai River: Flowing down from Kootenay National Park in British Columbia, the Kootenai River flows across the U.S./Canadian border into Montana, and is known for its emerald waters, impressive flow and the scenic Kootenai Falls and Swinging Bridge. Downstream, Lake Koocanusa offers outstanding boating and trout fishing.
Rock Creek: Winding from Philipsburg through the Lolo and Beaverhead-Deerlodge national forests, Rock Creek is famed for wade fishing and the state’s best salmonfly hatch, a quintessential Montana angling experience.
For more than 30 years, Montana River Guides has shared the thrill and beauty of Western Montana’s wild waters. Founded by Mike Johnston in 1994 with just a van and a raft, the company has grown into one of the region’s most respected whitewater outfitters. Based near the Alberton Gorge, the team offers everything from adrenaline-filled rafting trips to scenic floats and expert swift-water rescue instruction. Each adventure is led by experienced guides who know the river’s every turn—and every story. Guests paddle through Class IV rapids, drift beneath canyon walls and connect with the spirit of Montana’s legendary waterways. For Montana River Guides, it’s not only about running rivers—it’s about sharing them.
“I want [visitors] to not only take away an amazing experience, but also [realize] just how valuable public access to wild places is.”
Sam Johnston, Operations Manager
Discover the story of Montana River Guides by scanning the QR code and exploring our Guiding Glacier series.
Hiking EXPLORE
OUR INCREDIBLE
TRAIL SYSTEMS
With thousands of miles of hiking trails ranging from easy day hikes to multiday backcountry excursions, Glacier Country is a true hiker’s haven. Glacier National Park alone has more than 700 miles of trails.
1. Blodgett Overlook
This 2.8-mile out-and-back trail near Hamilton (an easy, scenic route that takes about 90 minutes to complete), is a very popular area for birding and hiking with excellent views of Hamilton and Blodgett Canyon. Visit May through October, as trailhead roads are subject to seasonal closure.
READ MORE about hiking in Western Montana, including more trails, at glaciermt.com/hiking .
2. Foy’s to Blacktail Trails
This Kalispell trail system features over 15 miles of scenic paths through lush forests and meadows, leading to Blacktail Mountain. With views of Flathead Lake, it’s ideal for hiking, biking and horseback riding, offering adventures for all skill levels.
A favorite day hike near Condon, this 1.6-mile trail gently climbs 750 feet along the shoreline of Holland Lake, offering panoramic water and mountain views before reaching the base of Holland Falls. The hike is short, scenic and great for families, with rewarding photo opportunities.
GO WITH A GUIDE: Consider taking a hike with experts in the field. Our friends at Glacier Hikes & Bikes are ready to show you the way with a diverse selection of guided hiking trips in Western Montana.
TRAIL SAFETY
+ Plan for all kinds of weather.
+ Dress in layers and broken-in hiking shoes.
+ For more rugged hikes, pack accordingly with things like snacks and a survival/first-aid kit.
+ Bring plenty of water.
+ Always stay on the trail.
+ If you’re hiking alone, let someone know where you’re going.
+ Respect wildlife. Do not harass or feed them.
+ Carry bear spray and know how to use it—all of Western Montana is bear country.
+ Leave no trace.
For safety guidelines and information, visit fwp.mt.gov/activities/hiking
Golf GET ON THE GREEN SOMEWHERE GORGEOUS
Playing golf in Montana comes with a rare combination of renowned courses, stunning scenery, and affordability. Our season on the green typically lasts from mid-April through mid-October, and with 29 golf courses, you’ve got no shortage of places to play.
Indian Springs Ranch Golf Course
Located in Eureka, this links-style course combines rolling fairways with expansive mountain views and an open, prairie feel. The course layout is designed to be both enjoyable and challenging, rewarding precision and creativity. After your round, relax at the clubhouse or enjoy the full ranch experience with lodging, dining and outdoor recreation.
Whitetail Golf Course
Set against the backdrop of the Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge, this 9-hole course in Stevensville offers a one-of-a-kind experience. Designed for golfers of all skill levels, it challenges players with tree-lined fairways, strategic bunkers and natural water hazards that test accuracy and precision. It’s not uncommon to spot deer, elk or a wide variety of bird species along the fairways.
Canyon River Golf Club
In scenic Missoula, this 18-hole, par-72 championship course blends seamlessly with its natural surroundings. Canyon River offers an accessible yet rewarding layout featuring mountain backdrops, water features and lush fairways along the Clark Fork River. Voted one of Golfweek’s “Best Courses You Can Play,” it’s a must for golfers exploring Western Montana.
Buffalo Hill Golf Club
The Stillwater River winds through this Kalispell course, which features an 18-hole “shotmaker’s” championship layout and a 9-hole Cameron course. Treelined fairways, elevated tees and mountain views offer a fun but strategic challenge that rewards accuracy. With a welcoming atmosphere and year-round community programming, Buffalo Hill is a local favorite.
Experience Western Montana from 10,000 feet above the valley floor. Tandem jump with expert instructors and enjoy panoramic views of the Bitterroot and Sapphire mountains. Take to the skies with Skydive Missoula .
BIKE PARK FUN
Near Lakeside, Legacy Bike Park offers lift-access downhill and freeride mountain biking with purpose-built trails for all skill levels. Flow lines, jumps and forested singletrack make it a must-ride destination for mountain bikers.
ALPINE COASTER + SLIDE
Cruise down a forested slope overlooking an alpine lake on the Flathead Lake Alpine Coaste r or the alpine slide at Whitefish Mountain Resort. Riders control their own speed, winding through curves and drops with big-sky views around every turn.
HOT AIR BALLOONING
Drift above the Missoula and Bitterroot valleys on a sunrise or sunset hot air balloon ride. Soar with the morning or evening light, watch wildlife below and see the mountains glow from an unforgettable vantage point. Book with 2FLYUS
TEAM PENNING
Saddle up near Whitefish for a true western experience at Bar W Guest Ranch . Learn the fundamentals of working cattle from horseback, then team up to sort and guide them into the pen—a mix of strategy, teamwork and ranch-style fun.
JETBOARDING
Skim across open water with jetboarding on Flathead Lake through Montana Boarders in Somers. Lessons and rentals make it easy to get started, letting riders carve, cruise and build confidence while gliding above the lake’s surface.
Western Montana strives to ensure visitors with disabilities feel welcome here. Among our state parks, national wildlife refuges and rails-to-trails areas you’ll find accessible adventures that can be enjoyed by everyone. We are also continually working to improve accessibility in our outdoor spaces to make trails and recreation opportunities accessible to all.
TRAIL OF THE CEDARS
GLACIER NATIONAL PARK
This popular 0.9-mile loop trail near Lake McDonald is one of two wheelchair accessible trails in the park. A wooden boardwalk takes visitors through a beautiful cedar and hemlock forest.
LONE PINE STATE PARK
This state park in Kalispell overlooks the Flathead Valley and offers an Action Trackchair—an all-terrain wheelchair available free of charge for use on the primary Lone Pine trail system and the ADA accessible overlook. To reserve the Action Trackchair, call 406.755.2706.
ROUTE OF THE HIAWATHA
The Route of the Hiawatha trail is known as the crown jewel of the Rails to Trails system. This bike trail is 15 miles one way on a high-quality dirt/gravel path with a gradual, downhill grade. There is a shuttle at the end, and adaptive equipment can be used on the trail.
MISSOULA MARATHON
Voted one of the top marathons in the U.S., the Missoula Marathon has wheelchair and handcycle divisions in the full and half marathon. Escort cyclists are provided for blind and low-vision runners as needed to assist with notification of course monitors and traffic control personnel.
DREAM ADAPTIVE RECREATION
DREAM Adaptive Recreation provides year-round accessible programs in the Flathead Valley for people with disabilities, with trained staff and volunteer instructors, adaptive equipment, and/or adaptive teaching techniques. Activities include Nordic and downhill skiing, snowboarding biking, paddle sports and motorized watersports.
FRENCHTOWN POND STATE PARK
Spend a peaceful afternoon at this serene pond, where an accessible dock offers easy access for persons with disabilities to enjoy fishing and exploring the calm waters. With a scenic backdrop and tranquil surroundings, it’s a perfect spot to unwind and connect with nature.
Plan your accessible adventure with the help of our trip planning guide.
46 Museum Loop Browning, MT 406.338.2274 glacierpeakscasino.com Over 300
MUSEUM OF THE PLAINS INDIAN
The Museum of the Plains Indian displays richly varied Northern Plains Tribal art, including from the Blackfeet, Crow, Northern Cheyenne, Sioux, Arapaho, Assiniboine, Shoshone, Nez Perce, Flathead, Chippewa, and Cree. Their historic clothing, horse gear, household implements, baby carriers, and toys highlight the exhibits, as well as contemporary Indian art.
The Indian Arts and Crafts Act (IACA), P.L. 101-644 as amended, is a federal truth-in-marketing law in support of authentic Indian arts and craftwork. For more information on the IACA, please visit www.doi.gov/iacb or call 1-888-278-3253
Please visit us at 19 Museum Loop, Browning, Montana 59417, 1-406-338-2230.
U.S. Department of the Interior Indian Arts and Crafts Board
In Montana, when we really want to “get away from it all” and explore the backcountry, we head to a place we lovingly refer to as “The Bob.” The Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex is the third-largest wilderness area in the lower 48 and on the traditional lands of the Blackfeet, Salish and Kootenai tribes. These 1.5 million acres of pristine wilderness straddle the Continental Divide and offer a chance to truly escape into the deep backcountry. It’s important to find the exploration route that suits your skill level and scratches your particular adventure itch: Embark on a pack trip, a backcountry hiking trip, a drop-camp or drop-float trip, a fly-fishing trip or a hunting trip. Get away from it all, entering an area with more than 1,000 miles of trails across jagged peaks, mountain lakes, sparkling streams and wide-open spaces, and experience nature at its finest. Our advice? Go with a guide.
If your getaway goals include big-sky sunshine and fresh mountain air, you’ve come to the right place. While Glacier National Park and the Bob Marshall Wilderness are iconic Montana destinations, our state parks offer equally incredible outdoor adventures with a more local vibe. Montana has 55 state parks, 24 of which are in Glacier Country, each with unique landscapes and activities like camping, fishing, hiking and stargazing. Please note, there are out-of-state fees associated with state parks.
1. Lake Mary Ronan State Park, Proctor Tucked between Flathead Lake and the Mission Mountains, anglers, kayakers and hikers find a peaceful retreat. The park’s calm waters and forested shoreline create a tranquil setting for paddling, picnicking or simply soaking up northwest Montana’s quiet nature.
2. Council Grove State Park, Missoula*
Located on the outskirts of Missoula, this park is both a cultural and natural gem. It’s the historic site of the Hellgate Treaty signing and offers excellent birding along the Clark Fork River. Enjoy a quiet riverside picnic or nature walk, or simply soak in the significance of this beautiful and historic spot.
3. Fort Owen State Park, Stevensville* Immerse yourself in Montana history at Fort Owen, the site of the state’s first Catholic church, sawmill, grist mill and school. With preserved remnants, restored buildings of this early settlement, and new interpretive signs guiding your visit, this state park offers a glimpse into early settler life along the Bitterroot River. Please respect the surrounding private property as you explore.
4. Frenchtown Pond State Park*
Perfect for a relaxing afternoon, visit this serene pond for family-friendly fishing and exploring. It also offers an accessible dock for persons with disabilities. Cool off in the pond’s calm waters or unwind among the scenic landscape.
5. Somers Beach State Park
Montana’s newest state park offers a wide, sandy beach accessible fall through spring. In the summer, enjoy a gravel beach. Note that the adjacent Flathead Waterfowl Production Area (WPA) is closed from March 1 to July 15 for bird nesting season, though Somers Beach State Park remains open to visitors.
6. Logan State Park, Libby Nestled in the heart of the Kootenai National Forest and surrounded by the Thompson Chain of Lakes, this park is an ideal escape for nature lovers. With access to 12 nearby lakes and over 80 campsites, it’s a prime spot for camping, fishing and hiking in a quiet forest setting.
7. Thompson Chain of Lakes State Park, Libby
Stretching across 20 miles of forest and water, discover endless opportunities for outdoor recreation. With access to 18 lakes for boating, fishing, swimming and wildlife viewing, it’s a paradise for those who love to explore off the beaten path.
8. Travelers’ Rest State Park, Lolo* A historical treasure, Travelers’ Rest State Park offers the chance to explore the only archaeologically verified campsite of the Lewis and Clark Expedition in the country—a site used by the Salish and other native peoples for centuries.
For a complete overview of Montana State Parks, visit fwp.mt.gov/statepark s. For fees and general information, visit fwp.mt.gov/stateparks/fees-and-general-information You can also learn more about our wilderness areas, as well as state parks and national forests, at glaciermt.com/parks . To reserve a campsite in a state park, visit montanastateparks.reserveamerica.com . Remember to Leave No Trace, which you can learn more about at lnt.org
Big Arm State Park
Finley Point State Park, Polson
Fish Creek State Park, Alberton
Beavertail Hill State Park, Clinton
Les Mason State Park, Whitefish
Lone Pine State Park, Kalispell
Thompson Falls State Park
Milltown State Park, Bonner*
Painted Rocks State Park, Darby
Placid Lake State Park, Seeley Lake
Salmon Lake State Park, Seeley Lake
Wayfarers State Park, Bigfork
West Shore State Park, Lakeside
Whitefish Lake State Park
Wild Horse Island State Park, Big Arm*
Yellow Bay State Park, Bigfork
use only
Watchable Wildlife
WE’RE NOT THE ONLY ONES WHO CALL THIS PLACE HOME
Within our regional boundaries are more than 22,000 square miles, thousands of lakes and streams, diverse wilderness areas and Glacier National Park—one of the most intact ecosystems in the continental United States. Numerous species of wildlife live within this terrain, including grizzly bears, black bears, bison, moose, wolves, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, elk, mountain lions, wolverines, lynx and deer. There are also hundreds of species of birds that call our mountains and valleys home, including bald eagles, osprey, harlequin ducks, snowy owls and golden eagles.
PLACES FOR WILDLIFE WATCHING IN WESTERN MONTANA
1. Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge, Stevensville
2. Lost Trail National Wildlife Refuge, Marion 3. Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge, Charlo 4. Pablo National Wildlife Refuge, Pablo
5. Swan River National Wildlife Refuge, Swan Lake 6. Teller Wildlife Refuge, Corvallis
Dawn and dusk are the best times to see wildlife, especially during the summer months. Western Montana is wild: Keep in mind that you can see wildlife anywhere in the region. When recreating outdoors, be sure to practice proper outdoor safety to ensure your wildlife encounters are positive.
Wildlife Safety: Wildlife is just that—wild. It’s important to act responsibly around wildlife, and it’s also vital that, while recreating in the area, we help preserve and enhance wildlife habitat by practicing Leave No Trace principles. That means staying safe and keeping others, including wildlife, safe as well.
1. View wildlife from the safety of your car or from a safe distance. Stay at least 100 yards away from bears and at least 25 yards away from other large animals.
2. Never approach, touch or feed wildlife, even when an animal does not seem to be threatened by your presence.
3. Let wildlife know you’re nearby. When hiking, be sure to bring a friend, carry bear spray, stay on designated trails and make noise at regular intervals.
Scan for more information on wildlife in Western Montana:
Lodging in Western Montana is more than just a place to rest—it’s part of the adventure. Whether you’re staying in a cozy treehouse near Glacier National Park or indulging in the luxury of a Michelin-ranked all-inclusive ranch or a refined regenerative bison ranch, each stay offers something unique. Sleep in a cozy yurt under the stars, or elevate your experience with glamping in a geodome complete with your own cedar hot tub for the perfect blend of nature and comfort.
Make your stay even more memorable with a unique lodging experience. Your options are as distinctive as Glacier Country itself.
Just north of Whitefish, Clydesdale Outpost sits on a working ranch in the foothills of the Whitefish Range. The Outpost carries a rhythm shaped by care, tradition and daily ranch life. The resident Clydesdales give the place its steady heartbeat— grazing in morning light, working alongside wranglers, and moving slowly with guests through the surrounding landscape on summer trail rides and winter sleigh outings. Cabins with fireplaces and cedar hot tubs offer a crafted refuge, but the experience is rooted less in luxury than in connection—to the horses, to the land and to Montana’s ranching heritage—making Clydesdale Outpost feel like a contemporary expression of that legacy rather than simply a place to stay.
“When people come here…they have this new understanding of the connection that a human can make with a horse and…that can be very lifechanging.”
Kambr Barkoski
Discover the story of Clydesdale Outpost by scanning the QR code and exploring our Guiding Glacier series.
• Optional photography and videography sessions to create meaningful art
National Conservation Legacy Center A LANDMARK FOR CONSERVATION HISTORY
Opening July 2026, the National Conservation Legacy Center is a one-of-a-kind national museum and a brand-new addition to Missoula. As the flagship facility of the National Museum of Forest Service History, the center presents interactive, immersive exhibits that explore the story of conservation in the United States and the public lands that define it.
Inside the Main Exhibit Hall, visitors move through a “forest of stories” organized around themes like forests and mountains, watersheds and habitats, prairies and rangelands, fire and wilderness. The building itself is part of the experience. Designed as an “Ode to Wood,” the striking mass-timber structure is an exhibit in its own right. Tree-like columns honor Western Montana’s forests, while the peaked roof echoes the surrounding mountains.
Beyond the exhibits, the center houses a state-of-the-art repository preserving more than 55,000 Forest Service artifacts, along with a research library. Located on a 31-acre campus near the Missoula Airport, the Legacy Center also features outdoor exhibits, interpretive trails and historic structures, creating a destination that connects conservation history with the landscape itself.
READ MORE about museums in Western Montana here:
MINE-DIRECT YOGOS
Culture Inspired By Nature
THE ARTS ABOUND IN WESTERN MONTANA
Tucked into our pristine Montana landscapes are cultural treasures that aren’t always expected in a state known more for its natural beauty. But it’s precisely this landscape that inspires the artists, writers and performers who create here. With a cultural personality that includes American Indian traditions, western lore and a splash of cosmopolitan flair, there’s plenty to discover.
The visual arts are celebrated here. The Cawdrey Gallery in Whitefish is just one example of the caliber of galleries you’ll find in our small towns. Lively art walks liven up downtown streets, and many renowned artists call the region home. You’ll also find the work of local artists proudly displayed on the walls of businesses throughout the region.
History buffs: Visit the Conrad Mansion Museum in Kalispell, Ninepipes Museum of Early Montana in Charlo, Missoula’s Historical Museum at Fort Missoula , Holt Heritage Museum in Lolo (by appointment only), the Historic St. Mary’s Mission in Stevensville and the Daly Mansion in Hamilton.
If you’re curious about “big-city” living in Western Montana, Missoula—our region’s cultural hub—is the place. With a vibrant, historic and walkable downtown, Missoula is one of the state’s most well-rounded cities for live music (including the Missoula Symphony ), art galleries and museums (including the Missoula Art Museum, Montana Museum of Art and Culture , and Radius Gallery ), a year-round First Friday art walk, multiple museums (like the Montana Natural History Center ), the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and Smokejumper Visitor Center , and live performances at the Missoula Children’s Theater
The Flathead Valley is another hotbed for arts, culture and Montana history. Home to several museums (like the Glacier Art Museum in Kalispell, the Miracle of America Museum in Polson and the Whitefish Ski Heritage Museum ), art galleries (including Abbrescia Gallery ), and an impressive performing arts scene (which includes the Alpine Theatre Project , Bigfork Summer Playhouse , Glacier Symphony and Chorale and Port Polson Players ), you’ll find plenty of year-round entertainment here.
In addition to being named “One of the 50 greatest Towns in the West,” Bigfork has been named “One of the Best Small Art Towns in America.” This storybook village offers an impressive arts scene with numerous galleries, artists in residence and artistic establishments. KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: Visit glaciermt.com/arts-and-culture , glaciermt.com/galleries and glaciermt.com/museums for information.
It may come as a surprise to visitors that this corner of Montana hosts live concerts that rival those of even the biggest cities in the country. From cozy, intimate venues to open-air amphitheaters with river views, check out these live music destinations and discover Western Montana’s diverse and vibrant music scene.
Abayance Bay Marina
This scenic stage along the shores of Lake Koocanusa in Eureka offers the chance to stretch out on the lawn at their annual summer concert series and features an on-site restaurant.
Home Ranch Bottoms
On the edge of Glacier National Park in the tiny outpost of Polebridge, this little stage is as local as they come, featuring live drinks, fresh food and lawn games.
KettleHouse Amphitheater
Tucked away on the banks of the Blackfoot River near Missoula, this scenic, stateof-the-art amphitheater offers a live music experience that could only be found in Montana.
Libby Memorial Events Center
Libby’s locally rooted, go-to indoor music venue hosts concerts, touring acts and live performances that draw audiences from across Libby and northwest Montana.
Mission Valley Live
Since 2015, Mission Valley Live has aimed to enrich communities in Montana’s Mission Valley with affordable live performing arts from two primary venues in Polson and Ronan.
Stonefly Lounge
This lively lounge brings big entertainment to the little town of Coram with free concerts featuring up-andcoming bands from far and wide, alongside scratchmade pizza and local beer.
The Top Hat Missoula’s go-to spot for intimate live performances features both local talent and renowned national artists, as well as specialty cocktails and eclectic bites.
University of Montana Adams Center
Located on the University of Montana campus, the Adams Center isn’t just a hub for Grizzly Athletics— it’s also a Missoula icon and a prime destination for music enthusiasts.
Wachholz College Center
The state-of-the-art Wachholz College Center on the campus of Flathead Valley Community College in Kalispell doubles as a dynamic live music venue.
Washington-Grizzly Stadium
This stadium on the UM campus is the ultimate Western Montana destination for a once-in-a-lifetime concert experience a la The Rolling Stones, Paul McCartney and Pearl Jam.
Whitefish Theatre Company/ O'Shaughnessy Center
Home of the annual Whitefish Summer Concert series, this local stage is dedicated to bringing the classic music of the past to town through tribute bands from all around.
The Wilma
A captivating landmark in the heart of Missoula, this historic theater is a hub of the city’s cultural and entertainment scene with cinema, film festivals and live musical performances.
Western Montana’s thriving communities are brimful of fun, like rodeos, holiday celebrations, concerts and live music, performing arts, First Nation celebrations, and all manner of festivals—like brew festivals, cherry festivals, film festivals and whitewater festivals. Plan your trip around one of these extraordinary events, or fit some into your itinerary.
JANUARY
+ Winter Fest - Polson
FEBRUARY
+ Big Sky Documentary Film FestivalMissoula
+ Cabin Fever Days - Martin City
+ Flathead Lake International CinemafestPolson
+ Snow Joke Half Marathon - Seeley Lake
+ Whitefish Skijoring
+ Whitefish Winter Carnival
MARCH
+ Buddy DeFranco Jazz Festival - Missoula
+ Cloverfest - Columbia Falls
APRIL
+ Forestry Day - Missoula
+ International Wildlife Film FestivalMissoula
+ Kyiyo Pow Wow Celebration - Missoula
+ Rendezvous Weekend - Eureka
+ Whitefish Pond Skim
MAY
+ Bigfork Whitewater Festival
+ Garden City Brewfest - Missoula
+ Montana Spartan Trifecta WeekendBigfork
+ St. Regis Flea Market
+ Whitefish Marathon
JUNE
+ Artists Along the Bitterroot
+ Darby Rodeo PRCA Xtreme Bareback
+ Garnet Day - Greenough
+ Glacier Half Marathon - East Glacier Park
+ Hot Springs Homesteader Days
+ Missoula Marathon
+ Missoula Summer MADE Fair
+ Montana Mule Days - Hamilton
+ Old Salt Festival - Helmville
+ Plains Day
+ Whitefish Woody Weekend
+ Zootown Festival - Missoula
JULY
+ 4th of July Veterans Powwow - Browning
+ Arlee Espapqeyni Powwow Celebration
+ Arts in the Park - Kalispell
+ Columbia Falls Heritage Days
+ The Event at Rebecca Farm - Kalispell
+ Flathead Cherry Festival - Polson
+ Fourth of July Parade - Bigfork
+ Good Old Days - St. Ignatius
+ Hard Times Bluegrass Festival - Hamilton
+ Lewis + Clark Days - Cut Bank
+ Loon and Fish Art Show and FestivalSeeley Lake
+ North American Indian Days - Browning
+ Old Fashioned 4th at the Fort Celebration - Missoula
+ Paddle Palooza and ARE Sprint Challenge - Polson
+ River Street Festival - Superior
+ Standing Arrow Powwow - Elmo
+ Troy’s Old Fashioned Fourth of July
+ Under the Big Sky - Whitefish
+ Wild West NRA Rodeo - Darby
AUGUST
+ Bigfork Festival of the Arts
+ Bitter Root Brew Fest - Hamilton
+ Bitterroot Celtic Games & GatheringHamilton
+ Huckleberry Days Arts Festival - Whitefish
+ Northwest Montana Fair & RodeoKalispell
+ Ravalli County Fair & Rockin’ RC NRA Rodeo - Hamilton
+ River City Roots Festival - Missoula
+ Riverfront Blues Festival - Libby
+ Ronan Pioneer Days
Find more events here:
+ Sanders County Fair & PRCA RodeoPlains
+ Symphony in the Park - Missoula
+ Trout Creek Huckleberry Festival
+ Western Montana Fair & Missoula Stampede Rodeo
SEPTEMBER
+ Broncs, Bulls & Barrels - Darby
+ Clash of the Carvers - Libby
+ Flathead Celtic Festival - Kalispell
+ Great Northwest Oktoberfest - Whitefish
+ Norman Maclean Literary FestivalMissoula
+ Rumble in the Bay Car Show - Bigfork
+ Whitefish Songwriter Festival
OCTOBER
+ Germanfest - Missoula
+ Harvest Fest in Columbia Falls
+ McIntosh Apple Day & Liquid Apple Night - Hamilton
+ Stevensville Scarecrow Festival
+ Tour of the Arts - Seeley Lake
+ Trego Heritage Days
NOVEMBER
+ Cut Bank Holiday Bazaar
+ Ovando Old West Christmas
DECEMBER
+ 9 Mile Schoolhouse Enchanted Christmas Village - Huson
+ Holidays on Higgins - Missoula
+ Missoula Holiday MADE Fair
+ Missoula on Main (NYE)
+ NYE Torchlight Parade + FireworksWhitefish (NYE)
Our very popular outdoor community markets are a big part of Western Montana’s allure, and a late spring through early autumn visit to Montana isn’t complete without a trip to one of these celebrated local favorites. Imagine strolling through the downtown streets of a small mountain town on a Saturday morning in the warm summer sunshine, welcomed by friendly locals, farmers and gardeners, bakers and makers. Friends and neighbors are gathered at coffee carts and food trucks, baked goods are in abundance, street musicians liven up every block and freshly picked wild huckleberries are ripe and ready.
Glacier Country’s market scene offers a truly unique experience set against one scenic backdrop after another. From fresh produce, local meats, cheeses and honey to all manner of locally-made arts and crafts like pottery, paintings, photography, jewelry, clothing and woodcarvings, these community gatherings offer a chance to support local growers, artisans and small businesses.
Missoula alone hosts three Saturday markets (as well as one on Tuesday), including a farmers market named one of the top 10 farmers markets in the West by Sunset magazine. If you find yourself in Whitefish on a summer Tuesday evening, visit their popular and lively farmers market, or head to the Bitterroot Valley for a market in Stevensville, Florence, Hamilton or Darby.
Western Montana’s farmers markets offer an authentic glimpse of life in the Rocky Mountain West, and they provide the chance to get to know the heart and soul of Glacier Country—our vibrant small towns.
Find a Market Near You
MONDAYS: Bigfork
TUESDAYS: Missoula, Whitefish
WEDNESDAYS: Bigfork, Cut Bank, Eureka, Hamilton, Trout Creek
THURSDAYS: Alberton, Columbia Falls, Libby, Ronan
FRIDAYS: Polson, St. Ignatius, Troy
SATURDAYS: Florence, Hamilton, Hot Springs, Kalispell, Missoula, Stevensville
You haven’t been to Montana if you haven’t had huckleberries, Flathead cherries or Dixon melons. Pick some up at a local market and savor the flavor!
Huckleberries
Melons
Flathead Cherries
Taste Montana EAT,
DRINK AND MARKET
IN MONTANA
BISON + BEEF
To get your fix of locally-raised beef and gourmet burgers, head to the Summit Mountain Lodge Steakhouse in East Glacier Park, Lindey’s Prime Steak House in Seeley Lake or Mercantile Steak in Kalispell, and don’t miss the Montana Huckleberry Burger at Front Porch Dewey Burger & Fish Co. in Eureka, touting “the coldest pint in town.”
PIZZA
Savor a slice! Biga Pizza in Missoula fires up wood-baked pies with fresh, regional toppings, while Valley Pizza in Eureka is a local favorite for classic comfort. Grab a table at MacKenzie River Pizza (multiple locations) for a laid-back lakeside vibe, or try North Fork Pizza in Columbia Falls for creative flavors. In Kalispell, Ranger Joe’s Pizza serves up hearty, handcrafted pizza perfection.
LOCAL FLAVORS
Find fresh and creative eats at Suzette’s Organics in Hamilton—also opening in Missoula—and delicious local ingredients at Mission Bistro in Stevensville. At Basal in Missoula, enjoy good-for-you signature salads, stir-fry and smoothies, and get cozy at Bonfire in Woods Bay, where rustic charm meets bold, seasonal cooking rooted in local bounty.
FINE FARE + FUN FOOD
We value real food made with highquality ingredients, and the region’s chefs deliver. Enjoy an elevated dining experience at Boat Club at The Lodge at Whitefish Lake or curated flavors and an inviting atmosphere at Herb + Omni, also in Whitefish. In Woods Bay, take your pick of fine dining or pub fare at Mountain Lake Lodge. In West Glacier, enjoy bison meatloaf at the Belton Chalet Restaurant & Tap House
ICE CREAM
Cool off with an over-the-top milkshake at Clydesdale Creamery in Whitefish or at Big Dipper Ice Cream in Missoula. In Hamilton, Freestone serves seasonal favorites, and Sweet Retreat in Columbia Falls crafts a real treat. Sweet Peaks and Farm to Table Ice Cream both dish up Montana creations at multiple locations.
OUR BREAKFAST BEST
If you’re in Whitefish, fuel up on flavor at Amazing Crepes or make your way to Loula’s Café for a scrumptious breakfast menu, including the local-favorite Lemon Stuffed French Toast as well as 20 different kinds of pie. Echo Lake Café in Bigfork also makes a mean morning meal, and the chicken, and a classic, hearty breakfast is served all day at Henry’s Restaurant in Libby.
Indulge in these local-favorite foods and artisanal delicacies handcrafted right here in Western Montana.
Double K Ranch Meats, Darby
Flathead Lake Cheese, Polson
Arthur Wayne Hot Sauce, Missoula
The Gallivanting Goat, Hungry Horse
Hindu Hillbilly Honey, Arlee
LARCH HOUSE
Guiding Glacier WESTERN CIDER
At Western Cider in Missoula, the journey from orchard to glass is a labor of love, guided by the mantra: “You only get good cider if you start with good apples.” On the banks of the Clark Fork River, their laid-back tasting room invites cider enthusiasts and adventurers alike. With a mix of rotating oneoff ciders and flagship staples crafted from 50 apple varieties— including rare cultivars from local orchards—Western Cider delivers the Bitterroot Valley’s terroir with every pour. If you can’t make it to Missoula, you can still find their cider in cans, bottles, and on draft throughout Montana.
“The quality of fruit in the Bitterroot Valley is as good as anywhere else in the world.”
Michael Billingsley, Co-Owner
Discover the story of Western Cider by scanning the QR code and exploring our Guiding Glacier series.
Savor the Local Spirit
We take our beverages seriously in Montana. Which is why you’ll find local beer, wine and spirits from more than 30 breweries, plus roughly a dozen each of wineries and distilleries, and a handful of cideries. Here’s a little list, just to get you started.
3. Pink Bench Distilling in Troy crafts small-batch spirits with true smalltown character, sourcing ingredients from local farms and forests.
5. Branding Iron Brewing Co. in Eureka serves up craft beer with a rustic charm that’s great for unwinding after exploring the area.
Cabinet Mountain Brewing Co.
Libby is Montana’s first fully woman-owned brewery, known for its small batch brews.
4. Westslope Distillery in Hamilton offers handcrafted, small-batch spirits focused on local ingredients, and is a cozy spot to sip creative cocktails.
6. OddPitch Brewing in Missoula stands out for its blend of creativity with a classic brewing technique, plus pinball and board games.
1. Patriotic American Brewery in Kalispell is veteran owned and serves bold, locally brewed beers inspired by American pride.
Looking for outdoor gear, one-of-a-kind gifts and souvenirs or gourmet treats? From charming downtowns to bustling malls and boutiques, Western Montana offers something for every shopper.
WHITEFISH
In downtown Whitefish, browse Stephen Isley Jewelry f or exquisite Montana sapphires and custom designs, or find natural body care, distinctive gifts and curated home décor at Sage & Cedar . Stop by FORLOH , a homegrown performance-wear brand known for American-made outdoor apparel.
KALISPELL
In downtown Kalispell, history meets style with shops that celebrate Montana craftsmanship. Gear up at Western Outdoor for cowboy hats, boots and western wear, then explore The Montana Scene for locally inspired gifts and apparel. Discover Sassafras, a collective of Montana makers offering handmade art, jewelry and home décor.
BIGFORK
At the northern tip of Flathead Lake, downtown Bigfork is a haven for art lovers. Visit Artisans to explore local craftsmanship and fine art, shop Nancy O’s Interiors for art, jewelry and, fun and functional home décor, and stop by Sonder , a coffee shop and boutique offering vintage western treasures and goods from small makers.
MISSOULA
In Missoula, Southgate Mall features more than 60 stores, including Scheels , an expansive destination for sporting goods, outdoor gear and apparel. Also inside, The Last Best Store offers Made in Montana gifts, local art, and UM Griz and MSU Bobcats merchandise.
In downtown Missoula, you might begin at the Montana Antique Mall at the far end of downtown—a treasure trove for collectors and vintage enthusiasts—then stroll through the city’s walkable core filled with boutiques, bookstores and galleries. Cross the river to the Hip Strip for vintage-inspired fashion from Betty’s Divine , and continue a bit farther to Rockin Rudy’s , an eclectic Missoula institution packed with quirky gifts, music and collectibles.
A Western Montana spring brings epic wildlife watching, rushing waterfalls and hillsides covered in wildflowers. Our quiet season is arguably one of the best times to visit.
THINGS TO DO IN THE SPRING
1. Biking: For a tranquil park experience, cycle the Going-to-the-Sun Road before it opens to vehicles.
2. Cherry Blossoms: Don’t miss these blooming beauties along Flathead Lake.
3. Whitewater Rafting: Take advantage of the wild rapids created by spring runoff on a whitewater rafting trip.
4. Birding: Spring migration is one of the best times to birdwatch in Montana.
5. Spring Events: Enjoy concerts, symphonies, rodeos, farmers markets and the International Wildlife Film Festival.
6. The CSKT Bison Range: Scope out the adorable baby animals spring brings, like bison, elk and deer.
Biking the Going-to-the-Sun Road, Glacier National Park.
1. Galleries: Painters, sculptors, potters, photographers and other artists are drawn to Western Montana, inspired by the natural beauty. Explore the region’s numerous art galleries, in towns both big and small, exhibiting the incredible work of these fine artists and craftspeople.
2. Museums: Make a date with the past and visit our museums and historical societies containing everything from vintage and American Indian artifacts to antique motorcycles and murals. You’ll also find the Contemporary American Indian Art Collection at the Missoula Art Museum .
3. Performing Arts: Take in a symphony, ballet, or live theater performance at a community playhouse. Western Montana is home to local theater companies, dance companies, symphony orchestras and more.
4. Taproom Tours: Our breweries, distilleries, wineries and cideries are open all year. Take a Montana flavor tour and sample some award-winning libations. Montana is ranked third in the nation for number of craft breweries per capita, after all.
5. Historic Homes: Visit the homes of former Copper King Marcus Daly, and the founder of Kalispell, Charles Conrad, and see how these businessmen and their families lived back in the day at the Daly Mansion in Hamilton and the Conrad Mansion Museum in Kalispell. You’ll also find other historic homes throughout the region.
6. Spas: Add a health and wellness element to your getaway and pamper yourself with a restorative massage, body treatment, infrared sauna, float therapy, facial and more at one of our resorts, boutique day spas or wellness centers.
There’s no doubt fall is one of the loveliest times to explore Western Montana’s Glacier Country. In addition to vibrant colors, visitation tends to quiet down a bit. The valleys and mountains say goodbye to the green shades of summer and hello to rich yellows and golds, as aspen, cottonwood and tamarack trees show off their perfectly coordinated hues.
TOP 5 FALL DRIVES
1. THE SEELEY SWAN: A hot spot for fall colors, the Seeley Swan Valley provides extraordinary views via the quiet corridor of U.S. Highway 83.
2. LAKE KOOCANUSA SCENIC BYWAY: What’s better than a scenic byway? A scenic byway in autumn. Take in the golden hues as you drive along the reservoir.
3. HIGHWAY 200, SANDERS COUNTY: From Ravalli to Thompson Falls, Highway 200 travels through a quiet valley with beautiful river views.
4. HIGHWAY 12, LOLO TO IDAHO: This heavily forested, scenic route from the Bitterroot Valley into Idaho has you immersed in stunning fall color for most of the drive. Bonus: This is the same spot where Lewis and Clark crossed into Idaho in 1805.
5. EASTSIDE HIGHWAY, BITTERROOT VALLEY: Running parallel to the Bitterroot Mountains, this scenic drive along State Highway 269 takes you through vibrant small towns, past the historic St. Mary’s Mission and alongside rolling farmland amid the glow of autumn.
TOP 5 FALL ACTIVITES
1. GOLF: Teeing up against the backdrop of our fall colors is a must, and King Ranch Golf Course in Frenchtown is the perfect place to do it.
2. FLY-FISHING: Come fall, the rivers are quieter, but the fish are still biting, and the scenery is extra vibrant. Cast a line on the Kootenai River with Bent Fly Fishing in Bigfork.
3. HIKING: Fall is the perfect time to hit the trails or slow down with binoculars in hand. Crisp air, golden tamaracks and migrating wildlife make every outing spectacular.
4. ATV RIDES: Power up for an off-road excursion and enjoy the fall colors by ATV. Book a trip with Glacier Ridge Runners in Hungry Horse.
5. FALL FESTIVALS: We celebrate all year long here, and fall is no exception. Plan your trip around a fall favorite, like Great Northwest Oktoberfest in Whitefish or McIntosh Apple Day in Hamilton.
BONUS: Fall in Glacier Country is best paired with a seasonal beverage. Try local hard cider from one of a handful of cideries in the region.
Downhill Discovery
SKIING AS IT SHOULD BE
Discover the story of Lookout Pass by scanning the QR code and exploring our Guiding Glacier series.
There are few places where winter is embraced the way it is in Western Montana’s Glacier Country, and with 300+ inches of snow, seven downhill ski areas, untouched backcountry terrain and miles of trails, it’s no wonder Western Montana is often described as a powder-lover’s playground.
Glacier Country’s well-rounded, full-service downhill ski and snowboard areas range from popular resorts to undiscovered treasures. With a combined total of 11,500+ acres of skiable terrain, 385+ marked trails and affordable lift tickets, your options for hitting the slopes are endless.
1. World-class Whitefish Mountain Resort —once again named the Best Value Ski Resort in the West by SKI Magazine in 2024—features 3,000+ acres of terrain, 113 marked trails and incredible views of the Flathead Valley and Glacier National Park, as well as on-mountain amenities like shopping, lodging and dining, and it’s only 15 minutes from Whitefish.
2. Lookout Pass straddles the Montana/Idaho border west of Missoula. The snow falls early and in full force here, dropping around 400 inches a year. A family-friendly resort, Lookout offers a fun mix of easy, intermediate and expert runs, as well as on-site dining and two terrain parks.
3. In Libby, Turner Mountain offers excellent snow conditions, wide-open slopes, beautiful scenery, affordable lift tickets and no crowds. You can even rent the entire mountain and have the slopes all to yourself.
4. Montana Snowbowl pulls double duty as a local’s favorite and extremist’s dream. Featuring a 2,600-foot vertical drop, deep powder bowls and tree-lined runs, Snowbowl rounds out its offerings with a rustic, on-mountain lodge serving wood-fired pizza and famously good bloody marys.
5. Sitting at the very southern end of the Bitterroot Valley atop the Continental Divide on the Montana/Idaho border, Lost Trail Powder Mountain is perhaps one of the region’s best-kept secrets, with 350 inches of annual snowfall and 69 marked trails on 1,800 acres.
6. Discovery Ski Area , affectionally known as Disco, is a local’s hangout serving up expert thrills, beautiful views, steep terrain and uncrowded slopes with enough tree skiing, powder bowls, groomed trails and mogul runs for all skill levels.
7. Blacktail Mountain is an ideal familyfriendly ski destination where you can carve turns in light, dry powder and take in brilliant views of Flathead Lake, Glacier National Park and the Mission Mountains.
Blacktail Mountain Ski Area.
8 Winter Adventures
ADJUST YOUR ALTITUDE IN A WESTERN MONTANA WINTER
Your options for winter exploration are many, and regardless of how you choose to revel in our epic terrain, the adventure is immeasurable—and best topped off with a hot springs soak. We recommend using the onX app in Snow Mode for backcountry mapping. Also, make sure to keep avalanche safety in mind and know before you go when heading out into the deep stuff.
1. Ice Fishing: Winter doesn’t stop us from sinking a line in the water. The fish here bite year-round, and Montana’s frozen lakes prove to be a totally fun, and sometimes rather relaxing, way to reel in the winter. Popular lakes include Flathead, Whitefish, Smith, Little Bitterroot, Salmon, Holland and Placid, as well as many hidden alpine gems.
2. Sleigh Rides: A fun activity for everyone from couples to families, there’s nothing quite as cozy or idyllic in the winter as a horse-drawn sleigh ride. Book a sleigh adventure with Cripple Creek Horse Ranch in Trego. They also offer a sleigh ride plus dinner combination, which makes for a memorable evening.
3. Backcountry Skiing: Get off the beaten path and ski thousands of acres of backcountry terrain. Take an alpine tour in Glacier National Park or ski the coldsmoke powder in the Swan Valley. Or, make your way to Jewel Basin for incredible spring skiing. Access higher elevations via a guided snowcat tour from Great Northern Powder Guides , or stay in a backcountry yurt.
4. Dog Sledding: Get behind a team of snow-savvy canines and mush through miles of Montana terrain. We have experienced outfitters available for short, guided trips as well as half-day and full-day excursions. For a more hands-on approach, mush your own team of dogs with the help of the experienced guides at Base Camp Bigfork
5. Snowmobiling: Winter in Montana provides the perfect sled scene, with snow ghosts, powder playgrounds and deep trails leading to stunning views. Sled the remote and rugged Marias Pass Trail Complex featuring 45 miles of groomed and 35 miles of ungroomed trails straddling the Continental Divide. Rent a sled or go with a guide, like Rich Ranch in Seeley Lake, Swan Mountain Outfitters in Columbia Falls or Whitefish Marine
6. Fat Biking: Winter biking is a trend that’s here to stay, and it’s a wildly fun way to explore Western Montana. Fat bike around Missoula or Kalispell. Whitefish offers easy access to The Whitefish Trail, which features paths perfect for fat biking. These bikes are equipped with extra-fat over-the-snow tires and can be rented in Missoula, Kalispell and Whitefish. Anyone who knows how to ride a bicycle will have no problem riding a fat bike.
7. Nordic Skiing: Glide along the Going-to-theSun Road in Glacier National Park or explore 13 km of groomed trails at Lolo Pass. Other options include Seeley Creek Nordic Ski Trails, Glacier Nordic Center in Whitefish, the Bitterroot Valley’s Chief Joseph Trail System, Dog Creek Lodge Nordic Ski Center in Olney, and Pattee Canyon, minutes from downtown Missoula.
8. Snowshoeing: The simplest way to explore our winter wonderland is to put on a pair of snowshoes. Western Montana offers an expansive trail system, and snowshoeing is a great way to explore Glacier National Park and Montana’s state parks in the winter. Take a snowshoe tour of the park with the guides at Whitefish Outfitters & Tours .
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: Check weather forecasts ahead of time, dress appropriately for your activity and carry the right gear. Be prepared for winter driving conditions and check road reports in advance. Be cautious around frozen and ice-cold waterways. Be avalanche aware. Read more about recreating responsibly during winter in Western Montana at glaciermt.com/recreate-responsibly
for your four seasons of adventure.
LEARN MORE about how to play it safe this winter here:
Western Montana’s Glacier Country offers more than a place to meet—it offers an experience that inspires fresh ideas and meaningful connections. Surrounded by stunning scenery, our region blends natural beauty with modern amenities, making it an ideal setting for meetings, retreats and conferences of all sizes.
Choose from a variety of venues, including riverside lodges, beautifully restored barns, luxurious guest ranches and contemporary hotels. In our larger communities—Missoula, Kalispell and Whitefish—you’ll find vibrant downtowns, walkable amenities and fullservice hotel convention spaces.
Between sessions, breathe in the fresh mountain air and explore the endless opportunities for outdoor adventure and team building. Savor locally inspired cuisine that highlights Montana’s flavors and unwind with off-site experiences that bring your group together in unforgettable ways.
Destination management companies in Western Montana are ready to help plan every detail, from small executive retreats to large association meetings. Whatever your vision, they will help you create a meeting experience that’s distinctly Montana.
WHERE TO MEET
To simplify the planning process, we’ve compiled a selection of exceptional properties for consideration when arranging a meeting in Western Montana.
Board Retreats: We recommend a retreat experience at Larch House in Whitefish, The Nest on Swan River in Bigfork or Double Arrow Resort in Seeley Lake.
Corporate Incentive: Montana’s luxury guest ranches, personal service and vacation properties are becoming a favorite among planners. From all-inclusive stays at high-end resorts to authentic ranch retreats, try locations like The Lodge at Whitefish Lake, Paws Up Montana, Flathead Lake Lodge, The Ranch at Rock Creek, Triple Creek Ranch and RiverView Ranch
Association Meetings and Conventions: Montana has a surprising amount of ballroom space for meetings and conventions, especially in our three anchor cities of Kalispell (65,000 square feet), Whitefish (46,000 square feet) and Missoula (170,000 square feet), which also features the University of Montana’s expansive facilities—an incredible venue for large gatherings.
Off-Site Venues for Receptions and Banquets: Break out of your meeting venue and explore some of Western Montana’s off-site offerings. Host a reception at the Montana Museum of Art & Culture in Missoula, Conrad Mansion Museum in Kalispell or The Patio in Whitefish.
LEARN MORE about meetings in Montana at meetings.glaciermt.com . Find Virtual FAMs here:
Western Montana captures the hearts of travelers with its incredible landscapes, endless adventures and genuine western hospitality. This is true for group tours and international travelers, offering unforgettable experiences every season.
For tour operators and international travel planners, we’ve redesigned our digital options to help with suggested itineraries that can be designed to fit your clients’ needs. Visit touroperators.glaciermt.com to see highlights, daily stop suggestions and more. Choose from motorcoach tours, motorcycle journeys, hub-and-spoke adventures or self-drive itineraries for FIT (free independent traveler) visitors.
Western Montana is perfectly positioned for regional and cross-border exploration. Combine our stunning scenery and charming communities with broader itineraries that span the Northwest, Canada and the Great American West.
Popular routes include a Glaciers to Geysers journey linking Glacier and Yellowstone national parks or including filming locations of the hit TV show “Yellowstone” on a Boise, Idaho, to Glacier National Park itinerary highlighting Flathead Lake, Glacier National Park, downtown Boise and Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve. You can even craft a two-nation vacation , pairing the rugged beauty of Western Montana with our Canadian neighbors to the north, including highlights of Banff and Lake Louise for a Rocky Mountain adventure.
LEARN MORE about group tours, including activities, services, itineraries and transportation, at touroperators.glaciermt.com .
Whitefish Outfitters & Tours is your year-round adventure hub in Northwest Montana. From guided tours to high-quality rentals—bikes, rafts, paddleboards, fat bikes, snowshoes, and more, we’ll set you up for unforgettable experiences. Whether exploring Glacier National Park, local trails, or Downtown Whitefish, your adventure starts here!
No matter the occasion, Western Montana has a way of bringing people together. Whether celebrating a wedding or gathering for a family reunion, our region combines awe-inspiring scenery with uninterrupted quality time, creating the perfect backdrop for connection, laughter and memories that last a lifetime.
WEDDINGS
With picture-perfect landscapes at every turn, Glacier Country sets the stage for an unforgettable destination wedding. Choose from an array of venues—from lakeside resorts and luxury guest ranches to charming inns and mountain-top lodges. Local experts, including wedding planners, photographers, caterers and bakers, are ready to make your celebration seamless and uniquely yours. Find inspiration, resources and everything you need to plan your big day or honeymoon in Western Montana at weddings.glaciermt.com
FAMILY REUNIONS
For generations, families have gathered in Western Montana to reconnect, explore and make lasting memories. From boating on Whitefish Lake and hiking to Holland Lake Falls to skiing at friendly local hills or teeing off in the Flathead Valley, there’s an adventure for every age and interest. Surrounded by fresh mountain air and stunning scenery, it’s easy to slow down, laugh together and create stories that will be shared for years to come. Start planning your family reunion at glaciermt.com/family-fun
LEARN MORE about planning a destination wedding in Western Montana.
Presley Gray Photo
Vibrant Mountain Towns
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE MEETS WARM WESTERN HOSPITALITY
Western Montana spans 22,000 square miles, and a vibrant patchwork of 75+ communities creates the heart and soul of the region. These communities range in size from a few hundred residents to several thousand, and encompass eight counties and two Indian Reservations.
History, character, adventure and amazing scenery are everywhere you look. You’ll find bustling downtowns, renowned farmers markets, 30+ craft breweries, cideries, distilleries, local gem shops, art galleries, annual festivals, world-class recreation, a university and, most importantly, the friendliest people in the West. Every community offers something different and something for everyone, every season of the year. Use the following pages to find Glacier Country’s hidden gems and discover what makes every corner of this place unique.
NAVIGATE YOUR GETAWAY
The region is made up of three hub communities—our larger towns of Kalispell, Missoula and Whitefish—as well as nine scenic travel corridors. Each of these hubs and travel routes offers unique adventures and unforgettable experiences.
LEARN MORE about our communities, including things to see and do, here:
Please travel and recreate responsibly while visiting our communities. Be kind, respectful and patient, and realize that some places may move at a slower pace than what you are used to. That’s just how we do things around here sometimes.
3 TRAVEL HUBS
Missoula is our largest hub, with 77,500 people, a university and an airport. Kalispell has 31,000 people, and many visitors fly into its airport since it’s the closest to Glacier National Park. Whitefish is quite a bit smaller, with about 8,500 people, but features a world-class ski resort. All three of our hubs offer walkable downtowns, diverse lodging, dining, shopping and entertainment, as well as ease of access to Montana’s great outdoors.
9 TRAVEL CORRIDORS
From our hubs, we encourage you to explore at least one of our nine travel corridors, leading to more rural, less crowded communities. These routes are ideal for road trips, traveling along well-traveled, paved roads— including interstates and state highways—where gas stations are never far away. Along the way, discover small-town charm, scenic byways, backroads adventure, backcountry exploration, winter recreation, luxury lodging, wildlife watching, history and culture, arts and music—or all of the above. Every corridor offers opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, boating, golf and plenty of ways to play in the snow.
Centrally located between the pristine waters of Flathead Lake, the snowcapped peaks of Whitefish Mountain Resort and the natural wonders of Glacier National Park, the vibrant community of Kalispell has a notable Old West allure that effortlessly coincides with its lively arts and culture scene. Kalispell’s historic downtown district offers must-stop local restaurants and taphouses, plus art studios and galleries, and shops filled with made-in-Montana treasures, making it a great base camp for adventure. glaciermt.com/kalispell
4 NOTEWORTHY DESTINATIONS
CONRAD MANSION
Get a glimpse into the life of prominent early resident Charles E. Conrad. Take a house tour and explore the gardens.
Experience western comfort near Glacier National Park, Flathead Lake and Whitefish Mountain Resort—your ideal home base for exploring northwest Montana.
Hampton Inn Kalispell
1140 U.S. Highway 2 W. | Kalispell, 59901
406.755.7900 | 800.426.7866 | hilton.com
Outstanding service and accommodations at this award-winning Hampton Inn.
Hilton Garden Inn Kalispell
1840 U.S. Highway 93 S. | Kalispell, 59901
406.756.4500 | 877.782.9444 | kalispell.hgi.com
Kalispell’s finest hotel and newest conference center; close to downtown.
Home2 Suites By Hilton Kalispell
454 Rivers Edge Loop | Kalispell, 59901
406.858.4200
hilton.com/en/hotels/gtfinht-home2-suites-kalispell All-suite hotel near Kalispell and Whitefish with free breakfast, indoor pool, fitness center and easy access to golf, skiing and the airport.
Kalispell Grand Hotel
100 Main St. | Kalispell, 59901
406.755.8100 | 800.858.7422 | kalispellgrand.com
Locally owned and operated historic hotel in the perfect downtown location; pets welcome.
Red Lion Hotel Kalispell
20 N. Main St. | Kalispell, 59901
406.751.5050 | 800.325.4000 | redlion.com/kalispell Convenient downtown location attached to the Kalispell Center Mall.
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Kalispell
250 Old Reserve Drive | Kalispell, 59901
406.314.6600 | marriott.com/fcash
Roomy, modern suites with spa-like bathrooms. Award-winning cleanliness and service.
PRIVATE CAMPS AND RV PARKS
Rocky Mountain Hi
RV Park & Campground
825 Helena Flats Road | Kalispell, 59901
406.755.9573 | 800.968.5637 | glaciercamping.com
Centrally located RV park and campground. Near Glacier National Park and Flathead Lake.
B+B, HOSTELS, HOT SPRINGS, LODGES, RANCHES AND RESORTS
Sherman Lodge at True Water Fly Shop
35 Fourth St. W. | Kalispell, 59901
406.318.5900 | shermanlodge.com
Luxury accommodations in a cozy lodge atmosphere near restaurants, bars and recreation.
SERVICE BUSINESSES
Glacier Park International Airport
4170 U.S. Highway 2 E. | Kalispell, 59901
406.257.5994 | iflyglacier.com
Airport with rental car service, gift shop and on-site dining.
Logan Health
310 Sunnyview Lane | Kalispell, 59901
406.752.5111 | logan.org
Montana-based hospital system providing our communities with exceptional and affordable care.
Western Pleasure Tours
Kalispell, 59901
314.369.9023 | westernpleasuretours.com
A new way to discover the West! Customized, affordable group tour itineraries, including Western Montana. Charter bus also available.
SPECIAL INTEREST TOURS, RECREATION AND ADVENTURES
Backcountry Flying Experience
1835 Airport Road | Kalispell, 59901
406.890.3419 | backcountryflyingexperience.com
Board a floatplane for an aerial sightseeing tour of Montana’s most beautiful landscapes.
Buffalo Hill Golf Club
1176 N. Main St. | Kalispell, 59901
406.756.4530 | 888.342.6319 | golfbuffalohill.com
27-hole championship golf course, state-of-the-art facility, full-service clubhouse and patio.
Visit the most beautifully preserved, pre-1900s mansion in Montana.
Flathead Travel Service Inc.
500 S. Main St. | Kalispell, 59901 406.752.8700 | 800.223.9380 | flatheadtravel.com
Montana vacations with customized Glacier National Park tours for groups and individuals.
Glacier Art Museum
302 Second Ave. E. | Kalispell, 59901 406.755.5268 | glacierartmuseum.org
Experience Montana art and culture in a turn-of-the-century Carnegie Library building.
Glacier Jet Center
4170 U.S. Highway 2 E. | Kalispell, 59901 406.755.5362 | gjc.aero
World-class facility with space to land and park your aircraft. Full-service concierge.
Kalispell Business Improvement District & Downtown Association
14 Third St. E., Suite 260 | Kalispell, 59901 406.253.6923 | downtownkalispell.com
Historic downtown Kalispell features specialty retail, delightful restaurants and hotels.
Red Eagle Aviation, Inc.
1880 U.S. Highway 93 S. | Kalispell, 59901 406.755.0000 | redeagleaviation.com
Mountain flying, instruction, air tours of Glacier National Park, wilderness/charter flights.
Skydive Glacier Country
20 Ryan Lane, Hangar E | Kalispell 59901 406.407.7092 | skydiveglaciercountry.com
Jump season runs May through September. We operate Friday to Sunday. Book your jump online or give us a call. Group discount available for six or more.
RETAIL AND DINING
The Montana Club 1301 S. Main St. | Kalispell, 59901 406.260.4401 | montanaclub.com
Serving true Montana-style dishes. Comfortable lounge and private gaming.
Missoula
Situated between the iconic landscapes of Glacier and Yellowstone national parks you’ll find Western Montana’s cultural epicenter. This dynamic city offers a unique blend of urban sophistication and outdoor adventure. With charming historic districts, a treasure trove of eclectic boutiques, renowned performing arts and live music, an impressive culinary scene, plus award-winning craft breweries and distilleries, Missoula flawlessly combines big-city amenities with Montana’s unparalleled natural beauty. glaciermt.com/missoula
4 NOTEWORTHY DESTINATIONS
BRENNAN’S WAVE + CARAS PARK
Visit this popular riverside spot for community events, like concerts, markets and festivals.
Missoula’s largest full-service hotel, ideally located in the heart of downtown—steps to shopping, dining, nightlife and more!
Residence Inn by Marriott
Missoula Downtown
125 N. Pattee St. | Missoula, 59802
406.542.6252 | 833.999.0418 | marriott.com/msori
All-suites hotel located in historic downtown Missoula above vibrant restaurants and shops.
The Wren Hotel
201 E. Main St. | Missoula, 59802 406.401.4400 | wrenmissoula.com
A one-of-a-kind, artfully designed hotel in the heart of downtown Missoula.
PRIVATE CAMPS AND RV PARKS
Jim & Mary’s RV Park
9800 U.S. Highway 93 N. | Missoula, 59808 406.549.4416 | jimandmarys.com
Missoula’s nicest RV park. Incredible gardens throughout the park.
SERVICE BUSINESSES
Dollar Rent-A-Car
1905 W. Broadway St. | Missoula, 59808 406.542.2311 | dollar.com
Friendly service and great rates.
Engel & Völkers Western Frontier 321 N. Higgins Ave. | Missoula, 59802 406.926.3322 | westernfrontier.evrealestate.com
Western Montana’s premier luxury real estate brokerage.
Hertz Rent-A-Car
5225 W. Broadway St., Suite 12 | Missoula, 59808 406.549.9511 | hertzmissoula.com
Make us your No. 1 choice! Offering a wide variety of vehicles to help you explore Montana.
Highline Horizons Travel Missoula, 59801
469.408.4656 | highlinehorizons.com
Travel agency with tailored itineraries, from national parks to European escapes. Personalized planning makes every journey seamless and unforgettable.
Missoula Area Chamber of Commerce
825 E. Front St. | Missoula, 59802
406.543.6623 | missoulachamber.com
Providing community leadership and business advocacy while sustaining economic vitality.
Missoula Montana Airport
5225 W. Broadway | Missoula, 59808 406.728.4381 | flymissoula.com
Servicing Delta, United, Alaska, Frontier, American, Allegiant and Sun Country. Dining and gift shop.
MNW Destinations
PO Box 2083 | Lolo, 59847 406.273.7224 | mnwdestinations.com
Full-service destination management company with local knowledge, expertise and resources.
Thrifty Rent-A-Car
5225 W. Broadway St., Suite 12 | Missoula, 59808 406.549.9511 | thrifty.com
Offering a variety of vehicles ranging from fuel-efficient economy cars to large SUVs.
What’s made in Montana is remaking the world. Visit today.
Windfall Inc.
210 E. Main St. | Missoula, 59802
406.829.8200 | windfallstudio.com
Full-service creative agency and contact center.
SPECIAL INTEREST TOURS, RECREATION AND ADVENTURES
10,000 Waves Raft & Kayak Adventures
802 W. Spruce St. | Missoula, 59802
406.549.6670 | 10000-waves.com
Whitewater rafting, floating and guided trips on the Blackfoot and Clark Fork rivers.
Adventure Missoula
39 Juniper Lane | Alberton, 59820
406.813.0595 | adventuremissoula.com
Whitewater rafting, scenic river trips, canopy brew river floats, guided fishing, raft rentals, kayaking, U-pick lavender and family adventures in Western Montana.
Arts Missoula Missoula, 59807
406.541.0860 | artsmissoula.org
Connecting art, culture and community through education, advocacy and celebration.
Big Sky Backpacking Missoula Missoula | 59801
303.895.6732 | bigskybackpackingmissoula.com
Explore Montana’s beautiful Bitterroot Valley on a guided backpacking trip. Enjoy alpine lakes, waterfalls, wildlife and personalized, safe adventures.
Bitterroot Backpacking Missoula, 59801
732.272.6878 | bitterrootbackpacking.com
Guided backpacking and custom hike and float trips in Montana’s national forests and parks.
Canyon River Golf Club
1268 Bandmann Trail | Missoula, 59802
406.721.0222 | canyonrivergolfclub.com
From the beginner golfer to the avid player, our course will be an enjoyable experience.
A Carousel for Missoula
101 Carousel Drive | Missoula, 59802
406.549.8382 | carouselformissoula.com
A hand-carved, volunteer-built carousel that’s surprisingly speedy and fully accessible, with a magical playland too. Open year-round for kids and kids at heart.
Gray Wolf Peak Casino
20750 U.S. Highway 93 N. | Missoula, 59808
406.726.3778 | graywolfpeakcasino.com
300+ state-of-the-art games, huge jackpots and penny slots, lounge, grill and event space.
Recreational Marijuana
CONSUME CANNABIS RESPONSIBLY IN WESTERN MONTANA
Recreational marijuana is legal in Montana, but it’s important to follow the rules of the law.
Buying Recreational Marijuana in Montana: Adults age 21 or older can purchase marijuana and marijuana products in Montana, including Montana residents, residents of other U.S. states and territories and international travelers. Valid identification is required for purchase, such as a driver’s license or passport.
Purchasing Marijuana From a Dispensary: Dispensaries sell marijuana flower, edibles, tinctures, vaporizer cartridges, concentrates, topicals, smoking accessories and CBD products. Talk to the experienced “budtenders” to find out which products/strains are the safest and best for you. It is only legal to purchase marijuana from an approved dispensary, not from another individual.
Driving in Montana With Marijuana in Your Vehicle: You may drive with marijuana in your vehicle. It must be in its unopened, original packaging and stored outside of the car’s passenger area. It is ILLEGAL to drive under the influence of marijuana in Montana.
Where You May Consume/Possess Marijuana in Montana: You may consume marijuana in private accommodations and private residences/property with the owner’s permission.
You may NOT consume marijuana in outdoor public spaces or enclosed public spaces.
Possessing and consuming marijuana on tribal land in Montana is complicated; check Tribal Nation websites.
You may NOT possess or consume marijuana in Glacier National Park.
Crossing State Lines: It is illegal to cross state lines with marijuana in your possession. It is also illegal to fly with marijuana.
LEARN MORE about consuming cannabis responsibly in Montana, including legal purchase and possession amounts, at glaciermt.com/recreational-marijuana
MISSOULA CONTINUED
Historical Museum at Fort Missoula 3400 Captain Rawn Way at Fort Missoula Building #322 | Missoula, 59804
406.728.3476 | fortmissoulamuseum.org
Keeping Missoula County’s history alive.
Missoula Butterfly House & Insectarium
1075 South Ave. W., Suite 2 | Missoula, 59801 406.317.1211 | missoulabutterflyhouse.org
Educational facility advancing awareness of global invertebrates through live encounters, exhibits and public programs.
Missoula Fly Water
244 Everett Court | Missoula, 59804
406.529.8025 | missoulaflywater.com
The team at Missoula Fly Water provides services on the Bitterroot, Blackfoot and Clark Fork rivers, with full- and half-day float trips plus lunch provided.
Missoula Parks and Recreation
600 Cregg Lane in McCormick Park Missoula, 59801
406.721.7275 | missoulaparks.org
Enjoy Fort Missoula Regional Park, Splash Montana water park and Currents Aquatic Center.
Montana River Guides
138 Big Bend Lane | Alberton, 59820
406.722.7238 | montanariverguides.com
Whitewater rafting and river trips near Missoula on the Alberton Gorge and Blackfoot River.
Montana Snowbowl Ski & Summer Resort
1700 Snowbowl Road | Missoula, 59808
406.549.9777 | montanasnowbowl.com
Known for epic skiing and wood-fired pizza, Snowbowl transforms in summer with chairlift rides, zip lines, hiking, mountain biking and disc golf.
Montana Wood Boat Tours
Missoula, 59801
406.214.6177 | montanawoodboattours.com
Specialty wood boat tours that offer a luxury experience uniquely blending Montana’s natural beauty with fine, locally sourced cuisine.
National Conservation Legacy Center 6305 U.S. Highway 10 W. | Missoula, 59808 406.541.6374 | forestservicemuseum.org
Explore U.S. conservation history. Events, gift shop, interpretive walking trail.
Northern Rockies Heritage Center 20 Fort Missoula Road | Missoula, 59804
406.396.4750 | nrhc.org
Host your special event or wedding in the charming, historic and affordable setting of Fort Missoula at Northern Rockies Heritage Center.
River City Brews Rafting Tours
Clark Fork River, Downtown Missoula Missoula, 59802
406.813.0595 | rivercitybrews.com
Pub-style guided rafting tours on canopy boats featuring local beers, wine and mocktails through downtown Missoula and the scenic Clark Fork Valley.
Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation
5705 Grant Creek Road | Missoula, 59808
406.523.4545 | 866.266.7750 | rmef.org
Explore RMEF’s conservation efforts for the future of elk, other wildlife and their habitat through interactive exhibits, films and life-sized mounts.
Rocky Mountain Museum of Military History
2975 General Foster Ave. | Missoula, 59804
406.239.7738 | fortmissoula.org
Army post since 1877 and 1930s CCC HQ; Military history from the Revolution to modern conflicts; U.S.S. Missoula/Iwo Jima, Civil War gun, Nez Perce, CCC.
The Roxy Theater
718 S. Higgins Ave. | Missoula, 59801
406.728.9380 | theroxytheater.org
This historic downtown Missoula theater showcases indie films, classics, live events and community programming year-round.
UM Conference and Event Services
32 Campus Drive, University Center Room 340 Missoula, 59812
406.243.4119 | umt.edu/ces
Special events, conferences, catering, recreation, summer housing and cultural activities.
RETAIL AND DINING
Clyde Coffee
741 S. Higgins Ave., Suite A | Missoula, 59801
406.540.4481 | clydecoffee.com
A locally-owned coffee shop on Missoula’s Hip Strip with coffee, beans, merch and pastries.
Good Food Store
1600 S. Third St. W. | Missoula, 59801
406.541.3663 | goodfoodstore.com
Missoula’s homegrown grocery, with fresh produce, meat and seafood, deli, bakery, bulk, wellness and housewares—local, organic and specialty foods.
Rockin Rudy’s
237 Blaine St. | Missoula, 59801
406.542.0077 | rockinrudys.com
A quirky, must-stop local shop with jewelry, music, gifts, candles, body products, stickers, candy, T-shirts, toys and more.
Southgate Mall
2901 Brooks St. | Missoula, 59801
406.721.5140 | shopsouthgate.com
National brands, specialty shops, restaurants and a dine-in theater.
Nestled at the base of Whitefish Mountain Resort on the shores of Whitefish Lake, this quintessential mountain town serves as a gateway to Montana’s extraordinary outdoors. Charming downtown streets offer an array of shops, inviting coffeehouses, breweries, distilleries and diverse dining options. This year-round destination offers exceptional lodging options, from cozy hideaways to upscale retreats. With skiing and snowboarding in the winter and hiking, biking and boating during the summer, adventure knows no bounds in Whitefish. glaciermt.com/whitefish
4 NOTEWORTHY DESTINATIONS
SHOPS + EATERIES
ON CENTRAL AVENUE
Explore a vibrant downtown bustling with local boutiques, dining, and cultural offerings.
Upscale rustic log lodge with luxury accommodations.
Kandahar Lodge
3824 Big Mountain Road | Whitefish, 59937
406.862.6098 | 800.862.6094 | kandaharlodge.com
Inviting lobby with fireplace and Snug Bar. Wellness center, massage, Jacuzzi, steam room, fitness center, meeting space, continental breakfast and restaurant.
Larch House
304 E. First St. | Whitefish, 59937
406.261.1971 | larchhouse.com
A design-forward boutique stay in downtown Whitefish offering walkable access to town and the feel of a private residence.
A classic Montana blend of cozy, casual and delicious. Dine in fireside comfort just off the expansive timber-framed lobby at Grouse Mountain Lodge.
Piggyback BBQ
102 Wisconsin Ave. | Whitefish, 59937
406.863.9895 | piggybackbbq.com
Famous pit BBQ using local ingredients and the homecooked-style flavor of Flathead cherry wood.
Spotted Bear Spirits
503 Railway St., Suite A | Whitefish, 59937
406.730.2436 | spottedbearspirits.com
Craft distillery featuring Montana-inspired cocktails made with local ingredients.
Thirty Eight
38 Central Ave. | Whitefish, 59937
thirtyeightwhitefish.com
Enjoy live music, food trucks, ice cream and craft beverages at an open-air venue on Central Avenue in downtown Whitefish. Fun for all ages!
6 Unforgettable Experiences in Glacier Country
Western Montana is brimming with adventures you won’t find elsewhere. Here, nature’s grandeur meets unique and off-the-beaten-path experiences. Explore a ghost town, hike with a llama or take in the cosmic show as night falls on our vast skies. Glacier Country is the place to find adventures you’ll remember forever.
1. Clearwater Canoe Trail: Rent a kayak, canoe or paddleboard and head to the Seeley Swan Corridor to paddle this calm stretch of meandering river that empties into Seeley Lake. It’s closed to motorized boats, creating a serene float through a dense willow marsh. See otters, turtles and great blue herons.
2. Stargazing: Jaw-dropping starry nights are part of Montana’s allure. Glacier National Park is an official Dark Sky Park, and you’ll find observatories and excellent stargazing locations around the region. It’s not hard to spot the Milky Way here, and occasionally the northern lights.
3. Garnet Ghost Town: Take a step back in time and get a glimpse of what life was like in the boom-andbust mining days. Explore the wellpreserved and fascinating remnants of a once-thriving, now-abandoned mining town named one of America’s Coolest Ghost Towns by Travel + Leisure magazine.
4. Llama Trekking: Take a pack trip with a llama! Swan Mountain Llama Trekking offers a wildly fun way to explore the outdoors. Let a llama carry your gear while you enjoy the hike and focus on the scenery around you. It’s fun for the whole family to spend time with these friendly and fascinating creatures.
5. Route of the Hiawatha: Named a “Top 10 Pick” by USA Today, this 15-mile-long, family-friendly scenic bike trail follows along the crest of the Bitterroot Mountains and features 10 train tunnels and seven sky-high trestles. Don’t miss the chance to explore this incredible Rails to Trails bike route.
6. Lavender Farms: Take in the sights and scents at a lavender farm, like Longview Lavender in Somers and Big Sky Lavender Farms in Florence, both located in beautiful settings and offering house-made lavender products. Schedule a tour or a workshop.
For more inspiration, visit glaciermt.com/102-things-to-do
Adventure Awaits in Montana’s Bitterroot Valley—Come Play!
Explore the unique character of each Bitterroot Valley community—stroll through quaint downtowns filled with charming shops, art galleries and studios, along with cozy coffee spots, breweries and inviting restaurants. Stay at welcoming accommodations that suit every style. Mark your calendar for signature events, like the annual Bitterroot Brewfest in July, the Ravalli County Fair, the Darby Rodeo Series or the Bitterroot Celtic Games & Gathering in August. For a full calendar of happenings, visit BitterrootChamber.com
Photo: Carver Butterfield
Bitterroot Valley
Flanked by rolling foothills and rugged peaks, this scenic valley (home to the popular television series “Yellowstone”) offers Old West allure along the Bitterroot River, with numerous fishing access sites and 100+ miles of blue-ribbon trout streams. Bike the Bitterroot Trail, hike the Kootenai Creek Trail or play at Lake Como. Walk in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark at Travelers’ Rest State Park and discover “Where Montana Began” at St. Mary’s Mission. Tour the Daly Mansion—home of Copper King Marcus Daly—and find excellent birding and wildlife watching at Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge. Breweries abound here—plus cideries, coffeehouses, good food, local shopping, museums, galleries and live theater.
COMMUNITIES: Conner, Corvallis, Darby, Florence, Hamilton, Lolo, Stevensville, Sula, Victor
4 NOTEWORTHY DESTINATIONS
DALY MANSION
Tour the historic home and grounds of this picturesque estate once owned by Copper King Marcus Daly.
Representing more than 450 businesses and organizations in the beautiful Bitterroot Valley.
CONNER
glaciermt.com/conner
Deep in the heart of the Bitterroot Valley on the West Fork of the Bitterroot River, the small town of Conner is an ideal launching point for valley exploration, especially given its proximity to the Bitterroot National Forest and the 10,157-foot Trapper Peak. Also located nearby: Painted Rocks State Park, Lost Trail Powder Mountain and a hot springs resort.
CORVALLIS
glaciermt.com/corvallis
South of Missoula in the heart of the Bitterroot Valley, the community of Corvallis offers access to the 1,200-acre Teller Wildlife Refuge. Sitting along 4 miles of the winding Bitterroot River, the refuge is home to white-tailed deer, moose, red foxes, coyotes and beavers, and three species of trout navigate its waters.
DARBY
glaciermt.com/darby
With Old West allure, the little town of Darby sits at the southern tip of the Bitterroot Valley, and is a great place to take in an authentic Montana rodeo. Darby and the surrounding area offer quintessential Montana lodges and cabins, with nearby highlights like Lake Como, Painted Rocks State Park and Alta Ranger Station.
All-inclusive, adults-only (16+), luxury resort offering an elegant western getaway with upscale accommodations, creative cuisine and exciting activities.
SERVICE BUSINESSES
Alta Ranch
9203 West Fork Road | Darby, 59829
406.381.2977 | altaranch.com
A scenic venue for weddings and corporate retreats, with mountain views, meadow ceremonies and space to gather.
SPECIAL INTEREST TOURS, RECREATION AND ADVENTURES
Darby Rodeo
200 Rodeo Drive | Darby, 59829
406.544.5536 | darbyrodeo.org
Celebrating the spirit of the West in true Montana fashion with thrilling rodeo action, community events, and a showcase of local traditions and culture.
FLORENCE
glaciermt.com/florence
Between the Sapphire and Bitterroot mountains, the friendly community of Florence offers easy access to Threemile Wildlife Management Area for excellent hunting and wildlife-watching opportunities. In addition, the area provides winter range for elk as well as summer recreation activities.
HAMILTON
glaciermt.com/hamilton
Anchoring the Bitterroot Valley, the wellrounded town of Hamilton—the valley’s largest community—offers theater, live music, local breweries, golf, a vibrant downtown and easy access to hiking and backpacking in the Bitterroot Mountains. After strolling through downtown, visit the Daly Mansion—original home to one of Montana’s copper kings, Marcus Daly.
VACATION HOMES, CONDOS AND CABINS
Pineview Lodge
322 Wyant Lane | Hamilton, 59840 406.203.3954 | pineviewlodge.com
Stunning 6,000 sq. ft. home on 13 private acres, 10 mins to Hamilton. Sleeps 25 and is ideal for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts and stargazing.
HOTELS AND MOTELS
City Center Motel
415 W. Main St. | Hamilton, 59840 406.363.1651 | citycenterlodgings.com
Best of Montana winner! Boutique lodging in downtown Hamilton with mountain views, walkable dining and shops, and personalized service. Dogs welcome.
Quality Inn Hamilton
1113 N. First St. | Hamilton, 59840 406.363.6600 | choicehotels.com/mt417
Comfortable lodging. Casino, deli, gift shop, sauna and fitness center.
PRIVATE CAMPS AND RV PARKS
Angler’s Roost
815 U.S. Highway 93 S. | Hamilton, 59840 406.363.1268 | anglersroost-montana.com
Right on the Bitterroot River; easy access to the best fishing, hiking and historical sites.
B+B, HOSTELS, HOT SPRINGS, LODGES, RANCHES AND RESORTS
Historic home, gardens and arboretum of Marcus Daly.
HAMILTON CONTINUED
RETAIL AND DINING
Explore the Arts
701 Main St. | Hamilton, 59840
406.381.2488 | explorethearts.art
Gallery of glass, ceramics and paintings, plus concrete sculpting studio of Barbara Liss.
LOLO
glaciermt.com/lolo
A short drive south of Missoula, Lolo is home to Travelers’ Rest State Park and Holt Heritage Museum. Used as a trading ground for American Indians and a campsite for Lewis and Clark, Travelers’ Rest has an impressive history, and their self-guided interpretive trail is a must-stop. The healing waters of Lolo Hot Springs are located nearby, as is access to abundant outdoor adventure.
PRIVATE CAMPS AND RV PARKS
Lolo Hot Springs Resort
38500 U.S. Highway 12 W. | Lolo, 59847 406.273.2294 | lolohotsprings.com
Healing thermal waters, timeless landscapes and unforgettable memories.
B+B, HOSTELS, HOT SPRINGS, LODGES, RANCHES AND RESORTS
Lolo Hot Springs Resort
38500 U.S. Highway 12 W. | Lolo, 59847 406.273.2294 | lolohotsprings.com
Healing thermal waters, timeless landscapes and unforgettable memories..
SPECIAL INTEREST TOURS, RECREATION AND ADVENTURES
Holt Heritage Museum/H Bar R Ranch
6800 U.S. Highway 12 W. | Lolo, 59847 406.273.6743 | holtmuseum.com
Cowboy and American Indian museum with carriage collection. Tours by appointment only.
Travelers’ Rest Connection
6717 U.S. Highway 12 W. | Lolo, 59847 406.273.4253 | travelersrest.org
The only archaeologically-verified campsite of the Lewis and Clark Expedition and an important cultural site for the Séli’š, Qlispe’ and other tribes.
STEVENSVILLE
glaciermt.com/stevensville
With the founding of the Historic St. Mary’s Mission in 1841, Stevensville became the first permanent pioneer settlement in Montana. While visiting this Bitterroot Valley community, stop and stroll Main Street’s locally owned shops. A short drive from Stevensville, visit the 3,000acre Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge, offering prime habitat for various types of wildlife and a uniquely situated nine-hole golf course. Additional nearby attractions include Kootenai Canyon and Fort Owen State Park.
Celebrate autumn at the Stevensville Scarecrow Festival every October. Enjoy carved pumpkin contests, food trucks, community art, family fun and more.
SULA
glaciermt.com/sula
Deep in the Bitterroot Valley in an area of Montana noted for its rough mountains and wild country, Sula leads to the rugged Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness and Lost Trail Powder Mountain. Sula also provides access to phenomenal fishing on the East Fork of the Bitterroot River and is a gateway to the Nez Perce National Historic Park and Big Hole National Battlefield.
SPECIAL INTEREST TOURS, RECREATION AND ADVENTURES
Lost Trail Powder Mountain 9485 U.S. Highway 93 S. | Sula, 59871 406.821.3211 | losttrail.com
Skiing, double chairlifts, rental shop, ski school and cafeteria with easy access.
VICTOR
glaciermt.com/victor
Named in honor of a notable Flathead Indian Chief, Victor sits at the base of the Bitterroot Mountains along the blue-ribbon Bitterroot River and offers access to recreation in the Bitterroot National Forest. Don’t miss the Victor Heritage Museum, housed in the old railroad depot. Operated by volunteers, the museum has many relics and remnants of the past, including railroad memorabilia, mining information and American Indian exhibits.
B+B, HOSTELS, HOT SPRINGS, LODGES, RANCHES AND RESORTS
Time After Time Bed & Breakfast
197 Pistol Lane | Victor, 59875 406.642.3258 | timeaftertimebb.com
An enchanting lodging experience with an authentic blend of furnishings, cozy common area and secluded grounds with an outside entrance for each room.
Start planning your trip today. For up-to-date tips and travel news, follow us on
Blackfoot Corridor
Made famous by Norman Maclean’s “A River Runs Through It,” the beautiful Blackfoot River offers scenic vistas and world-class fly-fishing. Nordic ski the Lubrecht Experimental Forest or stay at Paws Up Montana, one of the state’s premier lodging opportunities. Explore Garnet Explore Garnet Ghost Town (named one of America’s Coolest Ghost Towns by Travel + Leisure), which can be accessed year-round, including in the winter by ski, snowshoe and snowmobile. Bicyclists from around the world cycling the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route never miss the chance to stop in Ovando. At KettleHouse Brewing Co. in Bonner try an award-winning Cold Smoke® Scotch Ale, and catch a concert on the banks of the river.
COMMUNITIES: Bonner, Clinton, Greenough, Ovando
4 NOTEWORTHY DESTINATIONS
BLACKFOOT RIVER
Fish, boat and float on the river made famous by Norman Maclean’s novel and the film “A River Runs Through It.”
Just east of Missoula, with a rich history in logging, Bonner offers easy access to outdoor recreation in the Blackfoot, Seeley and Swan valleys, especially with the addition of Milltown State Park. Bonner’s other main attraction is the KettleHouse Amphitheater, a unique outdoor music venue serving up national music acts and award-winning beer on the banks of the Blackfoot River.
RETAIL AND DINING
KettleHouse Brewing Company
605 Cold Smoke Ave. | Bonner, 59823
406.728.1660 | kettlehouse.com
Come visit KettleHouse Brewing, home of Montana’s favorite craft beer, Cold Smoke® Scotch Ale!
CLINTON
glaciermt.com/clinton
Once a hotbed for mining and lumber, today Clinton provides access to wilderness exploration and is just a short drive from Missoula. Explore Beavertail Hill State Park and the Clark Fork River, and fly-fish one of the best blue-ribbon trout streams in the country—Rock Creek.
GREENOUGH
glaciermt.com/greenough
Located 30 minutes east of Missoula in the famous Blackfoot Valley is Greenough, a wide-spread ranching community. Greenough has various attractions and activities, including floating and fishing the Blackfoot River, exploring Garnet Ghost Town and visiting the area’s luxury resorts, with each offering their own distinctive Western Montana experience.
B+B, HOSTELS, HOT SPRINGS, LODGES, RANCHES AND RESORTS
Paws Up Montana
40060 Paws Up Road | Greenough, 59823
406.244.5200 | 877.580.6343 | pawsup.com
Luxurious ranch resort featuring vacation homes and glamping.
OVANDO
glaciermt.com/ovando
In the beautiful Blackfoot Valley along the Blackfoot River, the hamlet of Ovando combines the area’s rich ranching history with epic fly-fishing, horseback trail rides, camping, hiking and cycling, as well as snowmobiling, cross-country skiing and
ice fishing. As the front door of the Bob Marshall Wilderness, Ovando provides a short drive to trails leading into the heart of “The Bob” and is situated along the Great Divide Mountain Bike Trail. Ovando has it all, including lodging, dining, a fly-fishing/sports shop and a museum.
HOTELS AND MOTELS
Ovando Inn and Blackfoot Commercial Company
406 Pine St. | Ovando, 59854
406.793.5555 | ovandoinnmt.com
A friendly stop for rest, fuel, snacks and more—right on the edge of the Bob Marshall Wilderness and just 30 minutes from Seeley and Salmon lakes.
RETAIL AND DINING
Trixi’s Antler Saloon
4520 State Highway 200 | Ovando, 59854
406.793.5611 | trixisovando.com
“The big red bar at the top of the hill” is an Ovando icon with great food, drinks and friends.
Clark Fork Corridor
Vibrant small towns and local personalities come together along Montana’s scenic Highway 200. Walk among giants at the Ross Creek Cedar Grove in Heron, where 1,000-year-old trees reach up to 8 feet in diameter. The paved nature trail is .9 miles, and the Ross Creek Trail is an easy 4.5-mile hike with informational signs along the way. Unwind with a soak in the relaxing mineral water at Quinn’s Hot Springs Resort in Paradise or Symes Hot Springs Hotel and Mineral Baths in the town of Hot Springs. Explore Thompson Falls State Park and the nearby Thompson Falls Dam, stroll the scenic walking bridge, and enjoy local shops and restaurants downtown. Then get your huckleberry fix in Trout Creek, stay at Lakeside Motel & Resort and dip your toes into Noxon Reservoir.
COMMUNITIES: Heron, Hot Springs, Noxon, Paradise, Plains, Sčilíp Thompson Falls, Trout Creek
4 NOTEWORTHY DESTINATIONS
QUINN’S HOT SPRINGS RESORT
Soak in the relaxing waters of this mineral hot springs, also offering lodging and dining.
A scenic little community located within easy reach of the Cabinet and Bitterroot mountains, Heron is just a stone’s throw from the Clark Fork River and Cabinet Gorge Reservoir. It’s a beautiful place to visit, and is perfect for fishing, hiking, backpacking and snowmobiling.
HOT SPRINGS
glaciermt.com/community/hotsprings
Named for the area’s natural hot springs, this quaint and eclectic community draws visitors from around the world looking to soak in the relaxing mineral waters. Hot Springs is also home of the Hot Springs Artists Society and features a notable collection of public art.
VISITOR INFORMATION
Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce
216 Main St. | Hot Springs, 59845
406.741.2662 | hotspringsmtchamber.org
The healing waters of Hot Springs have drawn visitors from around the world.
B+B, HOSTELS, HOT SPRINGS, LODGES, RANCHES AND RESORTS
Sophia Springs
210 Third Ave. N. | Hot Springs, 59845
406.741.2326 | sophiasprings.com
A unique place to relax and get away. RV camping, suites and guest house lodging 30 minutes from Flathead Lake with access to hot spring soaking tubs.
Symes Hot Springs Hotel & Mineral Baths
209 Wall St. | Hot Springs, 59845
406.741.2361 | 888.305.3106 | symeshotsprings.com
Historic hotel with hot and cold pools, restaurant and music.
SPECIAL
INTEREST TOURS, RECREATION AND ADVENTURES
Hot Springs Artists Society Inc.
101 Wall St., Suite 2 (Wall Street Place) Hot Springs, 59845
406.741.2382 | hotspringsartistssociety.org
Bringing events, such as live music and Homesteader Days, to the charming community of Hot Springs.
RETAIL AND DINING
Camas Organic Market
300 Main St. | Hot Springs, 59845
406.741.2148 | camasmarket.com
Unique organic market and cafe. Fresh bread/baked goods. GF/V options. Local produce/meat.
NOXON
glaciermt.com/noxon
Sitting on U.S. Highway 200 along the Clark Fork River, Noxon is known for huckleberries and a rich history in railroads, trapping, mining and logging. Located near Cabinet Gorge and Noxon reservoirs, the Noxon area is ideal for boating and fishing. Additional nearby recreational activities include hiking, biking, snowshoeing and strolling through the Ross Creek Cedar Grove.
PARADISE
glaciermt.com/paradise
Located near the confluence of the Flathead and Clark Fork rivers, Paradise is a small community surrounded by beautiful scenery and outstanding fishing on neighboring rivers. Nearby, the St. RegisParadise Scenic Byway takes motorists and bikers along rolling flats and steep canyon walls. Quinn’s Hot Springs Resort offers beautiful views of the Clark Fork River and a relaxing soak in healing mineral waters.
B+B, HOSTELS, HOT SPRINGS, LODGES, RANCHES AND RESORTS
Quinn’s Hot Springs Resort
190 State Highway 135 | Paradise, 59856
406.826.3150 | quinnshotsprings.com
Hot springs resort in a beautiful canyon overlooking the Clark Fork River in Paradise.
SPECIAL INTEREST TOURS, RECREATION AND ADVENTURES
The Paradise Center
2 School House Hill Road | Paradise, 59856
406.826.5003 | paradisecentermt.org
Visitor Center with Glacial Lake Missoula exhibit, railroad displays, local art and a trail.
PLAINS
glaciermt.com/plains
Steeped in a history of wild horses that wintered in this peaceful valley, Plains is the perfect example of quiet Western Montana living. With the Clark Fork River winding through this lush valley, there are abundant opportunities for fishing, kayaking and rafting. Located nearby is the Koo-KooSint Bighorn Sheep Viewing Site—with premiere viewing during November and December.
Glacier Cross Roads
401 E. Railroad Ave. | Plains, 59859
406.826.3623
Clean, attractive, updated motel with cable TV and RV park.
Year-round outdoor fun in Sanders County—from river floats and bike rides to guided hikes and snowshoe adventures.
glaciermt.com/scilip
A division point on the Northern Pacific Railroad, Sčilíp sits quietly along the Flathead River. Watch wildlife at the nearby 18,500-acre CSKT Bison Range, home to bison, black bear, elk, deer and more than 200 species of birds. Sčilíp is also home to one of the Treasure State’s many treasures—Dixon Melons. If you haven’t tasted one, you haven’t tasted Montana.
THOMPSON FALLS
glaciermt.com/thompson-falls
Named after a fur trapper, the friendly town of Thompson Falls sits on the Clark Fork River. After strolling along the town’s charming Main Street, visit the Thompson Falls Dam, where you’ll find an island park featuring hiking trails and great views. Nearby, Thompson Falls State Park offers river access, camping, boating and wildlife watching along a scenic stretch of the Clark Fork. Explore millions of acres of pristine wilderness in the Lolo and Kootenai national forests, cast a line on one of three nearby reservoirs or get on the local green for a round of golf.
VISITOR INFORMATION
Sanders County Chamber of Commerce PO Box 493 | Thompson Falls, 59873 406.827.4930 | thompsonfallschamber.org
Supporting the economic, civic, commercial, cultural, industrial and educational aspects of Sanders County.
snowshoe adventures.
THOMPSON FALLS
CONTINUED
B+B, HOSTELS, HOT SPRINGS, LODGES, RANCHES AND RESORTS
Rimrock Lodge
6 Rimrock Lane | Thompson Falls, 59873
406.827.3536 | rimrocklodgemontana.com
The epitome of Rocky Mountain tranquility. Renovated rooms, delicious food, lounge, gaming machines, pool tables and bowling—all with river views.
SERVICE BUSINESSES
Sanders County Community Development
2504 Tradewinds Way, Suite C1 Thompson Falls, 59873 | 406.827.6935 sanderscountycommunitydevelopment.com An organization dedicated to the improvement of the economic climate in Sanders County.
TROUT CREEK
glaciermt.com/trout-creek
A short distance from the Cabinet Mountains Wilderness, Trout Creek is the huckleberry capital of Montana. Each year this little community hosts its annual Huckleberry Festival, attracting visitors from around the region to celebrate the coveted purple berry. Trout Creek has easy access to recreational opportunities, including camping, hiking, hunting and fishing. Also located nearby—beautiful Vermillion and Graves Creek falls.
HOTELS AND MOTELS
Lakeside Motel & Resort
2955 State Highway 200 | Trout Creek, 59874 406.827.4458 | mtlodging.com
Waterfront cabins with mountain views, on-site dining and casino, plus year-round events and easy access to outdoor adventures and scenic drives.
East Glacier Corridor
In the perfect base camp for park exploration, experience the culture and traditions of the Blackfeet Nation on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation. Attend the North American Indian Days pow wow or the Heart Butte Indian Days pow wow, and explore the history of the Northern Plains Tribes at the Museum of the Plains Indian. Amtrak’s Empire Builder stops seasonally in the town of East Glacier Park, and the historic Glacier Park Lodge features stunning views and a nine-hole golf course. Fish for rainbow trout at Babb’s Duck Lake and explore the end of the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road in St. Mary. In Cut Bank, discover historically significant sites along the Lewis and Clark Trail and get an extensive look at Montana’s past at the Glacier County Historical Museum. Don’t miss Marketplace on Main or Cut Bank Trails.
COMMUNITIES: Babb, Browning, Cut Bank, East Glacier Park, St. Mary
Trout Creek Noxon Heron
GLACIER COUNTY
HISTORICAL MUSEUM
Explore the history of Glacier County in Cut Bank through educational, interactive exhibits.
Minutes from the eastern edge of Glacier National Park at the junction of U.S. Route 89 and Many Glacier Road, Babb is one of the region’s smallest towns. You’ll find some of the best huckleberry pie in the state in Babb, plus excellent fishing on nearby Duck Lake. (Please note, a tribal fishing permit is required for fishing Duck Lake.)
VACATION HOMES, CONDOS AND CABINS
Wolf Trail Montana
148 W. Shore Duck Road | Babb, 59411
406.459.5990 | wolftrailcabin.com
Charming, modern cabin on the shores of Duck Lake, minutes from St. Mary and Many Glacier.
BROWNING
glaciermt.com/browning
Sitting on the rolling foothills just east of Glacier National Park, Browning is home to the largest tribe in Western Montana—the Blackfeet Nation. Learn more about the Blackfeet Nation by visiting the Museum of the Plains Indian and nearby shops and galleries.
HOTELS AND MOTELS
Glacier Peaks Hotel
50 Museum Loop | Browning, 59417
406.448.2400
glacierpeakscasino.com/hotel-overview
Stay in comfort near Glacier National Park with modern rooms, an indoor pool, dining options, and easy access to Glacier Peaks Casino and local attractions.
SPECIAL
INTEREST TOURS, RECREATION AND ADVENTURES
Glacier Peaks Casino
46 Museum Loop | Browning, 59417
406.338.2274 | glacierpeakscasino.com
Stay, play and explore at Montana’s largest casino, connected to a hotel just 12 miles from Glacier National Park on the Blackfeet Reservation.
Iron Shield Creative Browning, 59417
406.209.9891 | ironshieldcreative.com
Hear cultural historic stories of the landscapes on a Tribal Traditional Stories Workshop Hike.
Museum of the Plains Indian 19 Museum Loop | Browning, 59417
406.338.2230 | doi.gov/iacb/museum-plains-indian
Offering history of the Plains Indian, art and way of life in past and present context.
RETAIL AND DINING
Faught’s Blackfeet Trading Post 133 W. Central Ave. | Browning, 59417
406.338.2275 | theblackfeettradingpost.com
Fine American Indian items and an inventory of clothing, shoes, western wear and blankets.
CUT BANK
glaciermt.com/cut-bank
Home to plenty of western adventures and abundant outdoor opportunities, Cut Bank sits against the backdrop of the stunning Rocky Mountain Front. The Cut Bank area offers guided fishing trips, birding, lodging and camping, as well as a golf course. It’s a great community to stay in and explore, with many multiday events, like the annual Lewis and Clark Festival and Shakespeare in the Park. Cut Bank also has an international airport, ideal for small planes.
VISITOR INFORMATION
Cut Bank Area Chamber of Commerce 725 E. Main St. | Cut Bank, 59427 406.873.4041 | cutbankchamber.com
Visitor information about the area and Glacier National Park.
SERVICE BUSINESSES
Glacier County Regional Port Authority 24 W. Main St., Suite 10 | Cut Bank, 59427 406.845.3244 | glacierportauthority.org
Promoting, stimulating and advancing general welfare, commerce and economic development.
SPECIAL INTEREST TOURS, RECREATION AND ADVENTURES
Glacier County Historical Museum & Archive
107 Old Kevin Highway | Cut Bank, 59427
406.873.4904
Educational and interactive history exhibits, plus an “Overnight in History” program.
RETAIL AND DINING
Marketplace on Main, LLC
13 E. Main St. | Cut Bank, 59427
406.873.0333 | marketplaceonmaincb.com
Glacier Country’s premier Made in Montana store and art gallery, including a sit-down coffee and tea shop with sweet treats. Find “True Montana” here.
EAST GLACIER PARK
glaciermt.com/east-glacier-park
East Glacier Park is the perfect place to begin a Western Montana adventure. As one of the gateways to Glacier National Park, this community is down-to-earth, complete with friendly locals serving up home-cooked meals, coveted huckleberry ice cream and insider tips on area attractions. East Glacier Park and the surrounding area have cultural and historical significance to the Blackfeet Tribe.
VISITOR INFORMATION
East Glacier Park Chamber of Commerce PO Box 164 | East Glacier Park, 59434 406.450.4151 | eastglacierpark.info
Get information about East Glacier Park area recreation, attractions, lodging, dining and more. Virtual office responds to email within one day.
499 State Highway 49 | East Glacier Park, 59434 406.892.2525 | theglacierparklodge.com
Historic lodge featuring restaurant, lounge, gift shop, tours, activities and golf course.
Mountain Pine Motel
909 State Highway 49 N. (1/2 mile north of U.S. Highway 2) | East Glacier Park, 59434 406.226.4403 | mtnpine.com
Family-run motel with friendly staff. Borders Glacier National Park.
B+B, HOSTELS, HOT SPRINGS, LODGES, RANCHES AND RESORTS
Summit Mountain Lodge & Steakhouse
16900 U.S. Highway 2 E. | East Glacier Park, 59434 406.226.9319 | summitmtnlodge.com
Cabins, destination weddings, top-rated steakhouse, overlooking Glacier National Park.
SPECIAL INTEREST TOURS, RECREATION
AND ADVENTURES
Sun Tours, Inc.
408 Lindhe Ave. | East Glacier Park, 59434 406.732.9220 | 800.786.9220 | suntours.co
Blackfeet cultural interpretive tours of Glacier National Park, Going-to-the-Sun Road and the Blackfeet Reservation.
ST. MARY
glaciermt.com/st-mary
At the east entrance to Glacier National Park and the Going-to-the-Sun Road, St. Mary is a prime home base for exploring the east side of the park as well as the Blackfeet Indian Reservation. While most of its offerings are seasonal, St. Mary has lodging accommodations, a grocery store, gas station, restaurants and campground. During the winter months, visitors can access the Goingto-the-Sun Road for cross-country skiing from the St. Mary entrance.
VACATION HOMES, CONDOS AND CABINS
The Cottages at Glacier
300 Going-to-the-Sun Road E. | St. Mary, 59417
406.309.4231 | thecottagesatglacier.com
The perfect getaway above St. Mary Village. East gateway to Glacier and Going-to-the-Sun Road.
HOTELS AND MOTELS
St. Mary Village
3 Going-to-the-Sun Road | St. Mary, 59417 406.892.2525 | stmaryvillage.com
Lodging, restaurant, lounge, gift shop, tours, activities, Glacier National Park east entrance.
SPECIAL INTEREST TOURS, RECREATION AND ADVENTURES
Sun Water Boat Tours
146 W. Shore Road | St. Mary, 59417
800.786.9220 | glaciersuntours.com
Daily and private interpretive cruises on beautiful Lower St. Mary Lake.
River
EAST
Flathead Corridor
Flathead Lake anchors this wildly scenic destination just south of Glacier National Park. Countless ways to recreate include venturing to Wild Horse Island, boarding a Far West Boat Tour, sailing, kayaking, swimming and fishing. Take to the skies with hot air balloon rides, aerial tours and skydiving, or downhill ski at Blacktail Mountain. The southern end of the lake sits within the boundaries of the Flathead Indian Reservation—home to the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes. Explore American Indian history at Ninepipes Museum of Early Montana, complete with a nature walk and restaurant. The CSKT Bison Range and the Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge are phenomenal spots for birding and wildlife watching. Total bonus: Flathead cherries.
COMMUNITIES : Arlee, Big Arm, Bigfork*, Charlo, Dayton, Elmo, Lakeside, Moiese, Pablo, Polson, Proctor, Ravalli, Rollins, Ronan, Somers, St. Ignatius
*See the Seeley Swan Corridor section on page 121.
4 NOTEWORTHY DESTINATIONS
CSKT BISON RANGE
Witness hundreds of bison, plus elk, bighorn sheep, and other wildlife at this tribally managed wildlife preserve.
Named after the Salish chief “Alee” and sitting in the shadow of the Mission Mountains, Arlee serves as a trading center for residents of the Jocko Valley and Flathead Indian Reservation. Arlee is home to local shops and galleries, and area highlights include the Garden of One Thousand Buddhas.
BIG ARM
glaciermt.com/big-arm
Located on the “big arm” of Flathead Lake, this aptly named community provides incredible lake views and close proximity to Wild Horse Island. Big Arm State Park offers camping, hiking, biking, wildlife watching and a long pebble beach that’s popular with swimmers and sun soakers. Lake life on the Big Arm Bay means sailing, scuba diving, water-skiing and lake-trout fishing are all right outside your door.
B+B, HOSTELS, HOT SPRINGS, LODGES, RANCHES AND RESORTS
Big Arm Resort
44297 A St. | Big Arm, 59910
406.883.8363 | bigarmresort.com
Relaxing Flathead Lake RV resort with RV slips, cabins, boat slips, a casino, bar and grill.
CHARLO
glaciermt.com/charlo
Originally used as a trail crossing in the lush Mission Valley, Charlo was named after Chief Charlo of the Flathead Indian Tribe. Charlo upholds the history of the region, most notably with the Ninepipes Museum of Early Montana and the nearby CSKT Bison Range. The valley also offers lodging, dining and shopping, and is ideal for birding on Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge.
HOTELS AND MOTELS
Ninepipes Lodge and Allentown Restaurant
69286 U.S. Highway 93 | Charlo, 59824
406.644.2588 | ninepipeslodge.com
Full-service lodge offering breathtaking views of the Mission Mountains.
SPECIAL INTEREST
TOURS, RECREATION AND ADVENTURES
Ninepipes Museum of Early Montana 69316 U.S. Highway 93 | Charlo, 59824
406.644.3435 | ninepipesmuseum.org
History and culture of the Flathead Indian Reservation and early Montana.
RETAIL AND DINING
Great Gray 69286 U.S. Highway 93 | Charlo, 59824 406.644.2110 | greatgraygifts.com
Gifts and coffee bar in the heart of the Mission Valley. Montana-made gifts/huckleberry items.
DAYTON
glaciermt.com/dayton
From its location on the shores of Flathead Lake, Dayton is an ideal launching point for travel to Wild Horse Island—a primitive state park on Flathead Lake. Dayton Bay is known for its consistent winds, making it a great place to sail, and also offers visitors access to sailboat rentals and sailing lessons. Dayton is the perfect place to rent a paddleboard or kayak and enjoy life on the lake.
ELMO
glaciermt.com/elmo
This small community is located along the western shore of Flathead Lake in the beautiful Flathead Valley. The region is known for its popular—and delicious— Flathead cherries. Every July, the Kootenai Nation hosts the Standing Arrow Pow Wow in Elmo, a spirited celebration of the tribe’s rich culture and traditions.
LAKESIDE
glaciermt.com/lakeside
Hugging the western shore of Flathead Lake’s northern end, Lakeside provides easy access to the water, making it a popular destination for summer visitors. Cruise the lake on a guided boat tour, stroll through locally owned shops or take in the views of the Swan Mountains. During the winter months, carve lines at the local ski area, offering panoramic vistas of Flathead Lake and Glacier National Park.
VISITOR INFORMATION
Lakeside-Somers Chamber of Commerce 7191 U.S. Highway 93 | Lakeside, 59922 lakesidesomerschamber.org
Nestled on the northwest shore of Flathead Lake at the base of Blacktail Mountain.
VACATION HOMES, CONDOS AND CABINS
The Cabins at Blacktail
1400 Blacktail Road | Lakeside, 59932
406.229.2019 | thecabinsatblacktail.com
The Cabins at Blacktail is a tiny cabin escape and wedding/event venue in Lakeside, Montana.
Peaceful Bay Resort
137 Peaceful Lane | Lakeside, 59922 406.709.2202 | peacefulbayresort.com
Timeshare condos with lake views, pool, spa, boat slips and full kitchens—walk to Lakeside or launch into Western Montana adventure year-round.
SPECIAL INTEREST TOURS, RECREATION AND ADVENTURES
Flathead Lake Alpine Coaster
6806 U.S. Highway 93 S. | Lakeside, 59922 406.730.1018 | flatheadlakealpinecoaster.com
Exciting year-round family fun across from Flathead Lake at Montana’s only alpine coaster.
MOIESE
glaciermt.com/moiese
Explore the 18,500-acre CSKT Bison Range in Moiese. Drive the grounds for an up-close look at 350 head of bison, plus elk, deer and antelope. This popular spot for wildlife watching and birding is owned and managed by the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes.
PABLO
glaciermt.com/pablo
Carrying a hearty legacy, Pablo was named for tribal member Michel Pablo— a rancher and stockman who played a role in saving the bison of Montana from extinction. Pablo is tribal headquarters for the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes and home to Salish Kootenai College, featuring a nine-hole golf course. Also noteworthy, the Pablo National Wildlife Refuge is a great spot for birding and wildlife watching, and the Three Chiefs Cultural Center lets you experience the rich cultures of the Salish, Kootenai and Pend d’Oreille tribes.
POLSON
glaciermt.com/polson
At the southern tip of Flathead Lake, the community of Polson offers live theater, museums, locally owned shops, antique stores and plenty of places for good food and friendly conversation. With its ideal location and multiple lodging and activity options, Polson is a Flathead Valley must. Access to both Flathead Lake and the Flathead River provides rafting, boating, swimming and sailing opportunities. Nearby Séliš Ksanka Qlispe’ Dam features beautiful canyon views, and the local golf course offers fairways next to Flathead Lake.
VISITOR INFORMATION
Polson Chamber of Commerce
402 First St. E., Suite 102 | Polson, 59860 406.883.5969 | polsonchamber.com
Business and visitor information center for Polson and Flathead Lake.
HOTELS AND MOTELS
America’s Best Value Port Polson Inn 49825 U.S. Highway 93 E. | Polson, 59860 406.883.5385 | 800.654.0682 redlion.com/americas-best-value-inn/mt/polson/ americas-best-value-port-polson-inn Overlooks Flathead Lake with stellar views of the Mission Mountains.
Kwataqnuk Resort & Casino
49708 U.S. Highway 93 E. | Polson, 59860 406.883.3636 | 800.882.6363 | kwataqnuk.com
Supporting breast cancer awareness; four days of paddling adventures on Flathead Lake—outrigger canoe racing and Flathead River Rumble SUP event July 9–12, 2026.
Port Polson Players Theatre
32 Golf Course Drive | Polson, 59860
406.883.9212 | portpolsonplayers.com
Year-round live theater on Flathead Lake, featuring comedies, musicals and classics.
RETAIL AND DINING
Alpine Designs
111 Third Ave. E. | Polson, 59860
406.319.2229 | alpinedesignsmt.com
Montana inspired floral design for destination weddings and events both big and small.
East Shore Smoke House
35103 State Highway 35 | Polson, 59860 406.887.2096 | eastshoresmokehouse.com
Steakhouse and fine dining with local meats and ingredients. Rustic lodge and patio.
Finley Point Grill
35427 State Highway 35 Mile Marker 6 Polson, 59860
406.887.2020 | finleypointgrill.com
Passionate about good food and local ingredients. Montana brews and a robust wine list.
Flathead Lake Cheese
208 First Ave. E. | Polson, 59860 406.883.0343 | flatheadlakecheese.com
Local creamery and cheese market with a convenient walk-up window offering house-made cheeses.
HandMADE Montana
212 Main St. | Polson, 59860 406.201.9229 | handmademontana.com/pages/ retail-shop
Shop curated, handcrafted goods (clothing, jewelry, art and more) from 65+ Montana artisans.
Just Bea’s Floral
505 First St. E. | Polson, 59860
406.883.5288 | justbeasfloral.com
Local Polson florist offering custom bouquets for delivery plus arrangements and on-site decorating for weddings, special occasions and corporate events.
Second Nature Gifts and Goods
305 Main St. | Polson, 59860
406.319.2015 | secondnaturegiftsandgoods.com
Gift shop and resale boutique with a variety of goods and gifts plus consignment clothing.
PROCTOR
..
glaciermt.com/proctor
Founded in 1910 and named for the town’s first postmaster, Clarence Proctor, this community is nestled between the Salish and Mission mountains and located a short drive west of Flathead Lake. Nearby water recreation, relaxation and stellar fishing can be found at Lake Mary Ronan. Additional recreation opportunities are available in the Flathead National Forest.
RAVALLI
glaciermt.com/ravalli
Sitting at the junction between Missoula, Thompson Falls and St. Ignatius, Ravalli greets travelers navigating their way through Western Montana. Ravalli is close to several notable area attractions, including the CSKT Bison Range as well as the St. Ignatius Mission
ROLLINS
.
glaciermt.com/rollins
A quaint village on the western shore of Flathead Lake, Rollins is noted for phenomenal beaches, mountain views and easy access to attractions and activities throughout the Flathead Valley. Be sure to stop at the local restaurant for the “best burgers on the lake” (buffalo burgers, no less) and homemade huckleberry milkshakes made with Western Montana huckleberries.
RONAN
glaciermt.com/ronan
Located in the beautiful, sprawling and lush Mission Valley, Ronan serves as the area’s agricultural hub. Ronan is set against the backdrop of the Mission Mountains surrounded by spectacular scenery and minutes from Flathead Lake. Here you’ll find year-round recreation with nearby lake and stream fishing, birding, hiking, camping and golf.
VISITOR INFORMATION
Ronan Chamber of Commerce
63239 U.S. Highway 93 | Ronan, 59864
406.676.8300 | ronanchamber.com
Find some of Montana’s most spectacular scenery in the Mission Valley.
In Ronan, this central hub hosts year-round fairs, festivals, rodeos and community events that bring together locals and visitors for signature Western Montana experiences.
Mission Valley Chainsaw Carving Rendezvous
Lake County Fairgrounds, 303 Third Ave. NW | Ronan, 59864
406.261.7579 | facebook.com/profile.
php?id=61556822440128
Watch world-class chainsaw carvers transform logs into remarkable art at this high-energy four-day carving event held each summer at the Ronan fairgrounds.
RETAIL AND DINING
Swanky Sisters Mercantile
63917 U.S. Highway 93, Suite 107 | Ronan, 59864 406.676.8739 | facebook.com/swankysistersmercantile
Locally owned and operated shop with unique fabric, sewing items, gifts and baby goods.
SOMERS
glaciermt.com/somers
At the northern end of Flathead Lake, the small and peaceful community of Somers offers a swimming beach, boat launch and yacht club with easy access to Flathead Lake. During the summer, the roads in and around Somers are scattered with roadside stands selling locally grown fruit, like Flathead cherries, apples and plums.
VISITOR INFORMATION
Lakeside-Somers Chamber of Commerce 7191 U.S. Highway 93 | Lakeside, 59922 lakesidesomerschamber.org
Nestled on the northwest shore of Flathead Lake at the base of Blacktail Mountain.
ST. IGNATIUS
glaciermt.com/st-ignatius
At the base of the majestic Mission Mountains, St. Ignatius is home to the St. Ignatius Mission. A National Historic Site, the mission was built in 1891 by American Indians and Jesuit missionaries. Adorning the mission’s walls and ceiling are 58 hand-painted murals by Brother Joseph Carignano—a self-taught artist who worked as the mission cook and handyman years ago. Grab a bite to eat at the local Amish deli or schedule a farm tour at the local regenerative flower farm.
Glacier National Park Surrounding Area
Glacier National Park beckons year-round with 1 million acres of mesmerizing peaks, alpine lakes, cascading waterfalls and sweeping valleys. Multiple vibrant communities just outside the park make excellent base camps for park exploration and adventures like whitewater rafting the Middle Fork of the Flathead River. Plan the perfect getaway at the Belton Chalet in West Glacier or stay at Reclusive Moose Cabins in Columbia Falls, where a round of golf, sapphire hunting at The Sapphire Shoppe and a stop at the local brewery add to the experience.
COMMUNITIES: Babb*, Columbia Falls, Coram, East Glacier Park*, Essex, Hungry Horse, Martin City, Polebridge, St. Mary*, West Glacier
*See the East Glacier Corridor section on page 103.
4 NOTEWORTHY DESTINATIONS
BELTON CHALET
Visit the first of the iconic lodges built by the Great Northern Railroad—a charming retreat in a beautiful natural setting.
Nestled in the northwest corner of Montana, with Glacier National Park at its doorstep.
COLUMBIA FALLS
glaciermt.com/columbia-falls
A gateway to Glacier National Park, Columbia Falls is just 15 minutes from the park’s west entrance. This lively Montana town is home to locally owned shops, restaurants, a brewery, a popular summer farmers market and a golf course that Golf Digest deemed “must play.” Columbia Falls is an ideal launching point for recreating in Glacier National Park, floating the Flathead River, playing on Flathead Lake and exploring 2 million acres in the Flathead National Forest.
VACATION HOMES, CONDOS AND CABINS
Columbia Falls Timeshares from SellMyTimeshareNOW
Multiple Properties | Columbia Falls, 59912 877.815.4227 | sellmytimesharenow.com/timeshare/ Columbia+Falls/city
Call or visit our website to plan your unforgettable vacation to Columbia Falls.
Fort Williamson - Glacier Vacation Rentals
7620 U.S. Highway 2 E. | Columbia Falls, 59912
406.249.0908 | fortwilliamson.com
Themed lodging in the setting of an Old West town 15 minutes from Glacier National Park.
Glacier View Rentals
4867 Blankenship Road | Columbia Falls, 59912 406.407.1383 | glacierviewrentals.com
Vacation rental homes in and around Glacier National Park.
Reclusive Moose Cabins
4855 Blankenship Road | Columbia Falls, 59912
406.250.1576 | reclusivemoosecabins.com
Vacation rental cabins located minutes to the west entrance of Glacier National Park.
HOTELS AND MOTELS
Wonderstone at Glacier 7336 U.S. Highway 2 | Columbia Falls, 59912 406.892.0888 | wonderstoneusa.com
Newly renovated, modern boutique hotel completely reimagined for national park travelers.
PRIVATE CAMPS AND RV PARKS
Whispering Pines RV Park
265 Kinnikinnick Lane | Columbia Falls, 59912
406.212.7300 | wpinesrv.com
Relax in a tranquil Flathead Valley setting with mountain views and modern amenities.
Montana-style lodging in the heart of the Flathead Valley.
SERVICE BUSINESSES
Dollar Rent-A-Car
5506 U.S. Highway 2 W. | Columbia Falls, 59912
406.892.0009 | dollar.com
Friendly service and great rates.
Pursuit Glacier Park Collection
PO Box 2025 | Columbia Falls, 59912
406.892.2525 | glacierparkcollection.com
We bring Glacier National Park to life. Go higher, get quieter and see Montana’s finest.
RETAIL AND DINING
Backslope Brewing, LLC
1107 Ninth St. W. | Columbia Falls, 59912
406.897.2850 | backslopebrewing.com
Enjoy handcrafted beer, food, great views; meet the amazing people who live in the community.
The Sapphire Shoppe
901 12th Ave. W. | Columbia Falls, 59912
406.260.6460
facebook.com/yogosapphirejewelryandgems Uncover treasures from around the world and Montana, including yogo sapphires and fossils.
CORAM
glaciermt.com/coram
South of West Glacier, the small town of Coram is minutes from Glacier National Park along U.S. Highway 2. With familyfun attractions, a distillery and an array of lodging options—including canvas tents and mountain-inspired cabins and lodges— Coram is quickly becoming a place where visitors stop and stay while exploring this part of the region.
SPECIAL INTEREST TOURS, RECREATION AND ADVENTURES
Glacier Highline
10167 U.S. Highway 2 E. | Coram, 59913
406.885.6900 | glacierhighline.com
High-flying family adventure! Rope courses, zip-lines, swimming, rock wall, coffee and food.
Goats of Glacier
220 Seville Lane | Coram, 59913
406.282.1002 | goatsofglacier.com
Meet goats, alpacas and mini-Highland cows near Glacier. Try goat yoga, feed animals or hike with a pack goat on a farm adventure for all ages.
RETAIL AND DINING
Glacier Distilling Company
10237 U.S. Highway 2 E. | Coram, 59913
406.387.9887 | glacierdistilling.com
A craft distillery making whiskeys from Montana grains and brandy distilled from local fruit.
Josephine’s Speakeasy
10245 U.S. Highway 2 E. | Coram, 59913
406.300.4755 | josephinesbar.com
Full bar and kitchen serving dinner in an old homesteader cabin just a few miles from Glacier National Park.
Park Provisions
10126 U.S. Highway 2 E. | Coram, 59913
406.871.0311 | parkprovisionsglacier.com
Locally-owned one-stop shop providing trip essentials and meals-to-go for adventures in and around Glacier National Park.
Motel Lake McDonald
ESSEX
glaciermt.com/essex
Though it may be small, Essex is a noteworthy Montana destination. A stone’s throw from Glacier National Park, Essex is just off U.S. Highway 2 along the southern border of the park. From Essex, Explore the Montana wilderness on a horseback trail ride with Snowy Springs Outfitters, which also specializes in fly-fishing trips and pack trips. A short drive from Essex, the Walton Goat Lick Overlook is a popular viewing spot for mountain goats.
B+B, HOSTELS, HOT SPRINGS, LODGES, RANCHES AND RESORTS
Bear Creek Bed & Breakfast
15750 U.S. Highway 2, Mile Marker 192 | Essex, 59916
406.304.6743
bearcreekguestranch.com/bed-breakfast
Wake up to mountain views and a home-cooked breakfast in a cozy cabin at this warm, rustic, ranchstyle retreat near Glacier National Park.
Guided pack trips, fly-fishing and world-class big game hunting with comfortable lodging in Montana’s legendary Bob Marshall Wilderness.
SPECIAL INTEREST TOURS, RECREATION AND ADVENTURES
Snowy Springs Outfitters Inc.
15600 U.S. Highway 2 E. | Essex, 59916 406.226.9225 | snowysprings.com
Take a backcountry trip in the stunning Bob Marshall and Great Bear wilderness areas.
GLACIER NATIONAL PARK
glaciermt.com/glacier-park
Spanning more than a million acres along Montana’s northern border, Glacier National Park is defined by rugged peaks, alpine lakes and glacial-carved valleys. Open yearround, the park offers a different experience each season, highlighted by the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road, which crosses the Continental Divide and showcases some of the park’s most dramatic scenery. Campgrounds, trails and in-park amenities support everything from scenic day trips to immersive backcountry adventures.
HOTELS AND MOTELS
Glacier National Park Lodges
Glacier National Park
855.733.4522 | glaciernationalparklodges.com
Authorized concessionaire providing in-park lodging, dining and red bus tours.
466 Lake McDonald Loop Road,
Going-to-the-Sun Road | Glacier National Park 406.892.2525 | motellakemcdonald.com
Near the shores of Lake McDonald in Glacier National Park.
B+B, HOSTELS, HOT SPRINGS, LODGES, RANCHES AND RESORTS
Glacier National Park Lodges
Glacier National Park
855.733.4522 | glaciernationalparklodges.com
Authorized concessionaire providing in-park lodging, dining and red bus tours.
SERVICE BUSINESSES
Glacier National Park Lodges
Glacier National Park
855.733.4522 | glaciernationalparklodges.com
Authorized concessionaire providing in-park lodging, dining and red bus tours.
SPECIAL INTEREST TOURS, RECREATION AND ADVENTURES
The Glacier Institute
Glacier National Park Field Camp
Glacier National Park
406.755.1211 | glacierinstitute.org
Offering daily outdoor learning hikes in Glacier National Park and surrounding areas.
Glacier Park Boat Company
Lake McDonald, St. Mary, Two Medicine, Many Glacier | Glacier National Park 406.257.2426 | 888.611.0747 | glacierparkboats.com
Boat tours, charters, group tours, guided hikes and rental boats in Glacier National Park.
Red Bus Tours -
Glacier National Park Lodges
Throughout Glacier National Park
855.733.4522 | glaciernationalparklodges.com
Experience Glacier National Park by riding in a classic touring bus with a roll-back top.
HUNGRY HORSE
glaciermt.com/hungry-horse
Surrounded by some of Western Montana’s most spectacular mountains and only a few minutes from Glacier National Park, this small community sits on the edge of Hungry Horse Reservoir and Hungry Horse Dam. You can take guided tours of the dam and learn about its history and presentday function. The 34-mile-long Hungry Horse Reservoir is perfect for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. The town is home to local shops, lodging and plenty of huckleberry treats.
RETAIL AND DINING
The Huckleberry Patch
8858 U.S. Highway 2 E. | Hungry Horse, 59919 406.387.5000 | 800.527.7340 | huckleberrypatch.com
The original huckleberry cannery. Home of world-famous homemade huckleberry pies.
MARTIN CITY
glaciermt.com/martin-city
During the heyday of the Hungry Horse Dam project, Martin City was a boomtown, home to dam workers and some of the heartiest and rowdiest residents in the region. Just a few minutes’ drive from Glacier National Park and the nearby Flathead National Forest, the region is ideal for remote, quiet camping with numerous trails into nearby wilderness areas. Time it right and experience one of Martin City’s best traditions, the weekend-long Cabin Fever Days and Barstool Ski Races—a family friendly and roaring-good-time community event held annually in February.
POLEBRIDGE
glaciermt.com/polebridge
Less than a mile from the northwest entrance of Glacier National Park, the famous and tiny community of Polebridge is a must stop. The town consists of a handful of houses, cabins, a hostel and small ranches along the North Fork Road, with a muchloved mercantile as its hub. This one-stop shop for locals and visitors is known for its fresh baked goods, sandwiches and unique personality.
WEST GLACIER
glaciermt.com/west-glacier
Adventures in and around Glacier National Park often begin and end in West Glacier. As the western gateway to the park, West Glacier has been dubbed “guide central.” Local guides offer hiking and fly-fishing trips, whitewater and scenic rafting excursions, backcountry camping and trail rides. This bustling community has Montana-minded shops, great local dining and numerous accommodations, as well as a golf course with great views and affordable rates. Quieter during winter, West Glacier does offer lodging during the park’s slower season.
VISITOR INFORMATION
Glacier National Park 64 Grinnell Drive | West Glacier, 59936 406.888.7800 | nps.gov/glac Headquarters for Glacier National Park.
VACATION
HOMES, CONDOS AND CABINS
Great Northern Resort
12127 U.S. Highway 2 E. | West Glacier, 59936 406.387.5340 | 800.735.7897 | greatnorthernresort.com
Premiere spot for weddings, retreats, romantic getaways, family reunions and vacations.
Paddle Ridge
12400 U.S. Highway 2 E. | West Glacier, 59936 406.888.5454
glacierparkcollection.com/lodging/paddle-ridge Lodge, cabins and vacation rentals. 1/2 mile from park entrance. Beautiful mountain views.
HOTELS AND MOTELS
Apgar Village Lodge & Cabins 9 W. Apgar Loop Road | West Glacier, 59936 406.892.2525 | apgarvillage.com
Cabins and rooms at Lake McDonald, gift shop, ice cream, kayak and paddleboard rentals.
Daily and multiday fly-fishing guide service. Native westslope cutthroat trout.
Glacier Guides and Montana Raft
11970 U.S. Highway 2 | West Glacier, 59936
406.387.5555 | 800.521.7238 | glacierguides.com
Rafting, hiking, biking, backpacking, fishing, rentals and lodging near Glacier National Park.
Glacier Park Rafting
12127 U.S. Highway 2 E., Suite A | West Glacier, 59936 406.888.8754 | 800.735.7897
greatnorthernresort.com/rafting
Experience half-day, full-day, dinner or multiday adventures on the Flathead River.
Glacier Park Weddings & Events
12127 U.S. Highway 2 E., Suite B | West Glacier, 59936 406.888.8756 | 800.735.7897
glacierparkweddings.com
Ideal location for an unforgettable wedding, complete with views of Glacier National Park.
Glacier Raft Company
106 Going-to-the-Sun Road | West Glacier, 59936 406.888.5454 | glacierraftco.com
Daily whitewater and scenic rafting. Class II/III family-friendly whitewater. Multiday trips.
Golfing to the Sun Mini Golf
250 Going-to-the-Sun Road | West Glacier, 59936 844.868.7474 | glacierparkcollection.com/glaciernational-park/west-glacier/golfing-to-the-sun-mini-golf Take a family-friendly tour through Glacier National Park history with 18+ holes loaded with challenges and characters, each rich in Glacier trivia.
Great Northern Fly Fishing Guides
12127 U.S. Highway 2 E., Suite A | West Glacier, 59936 406.888.8754 | 800.735.7897
greatnorthernresort.com/fly-fishing-trips
Experience half-day, full-day, dinner or multiday adventures on the Flathead River.
Swan Mountain Outfitters
12000 U.S. Highway 2 E. | West Glacier, 59936 406.387.4405 | 877.888.5557
swanmountainoutfitters.com/montana-adventures
Horses, llamas, fishing, hunting, snowmobiling in and around Glacier National Park and the Bob Marshall Wilderness.
RETAIL AND DINING
Belton Chalet Dining Room
12575 U.S. Highway 2 E. | West Glacier, 59936 406.888.5000 | beltonchalet.com
Fine dining and lodging in this Swiss chalet-style historical property.
VISITOR INFORMATION
Mineral County Chamber of Commerce
PO Box 483 | Superior, 59872
406.822.4891 | mineralmt.com
Enjoy recreation, including camping and hiking on the Alberton Gorge and Clark Fork River.
ALBERTON
glaciermt.com/alberton
About 30 minutes west of Missoula, the old railroad town of Alberton is best known for stellar whitewater rafting on the scenic Alberton Gorge. Alberton draws water lovers from around the region for fly-fishing and water play on the Clark Fork River. Book a riverboarding or whitewater rafting trip with Montana River Guides. Or, visit the Montana Valley Book Store and the railroad displays at the local museum.
B+B, HOSTELS, HOT SPRINGS, LODGES, RANCHES AND RESORTS
Alberton Orchards
1022 Sawmill Gulch Road | Alberton, 59820
406.380.3308 | albertonorchards.com
A boutique western ranch in an idyllic Montana setting. Enjoy luxury cabins, farm-to-table agritourism and outdoor adventures, like rafting and hiking.
SPECIAL INTEREST TOURS, RECREATION AND ADVENTURES
Montana River Guides
138 Big Bend Lane | Alberton, 59820 406.722.7238 | montanariverguides.com
Whitewater rafting and river trips near Missoula on the Alberton Gorge and Blackfoot River.
An eclectic family-owned bookstore with 100,000+ hard-to-find, out-of-print used books.
DE BORGIA
glaciermt.com/de-borgia
Just west of St. Regis and 20 miles from Lookout Pass, the quiet and beautiful town of De Borgia is well-suited for a wilderness getaway. Nearby guest ranches offer authentic western adventures, complete with genuine Montana ranch activities, like horseback riding and outdoor exploration.
FRENCHTOWN
glaciermt.com/frenchtown
About 15 minutes northwest of Missoula, the community of Frenchtown was founded by French Canadian settlers. Situated along the Clark Fork River in a valley called qua elth (meaning state of tranquility) by American Indian inhabitants, is Frenchtown Pond State Park—a 5-acre park that makes a great place for beginners to practice kayaking and canoeing. Frenchtown also offers a relaxing game of golf paired with great scenery and Montana’s famous western hospitality—you’ll even find a large golf simulator screen here
SPECIAL INTEREST TOURS, RECREATION AND ADVENTURES
King Ranch Golf Course
17775 Mullan Road | Frenchtown, 59834
406.626.4000 | kingranchmt.com
A public, 18-hole golf course with multiple water hazards, beautiful views and a restaurant.
HAUGAN
glaciermt.com/haugan
Located 5 miles from the Idaho border, Haugan was founded as a pusher station for trains making their way up the Coeur d’Alene Mountains. Today, Haugan offers abundant hiking, fishing, horseback riding and biggame hunting.
VISITOR INFORMATION
Savenac Historic U.S. Forest Service Nursery
Lolo National Forest (100 Savenac Creek Loop) Haugan, 59842 | 406.678.4395
fs.usda.gov/recarea/lolo/recarea/?recid=10338
One of the oldest and most beautiful USDA Forest Service nurseries in the West.
HOTELS AND MOTELS
Lincoln’s Silver $ Inn
Exit 16 on I-90, west of Missoula | Haugan, 59842 406.678.4271 | 50000silverdollar.com
Your home away from home with a western, rustic feel.
RETAIL AND DINING
Lincoln’s Silver $ Bar, Gift Shop and Restaurant
Exit 16 on I-90, west of Missoula | Haugan, 59842 406.678.4242 | 50000silverdollar.com Montana’s largest gift shop and collection of silver dollars.
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HUSON
glaciermt.com/huson
Between Missoula and Alberton, Huson is set along the scenic Clark Fork River and provides access to the picturesque area of Nine Mile. Outdoor recreation opportunities—including numerous trails— are abundant in Huson, and the Nine Mile Community Center is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
B+B, HOSTELS, HOT SPRINGS, LODGES, RANCHES AND RESORTS
Running Horse Inn 28250 Ninemile Road | Huson, 59846
406.626.0040 | runninghorse-inn.com
A peaceful bed-and-breakfast not far from Missoula, offering year-round comfort, artful touches and tranquil views.
SALTESE
glaciermt.com/saltese
An old mining town located near the Idaho border, Saltese was named in honor of a Nez Perce leader from the area. Numerous trails in the Lolo National Forest originate in and around Saltese, and area attractions include Taft—a mining camp once home to 2,000 residents—and Lookout Pass—a ski area that receives some of the region’s earliest and fluffiest snow. Bike the nearby Route of the Hiawatha Trail for a family-friendly summer adventure.
This Rails to Trails crown jewel bike path traverses 10 tunnels and seven sky-high trestles. Ride the shuttle back to top.
ST. REGIS
glaciermt.com/st-regis
Nestled in the mountains of Western Montana and named for the nearby St. Regis River, the little community of St. Regis serves as a crossroads for many travelers. The local travel center offers a restaurant (complete with huckleberry shakes), espresso, a gift shop and a trout aquarium. If you’re in town on Memorial Day, be sure to check out Montana’s largest flea market. St. Regis is also home to a golf course and a large park with an interpretive nature trail.
HOTELS AND MOTELS
Little River Motel
424 Little River Lane | St. Regis, 59866
406.649.2713
Tucked in the trees of St. Regis, this cozy motel offers rooms, cabins, wildlife sightings and easy access to fly-fishing and golf.
RETAIL AND DINING
St. Regis Senior Center
209 Lobo Loop | St. Regis, 59866
208.659.6423 | facebook.com/stregisseniorcenter
A welcoming community hub in St. Regis offering meals, events and gatherings for locals and visitors alike.
St. Regis Travel Center
55 Mullan Gulch Road | St. Regis, 59866
406.649.2407 | stregistravelcenter.com
Free trout aquarium, gift shop, C-store, casino and some of the best huckleberry shakes ever.
SUPERIOR
glaciermt.com/superior
An oasis off I-90, Superior serves up solid adventures, like floating and fishing the Clark Fork River, camping, hunting and hiking. This peaceful community also has a skatepark, playgrounds, picnic areas and even a Tesla charging station. Visit the local museum for a historical tour and firsthand look into the region’s rich mining history. Area offerings include lodging, dining and a quiet corner of Montana that’s prime for exploring.
VISITOR INFORMATION
Mineral County Chamber of Commerce
PO Box 483 | Superior, 59872
406.822.4891 | mineralmt.co
Enjoy recreation, including camping and hiking on the Alberton Gorge and Clark Fork River.
VACATION HOMES, CONDOS AND CABINS
Yurt on the Clark Fork River 254 Dairy Lane | Superior, 59872 vrbo.com/2535965
Cozy riverfront yurt near Superior, Montana. Sleeps six, fully equipped, wildlife sightings and year-round adventure on the Clark Fork River.
HOTELS AND MOTELS
Big Sky Motel
103 Fourth Ave. E. | Superior, 59872
406.822.4831 | bigskymotel.net
Located off I-90 with a welcoming staff waiting to serve you.
B+B, HOSTELS, HOT SPRINGS, LODGES, RANCHES AND RESORTS
Alpine Falls Ranch
625 Longhorn Lane | Superior, 59872
406.200.8556 | alpinefalls.com
Luxury lodge and cabins on 850 acres with world-class outdoor activities and stunning landscapes, perfect for weddings, retreats and family vacations.
SERVICE BUSINESSES
Mineral County Economic Development Corporation
301 Second Ave. E. | Superior, 59872
406.822.3545 | mcedcmontana.org
Connecting people, resources and ideas to grow business, create jobs and strengthen communities across Mineral County, Montana.
RETAIL AND DINING
NFB Espresso & Flowers
180 River St., Suite 212 | Superior, 59872
406.822.7673 | facebook.com/nfbespressoflowers
Sip, savor, and slow down at Superior’s cozy stop for great coffee, fresh blooms and homemade baked goods.
Northwest Corridor
Montana’s quiet corner is a treasure trove of scenic vistas, glistening waters, hidden gems and vibrant small towns. Kootenai Country and the Cabinet Mountains Wilderness offer pristine lakes and backcountry camping, hiking and horseback riding in some of Montana’s wildest country. The Lake Koocanusa Scenic Byway is a must, including the Libby Dam and Visitor Center , and don’t miss Kootenai Falls and the famous Kootenai Falls Swinging Bridge. The historical village offers a walk back in time through a collection of restored buildings, and golfers can tee off at the 18-hole championship course at Indian Springs Montana in Eureka. Also noteworthy, Libby’s Heritage Museum and Cabinet Mountain Brewing Co
905 W. Ninth St. | Libby, 59923 406.293.4167 | libbychamber.org
Visitor center in Lincoln County.
EUREKA
glaciermt.com/eureka
The quaint little town of Eureka sits in the lush Tobacco Valley. With a charming main street and small-town hospitality, Eureka keeps the past alive in the Historical Village—a collection of restored buildings. Eureka offers a brewery, world-class golf courses and easy access to Lake Koocanusa and the Ten Lakes Scenic Area, with miles of hiking trails, fishing streams and campsites. It’s also just minutes from the U.S./Canada border crossing at the 24-hour Port of Roosville.
VISITOR INFORMATION
Eureka Area Chamber of Commerce 11 Dewey Ave. | Eureka, 59917 406.297.4636 | eurekamtchamber.com
Small towns with big hearts offer endless adventures in the Eureka area.
B+B, HOSTELS, HOT SPRINGS, LODGES, RANCHES AND RESORTS
Tobacco River Ranch Glamping 641 Osloski Road | Eureka, 59917
406.297.7870 | tobaccoriverranch.com
Unique glamping riverside with mountain views, trail access and starry skies. Hike, bike or float to Lake Koocanusa. Wildlife and solitude await.
SPECIAL INTEREST TOURS, RECREATION AND ADVENTURES
Indian Springs Ranch
77 Indian Springs Road | Eureka, 59917
406.889.5056 | indianspringsmontana.com
Golf, swim, boat and relax at a unique vacation-home setting in the stunning Tobacco Valley.
FORTINE
glaciermt.com/fortine
Once a station on the Great Northern Railway, Fortine offers access to the Kootenai National Forest and Ten Lakes Scenic Area with around 90 miles of off-the-beatenpath trails and rugged terrain perfect for hiking and biking. Hardcore anglers and backpackers have been known to revel in the pristine forest’s hidden alpine lakes, and golfers enjoy family-friendly greens at the local course.
LIBBY
glaciermt.com/libby
Libby sits in the Kootenai River Valley at the base of the Cabinet Mountain Range. Combining unforgettable mountain experiences and picture-perfect scenery with abundant outdoor recreation, area attractions include the Libby Dam, Ross Creek Cedar Grove, the Kootenai River and Kootenai Falls, and a golf course complete with spectacular views and wildlife watching. Soak up Libby’s allure at the local brewery, or learn about the history of northwest Montana at the Heritage Museum
VISITOR INFORMATION
Kootenai River Development Council, Inc.
60 Port Blvd. T3 | Libby, 59923
406.293.8406 | krdc.net
A catalyst for community and economic development projects in Lincoln County, Montana.
Libby Area Chamber of Commerce
905 W. Ninth St. | Libby, 59923
406.293.4167 | libbychamber.org
Visitor center in Lincoln County.
HOTELS AND MOTELS
Evergreen Motel
808 Mineral Ave. | Libby, 59923
406.293.4178 | libbymotel.com
Cozy, affordable rooms with a rustic mountain feel close to shopping, dining and recreation.
Sandman Motel
31901 U.S. Highway 2 | Libby, 59923
406.293.8831 | sandmanmotelmontana.com
Family-owned with impeccably clean rooms, plush beds, continental breakfast and free Wi-Fi.
PRIVATE CAMPS AND RV PARKS
Woodland RV Park
31480 U.S. Highway 2 | Libby, 59923 406.293.8395 | woodlandrvpark.com
A beautiful park on 10 acres in the Kootenai National Forest. Easy access just off the highway.
SPECIAL INTEREST TOURS, RECREATION AND ADVENTURES
Heritage Museum
34067 U.S. Highway 2 | Libby, 59923
406.293.7521 | libbyheritagemuseum.org
Step inside a historic log museum showcasing mining, logging, rail and Forest Service history as well as personal stories from the early days of the region.
Kootenai Angler, Cabins and River Bend Restaurant
13546 State Highway 37 | Libby, 59923 406.293.7578 | 800.322.9339 | goflyfishmontana.com Fantastic Kootenai River fly-fishing guides and trips. Personalized instruction available.
Libby Dam Visitor Center (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers) 260 Souse Gulch Road | Libby, 59923 406.293.5577 | nws.usace.army.mil/Missions/CivilWorks/Locks-and-Dams/Libby-Dam/Recreation/ Guided tours, interactive exhibits, great fishing and outdoor recreation available.
Craft beer, signature menu, live music and outdoor (pet) seating at our family-friendly brewery.
MARION
glaciermt.com/marion
Located just off U.S. Highway 2 near Little Bitterroot Lake, Marion was initially used by railroad workers building the railroad line into Kalispell. Nearby Lost Trail National Wildlife Refuge provides a diverse habitat for various bird species, as well as deer, elk, moose, black bear, lynx and wolverines.
OLNEY
glaciermt.com/olney
Between Whitefish and Eureka, Olney sits in the heart of the Kootenai National Forest. The surrounding wilderness includes numerous ranger stations, cabins and lookouts maintained by the U.S. Forest Service. Many of the cabins and lookouts are available for overnight rental and provide a rustic wilderness experience complete with idyllic Montana views. Go boating, canoeing and fishing on Olney’s nearby lakes—Upper Stillwater and Whitefish Lake.
B+B, HOSTELS, HOT SPRINGS, LODGES, RANCHES AND RESORTS
Dog Creek Lodge & Nordic Ski Center 8775 U.S. Highway 93 N. | Olney, 59927 406.881.2071 | dogcreeklodge.com
Nordic center, year-round resort, lodging, restaurant, bar, weddings, reunions and retreats.
Guided snowcat skiing near Whitefish, featuring deep powder, varied terrain and small-group backcountry experiences with ranch and yurt lodging options.
REXFORD
glaciermt.com/rexford
Situated in the forested corner of northwest Montana—between the Purcell and Salish mountains on the northern banks of Lake Koocanusa—the mountain community of Rexford is a recreation lover’s paradise. Rexford is ideal for camping, hiking, hunting, snowmobiling, boating and rock climbing (at nearby Stone Hill). In addition, Rexford is a great starting point for driving the 67-mile Lake Koocanusa Scenic Byway.
STRYKER
glaciermt.com/stryker
Sitting on the western edge of the Whitefish Mountain Range, Stryker is a gateway to gorgeous mountain scenery and attractions in northwest Montana. Stryker provides access to both Upper Stillwater and Dickey lakes, with camping and day use as well as boating, fishing and wildlife watching. The area also features abundant hiking trails and numerous fishing streams. For outstanding views of the Tobacco and Flathead valleys, visit the Mount Marston Fire Lookout.
TREGO
glaciermt.com/trego
Between the Tobacco River and Dickey Lake, Trego attracts hunters from around the country in hopes of landing their biggame trophy. Nearby Dickey Lake is ideal for camping and day use, with plenty of boating, fishing and wildlife watching. In the fall, Trego comes alive with the family-friendly Trego Heritage Days, celebrating local history, community and small-town tradition.
SPECIAL INTEREST TOURS, RECREATION AND ADVENTURES
Trego Heritage Days
318 Fortine Creek Road | Trego, 59934
406.882.4402 | thehalltfs.com/heritagedays
Celebrate Trego’s Tobacco Valley roots at this vibrant, family-friendly community event full of local artisans, food, events, demonstrations and more.
RETAIL AND DINING
Blarney Ranch
191 Ant Flat Road | Trego, 59934 406.544.9219 | blarneyranch.com
Visit the farm store for grass-finished beef, skincare products and locally crafted goods at this regenerative ranch dedicated to sustainability and stewardship.
TROY
glaciermt.com/troy
On the western banks of the Kootenai River at Montana’s lowest elevation point, Troy and its surrounding wilderness area offer pristine unsettled country, attractions like the Troy Museum and Visitors Center and Ross Creek Cedar Grove, and a groomed snowmobile trail that connects Troy with Libby, Montana. Each year, Troy marks Independence Day with its Old Fashioned 4th of July celebration.
VISITOR INFORMATION
City of Troy Museum & Visitors Center
629 E. Missoula Ave. | Troy, 59935 406.295.4151 | cityoftroymontana.com
Historical items, disc golf, nature trail and picnic tables. Conveniently located. Open Memorial Day –Labor Day, Tuesday – Sunday, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Troy Chamber of Commerce 627 E. Missoula Ave. | Troy, 59935 406.295.1064 | troymtchamber.org
Explore this vibrant community in the rugged mountains of northwest Montana.
Providing first-class fly-fishing, wingshooting, big-game hunting adventures and lodging.
SPECIAL INTEREST TOURS, RECREATION AND ADVENTURES
Linehan Outfitting Company 35309 Yaak River Road | Troy, 59935 406.295.4872 | 800.596.0034 | fishmontana.com
Providing first-class fly-fishing, wingshooting, big-game hunting adventures and lodging.
YAAK
glaciermt.com/yaak
Deep in the northwest corner of Montana, Yaak is surrounded by incredible outdoor recreation opportunities like fishing, hunting, hiking, camping and biking. Nearby notto-be-missed attractions include the Yaak River and Yaak Falls—a beautiful cascading waterfall with jagged exposed rocks (some of the oldest rocks in the world).
Start planning your trip today. For up-to-date tips and travel news, follow us on GlacierMT.com RecreateResponsiblyMT.com
Seeley Swan Corridor
Flanked by the Mission and Swan mountain ranges, the lushly forested landscape dotted with lakes offers phenomenal snowmobiling, Nordic skiing, ice-fishing, golf and hundreds of miles of trails to hike, bike and snowshoe. Set out on the Seeley Swan Scenic Drive between the Bob Marshall Wilderness and Mission Mountains, or explore the storybook village of Bigfork—home to an annual whitewater festival, local shopping, art galleries and the Bigfork Summer Playhouse Base Camp Bigfork and Swan Mountain Outfitters are ready to help you recreate in the area. Wind your way around the Clearwater Canoe Trail or hike to Holland Lake Falls for jaw-dropping views.
COMMUNITIES : Bigfork, Condon, Ferndale, Seeley Lake, Swan Lake
4 NOTEWORTHY DESTINATIONS
BIGFORK
Explore the local shops, art galleries, theater and eateries of this storybook village on the shores of Flathead Lake.
Promoting a vibrant economy while honoring the area’s diverse culture and rich heritage.
BIGFORK
glaciermt.com/bigfork
Hugging the sparkling blue bay where the Swan River flows into Flathead Lake, this picturesque community—named “One of the 100 Best Small Art Towns in America” by author John Villani—turns on the charm with world-class art galleries and renowned theater performances at the Bigfork Summer Playhouse. This thriving community welcomes visitors with numerous shops and galleries, fine dining and fun events. Bigfork is also a great launching point for Flathead Lake adventures and recreation.
VACATION HOMES, CONDOS AND CABINS
Many Springs Flathead Lake Resort
24377 State Highway 35 | Bigfork, 59911
888.871.7856 | manyspringsresort.com
Nestled on Flathead Lake’s east shore, Many Springs Resort offers lakeside rentals, a restaurant and easy access to Montana’s wilderness and Glacier National Park.
The Nest on Swan River 600 Three Eagle Lane | Bigfork, 59911
406.261.7542 | thenestonswanriver.com
A serene waterfront venue for weddings, retreats and reunions with lodging for 30+ guests, mountain views, indoor/outdoor spaces and nearby adventures.
B+B, HOSTELS, HOT SPRINGS, LODGES, RANCHES AND RESORTS
Averill’s Flathead Lake Lodge
150 Flathead Lodge Road | Bigfork, 59911
406.837.4391 | flatheadlakelodge.com
A 2,000-acre dude ranch on the shores of Flathead Lake.
Bigfork Mountain Lake Lodge
14735 Sylvan Drive | Bigfork, 59911
406.837.3800 | mountainlakelodge.com
Fireplace suites with views of Flathead Lake. Ideal for groups and weddings.
SERVICE BUSINESSES
Engel & Völkers Western Frontier 459 Electric Ave. | Bigfork, 59911
Western Montana’s premier luxury real estate brokerage.
MNW Destinations
Bigfork, 59911
406.360.8829 | mnwdestinations.com
Full-service destination management company with local knowledge, expertise and resources.
SPECIAL INTEREST TOURS, RECREATION AND ADVENTURES
Base Camp Bigfork
8525 State Highway 209 | Bigfork, 59911
406.871.9733 | basecampbigfork.com
Family owned with year-round outdoor adventures and lodging. Guided dogsled tours, kayak, paddleboard, mountain bike, Nordic ski and snowshoe rentals.
Bent Fly Fishing
Bigfork | 59911
406.212.6646 | bentflyfishing.com
Full-service guided fishing trips throughout Montana. Bent’s guides provide top-notch service and believe in their motto: good vibes catch fish.
Bigfork Stagecoach Rides & Rentals
6840 State Highway 35 | Bigfork, 59911
602.710.4229 | bigforkstagecoach.com
Sit back, relax and experience the Old West on a Bigfork Stagecoach Ride in the beautiful Montana landscape at Wrangler Springs Ranch.
Bigfork Summer Playhouse
526 Electric Ave. | Bigfork, 59911
406.837.4886 | bigforksummerplayhouse.com
A 435-seat, indoor, air-conditioned theater presenting Broadway musicals.
Rocky Mountain Glass Kayaks
Echo Bay Trail 252 | Bigfork, 59911
406.219.8882 | rmgkayak.co
Paddle Montana’s waters in a transparent kayak and take in crystal-clear views beneath you. LED-lit night tours add a whole new glow to the adventure.
Samaa Living (Curative Yoga)
470 Electric Ave., Suite 1G | Bigfork, 59911
406.871.3491 | samaaliving.org
Nonprofit yoga school and retreat center offering daily in-studio classes, livestream options and four annual retreats rooted in traditional yogic teachings.
RETAIL AND DINING
Brett Thuma Gallery
459 Electric Ave. | Bigfork, 59911
406.837.4604
Brett Thuma paintings, limited edition prints and photography, plus bronzes, jewelry and more.
Founded in 1932, Kehoe’s Agate Shop offers fine jewelry, minerals, fossils and more.
The Sitting Duck
15265 State Highway 35 | Bigfork, 59911 406.692.6024 | sittingduckmt.com
A pet-friendly bar and grill on Flathead Lake with scenic views, beach access and a boat dock.
Woods Bay Wine
14942 State Highway 35 | Bigfork, 59911
406.420.2247 | woodsbaywine.com
A unique wine tasting and food experience plus a shop with wines, beers, scotch and ciders.
glaciermt.com/condon
The quiet community of Condon is situated along the Swan River between the Swan and Mission mountain ranges and is flanked by the Bob Marshall and Mission Mountains wilderness areas. The region offers an abundant supply of alpine lakes. Just south of Condon, Holland Lake is a popular yearround destination with campgrounds, water activities and a beautiful hike to nearby Holland Falls, which freezes into an art sculpture during the winter.
Just five minutes east of Bigfork, Ferndale’s Flathead Valley setting offers incredible views of both the Mission Mountains and Swan Mountain Range. Water play abounds here with Flathead Lake and the Swan River nearby, and hikers find endless exploration in the Jewel Basin and Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex.
SEELEY LAKE
glaciermt.com/seeley-lake
Seeley Lake is a year-round adventure lover’s paradise with access to nearby trails, lakes, streams, the Lolo National Forest and the Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex. The area is a major destination for snowmobilers and cross-country skiers, and the warmer months attract water lovers to the valley’s chain of lakes. Numerous lodging options can be found in this little resort town, plus restaurants, locally owned shops, and one of the premier championship golf courses in Montana.
VISITOR INFORMATION
Seeley Lake Historical Museum and Visitor Center
2920 State Highway 83 | Seeley Lake, 59868 406.677.2990 | seeleyinfo.org
Visitor Center open year-round. Find information on local events and winter and summer activities.
B+B, HOSTELS, HOT SPRINGS, LODGES, RANCHES AND RESORTS
Rich Ranch
939 Cottonwood Lakes Road | Seeley Lake, 59868 406.677.2317 | 800.532.4350 | richranch.com Montana guest and dude ranch offering a genuine, western experience.
SWAN LAKE
glaciermt.com/swan-lake
Tucked in the picturesque Seeley Swan Valley and located at the southern tip of its namesake—Swan Lake—the once-hopping timber camp of Swan Lake is well-known for incredible outdoor recreation. Year-round visitors use the town as a launching point for fishing area lakes and streams, hiking, birding, dog sledding and backcountry skiing nearby mountains.
VISITOR INFORMATION
Swan Lake Chamber & Community Club 22778 State Highway 83 | Swan Lake, 59911 406.837.2086 | swanlakemontana.org
Located on the southeast shore of Swan Lake and close to Glacier National Park.
Get Social
We love Montana. And we really love sharing it with you. While you can’t be here every day, you can still get your daily dose of Western Montana (including photos, the latest news and travel deals) on our social media channels. On our blog, we share trip ideas, seasonal highlights, travel tips and inspiration for experiencing Western Montana’s outdoor adventures and communities. If you’re traveling through our corner of paradise, feel free to ask questions or share your photos with us by using hashtag #GlacierMT or tagging us at @GlacierMT.
In case you’re still not quite sure where to find us, here are direct links to each of our social media outlets:
We’re proud of Glacier Country, but it’s just one piece of what makes Montana worth exploring. Across the state, wide-open landscapes, rewarding outdoor recreation and small towns built for lingering invite you to slow down and look closer. Scenic drives, public lands and lesser-known stops reveal a side of Montana that often surprises first-time visitors.
Montana is shaped by local businesses, close-knit communities and people who care deeply about where they live. Each place has its own character and pace, offering experiences that feel genuine and unforced. Use the list below to start planning a road trip that shows you more of Montana, USA.
VISITOR INFORMATION
Beaverhead Chamber of Commerce, Tourism & Development
730 N. Montana St., Suite 2 | Dillon, 59725 406.683.5511 | beaverheadchamber.org
Montana’s largest county offers charming, eclectic shops, great dining and fun saloons.
Belgrade Chamber of Commerce
10 E. Main St. | Belgrade, 59714 406.388.1616 | visitbelgrade.org
The perfect blend of small-town hospitality, city commerce and outstanding outdoor recreation.
Big Sky & Greater Yellowstone
Welcome Center
88 Ousel Falls Road, Unit A1 | Big Sky, 59716 406.995.3000 | 800.943.4111 | visitbigsky.com
Gateway to Yellowstone National Park, with lodging, dining, outdoor activities and events.
Bozeman Chamber of Commerce/CVB 2000 Commerce Way | Bozeman, 59715 406.586.5421 | 800.228.4224 | visitbozeman.com
We have multiple locations to help you plan your next vacation or meeting in Bozeman.
Butte-Silver Bow Chamber of Commerce
1000 George St. | Butte, 59701
406.723.3177 | 800.735.6814 | buttecvb.com
“The richest hill on earth.” Discover Butte’s legacy, history, culture and community.
Central Montana
PO Box 3555 | Lewistown, 59457
406.761.5036 | centralmontana.com
Experience the Rocky Mountain Front, with dinosaur digs and Lewis and Clark history.
Destination Yellowstone (West Yellowstone Chamber of Commerce/CVB)
30 Yellowstone Ave. | West Yellowstone, 59758 406.646.7701 | destinationyellowstone.com
The west entrance and gateway community to Yellowstone National Park.
Discover Anaconda
306 E. Park Ave. | Anaconda, 59711
406.563.2400 | discoveranaconda.com
Discover a charming, historic mining town with access to world-class outdoor recreation.
Gardiner Chamber of Commerce
216 Park St. | Gardiner, 59030 406.848.7971 | visitgardinermt.com
Gardiner, Montana is “Nature’s Favorite Entrance to Yellowstone National Park!™”
Glendive Chamber of Commerce
808 N. Merrill Ave. | Glendive, 59330 406.377.5601 | visitglendive.com
Visitor information for beautiful Glendive, Montana.
Great Falls Convention & Visitors Bureau 15 Overlook Drive | Great Falls, 59405 406.761.4436 | visitgreatfallsmontana.org
For outdoor adventurers and meeting planners looking for an authentic Montana experience.
Wide-open spaces full of awe-inspiring beauty, history, culture, Indigenous stories and outdoor adventures set against a backdrop of prairies and starry skies.
Visit Southwest Montana
1000 George St. | Butte, 59701
406.422.7978 | 800.879.1159 | southwestmt.com
Explore ghost towns, hot springs, museums and sapphire mines—Southwest Montana welcomes you with history and hometown hospitality.
HOTELS AND MOTELS
Choteau Stage Stop Inn
1005 Main Ave. N. | Choteau, 59422
406.466.5900 | stagestopinn.com
A rustic Rocky Mountain Front respite between Glacier and Yellowstone national parks.
SERVICE BUSINESSES
Great Falls Development Alliance
405 Third St. NW, Suite 203 | Great Falls, 59404 406.788.6867 | growgreatfallsmontana.org
Driving growth, innovation and opportunity across North Central Montana through business support, financing and community partnerships.
SPECIAL INTEREST TOURS, RECREATION AND ADVENTURES
Dropstone Outfitting
4365 U.S. Highway 89 | Choteau, 59422
406.289.0863 | dropstoneoutfitting.com
Offering stock-supported hiking and backpacking trips through the Bob Marshall Wilderness.
Discovery Ski Area
180 Discovery Basin Road | Philipsburg, 59858
406.563.2184 | skidiscovery.com
Discovery is an excellent find that will remind you what skiing in Montana is all about!
Gem Mountain Sapphire Mine
21 Sapphire Gulch Lane (mine)
201 W. Broadway St. (store) | Philipsburg, 59858
406.859.4367 | 866.459.4367 | gemmountainmt.com
Montana’s oldest, largest sapphire mine. Best equipment and fun-loving, helpful staff.
Montana Gems
204 W. Broadway St. | Philipsburg, 59858
406.306.0440 | montanagems.net
Mine sapphires on-site, purchase gravel kits for mining at home, and shop sapphire jewelry.
The Sapphire Gallery
115 E. Broadway St. | Philipsburg, 59858
406.859.3236 | 800.525.0169 | sapphiregallery.com
Find your own sapphire. Experts provide knowledge and tools. Cases of sapphire jewelry to shop from. Closed Saturdays.
ZooMontana
2100 S. Shiloh Road | Billings, 59106
406.652.8100 | zoomontana.org
Montana’s only AZA accredited nonprofit zoological/botanical garden and arboretum.
RETAIL AND DINING
The Sweet Palace
109 E. Broadway St. | Philipsburg, 59858
406.859.3353 | 888.793.3896 | sweetpalace.com
Featuring over 1,100 selections: chocolates, taffy, fudge, caramels and sugar-free treats. Closed Saturdays.
Find Your Montana Moment
8 PERFECT VIEWS IN WESTERN MONTANA
1. Mission Mountains: Travel north on U.S. Highway 93 from Missoula through the small community of Ravalli. As you climb Ravalli Hill, be sure to keep an eye on the rolling hills to the left, as they are part of the CSKT Bison Range and home to 350 head of bison. Upon cresting Ravalli Hill, focus your eyes straight ahead for a jaw-dropping view of the Mission Mountains.
2. Holland Falls: While Holland Falls is viewable from the shore of Holland Lake, set out on the 1.6-mile-long hike in the Holland Falls National Recreation Area. This easy hike puts you up close with the waterfall and provides expansive views of the lake and the Mission Mountains.
3. Flathead Lake: Every angle of Flathead Lake is aweinspiring, but the initial view of the immense, sparkling lake as you crest a small hill entering Polson from the south on U.S. Highway 93 is spectacular. It never gets old, even for us Montanans.
4. Blodgett Canyon: This local-favorite hiking spot just outside Hamilton is one of the Bitterroot’s best. It’s also popular with rock climbers. Follow the tranquil Blodgett Creek 3.5 miles deep into the canyon along cliffs and spires, with beautiful foliage and a stunning waterfall.
5. Libby Dam: This powerful dam that holds back the Lake Koocanusa Reservoir is a site to behold, and views of the dam can be seen from the Lake Koocanusa Scenic Byway. The nearby Souse Gulch day-use area offers playgrounds, picnic shelters and boat ramp access to the lake, as well as a stunning view of the lake.
6. The “M”: This is a Missoula must, and—though slightly steep—the Missoula Valley view is well worth it. This local gem is a .75-mile switchback trail that ends at the giant letter M on Mount Sentinel above the University of Montana
7. Cut Bank Trail: Explore Cut Bank Creek Coulee on this vibrant little city’s unpaved 2-mile Coulee Trail. Take in beautiful views of the gorge to the south and the majestic Rocky Mountains to the west.
8. St. Regis-Paradise Scenic Byway: From St. Regis, take one of the most scenic drives in Western Montana. This easy, curving road travels along the Clark Fork River and through the Lolo National Forest before connecting with State Highway 200 near the small town of Paradise. Be sure to take advantage of the pullouts along the road for uninterrupted views of this region’s forested landscape.