Road Trip: Montana & Wyoming with National Parks
- shannastewart4443
- Jul 15
- 20 min read
Updated: Jul 17
“Afoot and light-hearted I take to the open road, healthy, free, the world before me.” — Walt Whitman
There's a unique freedom found only in the American West, where roads extend endlessly under expansive skies, and each turn reveals a new encounter with nature. This road trip through Montana and Wyoming takes you into the vastness: glacier-fed lakes, geothermal wonders, rugged peaks, and charming towns that quietly captivate you. From stargazing in teepees near Yellowstone to kayaking on the reflective waters of Jenny Lake, this journey is not just about the destinations—it's about taking your time, reconnecting, and rediscovering the wonder in places that still seem untouched.
This road trip will cover the following stops (with many more along the way :):
Days 1 - 3: Bozeman, Montana
Days 3 - 4: Red Lodge
Days 4 - 5: Cody
Days 5 - 9: Yellowstone National Park
Days 9 - 10: Missoula
Days 10 - 13: Glacier National Park
Days 13 - 14: Return to Bozeman
Days 14: Fly Home
Link to map: Glacier National Park Trip Roadtrip - Roadtrippers
Total Distance: approximately 1074 miles
Total Drive time: approximately 20 hours
Best time to take this trip:
For a balanced mix of adventure and serenity, early to mid-September is often the golden window—cool mornings, fewer crowds, and vibrant landscapes without summer’s bustle.
Days 1 - 3: Bozeman, Montana
Bozeman is one of those rare places where rugged wilderness and creative energy coexist beautifully. Bozeman delivers a mix of outdoor adventure, small-town charm, and cultural depth that’s hard to beat.
Where to stay in Bozeman:
RSVP Hotel
3-Star Hotel
Inspired by their worldly travels, the owners Hillary and Haylee Folkvord are taking things to the next level in Montana. Located in Midtown Bozeman, what was once the Rainbow Hotel has been meticulously resurrected to change the way you stay and play in this mountain town. These small-town girls raised on a 3 generation farm in Montana, have always been girls with a green smoothie in one hand and a glass of Champagne in the other. Additionally they pursed their passion of bringing real, whole food to Bozeman in 2018 with the Farmer’s Daughters Cafe located inside the RSVP Hotel. Their family also owns and operates the Sacajawea Hotel located in Three Forks, MT near the family farm.
Field & Stream Lodge Bozeman
4-Star Hotel
Field & Stream Bozeman is your new gateway to Big Sky Country. Situated just one mile from downtown, the lodge is designed to be a gathering place for friends, families, experts, and amateurs. It's the perfect home base for your next adventure—fishing, hunting, skiing Bridger Bowl, or hiking the “M” trail. Relax and play board games in front of the large stone fireplace in the Great Room, take a dip in the indoor pool, gather around the canoe-shaped fire pits and live log picnic tables in The Backyard, or enjoy a local beer and your favorite snack from our Grab n’ Go Supply Shop.
Kimpton Armory Hotel Bozeman
5-Star Hotel
Bozeman, Montana’s status as the gateway to Yellowstone National Park means that tourism has long been a major factor in the city’s development; an addition like the Kimpton Armory Hotel Bozeman is a sign that it’s entered a newly upscale era. The landmark that is the 1940s-era armory building once used by the Montana Army National Guard has been augmented by a substantial contemporary addition; the result is the city’s first luxury boutique hotel.
And an impressive one it is. Inside, the look is sophisticated and modern with rugged details — hand-stitched leather and wood, a rooftop fire pit, a basement whiskey bar — that are in keeping with the building’s origins and the destination itself, a hub for outdoor adventure. Rooms are elegant but down-to-earth, featuring custom beds with Frette linens, warm lighting, large workspaces, cozy throws and pillows in plaid flannel, and minibars stocked with local treats. Bathrooms are as sleek as you’d expect at a Kimpton hotel, as are other amenities the brand is known for: an evening happy hour, a 24-hour fitness center, and complimentary bicycles.
Other highlights include the outdoor pool on the terrace, conveniently heated year-round, loaner snowshoes and sleds, and the rooftop bar with views of the Rocky Mountains — there’s even a pop-up winter chalet where you can warm up with a glass of wine while protected from the elements.
Things to do in Bozeman:
Explore Culture & Curiosity
Museum of the Rockies: Home to one of the world’s largest collections of dinosaur fossils, plus Native American exhibits and a planetarium.
American Computer & Robotics Museum: A quirky, fascinating dive into the evolution of tech—from cuneiform tablets to AI.
Gallatin History Museum: Housed in a former jail, it’s a great stop for Old West stories and local lore.
🏞️ Get Outside
Hike the “M” Trail: A local rite of passage with sweeping views of the Gallatin Valley.
Palisade Falls: A short, paved hike to an 80-foot waterfall—perfect for families or a quick nature fix.
Hyalite Canyon: A playground for hiking, biking, fishing, and winter snowshoeing just 25 minutes from town.
🐻 Wild Encounters
Montana Grizzly Encounter: A sanctuary for rescued grizzlies where you can safely observe them up close—no cages, just education and awe.
🧖♀️ Relax & Rejuvenate
Bozeman Hot Springs: Soak in mineral-rich pools (indoor and outdoor) with live music on select nights.
Burke Park & Peets Hill: A local favorite for sunset strolls and panoramic views right from downtown.
🍺 Eat, Drink & Be Local
Downtown Bozeman: Walkable and full of indie shops, galleries, and cafés.
Craft Breweries: Try MAP Brewing (with mountain views), Mountains Walking, or Bozeman Brewing Co.
Montana Ale Works: A must-visit for bison burgers, elk potstickers, and a killer local beer list.
🎭 Arts & Events
The Ellen Theatre: Catch a play, concert, or indie film in this beautifully restored 1919 venue.
Emerson Center for the Arts & Culture: Art exhibits, classes, and community events in a historic schoolhouse.
Days 3 - 4: Red Lodge, Montana
(about 2.5 hour drive)
Red Lodge, Montana is one of those places that feels like a secret whispered between mountain peaks—a gateway to the Beartooth Highway and Yellowstone, but with a charm all its own. Whether you're road-tripping through Big Sky Country or looking for a basecamp with soul, Red Lodge delivers a mix of outdoor adventure, Western heritage, and small-town magic.
What to see and do on way from Bozeman to Red Lodge:
🏞️ Scenic Stops & Small Towns
Livingston: A charming artsy town with galleries, fly-fishing shops, and the Yellowstone Gateway Museum. Grab coffee at Coffee Crossing or lunch at Gil’s Goods.
Chico Hot Springs (near Pray): A slight detour, but worth it for a soak in historic mineral pools and a bite at the lodge’s farm-to-table restaurant.
Absarokee & Fishtail: Tiny towns with big character. Stop at Fishtail General Store (est. 1900!) for snacks and local color.
🌄 Nature & Adventure
Bridger Bowl Area: Even in summer, the drive through Bridger Canyon is stunning. Hike the Bridger Ridge Trail or stop at Fairy Lake for a picnic.
Hyalite Canyon (optional detour): Waterfalls, alpine lakes, and hiking trails galore—perfect if you want to stretch your legs before hitting the road.
📸 Final Stretch to Red Lodge
Beartooth Pass Scenic Byway (if looping in from Yellowstone): One of the most jaw-dropping drives in the U.S., with alpine lakes, switchbacks, and panoramic views.
Rock Creek Vista Point: Just before Red Lodge, this overlook offers sweeping views of the canyon and surrounding peaks.
Where to stay in Red Lodge:
Beartooth Hideaway Inn and Cabins
2-Star Hotel
Located just south of downtown Red Lodge, this property blends classic roadside motel charm with cozy cabin-style lodging. It’s especially popular with road trippers, skiers, and families looking for a relaxed, affordable stay.
The Pollard Hotel
3-Star Hotel
Embark on a journey to Red Lodge, Montana and experience the luxurious stay at Pollard Hotel! Relax in its cozy guestrooms, wander among picturesque mountains and parklands; bring your friends along for an amazing gathering. Enjoy a delicious breakfast of lunch from Marli's restaurant. Get energized with breakfast that goes above continental standards before visiting the hotel health & fitness facilities available exclusively for guests.
Experience the charm of a bygone era at The Pollard Hotel, with its rich and mysterious history. This locally owned establishment is staffed by professionals who will ensure you have an unforgettable stay - whether it be exploring ghostly tales or enjoying our famous guests' stories!
Blue Sky Cabins
5-Star Hotel
These plush accommodations are located in the heart of Big Sky Country – near Red Lodge, Montana and nestled at the foot of the spectacular Absaroka/Beartooth Mountain Range & Wilderness. There are five, very luxurious cabins, unlike any other “cabin” you’ve experienced before! You’ll never want to leave your very own private cabin in the spectacular Beartooth Mountains!
All of the cabins are distanced from each other for privacy and offer completely unobstructed views of the mountains and wildlife, no matter which cabin you choose! They have expansive, covered decks complete with Gas BBQ’s & glider chairs, full kitchens, flat screen TV's and DVD and Blu-ray players and complimentary wifi. The cabins have many large windows to allow for plenty of light & views from every room of the cabin towards the mountains! You can awake to a dramatic mountain sunrise from the comfort of your cushy bed! And remember no children or pets. Perfect for that romantic getaway for 2!
What to do in Red Lodge:
🏞️ Outdoor Adventures
Beartooth Highway Drive: Dubbed the “most beautiful drive in America,” this scenic byway climbs to nearly 11,000 feet with jaw-dropping alpine views.
Red Lodge Mountain: Ski in winter, hike or bike in summer—this uncrowded resort feels wonderfully unpretentious.
Wild Bill Lake Trail: A peaceful, wheelchair-accessible loop near town that's great for fishing and spotting wildlife.
Horseback Riding: Outfitters like Elk River or Paintbrush Adventures will take you deep into Big Sky country.
🐾 Wildlife & Nature
Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary: A rescue haven for animals native to the Yellowstone ecosystem—see wolves, bison, bears, and foxes up close.
Rock Creek Vista Point: Just outside town, this overlook delivers stunning canyon views—especially at sunset.
🖼️ Arts, Culture & Small-Town Strolls
Carbon County Arts Guild & Depot Gallery: Local art inside a beautifully restored historic train depot.
Broadway Avenue: The heart of downtown, full of quirky shops, candy stores, art galleries, and cozy cafés.
The Roosevelt Center: A hub for live music, classes, and rotating exhibits.
🍽️ Food & Drink Favorites
Montana Candy Emporium: Vintage sweets in an old-school Western setting—nostalgia included.
Bogart’s: Known for margaritas, hearty Mexican fare, and a fun local crowd.
Carbon County Steakhouse: Elegant yet rustic—perfect for a celebratory dinner.
Red Lodge Ales: Try their Helio Hefe or Bent Nail IPA, then take a growler to-go.
Days 4 - 5: Cody, Wyoming
(about 1 hour drive)
Cody is the kind of place where you can watch a bald eagle soar over red rock cliffs in the morning, ride a horse through sagebrush in the afternoon, and end the day with a cowboy ballad under the stars.
What to see and do on way from Red Lodge to Cody:
🏞️ Beartooth Highway (US-212)
Why it’s iconic: Called “the most beautiful drive in America,” this alpine route climbs to nearly 11,000 feet.
Must-stops:
Rock Creek Vista Point: Sweeping canyon views just outside Red Lodge.
Top of the World Store: Quirky stop for snacks, souvenirs, and stories at high elevation.
Beartooth Pass: The highest motorable road in Wyoming—expect snowfields, alpine lakes, and panoramic views even in summer.
🏔️ Chief Joseph Scenic Byway (WY-296)
Connects: Beartooth Highway to Cody via a more remote, equally stunning route.
Highlights:
Dead Indian Summit Overlook: A dramatic viewpoint with deep historical significance tied to the Nez Perce flight.
Sunlight Creek Bridge: The highest bridge in Wyoming, spanning a deep gorge with epic views.
Cathedral Cliffs: Towering limestone formations that glow at golden hour.
🐾 Wildlife & Nature
Sunlight Basin: Prime territory for spotting elk, moose, and even bears—especially in early morning or dusk.
Clark’s Fork Canyon: A rugged, lesser-known gorge carved by the Yellowstone River.
Where to stay in Cody:
The Cody Hotel
3-Star Hotel
The Cody Hotel is known for luxury lodging in the Heart of the American West. The hotel is conveniently located just under an hour's drive from Yellowstone National Park's East Entrance gate.
Enjoy premier accommodations in the heart of Yellowstone Country. Family activities in the Cody area include river rafting on the Shoshone River, trail rides on horseback, hiking and camping, guided sightseeing tours, sightseeing on the Cody Trolley, exceptional western historical experiences at the Buffalo Bill Historical Center, fly fishing on the North Fork of the Shoshone River, and breathtaking sightseeing along the Beartooth Highway.
Chamberlin Inn
3-Star Hotel
Located in the heart of Cody, Wyoming, just steps to legendary downtown Main Street, the historic Chamberlin Inn has always been recognized for providing the finest accommodations in Cody.
Originally built in 1901, this charming boutique Inn has hosted discerning travelers, and distinguished celebrity guests during decades of hospitality. Boasting twenty-one individually custom decorated guestrooms and cottages nestled around the private landscaped gardens and courtyard.
Bill Cody Ranch
3-Star Hotel
Bill Cody Ranch is a historic dude ranch nestled in the Shoshone National Forest, just 25 miles west of Cody, Wyoming and 25 miles east of Yellowstone’s East Entrance. Established in 1925 by Hollywood actor Leonard Morris, it’s a place where the Old West still lingers in the air, blending rustic charm with modern comfort. Bill Cody Ranch blends creekside log cabins with western decor and modern baths. It offers daily horseback trail rides, guided fly fishing, skeet shooting, and campfire s’mores. The on-site restaurant and bar serve American fare and nightly entertainment.
Things to do in Cody:
🏛️ Cultural Icons
Buffalo Bill Center of the West: A Smithsonian-affiliated complex of five museums, including the Plains Indian Museum, Cody Firearms Museum, and Whitney Western Art Museum.
Old Trail Town: Step into the Old West with 1800s-era buildings, Butch Cassidy’s cabin, and frontier gravesites.
Cody Dug Up Gun Museum: A quirky, free museum showcasing excavated firearms from the Revolutionary War to WWII.
🤠 Western Experiences
Cody Nite Rodeo: The longest-running nightly rodeo in the world—bull riding, barrel racing, and family fun all summer long.
Buffalo Bill’s Irma Hotel: Built by Buffalo Bill himself in 1902. Grab a prime rib dinner and watch the nightly gunfight reenactment on the porch.
Cody Trolley Tours: A one-hour narrated ride through town with stories of outlaws, pioneers, and Buffalo Bill’s legacy.
🌄 Scenic Drives & Nature
Chief Joseph Scenic Byway: A jaw-dropping drive with overlooks like Dead Indian Summit and Sunlight Creek Bridge.
Buffalo Bill Dam & Visitor Center: Walk across this historic dam and take in canyon views just west of town.
Shoshone National Forest: Hike, fish, or camp in America’s first national forest—wild, rugged, and beautiful.
🐴 Wildlife & Outdoor Fun
Red Canyon Wild Mustang Tours: Spot wild horses roaming the McCullough Peaks Herd Management Area.
Fly Fishing & Rafting: Cast a line in the Shoshone River or book a whitewater trip through Red Canyon.
Kirwin Ghost Town: Take an ATV tour to this abandoned mining town deep in the Absaroka Mountains.
🎭 Entertainment & Events
The Cody Cattle Company: Dinner and a live cowboy music show—great for families or a fun night out.
Wild West Spectacular: A musical comedy about Buffalo Bill’s life, performed at the historic Cody Theatre.
🛍️ Downtown Cody
By Western Hands: Artisan-crafted Western furniture and leather goods.
Olive & Pearl: Boutique candles and home décor.
Montana Silversmiths Outlet: Western jewelry and belt buckles galore.
Days 5 - 9: Yellowstone National Park
(about 3 hours' drive)
Founded in 1872, Yellowstone is the world's first national park features geothermal marvels such as Old Faithful and the Grand Prismatic Spring. It covers 2.2 million acres across the states of Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. Yellowstone offers outstanding opportunities for observing wildlife, including bison, elk, bears, wolves, and more and encompasses a diverse landscape of subalpine forests, rivers, canyons, and alpine lakes.
What to see and do on way to Yellowstone from Cody:
🐾 Wildlife & Nature Highlights
Shoshone National Forest: America’s first national forest—great for hiking, fishing, and spotting moose or bears3
Sunlight Basin & Clark’s Fork Canyon: Rugged terrain with high chances of wildlife encounters
Sylvan Pass: High-altitude gateway into Yellowstone with sweeping vistas
🛣️ Scenic Drives
US Highway 14/16/20 (Buffalo Bill Scenic Byway): Follows the North Fork of the Shoshone River through canyons and forests
Chief Joseph Scenic Byway: Optional detour with jaw-dropping overlooks like Dead Indian Summit
Where to stay near Yellowstone:
1872 Inn
3-Star Hotel
Explore the wonderland that is Yellowstone. Just steps away from the West Entrance to Yellowstone National Park, 1872 Inn is the ideal location for you to experience the grandeur of Yellowstone and return to relax after an exhilarating day of exploration. As you spend your days exploring all that Yellowstone National Park has to offer, your distinctly Montana room will be waiting for your return. You will find a small selection of complimentary snacks and water waiting for you upon your arrival.
Relax in front of your personal fireplace, refresh in your large double shower, or catch up on the news or your favorite team on your flat-screen television. Each room is beautifully appointed to ensure a most comfortable stay.
These uniquely designed Montana rooms will ensure your mountain experience is unforgettable. Each room is furnished with locally, handmade, custom furniture, from the headboard to the desk chair. Luxuriously comfortable bedding will welcome you each night, while you breathe the fresh mountain air.
Under Canvas North Yellowstone
Glamping
Under Canvas North Yellowstone - Paradise Valley provides an extraordinary gateway to some of the most breathtaking spectacles in nature. Nestled alongside the majestic Yellowstone River, this extraordinary camp redefines what it means to sleep under the stars immersed in nature and wrapped in luxury. Sleep in style in a safari-inspired canvas tent- featuring a king-sized bed draped in the coziest linens, a wood-burning stove and private bathrooms, well stocked with organic products to wash off the adventures of the day. When you are not relaxing in your private accommodation, the site offers a wealth of activities. Choose from some of the finest fly fishing in the area, enjoy complimentary morning yoga sessions and activities for kids, or venture out for trail hiking, horseback riding or a relaxing river float. After a day immersed in nature- dine al fresco along the Yellowstone River enjoying a seasonally- regionally inspired menu of wholesome fare, then enjoy complimentary smores under the stars. Under Canvas North Yellowstone - Paradise Valley is a Small Luxury Hotels of the World property.
Hotel Yellowstone at Jackson Hole (4 hours from Cody)
5-Star Hotel
Gracefully set atop East Gros Ventre Butte, just ten minutes from the historic Jackson Town Square, Hotel Yellowstone offers an unrivaled luxury retreat in Jackson Hole. Ideally located for exploring the vibrant local scene as well as the iconic landscapes of Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks, our hotel invites guests to experience adventure and discovery, all while enjoying breathtaking views of the magnificent Teton Range.
Best Things to see and do:
🌋 Geothermal Marvels
Old Faithful: World-famous geyser erupting ~every 90 minutes — iconic and reliable.
Grand Prismatic Spring: Vivid rainbow-colored hot spring; best viewed from the overlook trail.
Upper Geyser Basin: Over 150 geothermal features in one square mile.
Norris Geyser Basin: Hottest and most dynamic thermal area in the park.
🏞️ Dramatic Landscapes
Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone: Towering waterfalls and colorful canyon walls — Artist Point is a must.
Yellowstone Lake: Serene and massive; great for kayaking and lakeside hikes.
Lamar Valley: Prime wildlife viewing — often called the “American Serengeti.”
Hayden Valley: Another hotspot for spotting bison, elk, and bears.
🐻 Wildlife Encounters
Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center: See rescued animals up close in West Yellowstone.
Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary (near Red Lodge): Great for learning about native species.
Sunlight Basin & Shoshone Forest: Off-the-beaten-path areas with high wildlife activity.
🚶♀️ Outdoor Adventures
Hiking Trails: Fairy Falls, Mount Washburn, and Mystic Falls offer stunning views.
Scenic Drives: Beartooth Highway and Chief Joseph Scenic Byway are jaw-dropping.
Horseback Riding & Rafting: Available near Cody and Gardiner for a true Western experience.
Days 9 - 10: Missoula, Montana
(about 5.5 hour drive)
Missoula is a gem tucked into the heart of western Montana — a place where rugged wilderness meets vibrant culture. Whether you're road-tripping through Big Sky Country or planning a stop between Yellowstone and Glacier, Missoula offers a refreshing mix of outdoor adventure, artsy charm, and small-town soul.
Things to do and see on way from Yellowstone to Missoula:
🌄 Nature & Adventure
Beartooth Highway: If you loop through Red Lodge, this drive is jaw-dropping — alpine lakes, switchbacks, and panoramic views
Chief Joseph Scenic Byway: Connects to Cody with dramatic overlooks like Dead Indian Summit
Rock Creek Vista Point: Near Red Lodge — stunning canyon views, especially at sunset
Hyalite Canyon (near Bozeman): Waterfalls, alpine lakes, and hiking trails galore
🐻 Wildlife & Unique Experiences
Montana Grizzly Encounter (near Bozeman): Sanctuary for rescued grizzlies — no cages, just awe
Yellowstone Historic Center (West Yellowstone): Learn about the park’s early days and travel history
Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center: See rescued animals up close — great for families
Where to stay in Missoula:
The Wren
3-Star Hotel
Located in the Heart of Downtown Missoula
The Wren is the starting point of an authentic Missoula experience. While you explore the city and Missoula’s great outdoors, we’ll provide the relaxing environment to plan, prepare, and launch out into everything Montana has to offer. From downtown urban ventures to classic alpine trails, The Wren is the best place in town to start—and finish—any kind of adventure. The central location is ideal for any kind of adventure, just blocks from restaurants and bars, art galleries, and music venues. Or, venture out of the city to experience hiking trails and mountain views.
LOGE Missoula
3-Star Hotel
Mountains out one door, mountain town vibes out the other. Missoula isn’t a mecca for the outdoors by accident. While the University means that all the cool cultural parts exist- food, drink, art, music, etc., Missoula has long been all about the outdoors. Wide open spaces and so many rad places to explore and get after it all-year ‘round. Ski, ride, hike, cast a line, surf (yes, Brennan’s Wave surf break is just a short walk from us, right in downtown), and so, so much more.
LOGE Missoula is right in the heart of downtown, an ideal basecamp for adventuring in every direction and exploring the right spots in town. Start at the Dog Wash Café for some local Drum Coffee and good eats. Then come back tired from the trails, rivers, mountains, or all of it for tasty beers and tales around the campfire.
With gear walls in every room there's no stress about your tools or toys being away from your view. Or, if you don't bring your own, our Gear Room is open for you to check-out and get for a ride, paddle, snowshoe, float, and much much more.
There's loads of space for you to stretch out or come together — besides the Dog Wash Café, LOGE Missoula has a nearly-1,000sqft common room where you can have meetings and gatherings, and yoga sessions and other community events throughout the seasons.
Paws Up Montana (about 35 minutes from downtown)
5-Star Hotel
Backcountry living in the Montana Rockies never felt quite so luxe. Deep in the heart of the American West, an easy 40 minutes from Missoula airport (and another 40 minutes from the exact middle of nowhere), Paws Up Montana is for the traveler who wants a wilderness escape to include all the comforts of civilization.
The resort complex comprises an impressive variety of luxury ranch homes and cabins of varying sizes, some of which include full kitchens and laundry, while all boast a fireplace or wood-burning stove. The design may be rustic, but the comforts are modern, with flat-screen TVs and capacious spa-resort bathrooms. Come summer, there’s five-star camping in in six sites with safari-style luxury tents, each with its own unique attractions, such as clifftop views or access to the Blackfoot River.
As for activities, they include just about anything you can imagine doing in the mountains, with the notable exception of downhill skiing — think fly-fishing, mountain biking, dog sledding, river rafting. It’s a spa resort for guys who are too tough for spa resorts; or, alternately, it’s a wilderness camp for those who demand luxury-hotel comforts. It’s not cheap, not by a long shot, but if you want to combine mountain-West ruggedness with white-glove service, this is the place to do it.
Things to do in Missoula:
🏞️ Outdoor Adventures
Hike the “M” Trail: Iconic zigzag trail with panoramic views over the city and valley.
Rattlesnake National Recreation Area: Trails, wildlife, and solitude just minutes from downtown.
Float the Clark Fork River: Rent a tube or kayak and drift through town — serene and scenic.
Mount Jumbo & Mount Sentinel: Great for sunrise hikes and spotting wildflowers3.
Council Grove State Park: Peaceful riverside park with picnic spots and birdwatching.
🎨 Arts & Culture
Missoula Art Museum: Free admission, contemporary works, and Indigenous art.
Smokejumper Visitor Center: Learn about wildfire fighters — tours led by actual smokejumpers.
Historical Museum at Fort Missoula: Local history with original buildings and exhibits.
University of Montana Campus: Stroll through historic buildings and riverside trails.
🍽️ Local Flavor
Big Dipper Ice Cream: Famous for unique flavors like Cardamom and Mango Habanero.
The Notorious Pig BBQ: Hearty Montana-style barbecue.
Black Coffee Roasting Co.: Industrial-chic café with fair-trade beans and silky lattes.
Tamarack Brewing Co.: Craft beer and pub fare with a local twist.
🛍️ Shopping & Makers
Missoula Farmers Market: Fresh produce, local meats, and handmade goods (May–October).
Missoula Makers Collective: Over 80 local artists — ceramics, jewelry, and embroidered Montana gear.
Fact & Fiction Bookstore: Indie shop with regional reads and local authors.
🐾 Family-Friendly Fun
A Carousel for Missoula: Hand-carved carousel horses and whimsical charm.
Caras Park: Riverfront playground, events, and food trucks.
Missoula Butterfly House & Insectarium: Tropical greenhouse and bug exhibits.
Splash Montana: Water park fun for all ages.
Days 10 - 13: Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park is pure magic — especially for someone who thrives on dramatic landscapes, boutique stays, and off-the-beaten-path adventures. Nestled in northern Montana, it’s often called the “Crown of the Continent” for good reason.
Things to see and do on way from Missoula to Glacier National Park:
🌄 Nature & Adventure Highlights
Seeley Lake & Morrell Falls: A short hike to a hidden waterfall surrounded by wildflowers and huckleberries
Swan Mountain Llama Trekking: Hike with a llama companion — yes, really! Unique and unforgettable
CSKT Bison Range: Wildlife sanctuary with bison, elk, and scenic drives through tribal lands
Jackson Glacier Overlook: First glacier visible from Going-to-the-Sun Road — a preview of what’s ahead
🛍️ Quirky & Local Flavor
Stoney’s Kwik Stop (Clearwater Junction): Snap a photo with the giant roadside bull — a Montana icon
Montana Fur Trader: Offbeat gift shop with Native American collectibles and local treasures
Flathead Lake Brewing Co.: Lakeside brews with views — perfect for a sunset sip
Where to stay near Glacier National Park:
Under Canvas Glacier
Glamping
Montana’s Glacier National Park is greener than its name migh suggest, at least during summer, and from mid-June until mid-September it’s possible to sleep in upscale safari-camp style at Under Canvas Glacier, a collection of luxury tents outfitted with king beds, full private bathrooms, and wood-burning stoves. The Under Canvas concept has now spread all across America, and it’s a simple one to understand: luxury boutique hotel comforts and style, with a degree of outdoor immersion you can ordinarily only find at a self-serve campsite.
Of course, conceiving it is one thing; it’s the execution that matters. And Under Canvas has proved to be quite capable at making this idea a reality. With proper king beds, modern en-suite bathrooms, and wood-burning stoves, the accommodations are not just more luxe but more stylish than typical national-park digs; the restaurant, too, is the sort of thing you’d ordinarily find only in a brick-and-mortar boutique hotel. And thanks to the fire pit and picnic areas, the Under Canvas experience is a social one as well — in a landscape as memorable as this, there’s no reason to settle for a forgettable lodging.
North Forty Resort
3-Star Property
The North Forty Resort is a charming, family-owned and operated log cabin retreat, boasting twenty-three unique log cabins and a glamping tent spread across 40 acres of pristine forest. Nestled in Northwest Montana, the picturesque Flathead Valley serves as a year-round haven for solo adventurers and families alike, making the North Forty Resort the quintessential spot to immerse yourself in the true Montana experience. Our meticulously handcrafted log cabins come fully furnished, allowing you to unwind and rejuvenate after a day spent exploring the majestic mountains, glistening glacier waters, and the historic towns nearby—just as the original homesteaders did a century ago. Indulge in an authentic Montana getaway and come be our guest!
Cedar Creek Lodge and Conference Center
3-Star Hotel
A four-season destination inspired by the people, culture and landscapes of Montana, Cedar Creek Lodge and Conference Center blends the comfort of a mountain lodge with modern style at the gateway to Glacier National Park in Columbia Falls. A rich sense of exhilaration infuses every experience, from fly fishing on Whitefish Lake and backcountry adventures in Glacier National Park to championship golf and more.
For more on Glacier, see my previous post: Twelve Best National Parks to Visit
Things to do and see in Glacier National Park:
🚗 Scenic Drives
Going-to-the-Sun Road: Iconic 50-mile route with panoramic views, waterfalls, and cliffside turns — Logan Pass is the crown jewel.
Chief Joseph Scenic Byway: Optional detour with dramatic overlooks and historical significance.
🥾 Must-Do Hikes
Trail | Highlights |
Highline Trail | Cliffside views, wildflowers, and wildlife — starts at Logan Pass |
Grinnell Glacier | Turquoise lakes and glacier views — bucket-list worthy |
Avalanche Lake | Moderate hike through cedar forest to a serene lake |
Hidden Lake Overlook | Short alpine hike with sweeping vistas |
🏞️ Top Natural Wonders
Lake McDonald: Crystal-clear waters and rainbow rocks — perfect for kayaking or paddleboarding.
Many Glacier: Remote and stunning — best wildlife sightings and hikes.
Trail of the Cedars: Wheelchair-accessible loop through old-growth forest and Avalanche Gorge.
St. Mary Lake: Eastern gateway with boat tours and Native America Speaks programs.
🐻 Wildlife & Adventure
Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center: See rescued animals up close.
Swiftcurrent Lake: Paddle or take a scenic boat tour.
Fly-fishing, horseback riding, and rafting: Available in gateway towns like West Glacier and Many Glacier.
Comments