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Montana. Just the name conjures up images of soaring mountains, stunning valleys, crystal-clear lakes and miles and miles and miles of wide open space under a big blue sky.
Cattle graze on the range and wildlife roams freely over the land. The beauty of Montana is found at every turn…and the best way to see it – to experience it – is on a Montana Road Trip.
Planning a Montana Road Trip
Planning a trip to Montana is not an easy task. The state is massive and there’s so much to see. However, using our Montana trip planner will help organize your driving adventure.
We created an epic road trip in Montana that is concentrated in the northwest of the state. In our Montana trip plan, we include the best destinations over 10 days.
Montana Travel Planner
Whether you are visiting Montana for the first time or returning to the state’s scenic landscapes again, keeping track of your plans is essential.
We recommend using our Trip Planning Printables to get (and stay) organized for your vacation to Montana.
Montana Road Trip Destinations
On our ultimate road trip for Montana, each day offers a new experience. Driving through Montana is an adventure in itself!
When we were planning what to see in Montana, we used fellow traveler reviews and local tips to complete our itinerary. The destinations we picked are all within reasonable proximity, making for an efficient Montana sightseeing trip.
- Kalispell
- Flathead Lake and National Bison Range
- Whitefish
- Kootenai Falls
- Glacier National Park
- Hungry Horse Reservoir
- Swan-Seeley Valley
- Missoula
Montana State Road Map
Use this Google Map to view all the destinations and sights on our Ultimate Montana Road Trip.
How To Plan Road Trips in Montana
There are two ways to plan Montana road trips. Always on-the-move (checking into a new place every couple of days) OR day trips from a base. You can plan your Montana vacation itinerary either way – and we’ll show you how!
Multiple Montana Day Trips
On our visit to Montana, we opted to base ourselves in one place and take multiple day trips. However, we did a lot of backtracking.
Fortunately, we had an entire month, which allowed plenty of time to explore and enjoy Montana’s breathtaking scenery.
On-the-Move Montana Trip
We understand most travelers will have about a week to explore the state. Therefore, based off our experiences, we designed an ultimate road trip for 10 days in Montana that is on the move.
The main benefit is that you won’t have to backtrack. The downside is that you will need to pack and unpack every couple of days!
Which Way is Best for Montana Road Trips?
It’s really up to you and your travel style. Our Montana road trip plan can work either way! If you do opt for one place, we recommend staying in Columbia Falls at Cedar Creek Falls Lodge.
Not only is it convenient for getting to our featured Montana destinations, but there are also plenty of stores and restaurants in town, making it an ideal base.
10-DAY MONTANA ROAD TRIP
Each day of our road trip for Montana is filled with exciting sights and activities. Throughout our Montana itinerary, we include pertinent information, like where to stay, what to see and tips for dining.
Our Montana road trip planner includes everything you need to prepare for your amazing vacation. So, buckle in because this is a huge adventure!
DAY 1: KALISPELL – 2 NIGHTS
Kick off your Montana road trip itinerary in Kalispell. After getting checked in and picking up essentials, set off on foot to explore Kalispell.
Getting To Montana
The best way to get to Montana is typically by plane – and the airport in Kalispell is the Glacier Park International Airport (FCA). It’s served year-round by major and regional carriers from several cities.
Car Rental for Montana Road Trip
To help ensure you have am amazing road trip, you will want the right rental car. We foolishly reserved an economy car for our Montana trip – and were luckily upgraded to a mid-size SUV.
In the Subaru Forester, we sat higher off the road, which meant we had a better vantage point for scenery and wildlife watching. Perhaps more importantly, the SUV handled the Montana roads quite a bit better than a economy car would have.
Road Trip Supplies
Kalispell is a hub of commercial activity. This is one reason why it’s a great beginning point for your Montana adventure.
Before you start exploring, take an hour or so to pick up a few everyday travel necessities. Kalispell’s shopping district – which includes stores like Walmart, Target and Cabela’s – lies just north of the old town.
Things we recommend buying once in Montana (that won’t fit in your luggage) are a small cooler and foldable outdoor chairs. Additionally, you can pick up snacks – like granola bars, trail mix and fresh fruit – at one of the grocery stores (such as Albertsons or Smith’s).
Bear spray is another thing you should must have – especially if you plan on doing any hikes. While not permitted on flights (even in checked luggage), you can get bear spray at Kalispell Airport.
The Glacier Outfitter store sells ‘last year’s model’ for a discounted price. Another option is to ask at your car rental counter if some was left behind. This is how we obtained one for our trip!
Kalispell Accommodations
With two nights in Kalispell, you will want to stay in the heart of the historic Old Town. We feel the Grand Hotel is the perfect place. The property was the first luxury hotel in Kalispell when it opened in 1912 – and it retains a rich sense of history to this day.
What To See in Kalispell
After getting supplied and settled in, it’s time to start your Montana vacation and step out to discover Kalispell!
The city is easily navigated on foot and we suggest starting your exploration on Main Street, where there are shops and restaurants galore.
Read our detailed guide for all the Things To Do in Kalispell.
DAY 2: FLATHEAD LAKE and BISON RANGE
On the second day of your road trip through Montana, set off on a full day adventure to Flathead Lake. It’s the largest freshwater lake west of the Mississippi!
Flathead Lake
This large, natural freshwater lake is filled with teal-blue water and waves that lap the shoreline. Flathead Lake sits just 10 miles southeast of Kalispell – but it has 160 miles of shoreline, which can all be explored on a one-day trip.
The serene landscapes, lakeside towns and Montana state parks are top attractions year-round. But in the summertime, Flathead Lake is all about cherry season.
Visitors are invited to stop at the roadside stands to pick up a box of fresh-picked Montana cherries. Summer is also the best time to partake in water activities at Flathead Lake.
West Side of Flathead
The best way to explore Flathead Lake from Kalispell is to start by driving south along the western shore on Highway 93.
During the drive, consider making stops in Somers, Lakeside, Big Arm and Polson to appreciate the views, take a boat out on the water or go for a swim.
Pro Tip: Be aware that the south end of the lake is on the Flathead Indian Reservation and tribal recreation permits are required for some activities.
South of Flathead Lake
At Polson, stay on Highway 93 and continue your road trip in Montana south to explore a few top Montana attractions in this area.
National Bison Range
Established in 1908 when the population of wild bison in America had dwindled to less than 100, the National Bison Range is a refuge for bison and other area wildlife.
The herd at the range is now 300 strong, and deer, antelope and birds also make the area their home. There are three roads through the park that allow visitors the opportunity to spot Montana wildlife.
There is a fee to enter, but the America The Beautiful Pass is accepted. This is also what we used to enter Glacier National Park.
Garden of 1,000 Buddhas
An unusual sight in the middle of Montana, the Garden Land of 1,000 Buddhas is both peculiar and beautiful. The 10-acre garden is designed as a Dharma Wheel, the central symbol of Buddhism.
It was out of pure curiosity that we decided to visit – and, we have to admit, it certainly is a unique Montana road trip attraction. Entrance is free.
Windmill Village Bakery Donuts
Known all over Montana for their famous donuts, Windmill Village Bakery turns out a variety of sweet treats using locally sourced products.
We desperately wanted to try their renowned confections, but unfortunately the shop was closed on the day of our trip!
St. Ignatius Mission Church
A landmark in Montana, the St. Ignatius Church dates to the 1890s and is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Inside are 58 paintings, which were created in the early 1900s by Brother Joseph Carignanao, the mission cook. Two of his artworks are dedicated to Native Americans. Admission is free; donations accepted.
Miracle of America Museum
Founded in 1981, the Miracle of America Museum is a collection of artifacts housed in multiple buildings. The venue displays everything from classic cars to American kitsch. $10 entrance fee.
East Side of Flathead Lake
Take Highway 93 north back to Polson and then Highway 35 to the eastern side of Flathead Lake. Stop for cherries and other fresh fruit at one of the orchard’s roadside stands and continue north to Bigfork. The lakeside community boasts a cute downtown where the streets are lined with restaurants, cafes and shops.
For dinner, The Raven comes highly recommended for the phenomenal lake views. However, our preferred establishment is Flathead Lake Brewing Company Pub House. They offer outdoor seating, lake views, tasty brews (try the Citrus Smash IPA) and great food.
DAY 3: WHITEFISH – 2 NIGHTS
The town of Whitefish is a must-see on Montana road trips – and it’s the next destination on Day 3 of your Montana trip itinerary.
Drive From Kalispell to Whitefish
Whitefish is just 15 miles north of Kalispell, so you can relax over coffee and breakfast. You could even linger longer and browse any shops or parks you may have missed on the first day.
Whitefish Accommodations
Thriving as a tourist destination, Whitefish has numerous places to stay. We recommend staying near the town center – and Firebrand Hotel is an ideal option. The 4-star property is styled as a mountain resort and features an open-air rooftop with hot tub.
What To See in Whitefish
Whitefish is a picture-perfect western town that can easily be explored within a few hours. Spend time popping into the boutique shops that feature local products and then head for Big Mountain.
The Whitefish Mountain Resort offers ample outdoor activities to choose from year round. Alternatively, spend the rest of the day on the water at Whitefish Lake.
Read our complete article, Things To Do in Whitefish!
DAY 4: KOOTENAI FALLS
Spend the better part of the day driving to one of the best Montana road trip attractions: Kootenai Falls.
Day Trip from Whitefish
This scenic Montana waterfall road trip heads north from Whitefish toward the Canadian border and the town of Eureka before meeting up with Lake Koocanusa.
Following the shoreline south to Libby Dam, the drive then turns west to the stunning waterfalls and swinging bridge at Kootenai Falls.
Eureka, Montana
The small town of Eureka sits in Tobacco Valley just 9 miles south of Canada. History buffs will want to pop into the Historical Village Museum, while nature lovers can stretch their legs on the riverside path
Foodies might like to sink their teeth into the famous Eureka or Huckleberry Burger at the Front Porch Dewey Co. For craft beer lovers, check out Koocanusa Brewery and grab something to enjoy when you get back to Whitefish!
Lake Koocanusa and the Scenic Byway
Created when the Kootenai River was dammed in 1972, the 90-mile-long Lake Koocanusa spans the US-Canada border.
Nestled in a gorgeous gorge, it’s used for recreational purposes, like boating, fishing and camping. However, we enjoyed stopping at numerous scenic spots for stunning views.
Following the eastern shoreline to the south, Lake Koocanusa Scenic Byway (Highway 37) traverses 67 miles of astounding beauty.
Make a stop at the Libby Dam (there are free bathrooms and an informational visitors’ center), then continue the drive west to Kootenai Falls. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife – especially American Bald Eagles!
Fun Fact: The lake got its name in a contest. The winner used the first three letters of Kootenai (KOO), the first three letters of Canada (CAN) and USA to create the name!
Kootenai Falls and Swinging Bridge
Ranking as one of the largest waterfalls in the United States by flow, Kootenai Falls is a spectacular sight.
The series of waterfalls flow down river for nearly one mile, with the longest single fall being 30 feet. A sacred site to the Kootenai Tribe, the falls mark the center of their world and a place to communicate with the spirits.
The Kootenai Swinging Bridge straddles the lower end of the falls. It offers superb 360-degree views…but only to those who are brave enough to cross it!
Parking is located on Montana Highway 2; visitors then make a short trek on a well-worn path. The trail to the right goes to the main falls, while the one to the left ends at the Swinging Bridge.
Highway 2 to Whitefish
Rather than retracing your steps, we recommend taking Highway 2. Although there are not specific sights to see along this stretch, the route passes by lush forested lands, gorgeous lakes and through classic American farmland.
DAY 5: GLACIER NP WEST – 4 NIGHTS
Today you’ll make the drive to Glacier National Park – the Crown of the Continent – and an absolute highlight of any trip to Montana!
Whitefish to Glacier National Park
Make the 45 minute drive to the Glacier National Park West Entrance. The area features rising mountain peaks, glacier-carved lakes, abundant wildlife and more than 700 miles of hiking trails. Without a doubt, it is the absolute best place in Montana to visit!
Glacier Accommodations
Visitors have a variety of choices when it comes to places to stay in Glacier NP. While staying inside the park is an attractive prospect, the lodges, cabins and campgrounds are fully booked far in advance.
No worries if you don’t score a reservation. There are ample lodging options just outside the park in West Glacier and nearby towns.
We stayed in a private Airbnb house in Martin City. It’s really more of a village, but is perfectly located between West Glacier and Columbia Falls.
With four nights in one location, we suggest staying in a house, apartment or cabin that is equipped with a kitchen, so that you can prepare a few meals at home.
Glacier National Park
Home to two mountain ranges, 130 lakes, hundreds of animal species and thousands of different plants, the 1-million-acre Glacier National Park delivers big on nature. All of the best Montana road trips better include a stop at GNP!
Hikers will delight at the opportunity to trek to hidden Montana waterfalls and lakes. All visitors can enjoy panoramic views and scenic overlooks along the spectacular Going To The Sun Road.
You will need to make a vehicle reservation for Going To The Sun Road if visiting June through September. More info can be found on the official National Park Service Site.
What To Do at Glacier NP
After getting checked in, embark on your Glacier National Park road trip. Drive to Avalanche Lake and make the 5-mile roundtrip hike up to the picture-perfect spot surrounded by towering mountains dotted with waterfalls.
Then, end your first day at Glacier National Park watching sunset at Lake McDonald. Maybe even consider dining at Russell’s Fireside Dining Room at the Lake McDonald Lodge.
Check out our 3-Day Glacier National Park Itinerary!
DAY 6: GLACIER NP EAST
Continue to Glacier National Park East – but plan to get an early start because it is going to be a long day!
Full Day Exploring East Glacier NP
Start by driving through Glacier National Park on Going To The Sun Road from the West Entrance all the way to St. Mary. Then, spend the rest of the day in East Glacier – both at Many Glacier and Two Medicine.
East Glacier NP
At Many Glacier, take in the views at Swiftcurrent Lake and complete one of the most beautiful hikes in Glacier NP around the lake.
Later in the afternoon, at Two Medicine, hop aboard a historic vessel for a boat ride and history lesson on the region and the people who live there.
Rather than returning to West Glacier on Going To The Sun Road, use Highway 2 for another Glacier National Park scenic drive that marks the southern boundary.
Read specifics about hiking in our reviews of the Best Easy Hikes in GNP!
DAY 7: GLACIER NP NORTH
Some Montana drives are on unpaved roads, which is what you will negotiate today as you head into the northern section of Glacier National Park.
Polebridge, Montana
The route north into the far reaches of GNP is via Camas Road to North Fork Road, which will get you as far as Polebridge.
Make a stop at Polebridge Mercantile for one of the best desserts on Earth: A Huckleberry Bear Claw. In fact, consider picking up more than one and save it for breakfast the next day…trust us, you won’t regret it!
Bowman Lake
Past the Mercantile in Polebridge, re-enter Glacier NP and take the curving, bumpy road up to Bowman Lake. Have a picnic packed with you (or grab something from The Merc) and spend the entire day lakeside. Savor the awe-inspiring vista, take hikes and perhaps rent a kayak and paddle out on the lake!
Once you’ve soaked in all of Bowman Lake, head back towards West Glacier. Along the way, consider taking a short hike up to Rocky Point or spend the last bit of sunlight on the shoreline of Lake McDonald at Apgar Village.
DAY 8: HUNGRY HORSE RESERVOIR
After three full days in Glacier National Park, escape the crowds and head for Hungry Horse Reservoir.
Explore Hungry Horse
Part of the Flathead National Forest, the 34-mile-long Hungry Horse Reservoir is serene and rugged. And it is located just 15 miles south of West Glacier.
Settled in a deep ravine, 25 mountain peaks rise around the 170 miles of Hungry Horse shoreline. The scenery is stunning, which is why we rate it as one of the top Montana things to do!
Hungry Horse Dam
The South Fork Flathead River was dammed in 1953, creating Hungry Horse Reservoir. Standing at a height of 564 feet, the dam ranks as one of the largest in the United States. Guest can join a guided tour and learn more about the history at the visitors’ center.
What To Do at Hungry Horse Reservoir
Top activities at the reservoir are boating, fishing, camping and wildlife watching. There are no services or towns located on the water (only campsites).
The road is paved for first 11 miles on the west side of the lake (past the dam)…the rest of the circumference route is gravel. It is possible to drive around the entire reservoir, but it takes at least 4 hours (likely longer with stops).
After exploring the dam, we drove along the paved portion of the road, then relished the quiet surroundings and admired the marvelous landscapes.
Travelers interested in fishing at Hungry Horse Reservoir can rent gear and obtain a license from one of the area shops. We also saw several people cycling – which would be an exciting way to navigate the unpaved road!
Fun Fact: Hungry Horse got its name in early 1901 when two horses strayed off into the winter wilderness. The pair was found a month later stuck in snow and nearly starved to death. They were rescued and nursed back to health. Then a town, mountain, lake and dam all got the name Hungry Horse.
DAY 9: MISSOULA – 1 NIGHT
Today you’ll embark on one of the best scenic drives in Montana through the Swan-Seeley Valley to the hip city of Missoula.
Swan-Seeley Scenic Drive
Highway 83 is a 90-mile north-south route that follows the valley between the Mission Mountains and the Swan Range. Surrounded by Montana wilderness, the road curves past dozens of lakes – the two largest being Swan Lake and Seeley Lake.
At about the halfway point, there is a popular hike to Holland Lake Falls. When the road ends in Clearwater (marked by the giant cow at the gas station), Highway 200 West takes travelers directly into Missoula.
Road trippers interested in history might want to add a stop at the nearby Garnet Ghost Town to their Montana vacation itinerary.
Missoula Accommodations
With just one night in Missoula, it is imperative to stay in the center – and The Residence Inn by Marriot is right in the heart of town.
What To See in Missoula
After checking in, you won’t have to go far to start your exploration of Missoula. Right away, you will probably notice the distinctly different vibe, which feels trendier and contemporary. That said, the city’s history is palpable and there are plenty of interesting places to discover!
For all the details, read our article, Things To Do in Missoula.
DAY 10: MISSOULA to HOT SPRINGS and KALISPELL
Day 10 marks the end of your Western Montana road trip. The good news is, there is still some adventure to be had on the final leg!
Morning in Missoula and Back to Kalispell
Before leaving Missoula, go on a brisk walk on the Clark Fork riverside path and then grab breakfast at one of the city’s hot spots (like Market on Front or the Old Post).
Start the drive towards Kalispell on Highway 93. However, rather than continuing north to Flathead Lake, take a detour to Highway 28 (via 200 W) to Hot Springs.
Highway 28
The route on Highway 28 may not be touted as a scenic highway, but it certainly has its charm. It winds through rural landscapes, passing a few knock-about towns along the way. We heard that Big Horn Sheep are often spotted from the road, but didn’t see any on this day.
Hot Springs, Montana
For a truly authentic Montana experience, stop in the tiny (and a bit quirky) town of Hot Springs. Really embrace the spirit by soaking in the hot pools at the historic Symes Hotel that dates to the 1930s.
When you leave Hot Springs, continue driving north on 28 to Elmo, where it will hook up with 93. Here enjoy the last picturesque views over Flathead Lake as you complete your epic drive to the Kalispell!
Road Trip Montana Tips
We have covered a ton of information in this article – but have some more advice to help you have the absolute best road trips in Montana!
Best Time To Go to Montana
When taking a road trip to Montana, it’s ideal to go when the roads are in the best condition for driving. This means summer or fall.
Summer brings big crowds…but it also brings warm enough weather to enjoy swimming in the lakes. If you visit Montana in summer, cherries and huckleberries are in season, too.
On the other hand, taking road trips in Montana in autumn offers fewer crowds, crisp temperatures (which we feel are best for hiking) and the beauty of changing leaves.
Determine which is the best time to visit Montana for a road trip based on your desired activities.
Montana Road Conditions
We do recommend checking current road conditions in Montana before beginning your trip. Road work and fires can cause closures that require long detours. Check the official transportation website for a current State of Montana road condition map.
Start planning your USA Trip! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want more advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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