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Western Montana is a sledder’s paradise. Powering through winter here is easy, with miles of steep climbs and flat trails, and acres of backcountry playgrounds, as well as logging and seasonal forest service roads. A handy way to recreate responsibly is with the onX Offroad app. The Offroad app provides real-time GPS positioning even in […]

Western Montana’s winter wonderland is waiting to be explored. Nordic skiing is a quiet, magical and intimate way to get backcountry and tour the terrain. Glacier Country has superb cross-country skiing throughout the region, from exploring the magnificent solitude of Glacier National Park to discovering a hidden ghost town. Here, we’ve rounded up six of […]

Western Montana is a heaven for honeymooners, but it’s not just a perfect spot to celebrate wedded bliss. Lovebirds flock to Glacier Country for anniversary adventures, romantic weekend getaways, spa retreats and bed-and-breakfast charm. Unique lodging and fine dining, plus outdoor adventures and indoor comforts all allow for romance, reconnection and relaxation. Total bonus: The scenery here is so gorgeous you’ll fall in love with Montana, too.

Winter in Western Montana’s Glacier Country is an awe-inspiring wonderland of snow-covered terrain, festive mountain towns and a delightful balance of low-key activities and adrenaline-pumping adventures. Here are the top five ways to take advantage of one of our favorite seasons. No. 1 Hot Springs The best way to unwind after a day in the […]

We have fun year-round here and a bit of snow on the ground doesn’t keep us from going outside or holding events. In fact, winter brings some of the most unusual, unique and fun events to cure your cabin fever. From renowned film festivals to barstool races, and dog-sled races to half marathon races, there’s […]

With the new year upon us, let’s talk about what’s new in Western Montana, and add some of these new and exciting local spots to our travel itineraries. Missoula Missoula is known for its culinary scene, and some new flavors are now in the mix. Visit Bar Plata, a Spanish-inspired pintxos and cocktail bar, featuring small […]

Wintertime in Western Montana’s Glacier Country means one thing: snow—and snow means one thing: epic adventure. For years, Glacier Country visitors have enjoyed the many outdoor activities the season brings, and after a day of playing in our winter wonderland, the best way to unwind and embrace the colder temperatures is by soaking in the warm healing waters of a hot spring.

Glacier Country is a year-round playground, and winter does not disappoint. You can take full advantage of our snowy landscape, but keep in mind that it’s important to play it safe. Here’s how to recreate responsibly this winter in Western Montana. Winter Driving Be prepared for winter driving conditions. Check weather and road reports before […]

One of the things that makes Western Montana so extraordinary is our landscapes—alpine forests and sweeping meadows plus glacier-carved peaks and mountains. When the snow falls, it transforms into an unbeatable winter playground, home to seven ski areas that boast affordable lift tickets, ridiculous vertical drops, consistently excellent snowfall and more than 11,723 acres of […]

From wildlife to wild and wintry landscapes, winter is a magical time to experience Glacier National Park. And while it’s perfect for a peaceful, winter wonderland adventure, there are some very important things to note while planning your trip to the park this time of year, including road closures and construction. Please know before you […]

It’s the most wonderful time of the year and in Western Montana we are fully embracing the holiday cheer. Our decorations are out, calendars are filled with events, and holiday gift lists are made. Montana artisans are known for their beautiful designs, delicious creations and innovative products. Shop our list to find gifts anyone would […]

We’re one month away from the official start of winter but holiday festivities are already underway here in Western Montana’s Glacier Country. This is a magical time of year and we’ve got the events—and the enchanting wintry landscape—to make it even more festive.   Historic Holiday Happenings + Classic Christmas Events Mark your calendars for […]

The wonderful thing about Western Montana’s Glacier Country is that traveling from one place to the next is always scenic and there’s an adventure around every bend. With the region divided into nine travel routes, you’ll find unique Montana experiences no matter where you roam. Here’s a list of fun and noteworthy facts about each […]

November is Native American Heritage Month, and here in Glacier Country—the traditional, ancestral territory of the Amskapi Piikani, Kootenai, Séliš, and Ql̓ispé people—we honor the significant contributions, unique traditions and diverse cultures of the tribes and Indigenous people who live here today. Here’s how you can, too.    1. Visit an Indian Reservation Montana is home […]

Wherever you are in Western Montana, it’s easy to find a locally sourced drink with 10 distilleries in region. Whether buying a bottle or enjoying a perfectly balanced cocktail in a taproom, each distillery creates small-batch, hand-crafted spirits that embody the essence of Montana.   No. 1. Lolo Creek Distillery For stunning Bitterroot Valley views, […]

By Tamara Gruber While some friend groups dream about girls’ trips spent basking on a beach drinking a steady stream of umbrella drinks, others appreciate the peace and inner joy gained by time spent communing with nature and each other. Some may think Western Montana is an unusual choice for a girlfriend getaway, but, with […]

One of the things we cherish most about Western Montana is our wildlife—the wild animals we share our home with and have nothing but awe and respect for. Our diverse region is one of the most intact ecosystems in the lower 48 states, and it’s likely you’ll spot wildlife while you’re here. While we’d like […]

Amtrak operates the Empire Builder daily between Seattle/Portland and Chicago through Minneapolis, traveling across the northern half of Montana and stopping in a handful of charming communities in Western Montana’s Glacier Country. This stunningly scenic route also travels along the southern boundary of Glacier National Park. Climb on board and enjoy the view from your […]

You know that feeling when the leaves begin to change color and sweater weather is in the air? In Western Montana we feel equal parts “let’s get cozy” and “let’s find some fall fun.” Autumn is one of the most unique times to visit Glacier Country—the landscape is intensely gorgeous, from snowcapped peaks in the […]

Hunting is a way of life in Montana, backed by a rich history of necessity and tradition. Here in Glacier Country, we have an abundance of wildlife and wild places—our expansive terrain makes this region prime for the hunt. That said, safety is of the utmost importance. Here’s how to play it safe and minimize […]

When the green landscapes of summer begin to fade into fall, an unmatched tapestry of golden hues comes out, complementing our impossibly big blue sky. Autumn is one of our most vibrant seasons here in Glacier Country, and fall brings a few of our favorite things: scarecrows, pumpkins, the autumn harvest, seasonal microbrews and bugling elk. Breathe in the cool mountain air, put on your coziest flannel and join us for some of our best fall events. Western Montana’s golden season also brings lighter traffic and shoulder season prices.

There’s no better way to fall for Montana than to visit in autumn—arguably the best time to be in Glacier Country. It’s quiet, the temps have cooled down and the summer travelers have gone home. Take advantage of the following travel deals and experience the magic of Western Montana’s golden season. Bitterroot Backpacking The Bitterroot […]

Western Montana sets the stage for unmatched motorcycling with stunning landscapes among scenic byways, open highways and backroads of discovery. Fall foliage only adds to the jaw-dropping beauty of our region, plus cooler temperatures and shoulder-season pricing make it an ideal time to hit the road. You’d be hard-pressed to not take a scenic route […]

July 1, 2021: Western Montana Wildland Fire and Smoke Update It’s summertime in Western Montana, and with that comes outdoor fun, sunshine, camping, and…responsibility. Although it’s beautiful and green in Glacier Country right now, our friends and partners at the Department of Natural Resources and Conservation tell us they’re bracing for a lot of fire activity this year.

Summer days in Glacier Country are pure heaven, but there’s no denying that sometimes you just need a good way to beat the heat. Here’s how to cool off on a hot summer day in Western Montana. Cold Beer Did you know Montana is No. 2 in the nation for breweries per capita? That means […]

Western Montana’s cinematic landscapes have set the stage for famous films and TV shows alike. The world-renowned “Yellowstone” TV show has inspired many fans to visit Montana and get a glimpse of the Montana way of life, working ranches, cowboy culture and small-town vibes. For those who have asked for scene film locations to visit […]

The once-hopping timber camp of Swan Lake is now a quiet place to relax and recreate in some of Western Montana’s most gorgeous landscapes. Tucked in the picturesque Seeley-Swan Valley and located at the southern tip of its namesake—Swan Lake—year-round visitors use this community as a launching point for lake and river fishing, hiking, birding, […]

Indoor exploration in Western Montana can be as memorable as our outdoor scene. Sometimes, strolling a museum, watching live theater, or sampling local craft beer is exactly what you need on a rainy day, to beat the summer temps or to dodge wildland fire smoke. We’ve listed 17 of our favorite things to do indoors […]

Getting off the beaten path in Western Montana’s Glacier Country sometimes literally means getting off the road and onto trails made for all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and other (off-highway vehicles) OHVs, like four-wheelers and utility terrain vehicles (UTVs) like side-by-sides. An off-road adventure is also a wildly fun way to experience Montana’s incredible backcountry and high […]

Booking a vacation rental is a great way to experience what life is like for a local in Glacier Country, and overnight guests are a vital part of Western Montana’s economy—but it also comes with a huge responsibility. Here are six ways to be a responsible and respectful traveler when staying at a vacation rental […]

At the north end of Flathead Lake just 15 minutes south of Kalispell, the charming and peaceful little community of Somers features a swimming beach, boat launch and yacht club with easy access to Flathead Lake. During the summer, Somers is scattered with roadside fruit stands selling locally grown fruit, like Western Montana’s famous Flathead […]

A Western Montana summer is what dreams are made of. During the day, recreation options are limitless and community events are in full swing—there is so much to do! A special secret about Glacier Country is the summer sun doesn’t set until around 10 p.m. These twilight hours are magical and not to be missed. […]

Western Montana is known for its awe-inspiring landscapes and wild, natural beauty—but the rich arts and culture scene can take you by surprise, too. You can seek it out, or simply wander through charming communities and let yourself stumble upon sculptures, murals and more. If you’re in search of public art that tells the stories […]

One of many things that makes Montana special is that we have four seasons, and each season is beautiful and unique in its own right. Springtime brings blooming wildflowers and sets the stage for the harvest of summer’s distinctly Montana fruits—Flathead cherries, Dixon melons, and wild huckleberries are our favorite flavors of a Glacier Country summer. Whether you attend a festival, pick your own fruit, or stop by a local farmers market, you’d be hard pressed to find a more authentic, and tasty, Western Montana experience.

Go with a guide! With more than 22,000 square miles, you’ve got a lot of ground—and water—to cover in Glacier Country, and a guided tour makes for a most memorable adventure, no matter your experience level. Leave everything to the experts and utilize a local service for summer activities in Western Montana’s Glacier Country. The […]

Summer holds a special place in the heart of Western Montana. Warm weather, long days, impossibly blue skies and spectacular sunsets are just some of the reasons why. Summer also brings an array of events, as locals and visitors alike gather under the sun for rodeos, pow wows, concerts, cherry festivals, car shows and more. […]

We’re always up for a celebration in Western Montana, and the 4th of July is no exception. Come celebrate Independence Day with small-town Americana vibes—think parades, fireworks, live music and more—in one of our charming communities. First and foremost: Play it safe! Please recreate responsibly! Although fireworks are legal in some parts of Glacier Country, […]

Western Montana’s Glacier Country boasts some of nature’s finest, from unspoiled landscapes to pristine waterways and fresh mountain air. We’re committed to preserving our wild places and respecting the land, our small towns, and all our inhabitants by making minimal impact and adopting Leave No Trace, Tread Lightly and Recreate Responsibly principles. We take outdoor ethics (and […]

Western Montana’s Glacier Country is so much more than Glacier National Park. The breathtaking landscapes and charming small towns beyond park boundaries are every bit as gorgeous and adventure-filled as the park itself. Here’s a list of budget-friendly activities outside the park. Bigfork Situated in the northeast corner of Flathead Lake, the storybook village of […]

Visitor Information Centers (VICs) offer a wealth of knowledge that helps visitors get the lay of the land. When you stop in to one of ours, you’ll get a warm Western Montana welcome from friendly staff who love to share their expertise. With VICs at Libby Dam, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, the Crown of the […]

There’s nothing better than spending time with family in the great outdoors. That’s why Western Montana’s Glacier Country is the perfect place for a family reunion, boasting lodges and resorts that can accommodate your whole crew, as well as an endless list of world-class and western-inspired activities and outdoor recreation for all ages. Host your […]

Montanans love being unconventional—a theme local breweries have run with. Montana is second in the U.S. for craft breweries per capita, so to make their creations stand out brewers put outrageously fun names on their beer. If it doesn’t sound totally offbeat coming out of your mouth, they didn’t do it right. Here’s an A […]

Montana’s farming and ranching roots run deep and are fundamental to the way we do things around here. Experience this culture for yourself by taking advantage of Glacier Country’s farmers markets, farm stays, farm tours and farm-to-table dining. Farmers Markets Outdoor market season in Western Montana is not to be missed. From fresh produce, local […]

We do things a little differently around here—and we like it that way. Many who live in Western Montana share the sentiment “live and let live,” which creates support and space for unusual creations, niche attractions and quirky customs among locals. Want to get your quirky on? Come to Glacier Country, and visit like a […]

The great outdoors are more popular than ever, and some of you may be new to exploring Western Montana’s outdoor spaces. Glacier Country has so many places to play, no matter your experience level. If you’re new to outdoor recreation in Western Montana, here are our suggestions on where to explore. City Parks and Trail […]

Spring is one of the best—and most underrated—times to visit Western Montana. The landscape is emerging from winter’s embrace (snow is melting), the daylight hours are longer (sunset is around 8 p.m., and by the end of spring it’s closer to 9 p.m.) and the temperature is rising. Along with being Glacier Country’s shoulder season—meaning […]

By Mike & Anne Howard of HoneyTrek.com Imagine driving down a forest road toward snowcapped peaks, and you find a clearing in the trees along a river, with a fire ring just waiting for you. It’s the perfect campsite…beautiful, peaceful, no-reservations required, and free. This may sound like a rare find, but there are hundreds […]

Hiking is an intimate way to immerse yourself in the outdoors, discover flora and fauna and connect with nature at your own pace. It’s also an activity that, with a little planning and preparation, is an option for all fitness levels. In Western Montana you can quickly and easily access trails from pretty much anywhere. […]

Spring is in the air—the fresh mountain air—here in Western Montana’s Glacier Country, and we sure do have a special place in our hearts for Montana’s quiet season. It’s the season of wildlife, wildflowers and rushing waterfalls. Plus, our events calendar is always full, and spring is no exception. Bonus: Shoulder-season pricing is in effect […]

By Melynda Harrison One doesn’t always associate winter with road trips, but my family does. Snow and cold don’t deter us from exploring and playing outside, in fact, they encourage us. Traveling around Western Montana is different in the winter than in the summer, but it is no less beautiful and thrilling. We recently looped […]