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The Official Western Montana Travel & Tourism Blog
Pizza Night in Western Montana
If you’re like us, you scope out the best place for pizza whenever you visit a new place. If that new place for you is Western Montana, or if you’re a local looking to try something new for your next Pizza Night, we’ve done the legwork for you. Glacier Country has a phenomenal culinary scene, […]
New Year, New Businesses and Happenings in Western Montana
The theme for 2021 feels a little “in with the new.” We’re looking for a refresh, and we’ve got new businesses—and new happenings at old businesses we love—that have popped up (or will soon!) throughout the region. Find New Adventures at New Businesses in Western Montana ROAM Beyond You know we’re all about glamping in […]
New Year’s Resolutions: 10 Epic Montana Adventures for 2021
2020 has been a year. With 2021 upon us, hope is in the air and priorities have shifted a bit. Your New Year’s resolutions might look different from years’ past. Are you building in more family time? More space for reflection? More travel? Western Montana has you covered with 10 epic adventures for the new […]
Get to Know the Glacier National Park Conservancy
The beauty and wonder of Glacier National Park is conserved by a strong network of fiercely dedicated nature lovers and stewards of the land doing amazing work to protect and preserve the Crown of the Continent for generations to come. One such organization is the Glacier National Park Conservancy—the official nonprofit fundraising partner of Glacier […]
Know Before You Go! Skiing in Montana During a Pandemic
With things a little out of the ordinary this winter, we can all count on one thing—snow! That precious, fluffy white powder makes a Western Montana winter pure magic. We get a lot of it around here—more than 300 inches annually, in fact—and we’ve also got plenty of space to spread out. That means we’re […]
Holiday Gift Guide: Shop Local + Made in Montana
Spread some holiday cheer this year by not only giving your friends and family thoughtful, Made in Montana gifts, but by giving much needed support to our local craftspeople and small businesses while you’re at it. From candles, leather goods, jewelry and pottery, to locally roasted coffee and finely crafted beer and spirits, cross some […]
The Glacier Country Grind: Local Coffee, Tea, Cocoa + Chai
We LOVE our beverages in Montana, and while our local brewery and distillery scene is renowned, beer and whiskey aren’t the only things we’re meticulously crafting in the Treasure State. We take our coffee just as seriously as anything around here. And our tea, hot chocolate and chai, for that matter. Here’s where you can […]
Montana by the Book: Your Local Guides to Glacier Country
To really get to know Montana—and your way around Montana—let a local guidebook be your guide. From exploring Glacier National Park; to hiking, history and hotels; to backroads, byways and off-the-beaten-path adventures, Montana’s authors lead the way. Glacier National Park Moon Glacier National Park by Becky Lomax (author and former guide for Glacier Guides and […]
Virtual Montana: Online Socials at Dunrovin Ranch
As we’re all doing our part to maintain social distance in light of the pandemic, some increased-risk and older populations are homebound, and virtual events are providing a much-needed outlet for those who find themselves unable to participate in some of the things that once kept them busy and fulfilled. That’s where Dunrovin comes in. […]
Be Grateful and Feast Local This Thanksgiving
Home for the holidays has a whole new meaning this year, and we’re grateful we have so many incredible local businesses to get us through the 2020 festivities when things are a little out of the ordinary. This Thanksgiving, more than ever, is the perfect time to support local eateries and other small businesses in […]
Amazing Glacier Country Photographers to Follow on Instagram
It’s been said that just looking at pictures of nature can lower your stress level, and we’re here to help you out with that. Follow some of Glacier Country’s finest photographers as they capture Montana’s most magical moments and places. Sit back, relax and be inspired. Aedan Arnot Aedan’s exquisite photos of the Montana landscape […]
Blue Moon Over Montana: Get That Glacier Country Glow
There’s a full moon on Halloween this year, and it’s the second full moon of October so it’s technically a blue moon. Cool, right? To say we’re kind of excited about it would be an understatement. Be inspired to spend the night out under that Glacier Country glow. We are! Our dark skies make for […]
Exploring Western Montana’s Bob Marshall Wilderness
There’s getting away, and then there’s getting away from it all. In Montana, when we want to really go remote, we head to a little place we like to call “The Bob.” The Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex isn’t little at all, though. In fact, it’s vast. It’s the third-largest wilderness area in the lower 48 […]
Western Montana: 10 Small Towns You’ve Never Heard Of
Looking for a getaway that truly has you getting away? These lesser-known, small-town gems are some of Western Montana’s best-kept secrets. Big Arm Experience Montana lake life on the “big arm” of Flathead Lake along the scenic Flathead Corridor. Big Arm is your ticket to breathtaking lake views and Wild Horse Island exploration. Recreation abounds […]
Western Montana’s Top 6 Fall Hikes
Hiking is one of the most peaceful ways to discover Western Montana’s landscapes—and fall is an especially stunning season to do so. Explore our sweeping meadows, alpine forests and mountain waterfalls all cast in autumn’s golden hues. To help get you on the trail we’ve put together our top six fall hikes. Don’t forget your […]
Get Away From It All This Fall in Glacier Country
There’s fall fun to be had in Western Montana’s Glacier Country, where getting away from it all is our specialty. Autumn is our golden season, and not only because the hillsides and river banks are awash in vibrant hues of yellow and orange. With crisp autumn air, space to spread out and COVID-sensitive activities aplenty, […]
Glacier Country: Outdoor Fall Family Fun
Fall is here in Western Montana and it’s the ideal time to load up the family and hit the road to explore. Family fun abounds during our most vibrant season. From getting spooked at Garnet Ghost Town, to basking in the cool mountain air at hot springs, to surrounding yourself in a tapestry of golden […]
Western Montana: Respect Our Place, Leave No Trace
It’s fun to explore. It’s good to getaway. It’s life-changing to get up close and personal with a place like Western Montana. But while you’re discovering the wild wonder Glacier Country affords, it’s important to make as minimal an impact on our lands as possible. The most effective way to do this is to follow […]
A to Z: 26 Activities to Do in Western Montana
Recreation abounds in Western Montana, and, no matter the season we’re chock-full of activities. To give you a sampling of the unique adventures you’ll find here, we’ve made it simple and created an A to Z list of activities for your next Glacier Country getaway. A – Air adventures offer a bird’s-eye view of our […]
What’s New in Western Montana
Local art galleries, restaurants and shops are the heart of our communities in Glacier Country. Thanks to the enthusiasm and support of locals and visitors alike, new businesses have opened their doors in 2020 despite the challenges presented by COVID-19. Our downtowns, cultural scenes and off-the-beaten-path locations remain vibrant. Here’s what’s new in our neck […]
Hidden Gem: Hungry Horse Recreation Area
Just 15 miles from the west entrance of Glacier National Park, Hungry Horse Reservoir provides four-season recreation in many forms: camping, boating, fishing, water skiing, hiking, huckleberry picking, hunting and snowmobiling. Road trippers will love taking the scenic loop, which winds around the reservoir—a trip that is especially spectacular in the fall when the larch […]
Safety Comes First in The Last Best Place
In Montana, we take the responsible route. Right now that means doing our part to help slow the spread of COVID-19 and make sure our residents, visitors, small businesses and essential workers stay safe. Glacier Country is an extraordinary place to live, work and play, and even in this unprecedented time we can experience all […]
New Direct Flights from California to Western Montana
California, we’re coming for you and delivering direct flights to Glacier Country’s wide-open spaces, fresh mountain air and charming small towns. Our year-round recreation paradise is only a few hours away, now that Alaska Airlines offers daily nonstop flights from San Jose (SJC), San Diego (SAN) and San Francisco (SFO) to Missoula International Airport (MSO) […]
8 Ways to Recreate on Western Montana’s Rivers
A river runs through it, alright—many rivers, in fact. Glacier Country is the setting of lazy rivers, whitewater rivers, and rivers that are fishing and boating hot spots. With social distancing in play, getting out in the middle of a pristine Western Montana river sounds like a pretty good idea right about now. Here are […]
Motorboating Western Montana’s Lakes
Motorboating is a classic summer pastime in Western Montana as we have lots of water to make waves in. Each of our stunning lakes is uniquely beautiful—from Flathead Lake, the largest freshwater lake West of the Mississippi, to Lake Como, a mountain lake surrounded by alpine forests—our waters are some of the wildest and most […]
Hit the Road—Responsibly—for an RV Adventure in Western Montana
Thinking about “The Great American Vacation” often calls to mind images of hitting the road in an RV, and that’s exactly what many folks are doing this year in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. A recreational vehicle is your vacation home on wheels, and Western Montana’s Glacier Country offers the classic road-trip experience complete with […]
When We Travel Responsibly, We Can Travel Confidently
UPDATED: July 16, 2020 For all to #TravelConfidently in Western Montana, we need your help! We encourage residents and guests to practice social responsibility to ensure we are collectively continuing to mitigate the spread and keep our state healthy. Do your part by traveling responsibly and following these safety guidelines. As of July 15 it […]
Western Montana Wildland Fire and Smoke Update
AUGUST 21, 2020: You may have been hearing about an uptick in wildland fire activity in Western Montana. Conditions are hot and dry, so we’ve got potential. Smoke is drifting in and out with most of it coming from other states.
Guest Post: Supporting Small Businesses and Communities During Your National Park Adventure
With Memorial Day behind us and a phased reopening of the state underway, the beginning of Montana’s summer tourism season is upon us. At national parks across the country, including Yellowstone and Glacier, the team at the National Parks Conservation Association remains committed to working with community leaders, the National Park Service, and visitors to […]
Glacier National Park: What to Expect
With folks looking to get out and find some wide-open spaces and a breath of fresh air, national parks are quite the draw right now. That means here in Western Montana travelers have their sights set on Glacier National Park. However, things are a little out of the ordinary this year. Please plan ahead and […]
5 Ways to Explore the Bitterroot Valley
The Bitterroot Valley is one of Western Montana’s best-kept secrets, with endless world-class recreation—from hiking through canyons to soaking in alpine lakes, rigging in trout on a blue-ribbon river or biking the Bitterroot Trail—it’s not hard to have fun outdoors here. The quaint communities within the Bitterroot Valley are rich with Old West charm, museums […]
Explore the Town of Hot Springs on Montana’s Tour 200
It’s not hard to guess how the small town of Hot Springs got its name. Just about an hour from Missoula and Kalispell—on Montana’s Tour 200 scenic travel corridor in the Flathead Indian Reservation—this eclectic community is brimful of character and mineral-rich waters. Called “big medicine” by the Pend d’Oreille American Indians, these geothermal waters […]
Montana Down the Road: A Virtual Road Trip
Montana is nicknamed The Treasure State, and that’s exactly what we think of our friends and neighbors here in this exceptional place—total gems. Follow along as we take a virtual road trip through all the best of Montana. Experience travel hot spots, scenic byways, small-town charm, world-class recreation destinations and the unwavering community spirit Montana […]
Discover Western Montana Spring Hiking + Biking Trails
Spring has sprung in Glacier Country, and we couldn’t be more excited to hit the trails for a hike or bike ride—the perfect way to breathe in the fresh mountain air, get a new perspective and take in awe-inspiring views. Discover extensive trail systems here, on foot or on two wheels. With miles upon miles […]
Western Montana’s Instagram-Worthy Social Distancing Activities
Montanans, this one’s for you! Spring has sprung, wildflowers are blooming, birds are singing, and baby wildlife are emerging. As COVID-19 restrictions relax and Montana begins to gradually reopen according to Governor Bullock’s phased plan, many of us are chomping at the bit to get outside. We compiled a list of instagram-worthy activities that are […]
Western Montana Businesses Showing Support During COVID-19
In Montana, helping your neighbor is a way of life. And during this unprecedented time of isolation and social distancing, the spirit of coming together is stronger than ever—and downright heartwarming. From food and financial support to goggles and socks, it’s no surprise Montanans are rising to the occasion to use their resources for good. […]
Spring Road Trips and Scenic Drives in Glacier Country
We could all use a little springtime right about now, so thankfully the season is upon us. Take in stunning views on a spring road trip through some of Western Montana’s most beautiful country. Think snowcapped peaks, blue skies, wildflowers, and emerging wildlife. CLEARWATER JUNCTION TO BIGFORK 90 miles, one way Gorgeous lake views galore, […]
The Spirit of Travel is Alive in Glacier Country
The past few months have been a challenging time for all of us. But one thing’s for certain—the spirit of travel is stronger than ever. Once it’s safe to get up and go again, we’ll be here to move America forward, rebuilding our economy, growing our workforce, boosting morale, inspiring dreams and welcoming travelers with […]
My Glacier Country Bucket List
Our perspective has shifted, and we’re all doing a little daydreaming right now—thinking about where we want to go, what we long to see, and how we plan to carpe diem a little more than before. That’s why we asked you to tell us about your Glacier Country bucket list and what parts of Western […]
Watch Famous Films Shot in Western Montana
Western Montana’s cinematic landscapes have long inspired film producers, setting the stage for legendary films like “A River Runs Through It” and binge-worthy TV shows like “Yellowstone.” As we shelter in our homes and practice social distancing, we may find ourselves in need of a distraction. To help you escape, we’ve rounded up famous movies […]
Make Western Montana Your Zoom Background
Are you using Zoom to connect? If you feel like keeping your personal space under wraps or just want to channel some Western Montana beauty, download one of our Zoom backgrounds for conference calls, happy hours and family fun. To save the backgrounds to your computer, click the url below the image to open it […]
Virtual Tours and Live Events in Western Montana
Thank you to everyone who is being responsible during the COVID-19 crisis. A few weeks in and we’re all feeling a bit cooped up and looking for ways to stay entertained. We’ve rounded up a list of virtual tours, online film festivals and live events in Western Montana to brighten your day. Whether you’re a […]
Dear World, We Miss You. Love, Montana
Hello, friends! We miss you! We hope you’re hanging in there and that this finds you safe and well. We’re reaching out with something to brighten your day and let you know we’re thinking about you. Here in Glacier Country we’re staying home, embracing our community spirit, supporting our beloved local businesses, and loving Montana […]
Supporting Local Montana Businesses During COVID-19
Small towns and local businesses are the heart of Western Montana. As we adjust to a new normal during the COVID-19 pandemic, here’s how you can support Glacier Country’s beloved small businesses when they need it the most. Amid the shutdown, opt for takeout or delivery from restaurants and breweries, and shop online for products—including […]
Take the Tourism Pledge and Leave No Trace
From unspoiled landscapes to clean waterways and fresh mountain air, Western Montana’s Glacier Country boasts some of nature’s finest, pure and simple. 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 policies. We take outdoor ethics—and indoor […]
Social Distancing and the Great Outdoors
As we all adjust to the spread of COVID-19, it’s vital that we adhere to CDC recommendations to not travel. “Can I still go outside,” you ask? The short answer is yes if you practice social distancing—maintaining six feet of personal space. Here’s what you must do to stay safe and keep others safe while […]
Navigating the Uncharted Waters of COVID-19
As we all face the unique challenge of navigating the COVID-19 outbreak, we may encounter feelings of uncertainty and understandable anxiety. But we also find ourselves in a time of coming together—yes, even with social distancing and isolation—to focus on what we can do to support the efforts that will eventually bring us back to […]
Winery Tour in Glacier Country
Savor the flavor of finely crafted Glacier Country wine by stopping at a Western Montana winery during your next trip here. Our local wines feature regional flavors like Flathead cherries, wild huckleberries and local honey. Montana wineries are friendly and laid back, and, with spring right around the corner, you won’t want to miss sipping […]
Bird’s Eye View: Stay in a Lookout Tower in Western Montana
The higher you go the better the view. Channel your inner treehouse-loving child and stay in a lookout tower, one of the most unique rustic getaways in Western Montana. Lookout towers are prime for stellar scenery, plus incredible wildlife watching, sunrises and sunsets, and dark-skies stargazing. Lookout towers are small U.S. Forest Service cabins positioned […]
6 Reasons to Get Married in Western Montana
Simply put, a destination wedding in Western Montana has all the ingredients to make your wedding dreams come true. Whether it’s in a sweeping mountain meadow, on the shores of a crystal-clear lake, or in Glacier National Park, the backdrop for your special day will be picture perfect here. It’s also the ideal place to […]