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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 […]

Spring break is around the corner, and Western Montana is the perfect place for a week-long spring getaway. Not only is Montana quieter this time of year, but shoulder season prices are in effect. What’s more, you can find affordable flights and direct flight markets from both Western Montana airports: Missoula (MSO) and Glacier Park […]

National parks have become more popular than ever. During the pandemic, people escaped to the great outdoors for adventure, relaxation and restoration—and it’s a trend that’s not going away. To enhance Western Montana’s visitor experience, Glacier National Park has announced it will once again implement a vehicle reservation system for the 2022 peak season, May […]

Come frolic in the Flathead Valley this winter, where a wonderland of snow and a three-day Glacier Country getaway awaits. If you’re flying in, you can book a round-trip through Kalispell. Or, hit the road for a scenic winter drive to and through this gorgeous valley. Here’s our version of the perfect 3-day itinerary in […]

Ready to escape to Western Montana’s quietest corridor? The Northwest Corridor encompasses Kootenai Country, the Cabinet Mountains Wilderness, quaint small towns, and plenty of backcountry to recreate in. With snowmobiling, Nordic and downhill skiing, and a magical sleigh ride and spa retreat, we’ve put together a unique itinerary that will let you disconnect in this […]

Winter in Western Montana is a wonderland of adventure, and for those who like to play in the snow, the Bitterroot Valley is an incredible place for a three-day Glacier Country getaway. This scenic valley makes for a great road trip (especially from Idaho). If you’re flying in, you can book a round-trip through Missoula.  […]

By: Pat Doyle, Montana State Parks It’s that time of year when ice anglers and other recreationists head out to Montana’s “hard” waters for the winter season. Whether ice fishing, ice skating, hunting, snowmobiling or just taking a walk, Montana State Parks and Glacier Country Tourism remind recreationists that safety should be the No. 1 concern during a day out, on (or near) the […]

Wrapping up our blog series on notable people is the story of Montana’s famous cowgirl, Ramona Holt. Ramona grew up in Montana’s ranching and rodeo scene, participating in youth, intercollegiate and professional rodeo. As an adult, she dedicated her life to promoting the western way of living, and for 30 years Ramona and her husband, […]

This past year brought new businesses to Western Montana, and the new year is the perfect time to share the news. Missoula For all your outdoor gear needs, now visit Missoula SCHEELS, which is an adventure in and of itself. Clyde Coffee moved and expanded, and now has indoor and outdoor space, a full kitchen, plus on-site […]

Happy New Year from all of us here in Glacier Country. We closed out 2021 with gratitude for this wild place we call home. Like most, we began 2022 with resolutions. Some of the most popular resolutions include working toward a healthier lifestyle and making well-being a priority. Vacations are a time of indulgence, but […]

Winter in Western Montana is not only time for adventures in the snow, it’s time for getting cozy. So, grab your skis, your snowshoes, or just a good book; here’s where to find the perfect winter retreat in Glacier Country. Dog Creek Lodge and Nordic Ski Center – Olney Beauty, peace and solitude abound at […]

It’s tree hunting season, friends, and, if you live in Montana and celebrate Christmas, you know we’re big fans of the cut-your-own Christmas tree method. Around here, it’s tradition to gear up and head out into our wintry wonderland to find the perfect tree. Before you go, it’s important to know what you need, what […]

With snow season upon us, it’s time for one of our favorite things: downhill skiing in Western Montana. Come have a ball in our epic snowfall while continuing to play it safe and recreate responsibly. That means know before you go when visiting our ski resorts for downhill winter-wonderland fun. Because things are still a […]

The holiday season in upon us, and with the season comes gift giving—a beloved holiday tradition. We’ve made it easy for you and compiled a list of some of our favorite gifts. A Montana-made treasure is the perfect find for even the hardest person to buy for. From your most stylish friend to your book-loving […]

It’s almost winter in Western Montana, which means we’re decking the halls with all things merry and bright. We love the winter festivities in Glacier Country, and we’re elated that some of our signature holiday events are back. Safety protocols are in place to make sure this holiday season is nothing but pure magic.   […]

For our latest Western Montana Spotlight, we had the opportunity to speak with the director of the Garden of One Thousand Buddhas in Arlee, Montana. The Garden of One Thousand Buddhas is set in one of Montana’s most tranquil settings—the Jocko Valley. Visitors can stroll through the public park, botanical garden and Buddhist center evoking enlightenment […]

Winter is a magical time in Glacier National Park. There’s almost more wildlife than visitors, and the snowy landscape in unbelievable. But this year, due to a staffing shortage, previously offered amenities in the park may not be available. If you plan to visit, it’s important that you know before you go, so you can […]

When winter comes around, it’s important to find the perfect balance between staying cozy and taking full advantage of the snow. In Glacier Country, world-class winter fun is not hard to come by. Just make sure you’re staying safe by playing it safe. Here’s how to recreate responsibly this winter in Western Montana. Winter Driving […]

Western Montana is the traditional, ancestral territory of the Amskapi Piikani, Kootenai, Séliš, and Ql̓ispé people. We’ve been spotlighting extraordinary individuals who call this land home and would be amiss if we didn’t include Jack Gladstone. Jack, known as “Montana’s Troubadour,” is an enrolled citizen of the Blackfeet Nation in Western Montana. Jack illuminates American […]

By: Bob and Jade, Vagabond3.com Everyone craves a one-of-a-kind travel experience—the moment that makes an impression and leaves you totally transformed. That’s what is so special about Western Montana; those transformative experiences are around every road trip pit stop, you just gotta know where to look and how to book to get off the beaten […]

Western Montana’s East Glacier Park scenic travel corridor has a lot to offer, especially in autumn. You’ll find culture, history, outdoor recreation and small-town charm here, especially in the vibrant communities of Browning—on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation—and Cut Bank. Explore Browning In the rolling foothills just east of Glacier National Park you’ll find the culture […]

We’ve been spotlighting remarkable people who call Western Montana home. Our next notable person is Nancy Cawdrey, whose vibrant contemporary paintings capture the spirit of the West. If you’ve visited Glacier Country you’ve likely seen one of her beautiful pieces. Nancy brilliantly combines texture with vivid colors in her whimsical ink-on-silk paintings, which reflect the […]

You know that feeling you get 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 best times to visit Glacier Country because the landscape is intensely gorgeous and there’s […]

Glacier Country has something to offer everyone who likes to get outside. From casual campers to hardcore adrenaline junkies, there are nearly unlimited places to explore and play. This is no exception for off-roaders. There are miles and miles of off-roading trails to discover; the hard part is choosing where to go. As off-roading and […]

Montana has some big names and well-known places (I’m talking about you Glacier National Park), but the truth of the matter is this: some of the coolest places are located off the beaten path and come in the form of small towns, destinations at the end of gravel roads, local shops and colorful characters. Keeping this in mind, last week I set out to explore one of Western Montana’s most-underrated places: the Mission Valley. And you guys, it was a perfect fall day that had picture-perfect views around every corner.

Western Montana’s beloved Café Kandahar, located at Whitefish Mountain Resort, is known for “serving thoughtfully constructed cuisine inspired by classic and modern influences.” That’s thanks to chef (and owner) Andy Blanton, who has been turning out delectable dishes at this favorite Whitefish restaurant for more than two decades. Andy arrived in Montana from New Orleans […]

With all this ranchland, Western Montana can’t help but be known for exceptional beef, and thus exceptional burgers. Here’s a list of our favorite burger joints in Glacier Country.   Naps Grill Naps Grill in Hamilton has been in business for nearly three decades and has the awards to show for it. They’ve consistently won “Best […]

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.

Some pretty remarkable people call Western Montana home. The beauty of our landscape, bountiful recreation, a supportive arts community, and the call of the wild draw folks from far and wide. We’re spotlighting some of these extraordinary people, giving you the chance to get to know them, their work, and their favorite things in Glacier […]

The Western Montana landscape is chock-full of world-class attractions, but the Flathead Corridor is always at the top of our list when we’re looking for an unforgettable adventure. Here you’ll find small-town charm and Flathead Lake—the largest freshwater lake west of the Mississippi and an anchor to this wildly scenic vacation destination just south of Glacier National […]

Indoor exploration in Western Montana is equally as memorable as our outdoor scene. Sometimes, perusing a museum, watching live theater, go-kart racing, or sampling local craft beer is exactly what you need to beat the heat or escape the wildland fire smoke. We’ve compiled a list of 17 unique, fun and quirky indoor activities, taken […]

Western Montana is currently experiencing drought conditions, including extremely dry forest fuels, high temperatures and wind, low humidity and minimal precipitation. That’s why Western Montana’s Glacier Country is currently under Stage 2 fire restrictions. The goal of these fire restrictions is to reduce fire risk and prevent wildland fires during periods of high to extreme […]

Huckleberries are a sweet treat we just can’t get enough of. These small, dark purple, sweet berries grow wild in Western Montana. Locals and visitors alike head to the mountains to pick this coveted fruit. However, a good huckleberry picking spot is like a good fishing hole; some secrets are best discovered on your own. […]

If you’re looking for an impressive cultural experience, Glacier Country has you covered. View works from nationally renowned artists and walk through some of the most fascinating exhibits of historical artifacts providing glimpses into the Old West, railroad days, pioneer settlements and American Indian heritage. To help you history buffs, art lovers and train and […]

There are certain places that exist in the world that are so beautiful, they almost don’t seem real. One such place: Western Montana. Glacier Country is filled to the brim with amazing scenery and picture-perfect scenes. From the glacier-carved peaks of Glacier National Park in the north to the Old West town of Darby in the south, Montana is filled with awe-inspiring views. Taking pictures is a key part of vacationing, and to help you snag some of the most iconic images in Glacier Country, we’ve created a list of the 31 best locations for photo opportunities.

The fact of the matter is this: Montana is a big place. It’s a massive state that’s home to wide-open prairies, snow-capped mountain peaks, rushing waterways and the biggest sky you’ve ever seen.

In Glacier Country, we know how restorative the outdoors and fresh mountain air can be. We strive to be a part of an inclusive outdoors, and make sure Western Montana is welcoming for visitors of all abilities. State parks, national wildlife refuges and rails-to-trails areas can be enjoyed by everyone, and Montana is continually working […]

The Great Outdoors meets Old West charm and a lively arts and culture scene in Kalispell, Montana. Access world-class outdoor recreation with ease in this vibrant community centrally located between Flathead Lake, Whitefish Mountain Resort and Glacier National Park in Western Montana’s Glacier Country, and also take advantage of all the fun happening in downtown […]

Camping in Western Montana is a quintessential pastime. The smell of fresh pine needles, the call of the birds, unmatched starry nights and the opportunity to disconnect from technology and connect with nature are only some of what lures us out. If you’ve never been camping before but are ready to try, the idea of […]