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There’s nothing quite like a storybook village all decked out for the holidays, and that’s what Bigfork does best. On the northeast shore of Flathead Lake, Bigfork is famous for laying on the charm all year long—but Christmastime is truly extraordinary. From early November through New Year’s Eve, the Bigfork Christmas Village captures the spirit […]

We’re completely overjoyed to announce that after the devastating damage to Glacier National Park’s beloved Sperry Chalet from wildland fire in 2017, it will reopen in the summer of 2020. For those of you who know what the Sperry Chalet means to the entire Glacier National Park community—and to thousands of travelers who’ve experienced the […]

Where do we begin? There are many—many—things to be thankful for here in Western Montana’s Glacier Country. Without stating the obvious, our natural resources are always top of mind when we’re feeling grateful—our forests, wilderness areas, rivers, lakes and streams, flora and fauna, wide-open spaces and fresh mountain air are all reasons to give thanks. […]

It’s one of the most wonderful times of the year in Glacier Country. Our landscapes have transformed into winter wonderlands ready for play, and our quaint small towns are decked in holiday merriment. With the holidays just around the corner, our thoughts turn to gift giving. Whether you’re planning a trip here soon, or just […]

From Norman Maclean’s novella “A River Runs Through It” to the poetry of Richard Hugo and the writings of authors like Rick Bass, James Welch, Judy Blunt and Ivan Doig, Montana’s literary landscape is vast. If there’s a place as inspiring to the creative mind as Montana, we don’t know it. Our lit game is strong with support for Montana authors, local book shops, and literary events and festivals throughout the region where the written word reigns.

Fall in Western Montana brings brisk mornings, cozy sweaters and jaw-dropping golden hues. While the colors lure leaf peepers from across the country, our outdoor recreation, art and music scenes, museums, and authentically Montana adventures keep them here. Between the hustle and bustle of activities and sightseeing, stop by one of our many local bakeries and treat yourself to a warm pastry while reflecting on the day. From award-winning bakeries serving up the classic pastries you crave, to innovative bake shops creating treats “outside the breadbox,” our culinary contributions are unexpectedly phenomenal. The foodie in you will thank us later.

Montana’s remarkable natural beauty and rich history have long inspired fine artists, and many of them call Glacier Country home. The small towns scattered throughout the region are arts and culture hot spots where quaint downtowns are lined with galleries and art shops, and where local artists are revered. Visit a local gallery and even take home a treasured piece of Montana art for yourself.

Hunting in Montana was once a way of life, fundamental to surviving and feeding our families. Today, hunting holds a special place in the hearts of many Montanans who recall our rich history of tradition and necessity. It is also a vital wildlife management tool, helping to keep nature at a healthy balance with available and supportive habitat. Western Montana boasts an abundance of diverse wildlife and expansive hunting terrain on both public and private lands. Glacier Country is prime for the hunt with elk, moose, deer, mountain lions, bighorn sheep, upland birds and waterfowl; there’s an adventure for nearly every type of hunter. Our hunting outfitters and guides can help you plan a world-class hunting expedition. Learn about wild animals and local outfitters in the region—a treasure trove of wildlife awaits.

Halloween means it’s time for pumpkin picking and mixing up the fun with a few frights and some seasonal flavors. Quintessential fall family activities abound this time of year, and haunted happenings are scattered throughout the region as well. Here’s where and how to get spooked, have fun, and savor the season in Western Montana’s Glacier Country.

Glacier National Park is open year-round and every season in the park is stunning. Fall, however, is uniquely magical. The Crown of the Continent’s glacier-carved valleys and mountainsides are painted with the golden hues of autumn, amplifying the already jaw-dropping views. Fewer visitors, abundant birding and wildlife watching, and exclusive biking access on the Going-to-the-Sun Road make it one of the best times to enjoy the park. Here are our top eight reasons why you should visit Glacier in its golden season.

Glacier Country has a number of ranches—both rustic and luxury—offering warm western hospitality, relaxation and recreation opportunities like fly-fishing, hiking, snowshoeing, and, of course, horseback riding under big blue skies. Experience the beauty of Western Montana’s breathtaking landscapes, bask in infinite adventures and get to know our friendly, saddle-savvy locals from a traditionally western vantage point.

Western Montana often conjures up images of cowboys, dude ranches, the Wild West and horseback rides through alpine forests and sweeping mountain valleys. For those looking to take the reins on their own cowboy or cowgirl adventure, Glacier Country can deliver. Our region is chock-full of resorts and ranches that have harnessed Montana’s history and packaged it for your pleasure. Grab your cowboy hat and saddle up in Western Montana.

Western Montana’s Kootenai Country and the Cabinet Mountains Wilderness are a treasure trove of breathtaking vistas, glistening waters and hidden gems. Some of our wildest and most remote backcountry can be found here in Montana’s northwest corner. The Northwest Corridor offers a scenic travel route that you can easily drive through, with plenty to see and do in some of our quietest country and most charming communities.

Autumn is just around the corner and the fresh mountain air isn’t the only thing that’s getting crisp. Montana’s apple game is strong, and apple season is in full swing. That means it’s time for a few of our core favorites—apple picking, apple festivals, apple cider and hard cider.

Glacier Country is revered for our big blue skies and seemingly endless views of awe-inspiring sunrises and sunsets. But a well-kept secret is that these endless blue skies turn into jaw-dropping starry nights. Glacier National Park is internationally recognized as a Dark Sky Park, but, throughout Western Montana, our skies deliver, night after night. We’ve made it easy to enjoy our starry nights with observatories throughout the region. Lay out a blanket and count the stars in Glacier Country.

When we refer to Montana by its nickname “The Treasure State,” we’re usually thinking of all the beauty and wonder that makes this place extraordinary—stunning landscapes, charming small towns, and world-class recreation. But Montana has been a place of rich mineral reserves, and, in 1852, gold was discovered here. This revelation not only led to Montana’s nickname, but to an immediate boom in mining, which became an economic stronghold in the region.

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.

The crown jewel of America’s Rails to Trails is right here in Glacier Country—just one more reason why Western Montana is the perfect place for an adventure on two wheels. The Route of the Hiawatha bike trail is part of the Olympian Hiawatha route and is noted as one of the most breathtaking scenic stretches of railroad in the country. USA Today called it a Rails to Trails “Top Ten Pick.” Biking this beauty is one way to experience an authentic, family-friendly adventure in Western Montana’s Glacier Country.

Western Montana boasts some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world. Lush alpine forests, sweeping valleys and mountain meadows full of wildflowers create jaw-dropping views from every angle—but a bird’s-eye view of our spectacular scenery is a view you won’t forget. An aerial tour is a one-of-a-kind adventure, from tranquil hot air balloon rides to the adrenaline rush of skydiving. Take to the skies in Glacier Country. You’ll be glad you did.

AUGUST 2, 2019: Western Montana Wildland Fire and Smoke Update. You may have been hearing about an uptick in wildland fire activity in Western Montana. We’ve got a couple. There’s a small but wily fire just north of Missoula called the Beeskove Fire, and every time there’s a lightning storm we experience a rash of activity including some smoke from surrounding areas like Idaho, Washington and Canada. Conditions are hot and dry, so we’ve got potential.

Summertime and outdoor music go hand in hand in Western Montana. With multiple outdoor venues and one of the most vibrant live music scenes in the West—in Glacier Country’s arts and culture hub of Missoula—it’s no surprise that we get our groove on under the big blue sky late into the season. Here’s where you can catch late-summer 2019 live tunes and local vibes in our corner of Montana.

The mention of Western Montana often conjures up visions of the Old West, like cowboys and horses, and with good reason—they’re a part of both our past and our present. One way we recognize that is through rodeos, which are an authentic western tradition, paying homage to our heritage with events based on the duties of actual working cowboys. Next time you’re in Glacier Country, pull on your boots, grab your cowboy hat and head to a local rodeo.

For generations Western Montana’s authentic way of living has drawn families to vacation here, where adventure comes in many forms and simple pleasures such as floating a river, picking cherries off a tree or seeing wildlife on Wild Horse Island are plentiful. Try kayaking on Flathead Lake, learning to ride a horse, or taking a zip-line tour at a ski resort. Summer fun abounds in Glacier Country.

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.

There are 154 national forests in the United States, and Montana is home to 12 of them. Five of those cover ground in Glacier Country—Lolo, Bitterroot, Flathead, Kootenai and part of the Idaho Panhandle National Forests—and claim more than 8 million acres of national forestland comprised of some of the most pristine terrain in America. Dramatic mountain peaks and soft rolling foothills; lush and diverse woodlands; sparkling lakes and rivers; and remote wilderness areas make up these beloved forestlands, all a vital part of Montana’s prized landscape. And thanks to the help of the U.S. Forest Service, and their efforts and partnerships with local organizations to conserve the land, we plan to keep it that way.

Explore the rich heritage of American Indians and time-honored traditions like pow wows in Western Montana’s Glacier Country, where you’ll find two of the seven Indian reservations that fall within Montana’s borders—the Blackfeet Nation of the Blackfeet Reservation and the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes of the Flathead Reservation. In addition to multiple year-round tribal events, you’ll find museums, galleries, shops and organizations dedicated to preserving the American Indian history and way of life with compelling exhibits and artifacts, and authentic arts and crafts.

Every summer, thousands of travelers drive I-90 as they cruise across Montana. Many of these folks will take a detour south near Bozeman to head to Yellowstone, and others may take the detour north of Missoula to Glacier National Park. But Montana has so many hidden gems tucked just off the interstate, from endless mountain views to quaint small towns with big personalities. My name is Andy Austin. I am a Montana-based photographer and lover of the lesser-visited places in my beautiful state. When Glacier Country Tourism reached out to do a shoot in the I-90 corridor west of Missoula, I was quick to say yes to exploring one of the few areas I have only driven through. 

From Flathead Lake—the largest freshwater lake west of the Mississippi—to countless alpine lakes, legendary rivers and famous blue-ribbon trout streams, there’s no shortage of places to play on the pristine waters of Western Montana’s Glacier Country. Boaters, rafters, paddlers, sailors and anglers alike flock to the region to take advantage of world-class water recreation opportunities among some of the planet’s most scenic and unspoiled landscapes.

Glacier National Park covers a staggering 1 million acres, surrounded by some of Western Montana’s charming small communities that serve as gateways to the park. East Glacier Park, located on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation, is less than 10 miles from the Two Medicine park entrance. This historic community, with its 363 residents, is ready to […]

Need a breather and some room to roam? Wide-open spaces and fresh mountain air are only a few hours away, now that American Airlines offers nonstop flights from Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW), Los Angeles (LAX), and Chicago (ORD) to Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) in Kalispell, Montana. With the addition of these three new flights, you can now travel to Kalispell on American Airlines from a total of twelve cities throughout the U.S.

Western Montana’s rock faces are so beguiling they draw visitors from all over the world; even photos of them can take your breath away. Rock climbing is a fantastic way to experience Glacier Country. The thrill of reaching the top of a climb, witnessing miles of gorgeous views spread out before you, smiling down at your companions below, and taking a few congratulatory selfies is an opportunity not to be missed. Plus, it’s an excellent group bonding experience for family and friends. Participants can learn new skills, test their mettle, enjoy spending time outside in a beautiful setting, and perhaps even discover a new lifelong pursuit.

With wide-open vistas and room to roam, it should come as no surprise that Western Montana’s Glacier Country is a golfer’s paradise. Come spring, we gleefully trade our ski poles for golf clubs. Here, we have the perfect blend of breathtaking landscapes, renowned courses and affordability. Pair that combo with small-town charm, and teeing up in Montana is a real treat. Get on the green in Glacier Country, where you’ll find some of the most stunning and enjoyable golf experiences, and get to know our scenic travel corridors while you’re at it.

Mountain biking Glacier Country’s extensive wilderness trail systems is the perfect way to cover epic ground while breathing in fresh mountain air. Shred a single-track mountain biking trail or visit our family-friendly ski resorts turned downhill mountain bike resorts. There’s no shortage of terrain to pedal; miles of trail systems crisscross the region, and there’s something for every skill level. Explore Western Montana on two wheels. Here are a handful of our favorite trails.

Travel matters. It matters to the traveler, and it matters to the destinations and communities where adventure seekers are spending their hard-earned vacation resources. National Travel and Tourism Week is May 5 – 11, 2019, and in Glacier Country we’re celebrating the fact that we’ve got endless once-in-a-lifetime experiences to offer, and so many travelers helping our small towns thrive. We’re grateful for this amazing place we call home, and we’re extending a hearty helping of warm western gratitude to all of our visitors. How can you celebrate? Come visit again. You’ll be glad you did.

Glacier National Park boasts an abundance of wildlife—one of the most intact ecosystems in the lower 48 states. The park is home to at least 19 large mammals, including bear, moose and bighorn sheep. These magnificent animals are exciting to witness in their natural setting, however, wildlife is just that: wild. We need to respect their space, for their safety and ours. To help keep wildlife a safe distance from visitors, the park hired an expert on the subject—Gracie the Bark Ranger. Learn how Gracie is keeping you safe this season, and discover best practices when it comes to wildlife safety. Warning, cuteness overload ahead.

One of the things that makes Montana so special is that we share the land with an abundance of beautiful, wild creatures. There are plenty of undesignated places to watch wildlife in Western Montana, but some pretty amazing spots are set aside specifically for Montana’s mammals, birds and reptiles. Glacier Country’s year-round wildlife refuges and viewing areas boast a diversity of habitat and offer a look at some of the region’s most majestic inhabitants.

The Crown of the Continent beckons outdoor enthusiasts. With more than 1 million acres of towering peaks, cascading waterfalls, wild meadows and sparkling waters—the sheer beauty of Glacier National Park is jaw-dropping from every angle. However, it can be a little intimidating. For those of you who don’t want to bite off more adventure than you can chew, but still want to get out of your car and away from the crowds, here’s an insider’s guide for a low-key introduction to the park.

Less than 20 minutes south of Flathead Lake—the largest freshwater lake west of the Mississippi—Ronan is quietly situated against the backdrop of the majestic Mission Mountains. This picturesque community off U.S. Highway 93 is more than a small-town agriculture community. The views alone are worth the visit to Ronan, but there’s more to this Mission Valley gem. Year-round recreation abounds here, like fishing, hiking in the Mission Mountain Wilderness Area (by permit), birding, camping and golf.

Spring has sprung and we couldn’t be more excited. The snow is melting, wildflowers are blooming and wildlife is emerging. While the snow in the mountains will take longer to melt, at lower elevations the snow has quickly disappeared. Which means our closer-to-town trails are cleared off and ready to hike. One of the easiest ways to explore Western Montana’s charming small towns is by foot. Stretch your legs and enjoy these leisurely hikes.

Western Montana’s pristine landscape makes for prime bird habitat. Our skies are graced with soaring raptors, our lakes and rivers are flush with waterfowl and shorebirds, and our grasslands and woodlands are visited by beautiful songbirds. Whether you’re an avid birder checking birds off a life list, or someone who just wants a look at something wild and free, there’s plenty of opportunity to catch some good glimpses of Glacier Country’s feathered residents.

Spring is one of the best—and most underrated—times to visit Western Montana. Shoulder season prices are in effect, wildflowers are blooming and wildlife is emerging; the splendor of spring is not to be missed. As the temperatures warm, our vibrant small towns are ready to celebrate spring and the special events and festivals it brings. Whether you’re interested in sporting competitions or food festivals, we have something for everyone. Plan these events into your schedule. You’ll be glad you did.

The gorgeous Montana landscape inspires runners to get out in the fresh mountain air, and springtime is a major motivator for lacing up and hitting the roads and trails. Many of our charming small towns play host to races that not only bring the community together, but also provide an authentic Montana experience to out-of-town runners.

During the everchanging seasons in Western Montana outdoor adventures abound. Weekends are filled with epic lake days, Nordic excursions, biking and more. After all this recreating, you may need a rest. We get it—some days are meant for cozy clothes and relaxing with friends and family. Here are the top 10 brunch spots we’re digging in Glacier Country, for days when the only reason to get off the couch is to find food.

Glacier Country is flowing with distilleries—11 at the moment—and the grain-to-glass game here is strong. Our glacial waters and Rocky Mountain rivers beckon connoisseurs of fine spirits and exquisite flavors. The next time you’re in Western Montana enjoying our winter wonderland or the splendor of spring, hit up one of our favorite spots to savor a sip.

Nature isn’t the only thing putting on a spectacular show in Western Montana’s Glacier Country. Talented performing artists flock to the region, inspired by the sheer beauty and wide-open landscape for artistic expression. Long-running theater companies and symphony orchestras have staged captivating performances here for decades. From community plays to Broadway-caliber theater to live concerts, Western Montana boasts a critically acclaimed performing arts scene.

With countless ways to recreate, from golf to yoga and biking to fly-fishing, Western Montana sets the scene for an epic girls getaway—without breaking the bank. Our awe-inspiring views create the perfect backdrop to relax, reconnect and rejuvenate with friends. Set aside time to explore one of our vibrant (and quite charming) downtowns where you will be greeted with warm western hospitality. Here’s your guide to an authentic small-town adventure and instagram-worthy retreats in Glacier Country.

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.

It’s impossible to hit the road in Western Montana and not find adventure. Every one of our highways, scenic routes and backroads leads to discovery, and the stretch of State Highway 200 from Bonner to Ovando is no exception. Traveling along the Blackfoot River offers quintessential picturesque Montana moments. In the summer the river is full of boaters, floaters and anglers, but during the winter the Blackfoot Corridor offers incredible off-river recreation opportunities.

We continue to live up to our nickname here in the Treasure State. Montana is chock-full of hidden gems, and when it comes to adventure, Glacier Country is a treasure trove of discovery. One of our best-kept secrets is our handful of small-town ski hills, where fresh powder delivers and local vibes prevail. What you won’t find on these hills? Crowds, high-priced lift tickets and long lift lines.

There are few things better than taking a trip with friends and discovering the beauty of a new place together. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing spa retreat, a rustic adventure in the woods or a bluebird day on the slopes, Western Montana has something for you. Our charming small towns, luxury guest ranches and limitless adventures are ready to make your time together memorable. Come reconnect with friends in one of the most gorgeous places in the world.

In a place with so much room to roam, there’s always space for more awesome. Western Montana’s Glacier Country is continually expanding its offerings, because there can never be too many breweries and food hot spots here, and we can always accommodate more adventure.

Montana’s cinematic landscapes have provided the settings for legendary films like “A River Runs Through It” and “The Horse Whisperer” and these scenic locations make the perfect spot for film festivals. Here’s a list of renowned film festivals and well-preserved historic theaters in Western Montana’s charming small towns.

Winter in Glacier Country is for adventurous powder plungers, downhill dreamers and paradise seekers looking for a peaceful escape in an enchanting frosty forest of white. We have activities year-round here, but winter is one of our best seasons for adventure. Exploration is exponential this time of year, and it’s one of our favorite seasons to recreate in Western Montana.

Imagine you’re waterskiing, but you’re being pulled by a horse and rider through the snow. That’s how many participants describe skijoring, an outrageously entertaining winter activity that’s rapidly gaining in popularity in Western Montana’s Glacier Country.

It’s no secret that Montana is a pretty big place with plenty of room to roam. We like to take advantage of all that gorgeous open space and cover as much ground as we can, especially in winter when we can power up our sleds and snowmobile miles and miles of bragworthy winter-wonderland terrain.

Winter in Western Montana’s Glacier Country is pure magic; we really know how to deck the halls and celebrate the season of giving with all things merry and bright. It’s also true that winter’s the time of year when it’s pretty easy to get a little stir crazy, which is why we fill the season with holiday events and celebrations galore.

Here in Western Montana’s Glacier Country, we love the holidays and all the magical experiences they bring, like corn mazes, craft fairs and sleigh rides, to name a few. Although we would like to spend all our time outdoors frolicking in the snow or bundled up by the fireplace with hot cocoa, we also know that with the holidays—no matter what holiday you celebrate—comes gift giving. In Western Montana we really know how to deck the halls and celebrate the season of giving with all things merry and bright.

The charming crossroads community of St. Regis is a road-trip must-stop. Travelers on the Interstate Highway 90 corridor between Missoula, Montana and Coeur d’Alene, Idaho never miss the chance to pull over and stretch their legs in this treasured town nestled at the confluence of the Bitterroot, Coeur d’Alene and Cabinet Mountain ranges.

Montana’s main draw is its natural beauty and world-class outdoor recreation, so it can be a quite a pleasant surprise to find out the state’s rugged exterior belies a highly developed artistic sensibility. Many of Western Montana’s communities boast big-city-worthy galleries and artists with talent galore. Local art makes a lovely souvenir, so take some time to browse and shop.

The shores of Flathead Lake—the largest freshwater lake in the West—boast some pretty spectacular communities, and the lovely little town of Lakeside is no exception. Hugging the western shore of the lake’s northern tip, ease of access to the water is a highlight, but this popular summertime destination happens to be a Glacier Country getaway worth getting away to any time of year.

Exploring Glacier Country on Amtrak’s Empire Builder is a fun and memorable way for travelers of all ages to see Glacier National Park and experience Western Montana’s small-town charm. A mid-to-late autumn round-trip journey from Cut Bank to Whitefish offers the opportunity to see Western Montana and Glacier National Park draped in fall colors lightly dusted with fresh snow—a uniquely beautiful blending of seasons.

Autumn anglers, this one’s for you. Fall fishing is upon us in Western Montana’s Glacier Country, and we’re chomping at the bit. While fishing the pristine waters of Montana’s rivers, lakes and streams is phenomenal year-round, autumn offers an incredibly authentic angling experience: fewer folks on the water, quieter rivers, and—spoiler alert—October and November offer some of the year’s best trout fishing, and hardcore anglers know it. We may as well call it “trophy trout season.”

It’s no secret that we’re serious Griz fans here in Western Montana. The college-football community of Missoula boasts mountains of pride for the Division 1 Montana Grizzlies. Every football season Griz fans flock to the University of Montana’s Washington-Grizzly Stadium to cheer on our beloved team.

We’re sweet on every season here, but we’re especially smitten with autumn. The tapestry of golden hues and hillsides dusted with the first snow complemented by the impossibly blue sky gets us every time, and fall brings a few of our favorite things: flannels, festivals, scenic road trips, seasonal microbrews and farmers markets brimming with pumpkins, heritage apples, ciders and more of our favorite harvest flavors.

In the velvety, rolling foothills just east of Glacier National Park, the culture and traditions of the American Indian thrive. The largest community on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation, Browning, Montana is home to the state’s biggest tribe—the Blackfeet Nation. Museums, shops, galleries and annual celebrations preserve the Blackfeet way of life, and give travelers an authentic glimpse into their heritage.

We have plenty of hidden treasures here in Western Montana, and sometimes the best—and only—way to discover them is to go off-road into our beautiful backcountry and heavenly high country. You can cover quite a bit of ground when you get off the main roads and explore our pristine alpine lakes, lush forests and mesmerizing mountain meadows. From technical to family-friendly rides, alpine all-terrain vehicle (ATV) adventures abound in Glacier Country.

Our fire update today is some good news! We’re thrilled to report that Glacier National Park will be offering limited shuttle and tour access from the west side of the Going-to-the-Sun Road beginning on September 7. And of course the east side of the road has always been open, as is the majority of the park including Apgar, Two Medicine, St. Mary, Many Glacier and the North Fork.

Part of what makes Western Montana’s great outdoors so great is the abundance of explore-worthy, off-the-beaten-path public lands. Admittedly, we’re a little obsessed with visiting the lesser-known gems of Glacier Country, where crowds are light or non-existent and the adventure is always one of discovery.

The treasured little Glacier Country town of Cut Bank is cozied up against the backdrop of the breathtaking Rocky Mountains just under an hour from Glacier National Park. Along the eastern border of the Blackfeet Indian Reservation, history, tradition, western adventures and outdoor opportunities abound in this stay-and-play, full-service community, complete with comfortable lodging, friendly hospitality and a personality all its own.

[caption id="attachment_7205" align="aligncenter" width="5760"] Hop in your car and prepare for epic views of Glacier National Park…and don’t worry, there are plenty of places to pull over and capture the moment.[/caption]

Come see what’s SUP in Western Montana. Stand-up paddleboarding, or SUP, is an increasingly popular way to explore Montana’s sparkling alpine lakes and scenic, lazy rivers. In fact, SUP is the fastest-growing water sport in the world. Surfing meets kayaking in this epically fun way to play on the water.

As a guide in Yellowstone National Park and Glacier National Park (GNP) I am no stranger to their beauty, but I am also no stranger to their crowds. With record numbers expected to hit GNP again this year, I knew it was time to explore the surrounding regions. My name is Andy Austin, and I’m a photographer based out of Montana. For the past three weeks, I have road-tripped across Montana in search of spring wildflowers and epic adventures. As my tour starts to come to a close in northwest Montana’s Glacier Country, many of my friends guessed that my trip would take me to the Flathead Valley and GNP, an area I spend a good deal of free time in. But, for this adventure, I had my eyes set on solitude and escaping the crowds.

Western Montana’s Glacier Country spans 22,000 square miles of pure perfection. Boasting natural wonders like Glacier National Park, the Bob Marshall Wilderness, the Bitterroot Valley and Flathead Lake, you’ll never tire of exploring our corner of heaven. This stunningly beautiful region is home to 75+ communities, and each of them deserves to be discovered. We recently visited one of our very favorite Western Montana towns, the storybook village of Bigfork.

If you’ve been reading our blog, you know just how obsessed we are with Western Montana—the glacial-carved terrain, wildflower-filled meadows, charming small towns and endless outdoor adventure are all pretty easy to love. One of our favorite places to spend time in Big Sky Country is Columbia Falls.

Homegrown, handmade and locally harvested—that’s what you’ll find in abundance across Western Montana’s Glacier Country. The farmers market scene here is brag-worthy. Locally grown produce is a given, but there’s so much more to discover, from fresh flowers and baked goods to cheeses, meats, honey, jams and jellies, coveted Montana huckleberries and Dixon Melons, plus the elusive morel mushrooms.

The Crown of the Continent. The Backbone of the World. Heaven on Earth. Glacier National Park boasts some pretty apt nicknames. But did you know the epic beauty and unrivaled adventure extend well beyond park boundaries? From charming small towns to pristine rivers and recreation areas, Montana offers a wonderland of discovery.

There are few things better than hitting the open road with friends and discovering the beauty of a place from behind the wheel of your vehicle. One of the best places to explore by car: Western Montana’s Glacier Country. Our wide-open spaces, charming small towns, jaw-dropping landscapes and well-maintained highway system make for the perfect place to hit the open road.

Montana: wild, magical and unapologetically undiscovered. This beautiful state is home to wide-open spaces, national parks, rugged backcountry terrain, glacial rivers, wildlife refuges and wilderness areas.

From downtown theaters, bars, breweries and main streets to hot springs and a river’s edge amphitheater, there’s no shortage of places to see good music in Western Montana. Our noteworthy music scene boasts venues big and small, hosting national acts, local singers and songwriters, symphonies and other mountain sounds made all the more magical by the stunning Montana landscape.

In Glacier Country, springtime means swing time. As the snow melts and the greens emerge, we dust off our golf clubs and get ready to play a round (the first of many). From public to semi-private courses, there’s no better place to tee up when you’re looking for a scenic swing, a championship course, and affordability. Golfing is one of those activities that really allows you to take in your surroundings, and here in Western Montana, the vistas are stunning, and you’re bound to catch a glimpse of some wildlife on the sidelines.

Around these parts we cherish our wild places and the wildlife who call them home. Western Montana’s Glacier Country is lucky to have 20 wildlife refuges that are protected public lands and waters set aside to conserve America’s fish, wildlife and plants. One of our favorite places of refuge to visit is the National Bison Range in Moiese, Montana.

Dallas friends: leave the humidity in the Lone Star State and come bask in the heavenly mountain air in Big Sky Country. American Airlines now offers direct flights from Dallas to Missoula. Your friendly neighbors up north in Western Montana’s Glacier Country offer the warm hospitality you’re used to and your cowboy boots will fit right in here, plus…our mountain landscape offers a stunning change of pace.

When thinking about Montana, images of wildlife, jaw-dropping landscapes and recreation in pristine mountain wilderness probably come to mind. But in the midst of all of this, Montana is also bustling with a lesser known beautiful thing: breweries. Glacier Country is home to more than 20 brew houses, and we’re here to highlight the handful in Montana’s Bitterroot Valley. This scenic valley is long (96 miles, to be exact) and is flanked by the Bitterroot Mountains on the west and the Sapphire Mountains on the east. It’s also home to the Bitterroot River, charming communities, incredible history, fabulous food and an abundance of year-round outdoor recreation. However, we’re here to tell you about the exceptional craft beer coming straight out of “The Root.”

You may have already figured out that we’re pretty good at divulging our own secrets. That’s because we have so much good Glacier getaway intel to share. For instance, spring is one of the best times to explore Big Sky Country by bike. As the temperatures begin to warm in Western Montana, snow enthusiasts head home, making spring one of our quietest—and most serene—seasons. Experience wildflowers, emerging wildlife, rushing rivers and the always welcome shoulder-season pricing (which pairs well with our warm western hospitality).

Established as a state in 1889, Montana boasts sweeping plains, big blue skies, majestic mountains and an amazingly rich history. But Montana’s history didn’t begin with Lewis and Clark’s expedition of the West; it began thousands of years prior. The plains and mountains that make up Montana are rich with cultural heritage—a deep, colorful tapestry that weaves tradition, art, music, dance, storytelling, adventure, industry and leisure. This creates a place of awe-inspiring spirit and wonder.

History buffs + eager explorers—this one’s for you. Western Montana is home to several museums, some of which are a little off the beaten path, making them all the more explore-worthy. These hidden gems display everything from American Indian beadwork to homesteader history to storied lake monsters, and each one offers a celebration and preservation of Montana’s rich heritage, coupled with a unique adventure in small-town discovery.

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.

This probably comes as no surprise, but we’re suckers for romance. That’s because we’re surrounded by natural beauty and breathtaking places go hand in hand with romantic adventures. It’s simple to see why Glacier Country is the perfect spot for new couples to connect and longtime lovebirds to rekindle the romance.

There are some places that feel so welcoming. Those towns that once you hit their main street are filled with charm, happy people and something. Places that make you want to stop and stay a while.

Winter in Montana isn’t only for adventurous powder plungers and downhill dreamers. It’s also for paradise seekers looking for a peaceful escape in an enchanting frosty forest of white. We hike all year here, and taking a walk in the snow is high on our list of things we love—it just requires a little extra gear. Snowshoes make it possible to head onto the trails and into backcountry quiet places that might otherwise not be accessible this time of year. This easy—and family-friendly—snowsport is a must-do winter activity, bound to leave you with some pretty incredible Montana memories.

Winter in Western Montana is pure magic, and that’s because we don’t just know how to play in the snow, we know how to stay in the snow. Our secret? Cozy. Get snug fireside in one of our luxury lodges, cabins or chalets. Staying in Glacier Country is part of the beauty of playing in Glacier Country, and warm western hospitality is our specialty. You’d be hard pressed to find a more authentic Montana winter getaway experience than what you’ll discover here. We’ve pulled together a list of some of our favorite spots to get your cozy on.

Road trips are often equated with summertime, or at least with the warmer months (and by warmer we mean no threat of snowy road conditions). But here’s the thing: we recreate outdoors all year here in Western Montana, so we’re always on the road driving from one ski hill, Nordic paradise or snowmobile trail to another, and we’re here to tell you this—the winter panoramas from the pavement here are pretty magical, and the stops along the way are, too. 

Winter’s the time of year when it’s pretty easy to get a little stir crazy. But in Western Montana’s Glacier Country, it’s the season of snowy splendor, and we’ve got the best cure for cabin fever: literally get your family to a cabin—preferably a slopeside one—and embrace all that winter in Western Montana has to offer. If a cabin is not for you, we have plenty of lodges, resorts, ski chalets and vacation homes too for the whole family. Our lodging is exceptionally cozy, and our hospitality is always warm.

Winter is typically known as the season of hibernation and all things cozy, though cabin fever often finds a way of sneaking in. Here in Glacier Country, we’ve got just the cure for that: the little town of Libby, Montana boasts big adventures.

Montana’s wild winter wonderland just got even bigger. Thousands of acres of new snowmobiling terrain in Seeley Lake, Ovando and Lincoln have been opened up by last summer’s wildfires. Fire season is par for the course around here, and sometimes the flames can be devastating, but they’re also a natural and important part of the regeneration of the land. And, in this case, they’ve gifted sled heads a new powder paradise to play in.

We’re going to come right out and say it: we love food. And you already know how much we love Montana. So it goes without saying that eating in Montana is, well, very high on our list of favorites. We get it: when you think about Glacier Country, food isn’t the first thing that comes to mind. Let us assure you, however, that Big Sky Country’s culinary contributions are unexpectedly phenomenal.

Here in Western Montana’s Glacier Country, we treasure each season for its unique offerings, and we don’t like to rush things—a Montana trait, for sure. So although we’re still savoring the smell of pumpkin spice and hot apple cider, we know the holidays are right around the corner. And with the season—no matter what holidays you celebrate—comes gift giving, which is one of our favorite things. The many gift options Glacier Country has to offer has us especially enthusiastic this year.

We always talk about how much we love winter, and it’s the truth. It’s also true that we love the festive holiday frolic the season brings. In Western Montana’s Glacier Country, we really know how to deck the halls and celebrate the season of giving with all things merry and bright.

[caption id="attachment_6568" align="aligncenter" width="1066"] Thompson Falls is stunning in every season. Photo: Kate Baxter[/caption]

As we trade in autumn hues for winter white, we gravitate toward all things warm and cozy. Western Montana is full of small-town coffee stops, diners, cafés and bakeries perfect for that warm caffeine boost and tasty treat you’re craving with these cooler temps. The next time you’re in Glacier Country enjoying our winter wonder, hit up one of our favorite sweet spots. The over-50-mile-stretch from Missoula down into the Bitterroot Valley is dotted with deliciousness, and the drive is a scenic one to boot.

[caption id="attachment_6526" align="aligncenter" width="5064"] Biking on the Bitterroot Trail. PHOTO: Saara Snow[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_6515" align="aligncenter" width="2048"] Pumpkin patch in Missoula. PHOTO: Destination Missoula[/caption]

It’s no secret that winter in Western Montana is pretty extraordinary. With over 300 inches of snow every year and thousands of acres of awe-inspiring terrain, including six downhill ski areas, it’s most certainly a winter travel destination. But, it’s not just that. It’s a sought-after winter playground for adrenaline seekers and backcountry explorers in search of powder paradise. When you experience a Glacier Country winter, you find the heavenly helpings of snow we’re talking about, and if there’s anyone who knows where to go for the “epic pow,” it’s Warren Miller. For the second year in a row, Warren Miller Entertainment has journeyed right here to Western Montana to take the powder plunge.

When you think of Montana, you probably think of sweeping mountain landscapes and epic outdoor adventure—and you aren’t wrong. But one thing you might miss if you don’t look closely enough is the cache of cultural heritage created by generations of Montanans celebrating the rich roots of our region. This legacy has been carefully preserved by several Glacier Country museums that round out Western Montana’s communities. Here’s a list of some of our favorite hot spots for history in our little slice of heaven.

Western Montana is gorgeous, and is undoubtedly a vacation all its own, but on the 150th anniversary of Canadian Parks we know you might want to scoot across the border for free park entry. The locals refer to Waterton Lakes National Park as “where the mountains meet the prairies” and Glacier National Park as “the backbone of the world.” These majestic lands have inspired many writers and world travelers, and will certainly inspire you too. From Glacier’s Going-to-the-Sun Road to Waterton’s Red Rock Canyon, you’ll be glad you decided on a two-nation vacation.

Trout Creek—tucked in the northwest corner of Montana—is a charming community full of recreational opportunities like camping, hiking and fishing. Little did you know, however, that Trout Creek is home to one of the best festivals in Montana—their annual Huckleberry Festival, which attracts visitors from far and wide to celebrate the coveted purple berry.

Western Montana’s jaw-dropping natural beauty and wide open spaces are perfect for nurturing the imagination. That means there’s no shortage of creative genius in our roots. Artists are drawn here from all over the world. Our communities are alive with arts and culture, and our festivities are often centered around one of our favorite things—music, which we take pretty seriously around these parts.

We’re going to come right out and say it: we’re carnivores at heart. When we think of all the things we love about Western Montana (the list is long), savoring a juicy, perfectly cooked, locally raised steak is way up near the top of the list. It’s not just a mouthwateringly delicious meal, it’s a full Montana experience. Raising cattle is a way of life here. It’s a livelihood infused with a rich history of agricultural pride, cowboy culture and—most importantly—a high regard for the land and the livestock. We love everything about a Montana steakhouse, and we’re pretty confident you will, too.

If there’s one thing we can all agree on, it’s that Montana is wildly beautiful…with an emphasis on wild.

Hiking in Glacier National Park is a beautiful and wondrous thing, and we recently had the opportunity to hike one of the more popular routes in the park—the Avalanche Lake Trail. This serene and breathtaking trail winds through lush forest, along a pristine stream and inland through a northwest rainforest to a stunning alpine lake […]

We’ve got a crush on Missoula. It’s the kind of place that will steal your heart and never let go. The allure of small-city charm surrounded by breathtaking wilderness has secured its position as one of our region’s cultural and recreation hot spots. If you’re looking for a place to feed your soul and your belly, spend a weekend in Missoula, but plan on being a little heartbroken when it’s time to leave. The list of things to do in the robust mountain town is long, so we took the guesswork out of planning the perfect Missoula weekend:

Around these parts, it’s no secret that spring is one of our favorite seasons. Don’t get us wrong, we’ll never stop loving our heavenly summers and epic winter wonderlands, but there is something magical about the color changes and uncrowded roads that makes us long for shoulder seasons. One of the most unforgettable experiences Glacier National Park has to offer is biking the Going-to-the-Sun Road. This ride is truly special in the springtime when it’s only open to non-vehicular traffic, giving you and fellow riders the run of the road.

As you know, a picture is worth a thousand words, and when we get our fans and friends out there capturing Montana moments in Glacier Country, we’re left speechless. These snapshots of our corner of paradise speak for themselves. Do we actually get to live, work and play in this place? Yep, we sure do, and you’d be ahead to come experience the magic and wonder for yourself. There’s a reason why we call it heaven on earth. So, although we love telling you all about our stunning landscapes and unrivaled recreation opportunities, this time we’re going to just show you. (We’re still bragging, but with less words and more pictures.)

Here’s a little something you may not know about us. In Western Montana, one of our best features is the wonder of our wildflower blooms. Just when you thought we couldn’t be any more jaw-dropping, these miniature miracles of nature brave cold nights and dramatic spring weather to sprout their way up into Montana’s landscape in a striking display of beauty. During our heavenly warm season, our mountain woodlands, prairie grasslands, foothills and alpine meadows are sprinkled with the splendor of nature’s loveliest and most colorful artwork. Montana’s rich flora thrives in several different ecosystems, drawing wildflower aficionados, visitors and locals alike on a quest for the carpet of color or the elusive stem hidden high on an alpine ridgeline.

One of Glacier Country’s greatest assets is our rivers. Just the mere mention of Western Montana conjures visions of sparkling waterways winding through some of the country’s most scenic landscapes. Our rivers are wild and free, and they all offer diverse adventures, from fly-fishing to scenic multiday float trips to adrenaline-pumping whitewater excursions. A Western Montana vacation isn’t complete without a day (or more) on the water. 

Last week in Part One of this series, we explored some of our favorite day hikes in the southerly region of Glacier Country (if you missed it, you should definitely go take a peak). This week, we’re finishing the list by heading up the map toward Highway 200, the Jewel Basin, Tobacco Valley and the Crown of the Continent: Glacier National Park.

Western Montana’s Glacier Country covers the northwest corner of Montana, stretching from the Canadian border all the way down through the Bitterroot Valley. It’s a big region, with a lot to explore. We started this blog post hoping to share our top 10 favorite hikes, and we quickly realized it was just too much for one post…so, we’re splitting it up. Part One covers the more southern portion of Glacier Country including the Seeley-Swan Valley and the Bitterroot Valley. Next week we’re sharing the northern-most parts of Western Montana including the Flathead National Forest, Glacier National Park, Tobacco Valley and more.

There’s nothing quite like loading up the family and embarking on an epic road trip to make some everlasting memories and there’s no place to make those memories better than Montana. From the Bitterroot Valley to Glacier National Park, Western Montana has enough scenic byways for a lifetime of cruising. We love road trips and camping so we partnered with Bretz RV & Marine to bring you a spring camping gear giveaway. Enter to win, load up your RV, chart a route through our charming small towns and make it a point to pull over and check out these fun and unique roadside attractions.

We all need a little adventure in our lives, and we all have different thoughts about what that means, so here are a handful of travel ideas to explore, depending on your “adventure type.”

It’s the middle of winter, Mother Nature just hit us with some serious snow and, let’s face it, we all have a bit of cabin fever. It’s a good thing Montana’s cold-weather recreation options keep expanding. From miles of groomed trails to acres of untouched terrain, our mountains are waiting for you to come shred some powder. And since we know that planning a vacation can sometimes feel overwhelming, we made a little list to help you out of your winter rut.

I’m not quite sure how to tell you this, so I’m just gonna come right out with it: I’m leaving Montana.

You guys, first things first: I’m so glad we’re friends. When I think back on this blog, I feel incredibly fortunate that I’ve been able to take you on my Montana-loving journeys and share all the things that make Big Sky Country so special to me. I love reading your comments and receiving your emails about the latest blog posts, and I really love when you share your memories of Montana, family or life with me. So from the bottom of my windblown, silly, happy and joyful heart, I want to say one thing: thank you. Thank you for letting me be part of your lives.

Oh you guys, where do I start? Well, with the truth I guess: last week was a rough one. I won’t bore you with the details (AKA I won’t complain about my life, since I’m the first to admit how blessed I am), but I had a couple of days where I just didn’t feel […]

It’s no secret that I think the Christmas season is one of the most wonderful times of year. And for those of you who know me, it’s probably no surprise that I love giving presents. Like, really love it. No matter who I’m giving a gift to, I try to make sure that it’s perfect for them, that it has meaning and that they’ll (hopefully) love it. And if you’re anything like me, you want to be sure to give the people you love thoughtful, meaningful gifts.

It’s probably no surprise that I’m a big fan of fall in Montana. In fact, I think it may be my favorite season. But to be honest, the changing colors of autumn in Big Sky Country tend to get overlooked for other more colorful destinations. Which I totally get. If you ask me, one of the reasons Montana is glanced over as a fall color destination is because people just don’t know that we actually have fall foliage here.

I think L.M. Montgomery said it best when she wrote, “I’m so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers.” Truth be told, October (with November being a close second) is one of the most underrated months of the year, especially in Montana. And I get it. Weather in Montana can be a little unpredictable, but if you’re bold enough to visit in October you’re going to find that it’s actually quite lovely. Plus, when the weather has one of her “moods” she typically snaps out of it pretty quickly and returns to her pleasant self, complete with sunshine and gorgeous fall foliage.

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.

Update: I’m thrilled to tell you the winners are Heather Isaacs & Rachel Kilroy! Congrats ladies and thank you all for entering. 

I’m just going to say it: spending a week in the backcountry of Montana’s Bob Marshall Wilderness was a memory I’m never going to forget. But before I get too sappy, let’s pick up where we left off from parts one and two of this trip.

If you’ve been reading this blog for a while, you know that earlier this summer I fulfilled a lifelong dream of mine and took a pack trip into Montana’s Bob Marshall Wilderness will Mills Wilderness Adventures. Sidenote: if you’re just joining me, you can check out part one of the pack trip here.

Truth time: some of Montana’s most incredible places are hidden in plain sight. One such example is the National Bison Range.

Last week, my favorite travel partner and I hopped on Amtrak’s Empire Builder and rode it from Whitefish to East Glacier Park. (You can read the full post on our train trip in Montana here.) And you guys, it was such a fun adventure! But our trip didn’t end there.

Not to toot my own horn, but I think I do a pretty good job of taking advantage of the offerings that are found in my Montana backyard. Except, I don’t always try everything that I wish I would. Take for example Amtrak’s Empire Builder line. It runs between Chicago and Seattle and passes through Montana’s northern tier two times per day, making stops in Libby, Whitefish, West Glacier, Essex, East Glacier Park, Browning, Cut Bank, Shelby and Havre.

Being a born and raised Montana girl, I know that winter here is pretty special. But I also know that not everyone thinks of Big Sky Country as a winter travel destination, especially when there are so many other places that have great ski scenes, solid snow and multiple resorts to choose from. But I do know that there’s at least one guy who knows that winter in Montana is pretty rad: Warren Miller.

We all know it’s coming. It’s been sneaking up on us like a thief in the night, taking a few minutes of daylight in the morning and leaving a crispness in the air every night. You know what I’m talking about…fall. 

Taking a pack trip into Montana’s Bob Marshall Wilderness has been a dream of mine for as long as I can remember. I grew up on the doorstep of The Bob along Montana’s Rocky Mountain Front where I could look out my window and see it everyday, and while I had played in this wilderness on day hikes and rides, I’d never spent an extended amount of time in my backyard treasure. Which, let’s be honest, is kind of weird and really lame.

This week, we’re officially commemorating the centennial of the National Park Service. While we’ve been celebrating all year (you can read more about how we’ve been marking 100 years of stewardship here and here), the official century mark is Thursday, August 25. And you guys, that’s a BIG birthday.

Truth be told, it doesn’t get much better than summer in Montana. And this year, summer has been pretty fantastic. From visiting Bighorn Canyon in Southeast Montana to biking the Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park, it’s been full of adventure, beautiful weather and lots of memorable moments. Before the days of summer fully give way to fall, I thought it’d be fun to take a look back at a summer spent in Montana.

If there are three things I love in life, they are small towns, butter and homemade rolls. (You guys, deep down I’m a really simple country girl…with a crazy love for butter.) So last week, when I had a friend in town visiting from the east coast, we decided to combine our mutual love of small town Montana with our love of food and take our maiden voyage to a place we’ve both been wanting to try: The Dinnerbell.

You know those times when you’ve just experienced something amazing that you don’t even know how to start putting the experience into words? Well, that’s me right now at this exact moment as I’m trying to write about my week-long pack trip into the Bob Marshall Wilderness with Mills Wilderness Adventures. 

When I think of Glacier National Park, the first thing that comes to mind is the Going-to-the-Sun Road. After all, the 50 miles of this two-lane highway takes travelers to some of the most stunning landscapes in Glacier Park. But I have to tell you that there’s so much more to the Crown of the Continent than just driving the Going-to-the-Sun Road.

It’s no secret that 2016 is the 100th anniversary of the National Park Service, which is resulting in more people than ever getting out to explore and visit our national parks. In Montana, we’re fortunate to have two national parks: Glacier and Yellowstone,  while our BFF to the south—Wyoming—also has two national parks: Grand Teton and Yellowstone. 

I feel like we’re at the point in our relationship where it’s time to introduce you to one of my favorite places that I’ve been kind of keeping a secret. Please meet my love, Placid Lake State Park. 

It’s hard to stay in one place during summer in Montana. There’s something about this time of year that makes me want to adventure in, around and through this place I call home. And I have to tell you, this year is no exception and with gorgeous weather, the need to hit the road came earlier than usual. So on one sunshine-filled day this June, my two traveling companions (affectionately known as boo and baby girl) and I loaded up the car and decided to take a road trip north. Our destination: Polebridge, Montana.

We all know that Montana’s Glacier National Park is amazing. It just is. I mean, does it get much better than 1 million acres of glacial-carved terrain, the epic Going-to-the-Sun Road and the feeling you get just being in Glacier National Park? Maybe not. But I’m here to tell you, it gets pretty darn close.

If you’ve been reading this blog for a while, you know by now that I’m a Montana girl through and through. I live here, love it here and my soul feels at home here. I currently live in one of the “big cities” of Montana and I have to tell you that while I love where I live, there’s no place like home. For me, home is a 2-hour drive over the mountains to a small town that sits along Montana’s Rocky Mountain Front: Augusta.

You guys, I don’t love writing about sad things on this blog. And I hate telling you about sad things, especially when they happen in the place that I love and adore: the West. But the fact of the matter is this: it’s only mid-June and we’ve already had several negative wildlife encounters and an unfortunate, heart-breaking experience in Montana and Yellowstone National Park.

I’ve got a confession: while I’m a born and raised Montana girl who has spent extensive amounts of time traveling the state, there are still some places I’ve never been to. At the very top of my list: Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area.

Are you guys ready for some fun, Montana-lovin’ social media news? Here’s hoping you are, because I’m about to lay it on ya. Later this month, I’m going to be hosting (along with many of my other Montana friends) a twitter chat called #AskMontanaChat. 

Confession time: sometimes I wonder out loud to myself, “Is this real life?” Because you guys, I have to tell you that there are days where I legitimately wonder how in the world I’m in this exact spot at this exact moment to be able to experience this life.

There are some places that you visit that feel like a total escape from daily life. One such place: Flathead Lake Lodge.

You guys, I have to tell you something: riding Glacier National Park’s Going-to-the-Sun Road on a bike is one of the best things you could ever do.

I think we know each other well enough by now for me to be totally honest with you. And the truth is that I LOVE FOOD. You see, I grew up in a big family (we’re talking around 65+ first cousins; that’s apparently how we do things in Montana) with a grandpa who’s greatest joy—besides his […]

So…I’m sensing a theme in what I’ve been doing lately. Apparently, I’m all about a good road trip. (You can see the proof here, here and oh ya, here.) But honestly, I can’t even blame myself at this point. Instead, I blame Montana’s wide-open spaces, colorful characters and a landscape that seems to be calling my name ALL THE TIME. With that said, it seems appropriate that this week (Friday, May 13 to be exact) I’m setting off on an epic road trip through Western Montana’s Glacier Country. 

Truth time: two of my favorite states in the country are Montana and Wyoming. Sure, in the past we’ve joked about the (friendly) rivalry between Big Sky Country and the Forever West (you can read about the smackdown between Montana and Wyoming here and here), but the fact of the matter is that these two states are BFFs.

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.

This Saturday kicks off one of the best weeks of the year: National Park Week! And one of the greatest things about this week, besides the fact that our country’s best idea deserves a week of celebration, is that entry into every national park in the United States is FREE. Kind of awesome, right? As a girl who […]

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: spring is one of the best times to visit Western Montana’s Glacier Country. During this time of year, the weather is actually pretty nice, there are tons of baby animals and—the granddaddy of them all—there’s basically no one here.

I’m not one to play favorites, but there is a place in Montana that I’m totally in love with. It’s like my own little piece of heaven under the state’s big blue sky. Its name: Paradise. As in, that’s literally the name of the actual place. Kind of perfect, right?

Truth time: this month’s Montana sunsets have been amazing.

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: Montana is beautiful during late winter and early spring. Remember a couple of weeks ago when I took a road trip from Missoula to Polson (you can read more about that—and see photos from that stunning drive—here) on a picture-perfect day? Well, the truth of the matter is that I kept on going and the second half of that day took me from Polson to Whitefish. And it, my friends, was beautiful. Here’s a look at the views from Montana’s Flathead Valley.

Truth time: every year in March, I get sentimental. And since my wee Irish grandmother passed away nearly 18 months ago, I’m afraid that my heart feels a little more tender during this time of year. We all know what I’m talking about: St. Patrick’s Day.

Yesterday was one for the record books in Big Sky Country. While it’s early March here in Montana’s Glacier Country, it was one of the most stunning days I’ve spent exploring in a long time. Because it was such a beautiful day, a girlfriend and I hit the road from Missoula to Polson. While this […]

Let’s all just take a moment to celebrate a few things: it’s been a fun winter, we’re starting to see glimpses of spring, the sun is shining and I’ve spent the entire week in one place: Missoula, Montana.

There are a few destinations in Montana that are full of delightful surprises. Kalispell, Montana is one such place. In the past, Kalispell has been a city that was known for its larger retail stores and as a great place to stay when exploring nearby recreational attractions like Flathead Lake and Glacier National Park. But I have to tell you that after spending two full days there, I’m convinced that Kalispell is way more than just a place to lay your head or pick up bulk groceries.

You guys, last month I did something I’ve never done before. I went fat biking just outside of Whitefish, Montana. And it was awesome. If you’ve never heard of fat biking, not a worry! It’s basically just riding a normal bike, except one with over-sized tires and wider rims that make it easier to navigate softer terrain, like snow.

Being from the countryside of Montana, it’s probably no surprise that I’m a big fan of horses and now, seeing as I live in the “city,” I welcome any opportunity to take a horseback ride, wagon ride or sleigh ride. Earlier this month, I headed out to one of my favorite guest ranches (Bar W Guest Ranch near Whitefish) for a snowy sleigh ride behind Dutch and Duke, two beautiful Percheron horses.

For those of you keeping score, I’m sure that by now you know that I LOVE Montana. It’s just that this place that I call home has such a special spot in my heart and I can’t image loving anywhere quite as much as I love Montana’s big blue sky, dramatic temperatures, salt-of-the-earth residents and magical moments. It’s safe to say that I’m totally obsessed and love sharing my Montana with all of you!

Well you guys, it’s official. Valentine’s Day is nearly upon us. And I don’t know about y’all, but I love Valentine’s Day…maybe because I’m a big fan of love. Whether it’s the love between a couple, the love of a mama for her baby or the love of friends, I’m all about it.

I’ve got a confession to make: this past weekend I ate an 11-course meal. And let me tell you, that is a lot of food. Luckily for me, they were 11 of the tastiest dishes I’ve ever had the pleasure of sending across my palate. But these weren’t just any 11 dishes; each was prepared by Chef Andy Blanton (a multi-time James Beard semifinalist) at Cafe Kandahar, his restaurant inside Kandahar Lodge on Big Mountain in Whitefish, Montana.

Truth time: I’ve never been a big brunch girl. To me, breakfast and lunch have always been two separate and distinct meals that weren’t meant to be combined. Plus, I’m the kind of person who can’t possibly eat lunch without already having eaten breakfast (weird, I know). All of this was true until I laid my eyes on the brunch menu at the Belton Chalet in West Glacier, Montana.

Earlier this week, some of my favorite girls and I had a hankering to get outside. As we were brainstorming some ideas on where we could go and what we could do, we started thinking about our backyard playground: Glacier National Park. Of our group, I was the only one who had ever gone snowshoeing in the park (you can read more about that day—which included seeing a bald eagle pluck a fish out of the waters of Lake McDonald—here). And if we’re being honest, that was something that needed to change. So we loaded up the suburban and headed north to spend the day snowshoeing in Glacier National Park.

I don’t know about all of you, but from time to time I feel the need to get away from it all. Away from the office, away from my desk, away from my couch and away from the modern-day distractions that are way too good at distracting me. And since one of my goals (I don’t really do resolutions) for 2016 is to have more adventures and to spend more time soaking up the special moments and experiences that surround me, New Year’s Day seemed like the perfect day to get away and start the year off on the right note.

Let’s face it: downhill skiing and snowboarding are two of Montana’s favorite winter pastimes. Heck, just in Western Montana’s Glacier Country alone there are six ski areas that have more than 7,000 acres of terrain.

There are certain places that exist in the world that are so beautiful, they almost don’t seem real. One such place: Montana. And while I realize I may be partial since Montana is my home, the truth of the matter is that Big Sky Country is filled to the brim with amazing scenery and picture perfect scenes. From the glacial-carved peaks of Glacier National Park in the north to Yellowstone National Park in the south, Montana is filled with amazing views.

You guys, 2016 is going to be a big year for the National Park Service! During the year, they’ll be celebrating 100 years of stewardship within the national park system.

UPDATE: and the travel guide cover winner is…the photo of the mountain goats in Glacier National Park! Thanks to everyone who voted. 

The holiday season is officially underway in Western Montana’s Glacier Country. And as someone who loves Christmas (you can read more about my obsession with all things Christmas as well as my top picks for made in Montana gifts here), I feel like it’s my elfly duty to let you know about all of the holiday happenings taking place in Big Sky Country.

If you’ve been reading my blog, you probably know how I feel about Christmas and the holiday season. And if you’re a new reader, welcome! I’m glad you’re here. Either way, the fact of the matter is this: I LOVE THIS TIME OF THE YEAR. And whether you wish people “Merry Christmas,” “Happy Holidays,” “Seasons Greetings” or “Happy Hanukkah,” I wish the same sentiment back to you.

It’s hard to believe, but Thanksgiving is almost upon us. For me, that means heading to my childhood home on Montana’s Rocky Mountain Front and eating all the turkey and prime rib my dad has cooked, as well as trying my hand at baking pies. (Let’s just say pie baking is not my strong suit, but I’m working on it).

Earlier this fall, I had the chance to spend a few uninterrupted days in one of my favorite places: Glacier National Park. I was hitting the road with some pals who had flown in from across the country and for most of them, this was their very first time visiting the park. Needless to say, I was excited to show them just why this place is so special to me. And I’ve got to tell you, the weather, scenery and company didn’t disappoint.

Every once in a while, you meet someone, instantly click and know that this person is someone special. Take, for example, my friend Kristin (also known as Camels + Chocolate). She and I met several years ago on twitter when she was planning a western road trip with her husband, SVV. I weighed in with where they should go and what they should do and pretty soon, Kirstin and I were in Missoula having burgers at the Mo Club. Four years later and Kristin is still one of my favorite people.

I’ve got a not-so-secret confession: I love selfies. And to be honest, I don’t care who knows it. You see, the fact of the matter is this: I’ve always loved the camera, selfie or not (much to my mother’s dismay as we have many home videos that include me jumping into the frame and yelling something sweet loud before striking a pose).

For the past few weeks, I’ve been out and about traveling around Western Montana and soaking in plenty of fall moments in Glacier Country. During my time on the road, I’ve been seeing stunning scenery and have been having lots of fun adventures. I’ve also been eating all the food everywhere. And I’ll tell you what, you guys…it’s been delicious.

Oh hey guys, I didn’t see you there. Mainly because I’ve been missing…from the blog. But I have to tell you, it wasn’t intentional. It’s just that I’ve been out living. A lot. The last two weeks of my life have been filled with road trips, huckleberry delights, laughs, solid human beings and my ever-steady […]

Earlier this month, three explorers departed on a journey that would take them on a 600-mile-long run through the mountains of Montana and Alberta. Athletes Mike Foote and Mike Wolfe, along with photographer Steven Gnam departed from Missoula, Montana and will end their trip in Banff, Alberta on a journey called the Crown Traverse. Along the […]

Here’s the thing: there are so many places to visit in the United States (and the world) that sometimes it’s hard to pick a vacation destination. That’s where I come in. Please allow me to introduce you to my best girl: Montana. 

I’m a summer girl, through and through. But I’ll tell ya what, autumn is really trying to make me fall in love with it. Which leads me to this: I think I’m actually falling for fall.

Good (awesome) news: Glacier National Park’s Going-to-the-Sun Road is going to be open in its entirety through Sunday, October 4, 2015 (two weeks longer than originally planned).

I’m convinced that summer in Missoula, Montana is the stuff that dreams are made of. The days are long (like really long – in July the sun rises at 5:46 a.m. and sets at 9:34 p.m.) and there’s always something to do, from floating the river to perusing shops and art galleries downtown.

As you might remember, earlier this summer I visited Montana’s luxury ranches with a friend of mine who was coming to Big Sky Country from out of the country. We started our ranch visits at The Ranch at Rock Creek (read more about that here) and Triple Creek Ranch (check out that visit here), before venturing to our last destination in Montana’s iconic Blackfoot Valley: The Resort at Paws Up. 

Earlier this winter, I came across Steller, an app that lets its users tell stories through a combination of imagery and short copy. And as someone who loves stories (reading them, hearing them and telling them), I fell in love with it.

There’s a new sheriff in town. Okay, not really, but there is a new guest ranch in Western Montana (and that’s kind of like the same thing).

Truth time: some of the best meals I’ve ever had were at a guest ranch tucked into the Bitterroot Mountains of Montana. The dining experience at Triple Creek Ranch was one comprised of culinary delights that you’d expect to find in a city, as opposed to the quiet mountains of Montana. Located a short drive southwest […]

As you’ve likely heard by now, there is a fire in Glacier National Park in Montana. In an effort to keep all of you—visitors, residents, Glacier Park lovers and concerned citizens—up-to-date with the latest information on the fire, I’ll be updating this post with facts on the fire, areas affected by the fire, current conditions, open areas and other places to explore in Western Montana’s Glacier Country.

Earlier this summer, one of my dear friends called and told me that he was planning a trip to Montana to visit the state’s luxury guest ranches. I (quickly) volunteered to travel with him while he was here and we soon made plans to visit The Ranch at Rock Creek. 

*Updated for summer 2016* 

You guys, if there are two things I love, they are Montana and food. I come by my love of both honestly. After all, when you grow up in Montana at the foot of the Rocky Mountains and when you have a grandpa who was constantly cooking in the backroom of my family’s general store and regularly asked if I wanted to “taste something good,” you’re bound to fall in love with both food and Big Sky Country. Sidenote: Much to my grandpa’s dismay, I didn’t think everything he made was as delicious as he did. 

Here in the West, there’s a certain wildness that still exists.

There are certain travel corridors in Montana that I’m obsessed with: Highway 200,  the Seeley-Swan Valley and Highway 2  near Glacier National Park. And after last week’s adventure along a backcountry road (you can read more about that here), my traveling companies and I continued our spring road trip and headed toward a place that this messy-haired girl loves and adores like it’s a member of the family: Glacier National Park. 

Last week, it was time to hit the road and explore one of my favorite areas in Western Montana’s Glacier Country: Interstate 90 and Highway 200. While I realize that saying the area along I-90 is one of my favorite places may be a bit surprising (after all, it is an interstate), I have good reasons for feeling that way: it’s stunning (really and truly), fairly untouched and full of some of the cutest small towns. Plus, both of these scenic driving routes are surrounded by gorgeous landscapes, lush forests and some of the loveliest waterways in the Montana.

You guys, there are some adventures that need to be done when visiting Montana. One of them: whitewater rafting the Middle Fork of the Flathead River. In case you’re not familiar with it, the Middle Fork runs along the southern boundary of Glacier National Park and is a gorgeous teal color that’s created by glacial silt. It’s also one of the most fun destinations for whitewater rafting in Western Montana’s Glacier Country.

This year, spring in Montana has pulled out all the stops and is absolutely gorgeous. But instead of taking my word for it, I’d rather show you just how beautiful it’s been. Here’s a glimpse into what the last several weeks have offered in Western Montana from a few local Montanans on instagram.

There are a few things I love in life. Okay, there are actually lots of things I love in life, but three of my favorites are buying presents for people, giving stuff away and visiting Glacier National Park. So in honor of National Park Week (April 18 – 26), I’ve decided to combine those three loves and give away an annual pass to visit Montana’s Glacier National Park!

I have a very important question for you: is it possible to love a belt buckle? Please say yes because this girl is totally in love with my newest find, a belt buckle in the shape of my beloved Montana.

I’m just gonna say it: spring in Montana is absolutely gorgeous! Literally, I cannot get enough of our longer daylight hours, bluebird skies, evening rain storms and the fresh, fragrant air that comes with the arrival of this time of year.

Let’s face it: when it comes to seasons of the year in Montana, spring tends to get overlooked. Summer typically takes center stage, while spring serves as her understudy. She studies really hard and is so well-behaved that sometimes we don’t give her the accolades she deserves. To which I say: spring, I see you. And I think you’re awesome.

Earlier this month, I was able to spend some time with two of my favorite girls in one of my favorite mountain towns: Whitefish, Montana.

In my travels around Montana, there are some places that I end up falling madly in love with. One such place: the Izaak Walton Inn. Named for English writer and fly-fisherman Izaak Walton and located just off Highway 2 between East Glacier Park and West Glacier, the inn is located in Essex—one of Montana’s tiniest towns.

You guys, I have to admit something to you: I like tattoos. And while I’m admitting things, I need to tell you something else: I’m deathly afraid of needles. While I’m sure you think I’m super tough based on how messy I like to keep my hair (hee hee), I’m actually quite the baby when it comes to things that hurt me. And as I’m sure you’ve figured out by now, those two things combined mean that this girl has zero tattoos.

There are a few things that I know—without a shadow of a doubt—to be true. One such truth is that Glacier National Park is magic. While most visitors to the park come during the summer season, Glacier National Park is open year-round and winter provides a completely different (and serenely peaceful) experience in the Crown of the Continent. This past weekend, I was able to sneak in a getaway to one of the most beautiful places in the world and it did not disappoint.

I’ve said it once and I’ll say it again: Valentine’s Day is nearly here! If you have someone who needs some wooing and you’re not quite sure what to do to effectively show them how much you cherish them, this Montana girl recommends a getaway to—where else—Western Montana’s Glacier Country.

You guys, Valentine’s Day is nearly upon us. And with its impending arrival, I’ve got to share a few of my feelings with you. You see, I’ve always been a believer in telling people how you feel about them. And while Montana isn’t a person, the big sky state is something that’s been a large part of my 30+ years. It’s a place that makes me feel at peace, lets my soul run free and doesn’t care if my hair is (almost always) messy. It’s here—living, working and playing—under Montana’s big blue sky that I feel like the best version of myself. But instead of just telling you how I feel about Montana, I thought it best to write her a love letter and not only tell, but show the reasons, why I love her.

I’m just going to say it: winter in Montana is the stuff that powder-lovin’ dreams are made of. Not only are we situated in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, but four Montana ski resorts recently ranked among the “Top 10 Deepest Snowpacks in the US” list. Combine that with sunshine, cute towns and some of the most epic terrain in the continental U.S., and it’s no wonder winter is one of Montana’s most fun-filled seasons.

If you prefer to travel to Montana by train, chances are that you are well aware that the current train schedule has eastbound trains from Seattle arriving into Whitefish at 4:26 a.m.

Earlier this week, my travels led me to Triple Creek Ranch. A luxury guest ranch (and a Relais & Châteaux property), Triple Creek is located south of Darby in the Bitterroot Mountains in one of the most charming settings in Montana.

You guys, there are some things that knock my Montana-lovin’ socks right off my Montana-lovin’ feet. One such thing: Montana’s scenic beauty.

There are some places that do Christmas so well. You know the places I’m talking about: they’re home to cheery people, lively downtowns and twinkling lights. Places that help you actually feel the spirit of Christmas in just one visit.

It’s literally the most wonderful time of the year: Christmas! 

You guys, I’m going to be straight with you: I’m a big baby. There are certain things that touch my heart and I sometimes feel like it will either burst or break. One such thing: Montana boys. I count myself lucky to know and love so many wonderful men. For my entire life I’ve been […]

This year, our sweet Montana girl celebrates 125 years a a state. And I don’t know about you, but I think she looks pretty gorgeous for her age. Plus, you really can’t catch her on a bad day. Let’s be honest: Not all of us can say that we look as good as Montana first thing in the morning. I, for one, wake up looking a little bit rough and usually have a messy, blond mohwak on top of my head. How does Montana look in the morning? Well, she wakes up looking like this…

In an epic battle of western brawn, Yahoo Travel recently pitted Montana against Wyoming and asked readers to vote for which state is the better travel destination in their Wild West Smackdown.

Alright fine, I’ll admit it. Winter is on the way. And while I may not be totally stoked that it’s creeping up (I want to enjoy Montana’s fall colors just a little bit longer), something that I am totally stoked about is this year’s Warren Miller Entertainment film, “No Turning Back.”

Earlier this week, I needed to buzz up north for work. And while I’ve been hitting the road plenty during the last couple of months, there was not a word of complaint out of this messy-haired girl’s mouth. Why? Because right now the scenery in Montana’s Glacier Country is as lovely as it’s ever been. Oh, and there’s no traffic.

This year, fall in Montana has been absolutely lovely. The colors are stunning, the temperatures are comfortable and — get this — there is literally hardly anyone here. During this season, I’ve been able to do a bit of road tripping around Western Montana’s Glacier Country and my recent travels have secured fall as one of my favorite times of year.

Do you ever have those moments when you realize that you are totally head over heels in love with something? I have. And the fact of the matter is that right now, at this moment, I don’t think I could be more in love with Montana. While I realize that I’m totally partial to Big Sky Country, […]

There are some places in Montana that are still wild, free and undisturbed. And for this messy-haired Montana girl that grew up in the shadow of the Rocky Mountain Front, it’s probably no surprise that my soul connects with places that are wild and free. Earlier this month, I was able to connect with one such place: Western Montana’s Lincoln County.

So remember how last week I told you about some of my perfect fall moments in Western Montana? Well, believe it or not, this week fall in Glacier Country got even better.

There are some moments when Montana absolutely takes my breath away. Moments when I literally have to sit back, pinch myself and marvel in the fact that I’m able to call big sky country my home. And this week, I had several of those moments. Here’s a look… Looking forward to many more unforgettable Montana […]

Summer is almost over. You know it, I know it — we all know it. And while it makes me a little bit sad, I’m trying to put on my big girl pants and relish in the last days of the Montana summer. To make good on that goal, my best friend came out to Montana […]

I can feel it in the air. The slight chill of the early morning hours, the gradual changing colors of the leaves, the crispness that seems to be prevalent after the sun goes down. It’s time to face the facts, people. Fall is nearly here. And while I’m not giving into autumn quite yet (hey, I’ve got some summer-like activities left to accomplish), it is indeed time to start thinking about it.

It’s probably no surprise that I love my family. Over the last five years, I’ve shared some of my favorite family memories with you on the blog. Side note: You can read about last year’s family reunion in Glacier National Park here and a wonderful week in Whitefish here. Well, I have another story to […]

As you probably know by now, Montana is a wild place. She still holds an element of magic and mystery and is unapologetically untamed and undiscovered.

You guys, summer is almost over! Okay fine…I realize that may be a bit dramatic, but this summer has literally flown by so quickly. For example, I have yet to float the river. For a Montana girl, that is a total travesty. But I’m determined to put an end to the sweet days of summer slipping from my grasp right here and now.

I’m going to admit it: I played hooky from work yesterday afternoon. And yes, I’m fully aware that it’s not the most responsible thing I’ve ever done. But I just needed to. Why?

Happy anniversary. In case you’ve forgotten, we’ve been together five years now. Can you believe that? During the last five years, I’ve told you stories while you’ve shared your memories with me about a place we both love: Montana. And by now, I’m sure you know that I’m head over heels for Montana and Glacier National Park. During our time together, I’ve learned a few things. One is that it’s important to tell the stories that  make my heart happy. So, in celebration of my five years of sharing a place I love so dearly I have one more story to tell you. It’s about a perfect day I had on Glacier National Park’s Going-to-the-Sun Road.

If you ask me, any visit to Glacier National Park is memorable. But my most recent trip to the park was extra memorable. Why? Well, a few reasons really. It was early June, the weather was perfect and I was in the Crown of the Continent with five of my favorites: Kristin, Jade, Spencer, Kent and Caanan. It was literally one of my favorite trips to the park.

*Hey you Montana lovers! Are you ready for part three of our road trip through Glacier Country? If I know you like I think I do, y’all are totally ready. Read on…

You guys, the Fourth of July is breathing down my neck. To which I say…breathe away. After all, any holiday that combines parties, fireworks, barbecues, lake time, family bonding and a sense of community is fine by me.

*Earlier this month, five friends made the trek to Western Montana to explore the region with me. In our seven days together, we had numerous adventures. So many in fact, that I’m breaking the trip up into multiple blog posts. Read about the first leg of our journey here. 

You guys, I just had one of the most fun weeks ever. Why? Because I was able to spend it exploring Western Montana with five of my favorite humans.

You would think by this stage in my life, I would have seen everything there was to see in Montana…right? Alas, that is not the case. Believe it or not, this messy haired girl has a list of things to see and do in Big Sky Country. For example, for the last five years I’ve […]

In Western Montana, it’s currently one of the most wonderful times of the year. Why? Because the snowplow crews in Glacier National Park are in the midst of plowing the Going-to-the-Sun Road. Each spring, the plow crews make their way up the road–while it is covered in snow–and start to uncover one of the most scenic drives in the country.

Sometimes, I’ve just got to give it to you straight. Fact: I love a place that brings out my inner cowgirl. Fact: I love cowboys. Always have, always will. Fact: I love a place that combines my inner cowgirl with my love of cowboys. Fact: The Bar W Guest Ranch combines those two loves and […]

Oh, hello spring. It’s good to see you. So good in fact that I think you deserve a hoop, holler and maybe even a curtsy. After all, you and I both know that this winter was a bit of a long one. Not that I’m complaining…because I’m totally not. After all, our snowpack levels are off the charts and that alone practically guarantees a fun summer!

You guys, there are some things that I think are adorably fun. One of them: dressing up like a fancy cowgirl. Now I realize that you may be asking, “Tia, you’re from the country. How in the world is dressing up like a fancy cowgirl fun?” Well, I’ll tell you. When I do cowgirl things […]

Earlier this week, a road trip to Billings (Montana’s second largest city) was needed for a work conference. So we rounded up the girls and made the six hour trek from our homebase in Western Montana to Montana’s largest city.

Well, I did it again. I escaped on another road trip. As a gal who takes Montana adventures seriously and who spends quite a bit of time traveling around the state, I know there are a few places within easy reach of home that offer the kind of peaceful escape I was after. Knowing this, I packed a bag and made a dash to one of my favorite places: Quinn’s Hot Springs Resort.

Earlier this week, I decided it was time for another adventure. One that would lead to one of Western Montana’s quietest areas: Highway 200. (I’ve shared my love for this region before….read more about it here). For this particular trip, I grabbed one of my favorite road trip buddies and we headed out to explore as much as we could in one day.

First things first: Happy spring!

I love St. Patrick’s Day. Not because it means that I can wear ridiculous shamrock-covered ensembles or freely pinch people who are not wearing green, but because of the nostalgia it brings to my heart. Whether you’re of actual Irish descent or if drinking Guinness is as Irish as you’ll ever be, the fact of […]

During the last two weeks, Western Montana has been hit with some crazy snowfall and intense winds that resulted in tough roads, major snowdrifts and lots of shoveling.

It’s time to put my bragging pants on: I have the pleasure of knowing some great people here in Montana. Folks who are talented, smart, nice and funny. One such person: my friend Collin. Not only is he kind of ridiculously smart, outdoorsy and cool (as in he makes me look like an even bigger nerd than I already am), but he is hands-down one of the nicest gentlemen in the state of Montana.

Every once in a while, this messy-haired girl feels the need to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. And because I’m not one to ignore a hankering, earlier this week a group of my girlfriends decided to bust a move out of the city and make our way to a little piece of paradise only 45 minutes from Missoula: Montana Island Lodge.

Well, the holiday that you’ve all been waiting for is (nearly) here: Valentine’s Day! While there is much discussion over the intense love and hate relationship with the holiday itself, this messy-haired girl has always been a fan of it. And while it’s a day that’s commercially deemed for lovers, it’s so much more than that.

Well, another year has come and gone. And to be honest, I can hardly believe it! It’s like the older I get, the faster time seems to go. (Side note: I’m beginning to sound like my mama!) While time continues to sprint away from me, I can say with much satisfaction that 2013 was a […]

Last winter, I had the utmost privilege (and I mean that in the most serious way) of working with two of the skiing industry’s up-and-coming skiers: TJ David and Brody Leven. I kid you not, these guys are two of the most stellar gentlemen I’ve ever know. They came to Montana to ski areas along Highway 93 for Skiing Magazine (read all about it here) and to produce an episode (check that out here) of Storm Cycles.

It has to be said: today was one for the record books.

I’m just gonna say it: I totally heart Christmas and everything associated with it. In my mind, it really is the “most wonderful time of the year.” If there were only a few words to describe Christmastime, they would have to be magical, wonderful and a time of love. There’s something about this time of […]

Every year, we are tasked with selecting a cover for our annual travel guide. And every year, we have stunning selections to choose from. (But then again, it helps that we live and play in one of the most beautiful places of the world). However this year, we decided to do something different. We decided […]

In an effort to spread the holiday spirit, I’ve written you a poem. It goes like this…

It’s official. Winter has fully arrived. And I must say, it has done so with a bang….of snow. During the early season, snow fell in our upper elevations and laid down a strong base (like the strongest in years!) for the winter recreation season. Well played, Old Man Winter.

Remember the giveaway we held during the last several months where you could enter to win a private ski day with Olympic medalist Tommy Moe at Lost Trail Powder Mountain? Well, I’m PUMPED to tell you that we have a WINNER!  Sally Cramer from Spokane, Washington will be spending January 8 on the terrain at […]

Well you guys, I hate/love to say it but…winter is here. I awoke this week to the first official snowfall in my neck of the woods. And to be honest, I greeted it a little hesitantly. Why was I hesitant? Well, it’s just that this fall was so gorgeous that I wanted to soak up every last drop possible.

This fall has been one for the record books. The past few weeks have brought crisp days, a bright blue sky, moody and mysterious storm clouds and the stunning colors of autumn. But instead of me telling you all about it, I’d rather you see it for yourself.

There’s one thing I look forward to every year about this time: the latest movie from Warren Miller Entertainment. And even though I could never–in one million years–keep up with the guys and gals that grace the screen in these films, their athleticism and sense of adventure make each year’s movie so fun to watch.

Due to the Federal Government shutdown, Glacier National Park is closed. And to put it simply, it’s a bummer.

If you stop and listen long enough, you’ll hear it.

Well, it’s here. Filled with gorgeous colors and delicious smells, the beautiful, glorious first month of fall is upon us. Along with its pleasant arrival, September in Montana also brings noteworthy area events. Check ’em out… Montana Dragon Boat Festival in Bigfork Happening THIS WEEKEND (Saturday and Sunday) at Flathead Lake Lodge, Montana Dragon Boat […]

This girl has big news for you: We’re throwing a going away party for summer and a welcome party for fall! After all, summer is awesome and fall is jaw-droppingly beautiful and when two seasons as lovely as these have such a cordial hand-off, it only seems appropriate to give them proper accolades.

This morning, I headed out the door bound for work. And while Montana is still in the trenches of summer, I felt something completely different. A new feeling that could only mean one thing—fall.

This summer, Montana has been showing off in a big way. With her big blue sky and wide-open spaces, it’s no wonder. Let’s face it—she’s kind of the perfect package. She’s gorgeous, cool and unpretentious, with an enthralling history that leaves you intrigued and wanting to learn more. And if you find yourself falling in […]

Every once in a while, there are moments when this girl wonders if the last few days have been real. Once such moment happened last week. I’d been on the road for work for several days and had seen some pretty amazing Montana moments along the way. As I was searching for the words to […]

Last weekend, I headed for the land of my birth: the Rocky Mountain Front of Montana. Because let’s face it, every once in a while a girl needs to make a break for it and head for home. Going home is like bringing peace to my heart. I’m not sure if it’s the land opening […]

I’m not sure how things are in your neck of the woods, but I can tell you one thing: Montana is hopping!

Listen you guys, I have to come clean with you. I’m in love…with a Montana State Park. While I know it may be silly to love something like a state park, I literally cannot help myself. You see, in honor of the Fourth of July, we decided it was imperative to get out of town […]

Happy Fourth of July! Okay, so I’m technically early as Independence Day is still a few days away…but I’ll tell you what, this national holiday is coming in HOT. As in, it’s going to be here before you know it! Along with the Fourth of July comes American traditions and celebrations that include parades, BBQs, fun […]

After last week’s family reunion in Glacier National Park, me and my messy hair decided to stick around the park for a couple of reasons.

There are some weekends that I simply don’t want to end. And this last weekend was one of them.

HEY DADS!

Every now and again, we stumble upon something magical. A place that fills you with wonder and leaves you wishing you could hear the stories it has to tell. For me, one of those places is Glacier Park Lodge. Growing up on the Rocky Mountain Front, each year my family would venture up to Glacier National […]

How many of you have driven the Going-to-the-Sun Road?

Happy Memorial Day weekend! Around these parts, Memorial Day weekend is the official kick-off to the summer season, filled to the brim with kick-in-the-pants Montana events and activities designed to welcome summer with open arms.

You guys. Sometimes there are really cool things that I need to tell you about. And sometimes those things are related to a treasure that’s discovered on Montana’s backroads, while other times it’s about a perfect day spend in Glacier National Park. Well today, it’s actually neither of those things.

It’s almost one of the most wonderful days of the year: Mother’s Day.

The arrival of May means one thing in Montana. The season of farmers markets is upon us. And this girl is a firm believer in the fact that strolling through a local farmers market is one of the best ways to experience a community’s culture and some of the best of what they have to offer. […]

Every year about this time, the major undertaking of plowing the Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park begins. And it’s no small feat. During the summer, driving this 50-mile-long road is one of the highlights of any trip to Glacier National Park and Western Montana’s Glacier Country. For me, it’s one of those experiences that never gets […]

I don’t know about all of you, but this time of year gets me excited. Like SUPER excited. As soon as spring hits, there’s a multi-month long smile on my face and I’m filled with childlike wonder—the kind I used to have when I was a just a little miss running around outside, complete with […]

I have four words to say to you: It’s time to rumble. (Not to worry, it’s not an actual brawl but more of a let’s-show-Montana-how-much-we-love-her-by-voting-on-facebook type of a brawl). You see, Montana has made it to the final round of voting in a quest to host the Social Media Tourism Symposium (known as #SoMeT13US on […]

Happy Friday! In celebration of almost everyone’s favorite day of the week–and the recent powder dump Montana has received–this girl is giving away lift tickets to Lost Trail Powder Mountain and Whitefish Mountain Resort. “But Tia,” you say. “Winter is almost over.” To which I respond, “Don’t count winter out so soon, grasshopper.” ‘Just this […]

Hello you Montana lovers. While this is something I don’t normally do, today I’m doing it. I’m asking for your help. You see, the lovely Western Montana community of Missoula is competing to host this year’s Social Media Tourism Symposium–one of the leading social media conference’s in the tourism industry. As part of the bid, […]

As you may recall from last week’s post, I’ve been doing a bit of road tripping. Last week’s Montana-lovin’ journey included gems in Missoula, St. Ignatius, Charlo, Pablo, Polson, Kalispell and Whitfish. This week, we’re finishing it up with tidbits from the rest of our adventure.               Now if […]

Some weeks are awesome. This past week, my Montana lovin’ friends, was one of them. Why? Because it was spent road tripping from Missoula north along Highway 93 into the Flathead Valley with a group of lovely ladies. Our goal for the week: To experience as much Montana goodness as we possibly could within five […]

Every year around this time, I think about love. After all, it’s pretty hard not to when you’re surrounded by roses, chocolates, lovey dovey cards and hearts plastered everywhere you go. (Side note: I love all of it). Over the years as I’ve gone from a towheaded toothless girl to a messy-haired grown up, I’ve been blessed to have love in my life.

By now you’ve likely seen or heard that Montana–the beauty that she is–made her primetime debut on “The Bachelor” this week. (In case you missed it, you can watch it here). And I’ll tell you what, she looked lovely. It’s like the old girl just gets better with age. And now, thanks to the lovelies […]

Some places are made for falling in love. One such place (if I do say so myself) is Whitefish, Montana. If I had to sum up Whitefish in three words, I’d say it’s Montana’s “quintessential mountain town.” A stone’s throw (30 minutes) from Glacier National Park, it’s surrounded by stunning mountain peaks and incredible outdoor […]

Congratulations to Kathy Creekmore Mahoney and Kelly Acomb Hoag! You both just wont TWO TICKETS to LOST TRAIL POWDER MOUNTAIN! Please call 406.532.3234 to redeem your tickets! Happy skiing, TT

Every once in a while, I want to say the above words to people. The reason? It’s mainly because I get a kick out of it. And occasionally, I even want to say those words to myself.

Before we jump headfirst into the new year, I feel like 2012 (and all its craziness) deserves a proper goodbye. First things first, I feel blessed that it was a good craziness. Sure, there were a few bumps and hiccups along the way but that’s life. And for this messy-haired girl, life is best lived […]

While I look forward to Christmas every year, the days leading up to this year’s holiday didn’t find me in the best holiday spirit. Instead I was feeling tired, drained and a tad bit stressed out. (Not three of my favorite things). As I prepped to travel home to spend the holidays with my family, […]

I look forward to Christmas every year. Besides literally being the most wonderful time of the year, it’s a time when we all seem to try to be a little better and a little nicer. It’s a time for abundant holiday hugs. It’s a time for family. It’s a time for caroling. It’s a time […]

Montana is a pretty humble state. The people are low key, the mountain goats are composed and the communities are welcoming. All in all, it’s a cool crowd.

It’s happening, people. One of the greatest entertainment companies of all time will be showing their latest creation “Flow State” at the Wilma Theatre in downtown Missoula THIS Friday, December 7 at 8 p.m. And as if that’s not enough, Tyler Ceccanti will be attending the premiere. Now, this messy-haired girl knows that many of […]

We’re saying it: Happy winter! While the first official day of winter isn’t until December 21, around these parts we get pumped for winter early. How pumped, you ask? Very pumped. In fact, this year we’re so excited about winter that we’re celebrating it and spreading the good word about winter in Montana with our Winter […]

Sometimes, you gotta go home. Like at Thanksgiving. And while this trip was definitely brought on by the Thanksgiving Holiday, I also needed to go. Why? I’m not sure. But I knew it was time to go as the mountains were calling me home. Where I live now, I’m surrounded by mountains. Literally, they are […]

There are a lot of things that happen because two people fall in love. One of the main results? A wedding. And this, my friends is what this story is about.

I’m not usually one to start talking or thinking about Christmas until after Thanksgiving. At the earliest, I’ll give it a thought after Halloween but in my book we need to at least bust a few other holidays out before our thoughts are turned to one of the most wonderful times of the year. But […]

Ready for some sappiness from your (hopefully) favorite messy-haired blond friend? If not, you better buckle up because it’s coming straight at you. Here’s the thing. There are moments in life that stop me in my tracks. Little experiences, sites and interactions that snap me back to attention. And while words don’t seem to be […]

Truth: My blog post is late. Truth: I have a very good reason it’s late. (No seriously, I do). Truth: My blog is late because I’ve been out soaking up the autumn colors in Western Montana. (You can’t blame a girl for that). Truth: This fall is gorgeous. Truth: I have the pictures to prove […]

Truth #1: I’ve had a hankering to fish all summer. (As in a I-couldn’t-get-it-out-of-my-head-and-thought-about-it-all-of-the-time type of hankering).

September was awesome. “Why?” you may ask. Well, it’s simple. There’s nothing quite like paddling a 46-foot-long dragon boat on the incredibly beautiful waters of Flathead Lake with 20 of your friends.

Dear summer, we’re going to miss you. Like big time. After all, you’ve been a pretty sweet little thing. But between you and I, we’re not going to miss you TOO badly. Because while you’ve been a real peach and all, we’re pretty stoked to welcome your lovely cousin autumn to Montana. Because we like […]

Well folks, this is it. This year is something that I’ve both partially dreaded and looked forward to…it’s the year I officially celebrate three decades of life. (Yikes, right?) When I was younger, I always thought of 30 as kind of old. (I have obviously since changed my tune). The women I knew who were […]

As sure as my eyes are blue, I felt it. That distinct crispness in the air that can only mean one thing: autumn.

Last week, I headed over to the east side of the Continental Divide to spend a bit of time on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation. Bordering the east side of Glacier National Park, the Blackfeet Nation is a beautiful place where the wind-swept plains meet the rolling foothills before being engulfed by the impressive rise of the peaks of the Rocky Mountains.

I don’t know about all of you, but this summer feels like it’s cruising past at an excessive speed…if we were to clock it, I’d say this summer character is going 80 MPH in a clearly marked 45 MPH residential zone. And I’ll tell you this much, if I was a cop I’d totally give […]

I know this blog is usually a place where I share adventures, road trip and random tidbits of information. But today it seems important to tell you about something that’s bigger than that. Like way bigger. In my (almost) three decades of life, I’ve been able to meet some amazing people. Smart, good, funny, wild, […]

With hot temperatures, crazy thunderstorms and long daylight hours in Montana, we’re officially in the heart of summer. Which means it’s time for another giveaway! Up for grabs this week is a half-day whitewater dinner trip for two with Great Northern Resort in West Glacier this August. And the best part? Not only do you […]

Montana is epic in the summer.

If I have a few minutes of downtime, I like to peruse twitter, facebook and instagram. What am I looking for, you ask? Photos of Montana. It’s fun to see what other people are experiencing at that same moment in time in Big Sky Country. And lately, there have been some gorgeous photos of fireworks, […]

For this girl, summer is always kicked off with the rodeo (held annually on the last full weekend in June since 1936) in my hometown of Augusta, Montana. The rodeo is a long-established tradition in this little town nestled on the Rocky Mountain Front. It’s a place where old friends reconnect, families gather and long-lost […]

It’s official. With the opening of the Going-to-the-Sun Road (June 19) and the official first day of summer (June 20), summer is here. And this girl is STOKED. Like hardcore, can hardly wait, super excited for each and every thing that summer has to offer stoked.

We had it planned for weeks. It was time for an adventure, a journey, a trip into the undiscovered…it was time to bike Western Montana in the spring. You see, while I’d enjoyed a bit of biking in my life, I’d never ridden the Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park and neither had several of […]

Happy June! Here’s a little look at what this week has been like… Biking in Glacier National Park may be my new favorite thing. See you on the road, TT

We’re big fans of summer around here, as in we’re probably summer’s biggest, most lovable, most enthusiastic fans (or so we like to think).

It had been a while since I’d been home. Not the home where I lay my head every night, but the place where I was born and raised…a little town that sits in the shadow of the Rocky Mountain Front called Augusta, Montana. And since it was Mother’s Day last weekend, I decided to pull […]

With all of the beautiful weather Montana has had lately, the hankering to explore has been calling to me more than ever. And we all know that I’m not one to ignore a hankering…so it was time to make a move.

Ladies and gentlemen, we have a WINNER for our Great Glacier Giveaway…The lucky lady is TINA SCHNEIDER of Alton, Illinois! Tina, we can’t wait to have you explore, enjoy and create memories in Western Montana this September. As the winner, Tina (and her guest) will be visiting Whitefish and Glacier National Park with a prize […]

Last week, I packed my Montana lovin’ bags and headed to California for work. While en route, I sat in front of a daddy and his two little ones (I’m guessing they were three and four). And, as fate would have it, got the goodness gracious kicked out of my seat for the duration of […]

Nestled down a quiet dirt road in a beautiful river valley off of Montana’s Highway 200 is a magical place called the Hobbit House of Montana. It’s a place where imagination runs wild and free as a bubbling stream tumbles gently down the mountainside. And if you listen closely, you can hear the giggles of […]

With winter on its way out in Montana (granted we may see a spring snowstorm or two), this girl feels that it’s only proper that we give our “coolest” season a proper farewell. You see, winter was pretty great this year. From skiing to snowboarding and snowshoeing to soaking in hot springs, winter treated Western […]

While raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens may have a song about them, I must say they don’t compare to a few of my favorite things…which are early morning sunrises, cutesy small towns, crisp mountain air and sparkling night stars. And I’m delighted to tell you that in the last few days, this girl […]

Last week, I took a little overnight trip along Highway 200 in Western Montana. And as I traveled farther north and west away from my home in the “city,” I cruised through the area’s small communities, past fields filled with horses and cattle and some strikingly beautiful scenery.

Hi. I missed you. Some of you may have noticed that I didn’t blog last week, but I promise there’s a good reason. You see, the Big Island of Hawaii was calling to me. So I had to go. Imagine my surprise and delight when I found this little reminder of Montana in the heart […]

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Um, I have to tell you something…the last time I was on a snowboard was three years ago. Which I know is pretty shameful. Especially because I live within easy reach of some pretty stellar winter recreation areas. But before you decide to storm my office and throw snowballs at my head, let’s get one […]

When this messy-haired blond girl was growing up, we lived one mile down the road from my grandparents and our family owned store, where my grandpa was constantly (and boy do I mean constantly) cooking food for whoever happened to be around. And since it was was a store, there were always people around to […]

While the view from my office is typically pretty standard (hallway, door, windows and people cruising past), last weekend it was simply awesome. I traveled north to the charming mountain town of Whitefish for Winter Carnival, the Black Star Beer Barter and some sweet shredding at Whitefish Mountain Resort. And this, my friends, was the […]

A few days ago, I packed my bags and headed south with two of the loveliest ladies in Montana. Our destination? The Bitterroot Valley. Our goal: To experience as much Montana goodness as our little hearts could handle. And did we ever. Here’s a peak at our journey… It’s been a great week. TT

Ready for some fun this weekend? We have JUST the thing to make your weekend rockin’. Two booty-kickin’ and hardcore (not to mention nice!) Warren Miller athletes, Lynsey Dyer and Andy Mahre, are coming to ski Western Montana this weekend. During their time here, they’ll be tearing up runs at Montana Snowbowl, attending the premiere […]

I have to tell you something. It’s something I’ve been itching to spill the beans to you on for weeks and now I can finally shout it from the mountaintops: Glacier Country Tourism is GIVING AWAY a trip to Montana! As a girl who’s been in love with Montana for years, giving away a trip […]

Happy Friday from Montana! As you may have heard, Western Montana has been being hit with EPIC snowfall. And I don’t use the word epic lightly.

Well folks, it’s official. La Nina is HERE. Not only is she bringing fresh powder, but she’s also bringing the premiere of Warren Miller Entertainment’s “…Like There’s No Tomorrow” to the heart of Glacier Country. The film will premiere in downtown Missoula on Friday, February 3, 2012 at 8 PM at the Wilma Theatre. In […]

Winter arrived late to Western Montana. My guess? She wanted to make an entrance. And that’s fine with me…I’m not going to point fingers, cuss her out or give her the silent treatment. Why? Because she’s here now and let’s face it, she really looks quite lovely.

I like to go for drives. Sometimes there’s a specific destination in mind, while other times I’ll jump in the car and see where the road takes me, just for the fun of it. Last week, I grabbed my partner in crime and we headed up Highway 12 toward Lolo Pass. The goal? To see […]

I grew up in the sticks. And every year I look forward to going home to my little town for Christmas. Home to a cozy house, warm stove, twinkling lights, hugs from my mom and family traditions. This year was no different. I was itching to leave the “big city” and get home. So I […]

Wishing you all a very happy holiday, Merry Christmas and wonderful Hanukkah.

Happy winter. This week started out with a sleigh ride (AKA Dodge Durango drive) to the Montana winter village of Whitefish. Along the way, we saw and did the following… After spending a few days visiting with folks, attending meetings and spreading general Christmas cheer, we headed for home. This little missy was greeted with […]

Just call us Santa’s little helpers. This week, we’re giving away a basket of Western Montana goodness to one of YOU! The basket includes a GlacierMT water bottle, mug, Glacier National Park guidebook, GlacierMT luggage tag, mini red bus, 406 trucker hat and chocolate from Montana Island Lodge. Why? Well, it’s simple really. 1) We […]

Last week, I packed my bags and headed for my childhood home. During the two-hour drive over the river, across the mountain pass and through the woods to my folks, I had an excited anticipation of just being home. My schedule this summer and fall (between weddings, adventures and daily life) got the best of […]

It’s cold and snowing in Montana. To which I give a hearty “woo hoo!” because that means winter season is nearly here. Which also means that this girl had to wear her snow boots this week and has been perpetually chilly. But no complaining here! Instead, while I wait for my body to adjust to the stellar winter we’re about to have, I’m going to bundle up and spread the love…in the form of small business shout-outs.

Let’s talk about something that I love almost as much as Montana. Shopping. While you might envision me out herding cows (right, dad?), cruising the hidden corners of Glacier National Park and digging in the Montana dirt, it’s time you envision your messy-haired friend as a shopper.

Oh, hi. First things first, it’s good to see you here. No matter where you’re reading from, I hope you enjoy the adventures we take together each week…thank you for letting me share my little piece of Montana with you. I love it.

This is what I’ve been doing the last two days. Eating delicious goodies, treats and meals made in the heart of Western Montana’s Glacier Country. Now if you’ll excuse me, I think I’d better go hike it out. xoxo, TT

I love Montana. As in I totally heart it. It’s a place that I don’t know if I’ll ever get enough of… The simplest way for me to describe it is like having a crush that never goes away. And on this crisp, fall day, I’d like to share with you a few reasons that […]

Last weekend, we headed north for the wedding of a dear friend, Sara, as she married her prince charming, Clay (Ahhhh). The wedding was at The Lodge at Whitefish Lake and it was beautiful. Not only was the bride glowing, but the location was absolutely perfect. After a fun-filled weekend, one of our friends needed […]

Last week, I mourned the loss of summer. This week, I’m embracing fall in Montana’s Glacier Country. I can’t help it. You see, autumn in Montana has its own distinct feeling and personality that is perhaps best described as the perfect combination of a charming bashfulness, a dash of showmanship and of course, all things delicious.

I’m not sure how many of you feel this way, but this girl is having a hard time saying goodbye to summer. It’s like I blinked and all of the sudden it’s gone. This summer was definitely one for the books, with thousands of miles logged, countless scoops of ice cream consumed and beautiful snapshots […]

Happy first day of autumn! I hope this finds you each well, relishing the past months of summer and looking forward to a beautiful fall. Last week, I headed off for a few days with two of my favorite Montana ladies and some friends from Europe. We were together a total of five days (give […]

Happy weekend! Not sure what your plans are this weekend, but I’m off and running…I’ll be spending the next few days with two of my favorite Montana ladies and some international guests. We’ve been preparing for their visit and can’t wait to welcome them to Big Sky Country! On the agenda: Exploring Whitefish, a red […]

I love Labor Day weekend. It’s a time to decompress, play and recharge my batteries before fall gets truly underway. This year’s holiday weekend included a wedding, swimming in hot springs, candy and sapphire mining. But instead of telling you all about, I’m going to let the photos do the talking. ‘Twas a good weekend. […]

Guess what. Somebody just had a birthday…a birthday where they turned 29 years old. Now I realize that 29 is not “old,” but I almost can’t believe how quickly time has flown. It seems like just yesterday that I had messy hair, was missing my two front teeth and the highlight of my day was […]

Over the last several weeks, we’d been reading stories from travelers, writers and bloggers about the beauty, fun and experience that is Western Montana. Stories heralding everything from our brewery scene to places to view wildlife and red jammer tours to the best towns to grab great food. And we love it. Here’s a sampling […]

Hey you. Happy Friday. I hope you’re having a splendid, summer-lovin’, fun-filled week. And I hope you’re ready to win some swag from Western Montana’s Glacier Country. We’re not sure if you’ve heard, but we’re running a promotion on our facebook page called the “GREAT GLACIER GIVEAWAY.” Each week (for 10 weeks) we draw a […]

This girl spend her Wednesday in Glacier National Park driving the Going-to-the-Sun Road. The best part? Hmmm…I’m not sure if it was the nice gate lady at West Glacier (happy and friendly–a great way to start a day in the park), cruising 50 miles through the heart of Glacier with the window down, admiring the […]

This week has been a whirlwind. This girl has gone everywhere from Seeley Lake to Glacier National Park and Whitefish to Trout Creek. And while it has flown by incredibly fast, I’ve been able to see some of the most absolutely beautiful and breathtaking sites in Western Montana. It was a good week. TT

Last week, I flew over Glacier National Park. And I’m not talking about flying 30,000 feet over the park aboard a major commercial airline. I’m talking about skirting along the high ridge lines of the Continental Divide, staring in awe at brilliant rushing waterfalls, gazing at high alpine backcountry lakes and seeing a glacier up […]

Ever wanted to go on a date with a river guide? There’s something about river guides that is adorable, scruffy and maybe even a tad…dare I say it, sexy. And if you’re even a smidgen like me, I’m guessing that you’ve toyed with the idea of being whisked away (at least for one night) by […]

Last week, I met up with five lovely ladies for a trip centered around the garden city of Missoula. We only had a few days together and decided to pack in as much action, character and food as we could. And pack it in we did. For the first night of our trip, we headed […]

A few weeks ago, we rounded up some friends from Montana and across the country and made our way to Glacier National Park. The group was a tad nervous, as the skies and forecast really seemed to want to put a damper on our fun time. But we were a stalwart bunch and couldn’t be deterred.

Two of my favorite things: fishing and Montana. Makes any day practically perfect.

We Came, We Saw, We Hugged.

On the roster for this weekend…Family Reunion! This girl is headed to Glacier National Park for some family bonding time, kissing and hugging on aunts and uncles, cousins and cute babies. And while we’re there, we’ll also be taking in some whitewater rafting, golfing, hiking, the Cast-Off at Glacier Outdoor Center and boat tours. We’ll […]

Happy June!

Happy Memorial Day weekend!

This year, our friends at Montana Office of Tourism decided to go big or go home, placing stellar photos from Glacier National Park and Yellowstone National Park on buses throughout Chicago, Minneapolis and Seattle. And to that we say, BRAVO. Because when you’ve got scenery like Montana, it needs to be shared. To add to […]

Earlier this week, I grabbed my trusty boots, pinned up my crazy blond hair and headed to one of Northwest Montana’s loveliest locations: The Tobacco Valley.

It’s officially May in Montana and that means: summer is on the way! While typically a quiet time of year, it’s also a pretty prime month to visit. Sure, you can expect showers and cooler days but there are also fewer crowds, a quiet peacefulness and the distinct clean smell that means spring has arrived. […]

This year’s spring has been a bit of a trickster. While we’ve had a couple of beautiful 60 degree days with bluebird skies and heaps of sunshine, we’ve also had our fair share of snow dusting the mountains, rain coming down hard and just downright gloomy days. But our complaining is over. Because even our […]

It’s almost summer here in Montana. Okay, not really, but it is coming quickly…either way, summer is on my mind. And because I love it so much, I feel like I should set a goal for “Summer 2011.” My quest is this…to find the cutest of the cute, handsomest of the handsome and manliest of […]

Want to know what I like? Discounted flights. Want to know what else I like? Telling you about discounted flights to Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) near Kalispell. Here’s the lowdown… Our friends at Glacier Raft Company have partnered with Alaska Airlines/Horizon Air to provide an even easier way for visitors to come to the […]

Well, it’s that time of the ski season…closing time. And while April is being a bit of a finicky woman so far (she’s not sure what she wants to do: skipping around between crying, throwing snowballs and being downright cheery with sunshine) this is THE WEEKEND to hit the slopes on Glacier Country’s ski resorts. […]

This past week, tourism folks and partners gathered in Helena (our state’s capital) for the annual Governor’s Conference on Tourism and Recreation. If there’s one thing I can say about my colleagues, it’s that everyone in this industry has a passion for Montana, travel and tourism. ..which is awesome. We were able to spend two […]

It’s here! Every year, we produce a travel guide that is designed to serve as a tool for visitors planning their trip to Western Montana. This year, the guide is 110 pages and is literally filled with tons of information and some incredible photos. (And while I realize I may be partial, I really am telling the truth…girl scout’s honor).

Yesterday a group of girlfriends on a “Chick Trip” arrived in Missoula. And since I knew the lovely ladies, I joined them for the tail end of their trip. So what is there to do with a group of girlfriends in Missoula during the middle of March? Lots! First, we started with Ice Cream Pedicures […]

While we’ve had a touch of snow this week, we’ve also had something else that’s pretty great…sunshine and warmer weather! Which is creating a beautiful backdrop for hitting the slopes and trails of Western Montana.

We got some exciting news this week: Alaska Airlines announced that it is adding seasonal DAILY, DIRECT flights from Portland, Oregon to Missoula, Montana. The flights will start June 5 and continue through August 27. Can we get a woohoo? (woohoooo!)

*This week’s blog isn’t really about an event or specific experience. Instead, it’s just me telling you a story. Don’t worry, we’ll get back to business next week.* I’m a true, blue, through and through Montana girl. I was raised on the Rocky Mountain Front or as many like to refer to it: the east […]

Last weekend, I loaded my car, pulled on my snowboots, wrapped a scarf around my head and headed north. My destination: The Canyon. The Canyon is the “Gateway to Glacier” and includes the communities of Columbia Falls, Hungry Horse, Coram, Martin City and West Glacier. Not only are these town small and charming, but they […]

Here at Glacier Country, we like to be crafty. Our most recent craft was making custom Glacier Country, Montana insulated mugs. These mugs are cool for a few reasons: 1) This winter has been COLD. And these mugs keep our drinks HOT. 2) They come in several colors. 3) We’re giving them away! Our first […]

We all know it’s coming. Same day, every year. And it doesn’t really come quietly either – it comes with red and pink hearts, boxes of chocolates, jewelry commercials, red roses and of course, lots of love, hugs and kisses. To which I say, heck yes. Because love (whether in the form of one great […]

Ok, I’m going to admit it. Summer is my favorite season in Montana, followed closely by fall and then spring. Which means winter is not my favorite…

I’m going to be straight with you…sometimes winter in Montana can be long. Don’t get me wrong, it’s a fantastic season, but every once in a while I find myself looking at the falling snow and dreaming of a time that will bring plenty of sunshine and open-toed shoes.

Last winter, I had the pleasure of going snowshoeing in Glacier National Park. Our group had spent the night in Whitefish, where we had breakfast before making our way toward Glacier. And as it sometimes happens, Whitefish was a bit cloudy and overcast on that particular day. We were all worried that we weren’t going […]

It’s been mayhem around here I tell you, mayhem! But luckily for all of us (including this crazy-haired blond girl) it’s been the good kind of mayhem…or as we like to call it – “Media Mayhem.” Over the last few months, Montana has garnered some stellar media coverage from several of our media colleagues and […]

Well, it’s hard to believe that 2010 is almost to a close. This year was a busy one at Glacier Country Tourism that kept us hopping, exploring, playing and promoting Western Montana.

Last weekend, I packed up the car and headed north for a fun-filled weekend in the Flathead Valley. My destination? Whitefish. First things first, I love this town! It has a certain western charm that manages to mix perfectly with ski bums, outdoor lovers and funky boutiques. Plus, it has great food and a great […]

If you’re anything like me, you like to know what type of weather to expect when you’re gearing up to play or work in Montana’s great outdoors. From my office, I can look out the window and see exactly what the weather has in store for me. But one of the tricky things about Western […]

Well, it’s safe to say that winter and the holiday season are upon us in full force. Snow is falling, ski mountains are opening and Montana is looking much like a winter wonderland. Which means that Christmas is right around the corner… In honor of celebrating the season, I’ve been keeping my eye on some […]

“Griz football is huge … people live and die for their football around here.” -Princeton Review This weekend is a special one in Montana. It’s a battle that thousands look forward to each year called…*cue riveting music*…The “Brawl of the Wild!” And it’s not to be taken lighly around here. You see, this game pits […]

There is something I need to tell you. And it’s something that this little missy is excited about…Glacier Park, Inc. is launching a new tour for summer 2011!   But that’s not all…the description for the Great Glacier Adventure says, “WANTED in 2011: Adventurous hiking and rafting enthusiasts whose idea of camping is staying and […]

Maybe it’s the season, but I’ve been thinking about how much I love Montana. So today’s blog is all about showing Montana some lovin’ and why I’m thankful for this state. My thankfuls… -I’m a born and raised Montana girl. -My family is big and most of them live here in Big Sky Country, which […]

This week has flown by in a blur–a blur I tell you!

During September, I was in East Glacier at the same time as this group… They were in town for a nation-wide reunion of all former red bus driver and their families. During the evening that I was there, they had a reception under a beautiful white tent on the front lawn of Glacier Park Lodge. […]

This summer, we stumbled upon a request in the Missoulian newspaper. The request was simple. There was a young man in Missoula whose last wish was to visit Glacier National Park. Of all the places in the world that he wanted to see before his time here on earth was over, it was Glacier. With […]

Dear fall, Don’t leave! We’ve been getting along SO well. You’re giving me just enough sunshine to stay a happy girl, while at the same time you’re covering our cute towns, hills, mountains and rivers with beautiful colors. Seriously, I saw the photos. There’s no hiding from me now, mister. Our friends in Glacier National […]

Dear Autumn, Welcome to Montana. There is something about you that is utterly romantic. I’m guessing it’s the combination of leaves changing, the crisp freshness of the air and the wardrobe of boots and sweaters that are worn prominently by many a Montana girl during your time here. Either way, I’m happy you’re here. You […]

Okay party people. I wish this blog update was about all the fabulous activities that I did in Western Montana since we visited last. But to be honest, it’s not. And since you don’t want to hear about me organizing my closet, let’s move on to something that’s worth talking about it. Like the fact […]

Let’s get one thing straight. I love summer. If it was a tall, dark and handsome man, I’d probably marry it.

This was the year. The year we decided to take a family vacation. That’s right, a FAMILY vacation…one with my folks, all my siblings/spouses and two of the cutest nephews in all of the land. This may not seem like a big momentous occasion, but for our family getting everyone together is no small feat. […]

Fact #1: It’s summer.

Guess what. It’s summer. I’m in Montana. And it’s Friday afternoon. To celebrate all three of these things, I’m getting out of town. And I’m going to get my Montana groove on. “How?” you may ask. Easy. By hiking here. Eating here. Acting like I’m 7 1/2 here. (I plan on being the person behind […]

I’m a lucky girl. Seriously. For the last two weeks, I’ve been perusing the countryside of Western Montana. I’ve put on a lot of miles and enjoyed every minute of it. Mainly because Montana is filled with some of the most incredible beauty that a person could ever by blessed enough to see. And judging […]

It’s summer in Montana and that means it’s time to hit the open road and play, play, play. My last adventure had me visiting the Blackfeet Nation for North American Indian Days. This year, NAID attracted more than 500 dancers and had members from 50 different tribes throughout the United States and Canada in attendance. […]

There’s been some pretty happening stuff in Missoula the last few days. Not only was it Downtown Tonight last night, but since Wednesday Missoula has been hosting the US Freestyle Kayaking National Championships at Brennan’s Wave. Around 200 competitors have been in the Garden City this week trying their hand, and performing tricks, to earn […]

Well party people, it’s official. The Going-to-the-Sun Road (that little curvy number that laces its way through the park on 52 miles of asphalt) is officially open for the 2010 summer season. And we couldn’t be more tickled about it!! The road opens up much of the interior of the park and gives all that […]

When I was growing up along the Rocky Mountain Front, we would make a trip to Glacier every summer. And along with that trip came the annual stay at Glacier Park Lodge in East Glacier Park. I always looked forward to staying at the lodge…it was such a wondrous place for a little girl who dreamed of princes and castles. Grand and beautiful, it seemed to hold something magical inside.

Have you heard about the lastest battle between Montana’s two jewels? Currently, there’s a good-natured and spirited battle going on between Yellowstone National Park and Glacier National Park. The concept came about as a way to celebrate and highlight the very two different parks, Yellowstone with its geysers and Glacier with its…glaciers. The competition has […]

As many of you have probably seen on facebook, twitter or in the local media, the Montana Office of Tourism campaign is creating quite the buzz in Chicago. Recently Ms. Barbara Brotman wrote an article for the Chicago Tribune about the campaign and…we totally love it. A little excerpt, “Montana is thrusting its mountainous finger […]

In this Montana girl’s mind, summer kicks off officially in Montana each Memorial Day. Sure, sometimes it may bring beautiful sunshine and comfortable 80 degree days, while others times it rolls in with wind, rain and a touch of snow. But any way you slice it, it’s summer in Montana.

Sometimes a girl just needs a burger. There’s been a lot of talk about burgers this week and the need to sink my teeth into one of the best burgers around was growing stronger by the day. So on Wednesday, we hopped in the car and headed south through the Bitterroot Valley to Hamilton and […]

When I was just a little towheaded girl, I used to sit and dream of summer vacation and the fun and freedom it would bring. I’d make plans to go tubing at the lake with my cousins, visit Glacier National Park and pack in as many adventures as my little eight-year-old head could dream up.

Nearly 100 years ago on May 11, 1910, the park in our backyard-Glacier-was dedicated as a national park. This Tuesday, May 11, 2010 will mark the official centennial of Glacier National Park. And you better believe the celebration will be in full force! Festivities for Tuesday kick-off with a rededication ceremony at 10:30 AM, followed […]

Tomorrow is May. Hard to believe isn’t it? I know I’ve mentioned this a tad, but I’m REAL excited for summer. Reason #1: The WHOLE family is going on a summer vacation this year. This alone is reason to celebrate. I was visiting with the babies (20 & 22 respectively) about family vacations and recalling […]

The weather has been just warm enough that I find my mind wandering to summer. Which is fine and dandy, except that it’s been wandering there A LOT.

Time for honesty. I snuck out of here yesterday. But for good reason! We’ve had some cold days during the past couple of weeks here in God’s country and this little girl was to the point of being over this cold weather. Luckily for me, yesterday turned into an absolutely beautiful, sun-kissed day. And I […]

Montana: Beyond Home “Montana is beyond home for me. Its mountains are rooted in my bones. Its rivers course through my veins. The depths of its lakes mirror the depths of my emotions. The wind chases my dreams across its plains, and its vaulted skies draw my thoughts to the starry expanse. If I put […]

One thing about living in Montana is the anticipation of what the weather is going to bring on any given day. I often like to travel with a pair of snowboots and a cozy jacket in the car, because I’m a Montana girl and that’s just how I roll. Plus, I like to be prepared. […]

March 18, 2010 What’s new with Glacier’s Centennial? Check out our latest eNewsletter! Highlights include: Centennial Film Festival Kick-off, featuring The River Wild at Signature Theaters in Kalispell (Tonight!) at 7 PM Unveiling of Chris Peterson’s 100 Years, 100 Straight Days Photography Exhibit on Friday, March 19, 6 PM at Discovery Square in Columbia Falls […]

Last week you were good to me. Oh so good. If I didn’t know better, I’d say you were trying to woo me. I spent a solid amount of the week exploring and experiencing some of what you offer during winter. I’ve heard rumors of your winters scaring people, but not me. I know you’re […]

February 15, 2010 Latest Centennial eNews   Our latest Centennial eNews! Highlights include:   Upcoming Activities:   February 22, 2010: Glacier National Park Associates Winter Speaker Series featuring Joyce Lapp at Central Museum in Kalispell February 27, 2010: Winter Moonlit Ski in Apgar Village March 18, 2010: Centennial Film Festival– A River Wild at Signature […]

Just another beautiful day at Whitefish Mountain Resort. ps: They also have some stellar deals happening right now, making it even more affordable to stay and play in Whitefish. For more info, visit www.skiwhitefish.com. T

Hi gang, This last week I was out in “the field” doing some on-the-ground work and coordination. And I tell ya what, I loved every minute of it! Which, to be honest, was probably a combination of things…it could have been the ride up Chair 1 at Whitefish Mountain Resort that gave me a BEAUTIFUL […]

As a part of the annual Glacier National Park Associates winter speaker series, Ranger Naturalist Bill Schustrom kicked off the event with a program on 100 Years of Wilderness in Glacier.

January 15, 2010 January eNews! Check out our latest eNews! This month’s highlights: Photos from the Belton Chalet Centennial New Years Party (if you click on the photo in the eNewsletter it will bring you to our photo gallery for more photos from the event) Glacier National Park Associates Winter Speaker Series will kick off […]

This past weekend, the boy and I did a little drive up to Glacier National Park. We went for a couple of reason…1) Why not? 2) The boy has never been to Glacier. 3) It’s winter! Glacier’s undiscovered season. It was a lovely drive up along Flathead Lake and over to West Glacier. Our adventure […]

On May 11, Glacier will mark 100 years as a national park. Encompassing over one million acres, the beauty of the park includes rolling foothills, breathtaking vistas and incredible glacier-carved terrain. Glacier and its centennial have been receiving significant coverage as people continue to fall in love with this national treasure. Read more about the […]

On December 31, 2009, the Belton Chalet brought in the new year, as well as the centennial of the Belton and of Glacier National Park. The historic chalet was the first of many chalets built by the Great Northern Railway. The Belton was completed in 1910 and opened to the public a mere two months after the park was designated. The New Year’s Eve evening began with a grand welcome by the Chalet’s staff in unique attire. Dressed to the nines in their historic ‘swiss-like’ uniforms, guests were catered to with a luggage valet.

Well it looks like another year has come and gone. Sometimes I look back on the last 12 months and can hardly believe how fast they cruised by me. But now, it’s on to 2010!

I feel like I should let you in on a little secret. Sometimes I can’t believe I live here. Literally. On Christmas Day I was driving along Highway 200 and the Blackfoot River and let me tell you what, you should have seen that drive. The roads were clear, but the river was frozen in […]

December eNews Wow- the centennial is here! Please check out our latest Centennial eNews.Just a reminder– each section of the eNewsletter includes a ‘clickable link’ for ease of finding more information for each highlight. Highlights for December: A vintage red bus joined us for the Centennial Night of Lights in Columbia Falls Whitefish Christmas Stroll […]

On November 5, 2009, the Land of Many Stories, a Glacier Centennial exhibit, was unveiled at the Montana Historical Society Museum in Helena. One of the elements of the exhibit will be a virtual tour– to increase the accessibility of seeing the exhibit during it’s installation.

Come join us this evening in Columbia Falls for the Glacier Centennial Night of Lights. The evening will begin with a parade at 6:30 PM on Nucleus Avenue in Columbia Falls. Circa 1900 attire is a must– and Park Rangers, among other Glacier themed floats, will stroll down the street. In addition to the parade, Santa Claus and several informational booths will be set up in Discovery Square for attendees to enjoy. The Glacier Association will be selling an array of Glacier Centennial Gifts (including our new 100 Years, 100 Stories: A View Inside Glacier National Park book).

Stories Galore!

Who would of thought that 115 minds could compile and publish a group of riveting stories in 11 months?

Well, the Glacier Centennial Program, along with 100 selected authors have launched a commemorative story book. The stories range from tales of adventures in Glacier’s high peaks to recollections of growing up on Lake McDonald. There are Ranger Tales and stories recalling Hootenannys. And pictures– Oh, the pictures tell stories all by themselves.

November 27, 2009 The First 100 Years– with Author Carol Guthrie Please join us for a special reception with Author Carol Guthrie for her new book, The First 100 Years at the Montana House in Apgar Village from 2-5 PM on Saturday, November 28, 2009.   Carol Guthrie, a freelance writer who lives in the Ninemile […]

November 15, 2009 November eNews Check out our November newsletter! Highlights for November and upcoming Highlights for December include: 100 Years, 100 Stories: A View Inside Glacier National Park will be ready December 1, 2009! A special reception is being hosted at the Glacier Association and Glacier National Park Fund Office in Columbia Falls on […]

November 23, 2009 100 Years, 100 Stories: A View Inside Glacier National Park As you know, our commemorative story book is on schedule for a December 1st release through the Glacier Association. I thought it might be interesting to share some insights of how this book came to be and share some photos from our […]

For many, Glacier National Park is a sacred place. A massive spread of acres, mountains, valleys and glaciers that seems to have an other-worldly quality. And for many, it calls to them to come explore…numerous hikers scale the peaks and valleys of its terrain each year. Today’s Missoulian has a first-person perspective on climbing in […]

I’ve been out and about quite a bit this fall and have got to see some beautiful things! To celebrate the middle of the week, here are some photos for your viewing pleasure.

Being a Montana girl and all, I’ve always thought that our state was full of the friendly folks. And I’m glad to see I’m not the only one… In Skiing Magazine’s “Resort Awards 2010: Best of the Rest,” Turner Mountain was awarded friendliest locals! Congrats to the friendly folks at Turner Mountain and Libby. We […]

Glacier National Park’s Education Program and the Glacier Association are again sponsoring a postcard contest for K-12 students. As Glacier approaches its 100th anniverary, the focus for this year’s contest relates to the Centennial themes of “Celebrate, Inspire, and Engage.” In particular, to “engagement” as the next 100 years of Glacier’s future depends on the participation of today’s youth in helping to protect and preserve park resources.

It was another successful evening for the Flathead Valley Community College, the hosts of the second Centennial Crown of the Continent Lecture Series. Presented by Geography Department Chairman Dr. Jim Byrne of the University of Lethbridge, Byrne was tasked with establishing the broader geographical elements that help define the Crown of the Continent.

This past weekend I spent some time on one of Missoula’s premier recreation areas-Blue Mountain. Located literally minutes away from Missoula, Blue Mountain is an outstanding place for outdoor recreation with a folfe course and trails for hiking, biking & riding. My adventure included watching some phenomenal mountain bikers. Check out the photos below…

Settled snugly in my horse’s saddle, I tentatively coaxed Whiskey up alongside our equestrian guide, SuzAnne Miller, who was perched with authority atop her shining chestnut colored horse, Power, as we crested a golden brown grassy hilltop. Far below us the shallow Bitterroot River flowed along the valley bottom, calm and lazy as the wispy […]

September 16, 2009 First Peoples, Two Countries, Three Voices Flathead Valley Community College in partnership with the National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA) kicked off their Crown of the Continent Centennial Lecture Series last night. The evening consisted of a conversation with leaders of the Blackfoot Confederacy, Salish-Pend Oreille, and the Kootenai/Ktnuxa nations. Speakers included Herman Many Guns […]

In honor of today, the ninth day of the ninth month of the year 2009, I’ve put together a list of NINE thing I love about Western Montana. 1. The Big Dipper. This place kills me softly. Sometimes I daydream about it and my all time favorite flavor: Vanilla Reese’s. Personally, I don’t view daydreaming […]

I was strolling along Higgins Avenue in downtown Missoula this weekend and noticed a few traffic light signal boxes roped off and being painted. And I thought to myself, “What a spiffy little project.” Today I found out the rest of the story in the Missoulian. According to the article, six traffic boxes around town […]

This is one of my favorite places in Western Montana. What’s yours?

There are still a few weeks of summer left! Now is the time to seize the day and take to the great outdoors like never before. To get your weekend adventure going, check out the following pics from a recent visit to Glacier National Park. You could be like these people… Or you could be […]

It’s Monday. And after a gloomy overcast start to the day the sun is radiating its warmth, which in my mind means that life is good!

Weekends in Western Montana are a treat…usually because they are jam-packed full of playing that begins at sun up and continues until sun down–or later! 😉 With so much to do, it’s crucial to consider the options. This weekend is staring me dead in the face with all of its splendor. To which I say, bring it on weekend fun. Bring. It. On.

In Western Montana, we’re known for Glacier National Park, outdoor recreation, fly-fishing and charming communitities. But now–we’re known for something else. The BUBBA BURGER! The Cutting Board in Eureka recently won title of “Best Burger” on “Live with Regis & Kelly!” The delectable burger was created by Chef James Monrow and is made of a […]

We’re stoked to be blogging and to have contributers from around the region adding entries to our official Glacier Country blog. The first-person entires provide a fabulous look at real experiences in our region! But we’ve got some new news for you…we’re tweeting! You can follow us at www.twitter.com/glaciermt where we provide up-to-date suggestions for […]

I am writing from the Pikuni Gift Shop located inside the Museum of the Plains Indian in Browning, MT. We are a non-profit organization run by the Blackfeet Community College which serves as a learning center for business students as well as a training facility for Opportunities Inc. students. At our store we sell only authentic […]

Thousands of years ago (13,000 – 17,000) incredible floods shaped Eastern Washington, the Columbia River Gorge and Oregon’s Willamette Valley. The floods occured when a giant ice dam at Glacial Lake Missoula broke and the waters scoured the countryside from here west, with the water eventually making its way to the Pacific Ocean. Angela Brown, […]

Each summer, I anxiously anticipate Saturday morning. And it’s not just because it’s the weekend! It’s because I know at the end of my street in Missoula, the Farmers Market is waiting for me. Vibrant fresh flowers, pulled from the garden vegetables and warm baked bread are waiting for me just a few steps away. […]

Last week, we spend a few days playing in and around Whitefish and Glacier National Park. Why, you may ask? Because it’s summer in Western Montana and that means we need to get out and play, play, play!

It’s official! The Going-to-the-Sun Road is open for the season. And it’s completely spectacular! Waterfalls were gushing, the Weeping Wall was flowing strong, baby goats and their mamas were right below Logan Pass, Ranger Doug was at the Logan Pass Visitor Center and construction waits were minimal. All said, a great opening day across the […]

If you’re lucky enough to travel to Glacier National Park, one of the best ways to explore the serpentine Going to the Sun Road (the only road in the Park) is to hop a Red Bus tour. Of course, if you’ve got nerves of steel, you can drive the steep and winding Sun Road yourself (no RVs allowed). However, a more relaxing way to enjoy jaw-dropping views of lakes, waterfalls, dense forests, hanging valleys, alpine tundra, and the soaring, glacier-studded peaks of the Lewis and Livingstone mountain ranges–and learn about the park’s fascinating history, geology and its plants and animals–is to take a Red Bus tour.

I started my trip in Missoula and really enjoyed the hospitality and friendliness of the folks there. Being from Southern California, it’s a real pleasure to get away from the traffic jams and hustle and bustle and replace it with the more sane pace of life enjoyed in Montana. Some other places I really liked […]

One of my favorite things to do in the Seeley-Swan Valley is to rent a canoe and paddle the Clearwater Canoe Trail. This quiet stretch of river is closed to motorized boats, making it a great place to get away and enjoy a quiet slice of Western Montana. The paddle takes about two hours, depending […]

I may be partial (being a Montanan and all) but there’s something about summers in Missoula that I can’t get enough of! A few days ago, I hiked up to the “M” on Mount Sentinel–Missoula’s most prominent landmark. Once you’ve done the hike, it’s easy to see why it’s one of Montana’s most visited trails. […]