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Montanans, this one’s for you! Spring has sprung, wildflowers are blooming, birds are singing, and baby wildlife are emerging. As COVID-19 restrictions relax and Montana begins to gradually reopen according to Governor Bullock’s phased plan, many of us are chomping at the bit to get outside. We compiled a list of instagram-worthy activities that are […]

In Montana, helping your neighbor is a way of life. And during this unprecedented time of isolation and social distancing, the spirit of coming together is stronger than ever—and downright heartwarming. From food and financial support to goggles and socks, it’s no surprise Montanans are rising to the occasion to use their resources for good. […]

We could all use a little springtime right about now, so thankfully the season is upon us. Take in stunning views on a spring road trip through some of Western Montana’s most beautiful country. Think snowcapped peaks, blue skies, wildflowers, and emerging wildlife. CLEARWATER JUNCTION TO BIGFORK 90 miles, one way Gorgeous lake views galore, […]

The past few months have been a challenging time for all of us. But one thing’s for certain—the spirit of travel is stronger than ever. Once it’s safe to get up and go again, we’ll be here to move America forward, rebuilding our economy, growing our workforce, boosting morale, inspiring dreams and welcoming travelers with […]

Our perspective has shifted, and we’re all doing a little daydreaming right now—thinking about where we want to go, what we long to see, and how we plan to carpe diem a little more than before.  That’s why we asked you to tell us about your Glacier Country bucket list and what parts of Western […]

Western Montana’s cinematic landscapes have long inspired film producers, setting the stage for legendary films like “A River Runs Through It” and binge-worthy TV shows like “Yellowstone.” As we shelter in our homes and practice social distancing, we may find ourselves in need of a distraction. To help you escape, we’ve rounded up famous movies […]

Are you using Zoom to connect? If you feel like keeping your personal space under wraps or just want to channel some Western Montana beauty, download one of our Zoom backgrounds for conference calls, happy hours and family fun. To save the backgrounds to your computer, click the url below the image to open it […]

Thank you to everyone who is being responsible during the COVID-19 crisis. A few weeks in and we’re all feeling a bit cooped up and looking for ways to stay entertained. We’ve rounded up a list of virtual tours, online film festivals and live events in Western Montana to brighten your day. Whether you’re a […]

Hello, friends! We miss you! We hope you’re hanging in there and that this finds you safe and well. We’re reaching out with something to brighten your day and let you know we’re thinking about you. Here in Glacier Country we’re staying home, embracing our community spirit, supporting our beloved local businesses, and loving Montana […]

Small towns and local businesses are the heart of Western Montana. As we adjust to a new normal during the COVID-19 pandemic, here’s how you can support Glacier Country’s beloved small businesses when they need it the most.  Amid the shutdown, opt for takeout or delivery from restaurants and breweries, and shop online for products—including […]

UPDATED: May 20, 2020 From unspoiled landscapes to clean waterways and fresh mountain air, Western Montana’s Glacier Country boasts some of nature’s finest, pure and simple. We’re committed to preserving our wild places and respecting the land, our small towns, and all our inhabitants by making minimal impact and adopting Leave No Trace policies. We […]

UPDATED: May 20, 2020 As we all adjust to the spread of COVID-19, it’s vital that we adhere to CDC recommendations to not travel. “Can I still go outside,” you ask? The short answer is yes if you practice social distancing—maintaining six feet of personal space. Here’s what you must do to stay safe and […]

UPDATED: May 20, 2020 As we all face the unique challenge of navigating the COVID-19 outbreak, we may encounter feelings of uncertainty and understandable anxiety. But we also find ourselves in a time of coming together—yes, even with social distancing and isolation—to focus on what we can do to support the efforts that will eventually […]

Savor the flavor of finely crafted Glacier Country wine by stopping at a Western Montana winery during your next trip here. Our local wines feature regional flavors like Flathead cherries, wild huckleberries and local honey. Montana wineries are friendly and laid back, and, with spring right around the corner, you won’t want to miss sipping […]

The higher you go the better the view. Channel your inner treehouse-loving child and stay in a lookout tower, one of the most unique rustic getaways in Western Montana. Lookout towers are prime for stellar scenery, plus incredible wildlife watching, sunrises and sunsets, and dark-skies stargazing. Lookout towers are small U.S. Forest Service cabins positioned […]

Simply put, a destination wedding in Western Montana has all the ingredients to make your wedding dreams come true. Whether it’s in a sweeping mountain meadow, on the shores of a crystal-clear lake, or in Glacier National Park, the backdrop for your special day will be picture perfect here. It’s also the ideal place to […]

Winter is our most magical season in Western Montana, and it’s picture perfect from every angle. A treasure trove of idyllic places and activities can be found here. From exploring a ghost town by snowshoe to riding horseback at a world-class resort, come find your instagram-worthy Montana moment. Get the shot: Only accessible by snowmobile, […]

What’s more romantic than cozying up fireside on a cold winter’s night? Not much. That’s why Western Montana is the perfect place for a romantic getaway. From spa retreats to quaint and quiet bed-and-breakfasts, as well as outdoor adventures and indoor comforts, come relax and reconnect in Glacier Country. Here’s a list of some of […]

Let’s be real, Western Montana is a paradise for sledders. With plenty of room to roam, powdering through sweeping mountain-meadow playgrounds, deep untouched backcountry, rugged ridgelines, frozen alpine lakes, logging and Forest Service roads, and ghost towns is easy. With so much winter terrain to explore—4,000+ miles of groomed trails in Montana—we’re sharing eight trail […]

One of the things that makes Western Montana so extraordinary is our landscapes—alpine forests and sweeping meadows plus glacier-carved peaks and mountains. Our outdoor playground is home to seven ski areas that boast ridiculous vertical drops, consistently excellent snowfall and more than 11,373 acres of skiable terrain combined. Come discover epic downhill powder play in […]

Western Montana boasts world-class skiing at Whitefish Mountain Resort—recently ranked No. 3 Top Ski Resort in the West by SKI magazine. The quintessential mountain town of Whitefish, only 8 miles south of the resort, combines small-town charm with fabulous après ski options.

Every once in a while we share one of Western Montana’s best-kept secrets. Since 1938, Lost Trail Powder Mountain ski area has been humbly flying under the radar at the very southern end of the beautiful Bitterroot Valley on the Continental Divide.

Our winter landscapes are magnificent, and, with more than 22,000 square miles of terrain to explore, it’s no surprise Western Montana is a mecca for winter adventure seekers. With so much ground to cover, make exploring easier by utilizing one of our local guides.

Western Montana’s beautiful—and bountiful—backcountry beckons all year long. When the snow flies, however, it’s especially bragworthy. Our winter wonderland offers a world-class backcountry skiing experience hard-core downhill enthusiasts will not soon forget.

In Glacier Country, small-town America thrives. Our vibrant communities are chock-full of local boutiques, eclectic shops, restaurants and coffee shops dishing up Western Montana flavor, and our locally owned accommodations are always ready with warm western welcomes.

Western Montana is good for an unforgettable road trip any time of year. Winter makes for a magical season to explore our scenic travel corridors—hopping from ski town to ski town or discovering hidden gems and unique winter adventures.

The holiday season in Glacier Country is pure magic. Our charming small towns are chock-full of all things merry and bright, and our snow-covered landscape makes for a peaceful escape.

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—

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.

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 left, these Montana made gifts are the perfect remembrance of a trip and a special present for that special person. From American Indian made goods, to leather bags, local artwork and fly-fishing trips, we’ve rounded up our top gifts made in Western Montana that’ll help you cross off all the names on your gift list.

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.