There are many things to be thankful for here in Western Montana’s Glacier Country. Our natural resources are always top of mind—forests, rivers, lakes and streams, flora and fauna, wide-open spaces and fresh mountain air are all on our gratitude list. Among these natural wonders are vibrant small towns thriving with arts and culture, live music, and some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet. Read on and find out what else made our Top 10 list.
1. GLACIER NATIONAL PARK
In our corner of Montana, Glacier National Park spans one million acres of pristine wilderness. With 734 miles of trails, more than 200 waterfalls, countless alpine lakes and the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road, it’s a place of endless inspiration. Guided hikes, boat tours, Red Bus Tours, Sun Tours and idyllic lodging options provide unforgettable ways to experience this treasure.
2. WINTER WONDERS
From our seven downhill ski areas and thousands of miles of groomed Nordic and snowshoe trails to dogsledding and sleigh rides, Glacier Country embraces winter in every form. Adventure seekers can explore epic snowmobile terrain, try fat biking and ice climbing, or watch a wildly fun skijoring competition. Warm moments await fireside in rustic lodges and natural hot springs, providing the perfect balance of exploration and relaxation.
3. FRIENDLY PEOPLE
This is the kind of place where waving and saying hello is the norm. Our communities embody western hospitality, and you’re bound to find friendly conversation at a local taproom after a day on the slopes. If you want to know where the best fishing hole or ski run is, we’ll probably let you in on a few of our secrets over a Montana brew.
4. ABUNDANT WILDLIFE
Western Montana’s diverse habitat is one of the most intact ecosystems in the lower 48. Bears, bison, elk, mountain goats and bighorn sheep roam freely alongside more than 200 species of birds and countless trout-filled rivers and streams. Every season offers a unique wildlife watching experience, from springtime fawns to the bugling elk of autumn.
5. VIBRANT SMALL TOWNS
Our small towns are the heart of our region. Each one has a unique experience to offer, no matter where you’re exploring—the storybook village of Bigfork, the arts and culture hub of Missoula or the quintessential ski town of Whitefish. Scattered throughout the landscape, gems like Libby, Stevensville, Seeley Lake and Polebridge add even more character, blending Old West spirit, rich history, and a loyalty to all things local. We love our farmers markets and signature events, and the food here is amazing, too.
6. LOCAL FLAVOR
Montana ranks third in the nation for breweries per capita, but the craft drink scene doesn’t stop there. Glacier Country offers an impressive selection of distilleries, wineries and cideries, alongside a thriving non-alcoholic beverage scene. From kombucha to coffee brewed with locally roasted beans, there’s something for everyone. After a day in the great outdoors, when you want an equally impressive drink, Western Montana delivers.
7. A THRIVING ARTS SCENE
Inspired by the extraordinary surroundings, artists, makers and craftspeople bring Glacier Country’s culture to life. From traditional Indigenous artwork to contemporary pieces at local galleries to handmade jewelry, leathergoods and more, creativity thrives here. Art walks, boutiques, outdoor markets and festivals ensure that the arts are woven into the fabric of every Western Montana community.
8. LIVE MUSIC
Glacier Country has one of the West’s best live music scenes. Missoula’s Adams Center, Washington-Grizzly Stadium, Wilma Theatre, and KettleHouse Amphitheater—on the banks of the Blackfoot River—all draw national acts, while local talent keeps small stages buzzing with energy. Here, live music isn’t just entertainment; it’s a way of life. You’ll find music almost any night of the week in any number of our small towns.
9. LAKES + RIVERS
From the largest freshwater lake west of the Mississippi—Flathead Lake—to our famous rivers, Western Montana is much more than mountains. Our waterways offer so many ways to play, like fly-fishing a blue-ribbon trout stream, kayaking a hidden lake, stand-up paddleboarding, and tubing right into downtown Missoula on the Clark Fork River.
10. Easy to Access
With daily flights into Missoula (MSO) and Glacier Park (FCA) airports from major cities—along with a network of scenic, well-maintained highways and Amtrak’s Empire Builder, it’s easy to get here. Once you’ve landed, getting around is easy, too.
Please note: We ask that all our visitors and residents Recreate Responsibly by being mindful of the following: know before you go; plan ahead; play it safe; leave no trace; tread lightly; and help build an inclusive outdoors.
November 25, 2024
Related: Arts and Culture, Bigfork, Direct Flights, Events, Glacier National Park, Missoula, Montana, Outdoor Fun, Polebridge, Seeley Lake, Shopping, Skijoring, Stevensville, Water Fun, Whitefish, Wildlife, Winter Fun
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