Located on the Flathead Reservation along U.S. Highway 93 between Missoula and Flathead Lake, Charlo and Ronan offer a mix of outdoor recreation, local culture and small-town experiences, all set against the Mission Mountains. Spend your time exploring wildlife refuges, learning about the region’s history, browsing local shops and enjoying everything from casual bites to community events.
In Charlo, the Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing. This wetland complex includes more than 800 glacial potholes and a large reservoir, creating habitat for over 200 species of birds, as well as mammals and reptiles. The refuge is also known for winter raptor viewing. Stop by the interpretive site to learn more about the area and its ecosystems.
Directly across the highway from the refuge, visit the Ninepipes Museum of Early Montana. The museum highlights the history and culture of the Flathead Indian Reservation and early Montana through artifacts, historical photographs, beadwork and traditional tools. A diorama room features mounted wildlife and a re-created American Indian camp from around 1880. On a nice day, enjoy the short nature trail behind the museum.
Next door, find accommodations at Ninepipes Lodge, which offers a comfortable stay, an on-site restaurant and the outdoor Saltwater Spa, open to guests and available to the public with a day pass.
Also nearby, browse Great Gray, known for its selection of Made in Montana items, including jewelry, leather goods, and bath and body products, along with coffee and pastries.
Ten miles north of Charlo in Ronan, take in views of the Mission Mountains while playing a round at Mission Mountain Golf Club. Afterward, explore local shops like Muley Bluz–Cowboys Toys for horse tack, gear and camping equipment, or Swanky Sisters Mercantile for fabric, sewing supplies, gifts and baby items. The Jaded Pony boutique offers western wear and Made-in-Montana leatherwork, Family Health Pharmacy and Gift Gallery stocks souvenirs and gifts, and Rooted & Wild Studio featured handcrafted goods from local makers.
When it’s time to eat, stop by Stella’s Bakery & Deli for homemade baked goods and deli fare, or grab a coffee next door at Dobson Creek Coffee Company. For a classic bite, Lynn’s Drive-In has been a staple for more than 50 years, or take a seat at The Pheasant Lounge, a sports bar serving food and drinks. To round out the day, visit Ronan Cooperative Brewery for a locally crafted drink.
Ronan hosts events throughout the year, making it easy to plan a visit around the action. Highlights include the Chainsaw Carving Rendezvous and Montana Brew Fest in June, the Lake County Fair and Annual Crab Fest in July, Pioneer days in August and the Lights Under the Big Sky in December. For local music, stop by a community jam session or open mic hosted by the Western Montana Musicians Cooperative.
If you’re traveling by RV, plan an overnight stay at Diamond ‘S’ RV Park. If not, find a variety of unique lodging in the area on Airbnb or VRBO, including The Silo at Lost Creek, tent glamping, and rooms in a renovated church. You can also book a stay with Snooze n Fly Farm, offering overnight accommodations in a tipi, pioneer wagon, or upcycled grain silo, plus the chance to add a scenic flight over the Mission Mountains.
Tribal Permits: If you plan to recreate (camp, fish, hunt, hike, boat) on tribal land, you will need a tribal permit. Visit Flathead Reservation for more information. Please note, access to some areas may be prohibited to non-tribal members. Please respect and obey these areas, which should be marked with signage.
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.
April 13, 2026
Related: About, American Indian, Birding, Breweries, Charlo, Dining, Events, Family Fun, Flathead Corridor, Flathead Indian Reservation, Montana, Museums, Road Trips, Ronan, Shopping, Stay, Vacation, Wildlife
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