Category: American Indian

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

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

Visiting an American Indian reservation in Western Montana is a special experience, and we must all do our part to recreate responsibly no matter where we roam. Here’s how to be a responsible and respectful traveler while enjoying the communities, great outdoors and fresh mountain air of the tribal lands in Glacier Country. Respect Tribes […]

The East Glacier Corridor sits on the edge of Glacier National Park and continues the awe-inspiring vistas and abundant recreation that draws visitors to the park itself. The towns of St. Mary, Babb, Browning, Cut Bank and East Glacier Park provide launching points for exploring the Blackfeet Nation—which boasts a plethora of recreation, history, and […]

Western Montana is home to more than 75 charming communities, all worth exploring. We often boast about the vibrant downtowns in the hearts of these communities, but you’ll find a treasure trove of quirky, unique and delightful shops tucked into little spots off the beaten path all over the region. Find Montana-made items, one-of-a-kind goods, and […]

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.

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.

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 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.

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.