Category: Missoula

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.

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.

Western Montana has long been a natural fit for the silver screen. From its starring role in iconic films like A River Runs Through It and The Horse Whisperer to its connection to the modern phenomenon Yellowstone, Glacier Country’s cinematic landscapes set the stage not only for filming—but for celebrating film itself. Throughout the region, […]

The holidays in Western Montana’s Glacier Country are full of simple magic—snow-dusted landscapes, twinkling lights, craft fairs, sleigh rides and cozy moments by the fire. While we’d happily spend every winter day outside or wrapped in a blanket with a mug of hot cocoa, the season also brings the joy of gift-giving. And here in […]

Western Montana is known for its landscapes and outdoor adventure, but there’s a strong creative side here, too. Across Glacier Country, galleries, museums and cultural sites offer a closer look at the people, traditions and ideas that shape the region. From contemporary works to centuries-old traditions, the region’s artistic and historical experiences offer another layer […]

Every season stands out in Western Montana, but fall feels a little different. Cooler air settles in, hillsides turn gold and early snow shows up on the high peaks. The pace shifts, with harvest flavors, scenic drives and local festivals marking the season. With lighter traffic and cooler temperatures, fall makes it easier to slow […]

Traveling from Dallas to Western Montana is simpler than you might expect. With year-round nonstop flights between Dallas and Missoula on American Airlines, Western Montana is just a few hours away—making it easy to trade busy city streets for open landscapes, mountain air and a slower pace. In less than three hours, travelers can arrive […]

Spring is a rewarding season to experience Western Montana by bike. As snow recedes from valley floors and lower-elevation trails, quieter roads and paths emerge, offering cyclists a chance to enjoy blooming wildflowers, rushing rivers and crisp mountain air. With fewer visitors and shoulder-season lodging opportunities, spring riding pairs well with Glacier Country’s relaxed pace […]

 Winter in Western Montana offers more than high-adrenaline adventures. It also invites quiet exploration—slow, steady movement through snow-covered forests, open meadows and mountain landscapes. Snowshoeing provides an accessible way to experience Glacier Country in winter, opening trails and backcountry spaces that are otherwise unreachable during the colder months. This low-impact activity is well-suited for a […]