Category: Road Trips

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.

Every summer, thousands of travelers drive I-90 as they cruise across Montana. Many of these folks will take a detour south near Bozeman to head to Yellowstone, and others may take the detour north of Missoula to Glacier National Park. But Montana has so many hidden gems tucked just off the interstate, from endless mountain views to quaint small towns with big personalities. My name is Andy Austin. I am a Montana-based photographer and lover of the lesser-visited places in my beautiful state. When Glacier Country Tourism reached out to do a shoot in the I-90 corridor west of Missoula, I was quick to say yes to exploring one of the few areas I have only driven through. 

Glacier National Park covers a staggering 1 million acres, surrounded by some of Western Montana’s charming small communities that serve as gateways to the park. East Glacier Park, located on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation, is less than 10 miles from the Two Medicine park entrance. This historic community, with its 363 residents, is ready to […]

Set along the Interstate Highway 90 corridor between Missoula, Montana, and Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, the welcoming community of St. Regis is a classic Western Montana road-trip stop. Framed by the Bitterroot, Coeur d’Alene and Cabinet mountain ranges, this small town blends scenic views, outdoor adventure and genuine hospitality. SHOP The St. Regis Travel Center is […]

Set along the western shore of Flathead Lake—the largest freshwater lake in the West—the small town of Lakeside offers an inviting blend of lake access, mountain views and an easygoing Montana feel. Located at the northern tip of the lake, this Glacier Country community is known for its relaxed pace and year-round appeal. While summer […]

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 […]

Beyond the well-known highlights of Glacier Country, you’ll find a wealth of lesser-traveled public lands to explore, including peaceful state parks and rustic riverside campsites. Pro tip: Always check current conditions, closures and restrictions before heading to any state park or campsite. MONTANA STATE PARKS Montana’s state parks are preserved for their natural beauty and […]

Set against the sweeping eastern edge of the Rocky Mountains, Cut Bank is a welcoming community just under an hour from Glacier National Park. Located on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation, Cut Bank blends history, outdoor opportunities and small-town hospitality. 1. EVENTS + FESTIVALS Community pride shines in Cut Bank’s annual events. Montana Shakespeare in the […]

With glacially carved landscapes, a million-acre national park, more than 75 welcoming small towns and seemingly endless ways to explore, planning a trip to Western Montana’s Glacier Country can feel both thrilling and overwhelming. To help you make the most of your time, we’ve mapped out a six-day itinerary that blends iconic highlights with meaningful […]

Tucked into a bay where the Swan River meets the northeast edge of Flathead Lake, Bigfork delivers nature, creativity and small-town allure.. This lakeside community is known for its thriving arts scene, memorable dining and endless opportunities to get outside. BIGFORK VILLAGE In Bigfork Village, the walkable waterfront downtown is lined with locally owned shops, […]