Western Montana’s East Glacier Corridor is rooted in cultural heritage, outdoor adventure and community spirit. In autumn, crisp air and colorful foliage add a new dimension. Browning and Cut Bank welcome you with Native traditions, small-town vibes and wide-open landscapes.

EXPLORE BROWNING

Located in the rolling foothills just east of Glacier National Park, Browning is the heart of the Blackfeet Nation. As the largest community on the Blackfeet Reservation, it is home to museums, galleries, shops and annual celebrations that preserve Blackfeet culture and give visitors a connection to its heritage.

The town of Browning is the headquarters for the 1.5 million acre Blackfeet Indian Reservation.

AMERICAN INDIAN HISTORY + CULTURE

Discover the rich artistry of Northern Plains Tribes at Browning’s Museum of the Plains Indian, where exhibits showcase traditional clothing, horse gear, weapons, household implements, toys and more. The gift shop features American Indian jewelry and handcrafted items. Support local makers at Faught’s Blackfeet Trading Post, explore contemporary and traditional Native art at Lodgepole Gallery and find fabrics, quilts and gifts inspired by Native culture at the Native Life Store.

Shop for souvenirs at Faught’s Blackfeet Trading Post. Photo: Andy Austin

BLACKFEET WARRIOR SCULPTURES

Marking each entrance to the Blackfeet Reservation, Blackfeet artist Jay Laber’s Blackfeet Metal Warriors sculptures—crafted from scraps of rusted automobiles, bits of barbed wire and the stones of an old mission school—honor Blackfeet warriors and stand as powerful symbols of resilience and pride.

These Blackfeet Warrior sculptures welcome visitors to the Blackfeet Nation.

STAY + PLAY

Hit the jackpot at the tribally owned Glacier Peaks Hotel and Casino, where guests enjoy some of the largest payouts in the state. Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, the casino features more than 300 machines, table games and a full-service bar and restaurant, along with comfortable, modern accommodations.

Take a break in either the rooms or at the tables at Glacier Peaks Hotel and Casino. Photo: Andy Austin

SCENIC AUTUMN DRIVES

Highway 2 from Browning to East Glacier Park is especially beautiful in the fall, with 14 miles of vibrant scenery leading toward the peaks of Glacier National Park. Along the way, keep an eye out for the Blackfeet’s own bison herd. Highway 89 from Browning to Saint Mary Lake offers equally stunning views, connecting with the east end of the Going-to-the-Sun Road. On the way, stop at Kyiyo Mercantile—a sister shop to the Polebridge Mercantile—for their famous huckleberry bear claws.

A sunbeam moment at St. Mary Lake. Photo: Andy Austin

DISCOVER THE HISTORY OF LEWIS AND CLARK

Between Browning and Cut Bank lie three significant Lewis & Clark sites along the Lewis & Clark Trail: Camp Disappointment, Cut Bank Camp and the Meriwether Lewis Fight Site. Follow in the Footsteps of the Corps of Discovery, the first American expedition to cross the western portion of the United States.

EXPLORE CUT BANK

Set against the Rocky Mountain Front, Cut Bank combines history, tradition and western adventure. On the eastern edge of the Blackfeet Reservation, this welcoming small town offers lodging, dining and outdoor opportunities in a full-service community with plenty of character.

Cut Bank sits against the backdrop of the stunning Rocky Mountain Front.

OUTDOOR RECREATION

Enjoy bird-watching, fishing on Cut Bank Creek or the Marias River, or horseback riding with Sunshine Stables. Exploring on foot or by bike is easy too, with the Cut Bank Trails. Follow the Coulee Trail along the cliffs above Cut Bank Creek, take the Anna Jeffries Trail for a shorter walk or jog, or continue onto the Nyhagen Trail for a longer trek. In autumn, pack layers and be ready for changing weather. Golfers can also tee off at the Cut Bank Golf and Country Club.

Cut Bank is surrounded by the stunning scenery of Western Montana’s Hi-Line.

DOWNTOWN CUT BANK’S HISTORIC MURALS

Stroll through downtown to view murals celebrating Cut Bank’s history—from its homesteading roots and ranching traditions to American Indian heritage and the Lewis and Clark Expedition.

Numerous hand-painted murals can be found on buildings throughout Cut Bank.

LOCAL SHOPPING + COFFEE

Browse local shops and eateries like Marketplace on Main, a Glacier Country treasure with gifts and artisan goods. Enjoy a meal at Big Sky Cafe or fuel up with coffee at Buckaroo Brews.

GLACIER COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM

Step into the past at the Glacier County Historical Museum (open by appointment in the fall). Also visit the WWII Airmen’s Museum at the Cut Bank Airport, which preserves the legacy of those who trained at the Cut Bank Army Airfield during World War II.

TAKE THE TRAIN TO WHITEFISH

Round out your trip with a scenic autumn rail journey from Cut Bank to Whitefish on Amtrak’s Empire Builder. Watch as Glacier National Park and Western Montana’s mountain peaks and prairies shift from fall colors to the first dustings of snow—a beautiful blend of seasons.

Ride along the outskirts of Glacier National Park on the Empire Builder.

Please note: We ask that all our visitors and residents recreate responsiblyby 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.

October 6, 2025

Related: American Indian, Arts and Culture, Blackfeet Nation, Browning, Cut Bank, Dining, Fall Fun, Lewis and Clark, Montana, Museums, Outdoor Fun, Road Trips, Shopping, Stay, Vacation

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