Driving through Western Montana is more than just a way to get from point A to point B—every road here is scenic, offering stunning landscapes, vibrant small towns, and an abundance of adventures. Come fall, these scenic travel routes are elevated to something extra special. Cruise our open highways, discover hidden gems on backroad bends, and explore welcoming communities along the way. Here are our top spots for your autumn road trip through Glacier Country.
BITTERROOT VALLEY
Highlights: Old West Charm, Wildlife Watching, Breweries, Mansion Tour
Stretching 79 miles, the Bitterroot Valley is framed by the Sapphire Mountains on the east and the rugged Bitterroot Mountains on the west, making it a perfect place for a road trip U.S. Highway 93. The valley is also home to charming small towns, including Darby, Hamilton, Victor and Stevensville, all with stops along the way that are well worth it. Don’t miss the historic Daly Mansion with its 46 acres of beautiful grounds, or stop by the Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge for a relaxing stroll and the sights and sounds of the season. You can also hike up Kootenai Canyon or walk along the winding Bitterroot River at Skalkaho Bend Park in Hamilton—also a tranquil place to pull over and cast a fly rod. For some local fall flavor, stop in at one of multiple breweries throughout the Bitterroot.
CLARK FORK VALLEY
Highlights: Hot Springs, Fishing, CSKT Bison Range
Along State Highway 200, the Clark Fork Valley is home to quaint towns like Paradise, Thompson Falls and Trout Creek, each offering unique experiences such as fishing on the Clark Fork River or relaxing in the geothermal waters at Quinn’s Hot Springs Resort. For a peaceful walk in the woods—among giants—visit Ross Creek Cedar Grove in Heron. For fall wildlife watching, head to the CSKT Bison Range in Moiese—with two short and scenic drives of its own.
FLATHEAD VALLEY
Highlights: Flathead Lake, Art Galleries, Hiking, Kayaking
The Flathead Valley is another must-visit destination for autumn road trippers. It’s home to beautiful communities like Columbia Falls, Whitefish, Kalispell, and Bigfork. State highway 35, which runs along the east side of Flathead Lake, offers a breathtaking, slower-paced drive with views of the largest freshwater lake west of the Mississippi. Take a hike in Jewel Basin for views of the Swan Mountains, or kayak Whitefish Lake with a view of Big Mountain. It’s also a lovely time of year to explore art galleries, shops and eateries in downtown Kalispell, Whitefish and Bigfork.
GLACIER NATIONAL PARK
Highlights: Glacier National Park, Hiking, Camping, Polebridge Mercantile
Glacier National Park is stunning year-round, but fall offers a more peaceful experience. Drive along Highways 2 and 89 around the park’s outskirts for snow-dusted mountain views. With 734 miles of trails, that are quieter this time of year, it’s also an excellent time for a fall hike in the park. For a unique stop, head to the North Fork region and visit the famous Polebridge Mercantile—it’s your last chance for a bearclaw pastry before they close for the season on October 31. If you’re looking for lodging, consider staying at Loge Glacier National Park in Essex or Wonderstone at Glacier in Columbia Falls. In addition, primitive camping is available at Apgar and St. Mary. Note: Be prepared for limited services in the small towns surrounding the park during this season.
KOOTENAI COUNTRY: NORTHWEST MONTANA
Highlights: Hiking, Wildlife Watching, Libby Dam, Lake Koocanusa
For those who love the road less traveled, Kootenai Country in the far northwest corner of Montana offers unmatched scenery and serenity. Drive along U.S. Highway 2 from Kalispell to Libby, and you’ll pass through dense, forested landscapes offering quiet hikes. Stop at Lost Trail National Wildlife Refuge along the way. Once in Libby, take a hike in the Cabinet Mountains Wilderness or visit Libby Dam and Kootenai Falls Swinging Bridge. For breathtaking views of Lake Koocanusa, follow the scenic byway between Troy and Eureka.
SEELEY SWAN VALLEY
Highlights: Hiking, Fall Foliage, Lake Views, Water Recreation
State Highway 83 takes you on a 56-mile scenic journey from Seeley Lake to Swan Lake through the picturesque Seeley Swan Valley, surrounded by the Mission Mountains to the west and the Swan Mountains to the east. This valley is renowned for its hundreds of lakes, fall hikes and water recreation. One of the highlights of the season is the stunning transformation of the tamarack trees, which turn a brilliant golden hue mid-October through early November. While you’re traveling through, be sure to visit Gus in Seeley Lake—this 1,000-year-old tamarack tree is one of the largest tamarack trees in the world.
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.
October 21, 2024
Related: Bigfork, Bitterroot Valley, Clark Fork Corridor, Columbia Falls, Darby, Essex, Eureka, Flathead Corridor, Hamilton, Heron, Kalispell, Libby, Moiese, Montana, Northwest Corridor, Paradise, Polebridge, Road Trips, Seeley Lake, Seeley-Swan Corridor, Stevensville, Swan Lake, Thompson Falls, Trout Creek, Troy, Vacation, Victor, Whitefish, Wildlife
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