The great outdoors are more popular than ever, and some of you may be new to exploring Western Montana’s outdoor spaces. Glacier Country has so many places to play, no matter your experience level.

If you’re new to outdoor recreation in Western Montana, here are our suggestions on where to explore.

Stroll through giant trees in the Ross Creek Cedar Grove. Photo: Andy Austin

City Parks and Trail Systems

Our larger communities of Missoula, Kalispell and Whitefish have easily accessible and well-populated city parks as well as paved and dirt trail systems for walking, hiking and biking. A few of our smaller communities also offer parks and trail systems, like the Cut Bank Coulee Trails.

The trail system in Cut Bank overlooks classic western scenery.

State Parks

Western Montana alone boasts 24 state parks. These beloved public lands offer family-friendly fun, like boating, fishing, hiking, camping and swimming, and there is usually an attendant on duty. Learn more about Montana’s state parks—including a full list and map—here.  

Thompson Chain of Lakes State Park offers fishing camping, wildlife viewing and boating among 18 lakes.

National Forests

Western Montana’s national forestsBitterroot, Lolo, Flathead and Kootenai—all offer incredible scenery and the chance for solitude. Before you set out for a hike, contact the appropriate forest service office or ranger district for more information about current trail conditions. Also ask about road conditions if you are driving (some roads are very rough). You may or may not be alone on the trail, depending on the trail’s popularity.

A rainbow adds beauty to the tree-covered hills of Lolo National Forest.

Rivers, Lakes + Reservoirs  

Our rivers, lakes and reservoirs provide multiple ways to recreate, from fishing and boating to stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, sailing and swimming. If you’re new to fishing, go with a guide. Outfitters and fishing guides will ensure you have the right gear and show you the good spots to reel in some trout. Guides are also good for a whitewater adventure. Never underestimate the power of water; stick to activities that fit your comfort level, and always wear a life jacket/PFD.

Spend a day on the beach at Lake Como in the Bitterroot Valley.

Wildlife Refuges + The Bison Range

Grab your binoculars or spotting scopes. Western Montana’s wildlife refuges and Bison Range are perfect for wildlife watching and birding, not to mention incredible scenery. Some areas have walking trails and drives, while others only have viewing platforms. Before you set out, check each area’s website so you know what services are available and what wildlife you might see. You can sometimes download a list of birds and wildlife ahead of time, which makes for a fun scavenger hunt if you have kids with you.

Bison, pronghorn antelope, elk, deer and more roam the grassy hills of the Bison Range.

Glacier National Park

The Crown of the Continent—Glacier National Park—offers some of Western Montana’s most spectacular scenery. While some of the park’s trails are quite popular, you’ll find solitude on others. Stick to trails with distances and elevations you are comfortable with. Other park activities include horseback riding, hiking, backpacking and guided rafting trips. You can also drive through the park, especially on the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road, although we encourage getting out of the car and exploring the trails and lakes in the area. Please note, reservations are required to access park entrances this year. Learn more here.

Take some time out to allow the beauty of Two Medicine to sink in.

Stargazing

Wherever you are in Western Montana when the sun goes down, look up. Our dark night skies make for some pretty stellar adventures. Stargazing in Glacier Country offers an unforgettable, cosmic experience.

Venture beyond the city lights and become starstruck. Photo: Nicholas Parker

Recreate Responsibly

In addition to planning ahead and following Recreate Responsibly principles, here are some additional tips for staying safe and being good stewards of the land in Western Montana.

+ Pick an area to experience the outdoors based on your physical abilities and emotional comfort level.

+ Note that cell service may be spotty or nonexistent. 

+ Make sure you have a downloaded or paper map.

+ Carry bear spray. 

Please note: We ask that all our visitors and residents Recreate Responsibly by being mindful of the following: practice physical distancing; know before you go; plan ahead; play it safe; leave no trace; tread lightly and build an inclusive outdoors. Travel responsibly by reviewing Western Montana’s COVID-19 information and guidelines at SafetyFirstMT.com.

April 11, 2022

Related: Biking, Cut Bank, Glacier National Park, Hiking, Kalispell, Missoula, Montana, Outdoor Fun, Recreate Responsibly, Vacation, Water Fun, Whitefish, Wildlife

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