montana wyoming tours

6 Days 726 Miles

The Montana & Wyoming Road Trip You’ve Been Dreaming Of

The Rockies

An Unforgettable Rocky Mountain Itinerary

Looking for more time with nature, moments of spectacular grandeur, and some of the most incredible scenery America has to offer? Montana and Wyoming are ready to deliver all of that and then some. Step away from virtual calls and the constant ding of incoming email — and step into one of the world’s most beautiful places. This is a trip you’ll never forget. There’s a lot to see, so we’ve mapped out the perfect itinerary to hit three National Parks, each offering distinct and unique landscapes, wildlife and experiences. We’ll start out with Glacier National Park and neighboring Whitefish, Montana. We then head down to Yellowstone National Park with visits to Gardiner and West Yellowstone, Montana. To close out this road trip of a lifetime, we’ll end with Grand Teton National Park.

Wintertime in Montana is a whole different experience, so this trip is best taken between June and September. Our ideal visit is right after Labor Day — the crowds diminish with school back in session, but the weather is still pleasant for hiking. The bison and elk ruts this time of year make September as good as it gets. Traveling with the family in the summer? The trip is still phenomenal, but it might require a little extra planning and flexibility.

Buckle up, we’re heading to Montana!

Day 1 & 2 – Glacier National Park

The beauty of Glacier National Park will leave you speechless. Glacier-fed turquoise lakes, ice-capped mountain peaks, roaring waterfalls, and northern wildlife are all pieces of this magical place — but it’s the fresh mountain air that stays with you. Breathe it in and enjoy every second.

Fly into Glacier Park International Airport in Kalispell, and rent your car from there. An SUV is great, especially if you’re traveling with a family, but a standard car makes parking a breeze and should also get you up and down the mountains just fine.

Glacier National Park sometimes feels like a combination of several epic national parks. Called the “crown of the continent,” it’s the type of experience that will stay with you forever. Ice rivers slowly carved this section of the Canadian Rockies, from mossy old-growth forests to glistening alpine meadows. With glaciers , lakes, and rivers in sparkling shades of blue surrounded by rugged mountains in every direction and over 700 miles of trails — it’s a hiker’s paradise.

Not a hiker? Not to worry. Take a scenic drive up Going-to-the-Sun Road . This spectacular 50-mile road spans the width of Glacier National Park, giving you a view of the park’s interior. Endless picturesque pullouts and viewpoints sit along the road, crossing the Continental Divide at Logan Pass . You’ll see large, crystal-clear glacial lakes, gorgeous forests, and alpine meadows — and on a good day even spot mountain goats, moose, and bears.

You need at least two days to really experience all Glacier has to offer. Take one day to explore Going-to-the-Sun Road from end to end, stopping to hike, grab lunch, and enjoy the beauty of this magnificent park.

On the second day, check out Two Medicine—take a boat trip around the lake with Glacier Park Boat Company or hit the trails on one of the area’s 14 hikes. When you’re done exploring this gorgeous section, head up to Many Glacier or the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In 1932, Glacier National Park partnered with Waterton Lakes National Park in Alberta, Canada, to create the world’s first International Peace Park. (Bring your passport if you plan to cross into the Canadian side.)

Glacier National Park will take your breath away with stunning views and out-of-this-world vistas. It’s the ultimate first stop on an epic exploration of Montana and Wyoming.

Where to Stay Near Glacier National Park

The quintessential small mountain town, Whitefish offers restaurants, breweries, coffee shops, live music, shopping and nightlife year-round. If you don’t want to fly in, Amtrak’s daily Whitefish stop brings you right into the heart of the action of this perfect Glacier home base.

Among ample lodging in Whitefish, the Pine Lodge on Whitefish River has cozy rooms and tons of complimentary amenities with your stay.

Need a shuttle to downtown Whitefish? It’s included. Want to kayak the Whitefish River? That’s also included. Need to fill up with breakfast before you head into the park? Included. Looking to beat your travel partner at pool or shuffleboard? You guessed it — included. You get the point; there’s plenty to do at the Pine Lodge, and it all comes with your stay!

However, please be aware that there is a daily amenity fee required for certain activities during the summer months.

Day 3 – Gardiner, Montana

Now let’s head to Yellowstone! There’s some serious drive time between Glacier and Yellowstone, but plenty of amazing Montana locations to stop at along the way. Here are some of our favorite places to grab lunch, hit the trails, or just take in the scenery of Big Sky country.

Butte, Montana

Originally a gold and silver mining camp in the 1800s, Butte became the “richest hill on earth” when its copper deposits were discovered at the turn of the century. Butte is a charming city nestled in the Rocky Mountains of Southwest Montana, with natural hot springs, boating, fishing, trolley tours, and more. Don’t miss the Our Lady of the Rockies statue, standing 90 feet tall on the ridge overlooking Butte.

Bozeman, Montana

Whether you’re looking for dramatic mountains for hiking, rock climbing, and fly-fishing or a flourishing arts community featuring festivals, art galleries, live music, and farmers markets, Bozeman shines as America’s “most livable place.” Enjoy rooftop dining in what many call a foodie paradise, check out one of Bozeman’s many museums, or take a river rafting tour — there’s something for everyone in Bozeman.

Lewis & Clark Caverns

Montana’s first and best-known state park is Lewis & Clark Caverns. These unbelievable limestone caverns are filled with stalactites, helictites, and stalagmites; electrically lighted; and naturally air-conditioned. Informative and fun guided tours are available May through September. This is a super fascinating spot to view incredible underground scenery and cool off on a hot day.

Where to Stay Near Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is huge with multiple areas to explore (better), which is why this trip is best made over a few days in different locations. Let’s start with the wildlife (bison, wolves, and bears — oh my!) that make Gardiner a great spot to hunker down for the night before hitting the road early in the morning. Gardiner sits at the original entrance to Yellowstone, nestled between the Absaroka–Beartooth Wilderness and Gallatin Range. With no big-box stores and lots of local merchants, this full-service town has an Old West feel. Gardiner offers the easiest access to Lamar Valley (wildlife central) in Yellowstone, so you’ll want to rise early and catch the park’s most famous inhabitants.

There are a number of lodging options in Gardiner, but one of our favorite spots is The Ridgeline Hotel® at Yellowstone . Ideally located just minutes from the North Entrance (and the Roosevelt Arch), this hotel sits directly on the Yellowstone River.

It has an on-site restaurant, heated indoor pool and hot tub, casino/bar area, and Wi-Fi (to update your social media with photos from the trip). Super comfortable accommodations and instant access to the park equals a win for us!

Day 4 – Yellowstone National Park

Your first day starts with ALL the wildlife in Lamar Valley. The secret to seeing the most wildlife is driving in at dawn. Grab your continental breakfast to go from the hotel and jump in the car — don’t forget your binoculars.

Before heading through Yellowstone’s North Entrance, take a drive (or walk) through the Roosevelt Arch for a FOMO-inducing photo by the park sign. Yellowstone is America’s first National Park and the North Entrance is the original entrance, so take a minute to appreciate all the history that took place here.

The drive from the North Entrance into Lamar Valley is beautiful, and it usually doesn’t take long to encounter wildlife of some sort. Bison seem to be everywhere up here, and it’s a true thrill to get caught in a bison jam (which we’d take over a traffic jam any day)!

A fan favorite in Lamar Valley is Yellowstone’s wolf packs, and the best times to glimpse these beautiful predators is dawn and dusk. Keep your eyes peeled — it’s a rare and special moment to get to see wolves in the valley.

After taking Lamar in for the morning, head back toward the entrance and over to Mammoth. This section of the park has NPS Visitor Centers, a restaurant, an awesome gift shop, and more, so it’s a great place to stop for lunch and souvenirs before checking out Mammoth Hot Springs .

Take the afternoon to check out Mammoth, Norris Geyser Basin, and Artists Paintpots as you travel toward the West Yellowstone Entrance to the park. Want a full breakdown of our favorite locations? Click here.

When you’ve explored to your heart’s extent, exit into West Yellowstone, Montana… this is where we’ll be spending night two of our Yellowstone adventure.

West Yellowstone is a gateway community filled with fun things to do — tons of restaurants, a ropes and ziplining course, and our favorite, Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center . The Discovery Center offers visitors an opportunity to observe, understand, and appreciate grizzly bears and gray wolves that are unable to survive in the wild. A fascinating, up-close look at some of Montana’s most incredible animals, it’s definitely worth a stop.

West Yellowstone has tons of lodging options for every type of traveler. Two of our favorites are the Explorer Cabins at Yellowstone and Yellowstone Park Hotel . The Explorer Cabins combine the charm of cabin lodging (CABINEERING™) with the joys of generational and dog-friendly travel. They’re ideal for family and friends traveling together or a romantic getaway. Each private cabin boasts stylish décor, fine linens, a flat-screen TV, and a kitchenette for whipping up your favorite meals. Wi-Fi is available in the cabins and throughout the property. Trust us, s’mores by the campfire at the Explorer Cabins will be a favorite road trip moment.

Yellowstone Park Hotel features well-appointed rooms, free Wi-Fi, a heated indoor swimming pool, and a hot tub, for the perfect opportunity to relax after a long day of exploring. Other rooms may include fireplaces and whirlpool tubs.

Day 5 – Yellowstone National Park

Our stars of the day are the geysers, springs, and thermal features Yellowstone is famous for. The West Yellowstone entrance can get backed up in the summer, so plan to hit the road early again. Sunrise in this section of the park is also spectacular, and you won’t be sorry you got up before the sun as you watch it peek over the mountains and fill the valleys below with golden light.

Today is all about Yellowstone’s lower loop. The Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, Old Faithful , and Grand Prismatic are some of the scenic spots you’ll be seeing, and we promise you… every stop is even more spectacular than the last.

Try to hit Grand Prismatic when the sun is high in the sky for the best view of the colors, and take the Fairy Falls trail to see it from above. It’s a relatively easy hike and the payoff after the short climb is worth every breath on the way up. Old Faithful goes off like clockwork and park rangers pinpoint when it’s expected, so you can time your arrival at Old Faithful Inn perfectly to grab lunch and then watch an eruption. The Upper Geyser Basin here is home to over 150 hydrothermal wonders you won’t want to miss exploring.

As you go along, one thing you’ll notice about Yellowstone is the phenomenal variety of destinations in the park. Every location is a different world and there’s so much to discover in this magical place.

At the end of the day, head back into West Yellowstone for one more night before heading down to Grand Teton first thing in the morning.

Day 6 – Grand Teton National Park

Dramatic scenery, stunning snow-covered peaks, and rivers meandering through unbelievable vistas — welcome to Grand Teton National Park . Coming from West Yellowstone, you’ll want to leave early (we know, this trip is full of early wake-up calls), and head south to the Yellowstone South Entrance. These two majestic parks are only 31 miles apart, so it’s only about half an hour from the South Entrance of Yellowstone to Grand Teton National Park. Coming this way, there’s actually no formal entrance station into Grand Teton.

On your way in, we highly recommend stopping at the Jackson Lake Overlook , an idyllic welcome into the park. Beautiful lake views and stunning rocky peaks offer a great taste of what’s to come in Grand Teton. As you explore, you’ll find endless spots to take in the views. Oxbow Bend is stunning every day, but catch it when the mountains and sky reflect off the river and you’ll get the photo of a lifetime.

Jenny Lake is a must-see location, with incredible hiking, water rentals, a store and visitor center, and more. We also recommend renting a canoe to experience this beautiful area from the vantage point of the water.

Take the day to discover this stunning park before heading into Jackson, Wyoming, for your last overnight stay.

On your second day in Grand Teton, explore the park further and hit some of the many photo-worthy scenic spots — there’s no shortage. Mormon Row and Moulton Barn on Antelope Flats is the most photographed barn in Wyoming and quite possibly the world. This place feels a little bit like stepping into a movie, so keep an eye out for Tristan from Legends of the Fall.

We’re willing to bet this week-long Montana and Wyoming road trip is one you’ll never forget. Drop your rental car in Jackson and fly out of the Jackson Hole airport to start your trip home (and start planning your next epic adventure).

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MONTANA AND WYOMING HIKING & BACKPACKING

Some of the world's most famous mountains and national parks reside in these two magnificent states!

World-Class Hiking Destinations

Absaroka-Beartooths Hiking Tours

Jackson Hole Guided Hikes

Tetons Guided Hikes

Wind River Range Hiking Tours

Yellowstone Hiking Tours

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Alaska Basin Llama Trek

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More about montana & wyoming hiking vacations, why a montana or wyoming hiking vacation.

Montana and Wyoming offer adventurous visitors the chance to explore diverse, spectacular mountain ranges, national parks, and wilderness areas. Yellowstone National Park is world famous for its wildlife, geothermal features, waterfalls, rivers, lakes, and vast meadow systems. It is a stunning destination for a guided backpacking trip or hiking tour and one we heartily recommend! The Wind River Range, Jackson Hole Area, and the west side of the Tetons are characterized by towering mountain peaks, phenomenal views, wildlife, waterfalls, and more spectacular mountain scenery. Exploring any of our Montana or Wyoming destinations is an experience you won’t soon forget!

WHICH TYPE OF TRIP SHOULD I DO?

One way to categorize our Montana and Wyoming hiking tours is first and foremost by backcountry or frontcountry. Backcountry trips include backpacking trips and llama treks and are deep wilderness excursions with camping accommodations. We offer these trip styles at all of our Montana and Wyoming destinations. Frontcountry trips are inn-based and basecamp tours on which we combine adventurous day hikes with camping or inn/hotel/lodge accommodations, access to showers, wonderful cuisine, and expert natural and cultural history interpretation. We recommend first deciding whether you want a backcountry or frontcountry experience, and then determining which category (backpacking or llama trek, basecamp or inn-based tour…etc.) you’d like from there. All of our Northern Rockies trips are in amazing country, with spectacular scenery, hiking and wildlife, so it’s hard to go wrong!

WHICH AREA SHOULD I HIKE?

When deciding which Montana and Wyoming hiking destination you’d like to explore, we recommend first asking what time of year you’d like to go. Yellowstone is great from June through October. The Jackson Hole Area and the Tetons are fantastic from July through September. The Wind River Range treks are great from August through September. Additionally, if you are mostly interested in a national park hiking tour, then Yellowstone is the best choice. If you want a remote mountain hiking trip, any of these destinations are great, although stick with backpacking and llama treks. For shorter trips (3-4 days) and moderate hikes, Yellowstone, again, is the best option. For longer trips (5-7 days), all of our Montana and Wyoming destinations are perfect. For more questions about what trip to do, feel free to call us at 800-715-HIKE (4453)!

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14-Day Self-Drive Best of the West Wyoming and Montana

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On this local adventure of a lifetime, visit three national parks and several other off-the beaten-path destinations. Escape to Montana and Wyoming where the rugged backcountry is brimming with incredible wildlife, jagged, glacier-studded peaks, winding limestone canyons and starlit night skies that will leave you speechless!

This trip starts and ends in Bozeman, Montana.

• See Trip Map >>

Customize this experience to be as luxury or minimalist as you want. Let us know your preferred driving daily maximums, total number of travel days, preferred activities and choose to camp out, stay in hand-selected vacation homes or hotels. Our local expert will help plan the perfect getaway for your exact interests and capabilities. From three-day custom national park retreat to a three-week action-packed wildlife and mountain adventure, we have you covered!

Full Itinerary DETAILED ITINERARY >> ITINERARY IN BRIEF >>

Day 1: Drive Bozeman to West Glacier national Park (5h30m Driving)

Begin your epic adventure of western exploration today in Bozeman! Head north to Coram just outside of Glacier National Park.

Overnight in a safari-style luxury tent at Under Canvas Glacier, your home away from home for the night.

• 5h22min drive time

Meals included: n/a

Day 2: Hike, horseback ride, or bike in Glacier National Park

Explore all the best that Glacier has to offer on hiking trails, while peddling, or on horseback ! Based on your interests we will help you pick the best excursions in the park.

Overnight at Under Canvas Glacier.

Day 3: Hike in Glacier National Park, Drive to Helena National Forest (3h30m Driving)

Enjoy a day of hiking in the pristine Glacier National Park.

In the afternoon drive to Helena National Forest where your next safari tent glamping experience continues.

• 3h28min total drive time

Day 4: Hike, kayak, SUP, or horseback ride in Helena National Forest

Today, choose from a plethora of activities : hiking, kayaking, SUP, or horseback riding all in National Forest.

Overnight at safari tent glamping camp.

Day 5: Drive to Livingston and Paradise Valley (2h30m Driving)

Set off for Livingston this morning.

For lunch and to stretch your legs, stop for a bite and local craft beer at MAP Brewing or stroll through the quaint and historic downtown of Livingston itself.

Continue south to the breathtaking Paradise Valley .

Overnight in a luxurious tiny home.

• 2h29min drive time.

Day 6: Chico Hot Springs, Rafting, Hiking, or Horseback Riding in Paradise Valley

Choose your own adventure today in Paradise Valley!

• Take a plunge at Chico Hot Springs
• Head out river rafting
• Horseback riding

No matter what you choose, you will be amazed by the stunning views that the valley has to offer.

Overnight at luxury tiny home.

Day 7: Yellowstone National Park, Lamar Valley, Bear Tooth Scenic Highway, and Red Lodge (3h30m Driving)

Get ready for an action packed day! This morning, drive to Yellowstone National Park through the north entrance in Gardiner.

Continue on through the Lamar Valley , the Serengeti of Yellowstone, to the Bear Tooth Scenic Highway in a private corner of the park with breathtaking views of jagged spires, verdant valleys and sweeping vistas!

Overnight in Red Lodge at the historic Pollard Hotel.

• 3h21min drive time

Day 8: Drive to Cody, Visit the Buffalo Bill Museum, Old West Town, Rodeo OR Swim, hike, rock climb, or horseback ride (1h Driving)

This morning, after grabbing a coffee in Red Lodge, head off to Cody . On the way pas through several small historic towns and past an abandoned mine. Visit the Buffalo Bill Museum, Old West Town and the rodeo.

Alternatively, swim in Buffalo Bill Lake, go horseback riding, rafting, rock climbing, or take a light hike.

Overnight at the boutique Chamberlin Inn, one of Earnest Hemmingway's favorite old haunts.

• 1h2min drive time

Day 9: North Fork, Yellowstone, Old Faithful, and hiking

This morning, drive up the North Fork while looking out for famous rock formations such as: The Barber Chair, Woman and Cabin, The Great Wall of China, Fishing Bear, and more.

Return to Yellowstone via the East entrance, and witness the breathtaking eruption of Old Faithful , bountiful wildlife and enjoy your choice from countless short hikes in the heart of the park.

Overnight in the high luxury safari tent camp near West Yellowstone at Under Canvas Yellowstone or glamp near the Tetons National Park at Bedroll and Breakfast Tented Camp.

Day 10: Wildlife viewing, hiking, fishing, or horseback riding around Tetons and Yellowstone

Enjoy your day of adventure around Yellowstone and Tetons. Depending on your interests you can hike, fish or horseback ride and all the while view wildlife in the majestic parks of Yellowstone and the Tetons.

Overnight glamping at Under Canvas Yellowstone or near the Tetons at Bedroll and Breakfast Tented Camp.

Day 11: Drive through Tetons to Lander, Wyoming (2h30m Driving)

Drive through the jagged Tetons , Dubois, and finally on to Lander , Wyoming. Enjoy a beer in the Lander Bar beer garden.

Overnight in the boutique, hip and historic Mill House in Lander.

• 2h36min drive time

Day 12: Hiking, horseback riding, or rock climbing in Sinks Canyon OR Explore the Wind River Range

Today, head off hiking, horseback riding, or rock climbing in the staggeringly beautiful limestone-lined Sinks Canyon, or explore the wild and majestic Wind River Range (if the Wind River Range is your preference, we recommend camping out there for at least 1 or 2 nights).

Overnight at the The Mill House in Lander.

Day 13: Hiking, horseback riding, or rock climbing in Wild Iris OR Explore the Wind River Range

Today, head off hiking or rock climbing in the staggeringly beautiful limestone-lined Wild Iris area or explore the wild and majestic Wind River Range (if the Wind River Range is your preference, we recommend camping out there for at least 1 or 2 nights).

Day 14: Drive to Bozeman Departure (6h Driving)

Say good-bye to Wyoming today as you depart back to Bozeman , Montana.

• 5h57min drive time

*** Contact Us for other itinerary and lodging options! ***

NOTE: Prices are per person in U.S. dollars based on double/triple occupancy. All quotations are based on the current rates of park fees, VAT, other government taxes, and current exchange rates. Should any of these be increased or a new tax introduced, these increases will be added on even if your trip has already been paid for.

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Where to Go in Montana and Wyoming

Both full of history, culture, and natural beauty, Montana and Wyoming combined make for a great travel destination. Start your trip planning today with this overview of the best places to go in and around each state.

Places to Visit in Montana

Billings and the Big Open

Eastern Montana is a vibrant amalgam of history, landscapes, and cultures. It’s home to the Little Bighorn Battlefield and four of the state’s seven Indian reservations, as well as the city of Billings and starkly beautiful Missouri River Breaks terrain. For travelers who are willing to take their time and let the state unfold slowly, eastern Montana is an ideal place to start a Montana road trip.

Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument: This historic site is a moving tribute to one of the last armed battles in which Native Americans fought to preserve their land and way of life. An annual reenactment brings to life the terror and tragic meaning of the event.

Medicine Lake National Wildlife Refuge: Walk or drive through this stunning blend of glacial-drift prairie and shallow wetland to see hundreds of migrating birds.

Pictograph Cave State Park: The caves in this state park contain evidence of human habitation dating back more than 4,500 years, including pictographs of people, animals, and even weapons.

Great Falls and the Rocky Mountain Front

North-central Montana encompasses much of the geographical diversity that defines the state, with vast plains along the Hi-Line, rolling agricultural fields in Montana’s breadbasket, and the dramatic Rocky Mountain Front. Explore tiny towns like Choteau and Fort Benton or visit during the annual Red Ants Pants Music Festival in July to get a charming sense of community.

Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex: More than 1 million acres (404,686 hectares) of pristine wilderness straddle the Continental Divide in “the Bob.” The topography is dramatic, the wildlife is plentiful, and the opportunities to explore are endless.

Havre Beneath the Streets: Practically an entire city exists underneath the streets of downtown Havre. Guides show you around the 27-bed brothel, saloon, and opium den and the more genteel dentist’s office, cigar shop, and bakery.

Missouri River: America’s longest river attracts anglers from all over the world. The tailwater stretch between Holter Dam and Cascade serves up thousands of trout per mile.

Glacier National Park

Known as the “Crown of the Continent,” Glacier National Park embodies the Montana you’ve always imagined: rugged mountains piercing the sky, crystalline lakes and plunging waterfalls, abundant wildlife, gravity-defying roads, and miles upon miles of trails. Depending on the amount of time you have to spend in Montana, Glacier National Park could easily absorb all of it, but it is also a spectacular route to get from one side of the Continental Divide to the other.

Going-to-the-Sun Road: Stretching just over 50 miles (81 km), this phenomenal feat of engineering gives viewers an extraordinary overview of Glacier.

Grinnell Glacier: Since scientists anticipate that the glaciers in the park could disappear entirely by 2030, seeing Grinnell Glacier may be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. The ranger-led hike is especially worthwhile.

Lake McDonald: The largest lake in the park and arguably one of the most beautiful. Glacially carved Lake McDonald is easy to access. Pack a picnic for the rocky beach or cruise the waters on a boat tour.

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Missoula and western montana.

From the towering pines and massive cedars to the mountain of huckleberry ice cream clinging to your cone, just about everything is larger than life in western Montana. The area is steeped in Western history, from Lewis and Clark to the Nez Perce and the state’s earliest missions, and home to one of the state’s fastest-growing areas, the Bitterroot Valley, as well as the National Bison Range.

Jewel Basin: With 27 lakes, 35 miles (56 km) of trails, and no motorized vehicles or horses permitted, this is a hiker’s paradise.

St. Ignatius Mission: The jewel of a mission founded by Fathers Pierre-Jean De Smet S.J. and Adrian Hoecken S.J., this massive brick Catholic church from 1891 is still impressive, with 58 murals painted by Brother Joseph Carignano S.J.

Whitefish Mountain Resort: This phenomenal ski area has a view over Whitefish Lake and perhaps the best après-ski scene in the state.

Butte, Helena, and Southwest Montana

This corner of the state wears its history like a badge of honor in mining towns like Bannack, Virginia City, and Nevada City. Then there is the sweeping Big Hole Valley, with picturesque ranches and hot springs resorts, and the Big Hole National Battlefield, one of the most haunting battle sites in the state.

Big Hole National Battlefield: A memorial to the Nez Perce and U.S. Army soldiers who died in battle, this site is both gorgeous and moving. The tipi frames stand where they did the fateful morning of the attack.

Lewis and Clark Caverns: Montana’s first state park is a fine example of limestone caves.

World Museum of Mining: This museum, built atop the Orphan Girl mine yard, is packed with artifacts from more than a century of hard-rock mining.

Bozeman and the Gateway to Yellowstone

The gateway to the nation’s first national park, south-central Montana is a playground bursting with mountains to climb, rivers to fish, and trails to hike. From skiing, fishing, and an abundance of outdoor adventures in the college town of Bozeman to the art and culinary scenes just over the pass in Livingston, the area’s culture is as rich as its landscape.

Beartooth Scenic Highway and Pass: This highway offers room for spontaneous adventures. Bring your bike, hiking boots, binoculars, and even your skis on this summit-topping stunner.

Chico Hot Springs Resort: Chico has all the trappings of a resort—hiking, riding, pool, day spa, and sumptuous cuisine—with none of the attitude.

Emerson Center for the Arts and Culture: A 1900s school rehabbed as an arts hub, the Emerson has more than 30 studios, a fab restaurant, and special events.

Montana and Wyoming: Yellowstone National Park

This magnificent park is constantly in motion. See abundant wildlife, including bison, elk, bears, and wolves; marvel at geothermal features like Old Faithful; and stay in historic lodges like the Old Faithful Inn and rambling Lake Yellowstone Hotel. Perimeter communities are also well worth a visit.

Boiling River: In a stretch of the Gardner River at the park’s north entrance, hot water flows over waterfalls and via springs, mixing with the river water to create a perfect soaking temperature.

Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone: The sheer cliffs and dramatic coloring of this canyon have inspired millions of visitors. In the summer, get a rare bird’s-eye view of several osprey nests.

Mammoth and the Mammoth Hot Springs Terraces: The travertine terraces here look like an enormous cream-colored confection. Since the springs shift and change daily, a walk around the colorful terraces is never the same experience twice.

Places to Visit in Wyoming

Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton packs a punch, particularly when it comes to mountain splendor. Twelve peaks in the Teton Range soar above 12,000 feet (3,658 m). While there are only 100 miles (161 km) of roads in the park, there are twice as many miles of trails, leaving hikers endless options for adventure.

Jenny Lake: Resting like a mirror at the base of the Tetons, this alpine lake is a gem for hikers, boaters, and picnickers.

Oxbow Bend: This hairpin curve of slow-moving backwater from the Snake River is perfect for novice boaters, wildlife watchers, and photographers.

Signal Mountain: Follow this exciting drive with expansive views of the entire valley.

Jackson Hole, Cody, and the Wind Rivers

Wyoming’s northwest corner is far more than a gateway to its national parks. Jackson Hole is a destination in and of itself, with glitzy galleries and boutiques, gourmet eateries, luxe accommodations, and a sensational art scene in immediate proximity to world-class ski resorts and white-water rafting. The area has something for everyone, from lovers of the arts to history buffs to outdoors enthusiasts.

Hot Springs State Park: This park has fabulous limestone terraces as well as public baths in therapeutic waters.

Jackson Town Square: Surrounded by archways constructed entirely out of elk antlers, this is the heart of the community for shoppers, art lovers, and diners.

Snake River: The Snake winds through the valley, giving floaters unparalleled access to the area’s most stunning views.

Sheridan, Devils Tower, and Northeast Wyoming

Where the prairies meet the mountains, cowboy culture comes alive. This is where you’ll find dude ranches and Sheridan, one of the most charming and authentic Western towns in the state. Scenic drives and archeological sites are also not to be missed.

Cloud Peak Skyway Scenic Byway: This stunning road climbs over and cuts through the Big Horn Mountains, passing by beautiful spots and providing access to historic sites.

Devils Tower: Rising more than 1,200 feet (366 m) above the Belle Fourche River, the nation’s first national monument is a magnet for hikers and climbers.

Eatons Ranch: The oldest dude ranch in the world is certainly one of the most traditional.

Southern Wyoming

An enormous expanse of diverse terrain that includes everything from vast prairie and rugged mountain peaks to red desert and windblown dunes, southern Wyoming in many ways defines the state. It has celebrated events like Frontier Days (the big daddy of Wyoming rodeos), an important intellectual culture, and a wealth of historic sites. The southwest corner is also noted for fabulous recreational opportunities.

Casper Mountain: The skiing, hiking, camping, and fascinating local folklore give this area its own magical identity.

Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area: Fed by the Green River, this natural playground composed of cliffs and Technicolor desert rock formations surrounds a 91-mile-long (147-km) reservoir.

National Historic Trails Interpretive Center: Among the best museums in the state, this place gives visitors a sense of pioneer life on many of the historic trails that crisscross the state.

Carter G. Walker

About the author.

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Moon Montana & Wyoming: With Yellowstone, Grand Teton & Glacier National Parks

by Carter G. Walker

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Moon Glacier National Park

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Idaho, Montana & Wyoming Tourbook Guide

Including boise, jackson hole, yellowstone national park and grand teton national park.

Explore the rugged wilderness of Idaho, Montana and Wyoming with the AAA TourBook guide. From the impossibly blue skies of Montana's “Big Sky Country” to the diverse wildlife within Yellowstone National Park, America's West offers seemingly endless opportunities to explore the great outdoors. Plan your next trip with the help of AAA's TourBook travel guide, available now on mobile, tablet or desktop.

With the Idaho, Montana & Wyoming guide, you'll get advice from AAA travel experts about the best things to see and do, where to stay and how to plan the trip of a lifetime. You'll learn insider travel tips and answers to many top questions asked by travelers.

Here's a sampling of what you'll find in the Idaho, Montana & Wyoming TourBook:

• Why Jackson Hole and the Grand Tetons are worth a visit
• What to see in Yellowstone and Glacier national parks
• How to experience what life was like in the Old West
• Why Montana's Going-to-the-Sun-Road is a bucket list adventure
• Where to find one of author Ernest Hemingway's favorite fly-fishing spots in Idaho
• How to follow in the footsteps of early explorers Meriwether Lewis and William Clark
• Where to camp, hike and fish in state parks and national public lands
• Why astronauts trained for a lunar landing in Idaho
• How to safely explore Hells Canyon, North America's deepest river gorge

What are some of the must-dos covered in this guide?

We know no two travelers are alike, so we've included a wide variety of things to do in each TourBook, from national parks and recreational activities to museums and theme parks.

We cover the top outdoor spots to visit in Montana, Wyoming and Idaho, including Glacier National Park, Yellowstone National Park, Yellowstone and Old Faithful. Learn about local history at the Museum of the Rockies in Bozeman or the Buffalo Bill Center of the West in Cody. Take the whole family to Silverwood, one of the largest theme parks in the northwest. Go behind-the-scenes on a Powerhouse Tour at Montana's Fort Peck Dam, or get up-close with wildlife at the Grizzly Wolf Discovery Center in West Yellowstone or Yellowstone Bear World in Rexburg.

You'll find all these attractions and more in this destination guide.

Will this guide help me plan a road trip?

Yes, this digital TourBook guide includes inspiration for scenic drives in Montana, Wyoming and Idaho. You can also use the high-quality maps to get started planning your own route.

Is national park information included?

The Idaho, Montana & Wyoming tour book includes detailed information and travel tips for Yellowstone National Park, Glacier National Park and Grand Teton National Park.

You'll also find travel information about popular public lands such as Devils Tower National Monument, Little Bighorn Battlefield, Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve, Fort Laramie National Historic Site, Hells Canyon National Recreation Area.

Explore the Idaho, Montana & Wyoming AAA TourBook, and start planning your next travel adventure today!

Wyoming, Montana and South Dakota Luxury Road Trip

Traveling through Wyoming to Montana to South Dakota, this road trip will immerse you in the best of the West. From an insider look at rodeos to bountiful wildlife sightings to hidden gem Western towns, this is a trip you won't soon forget.

Jackson and Grand Teton

The town of Jackson has a family friendly rodeo twice a week during the summer months. The first night, you’ll have the chance to get a “behind the scenes” look with one of the rodeo owners .

Whether you are looking for a scenic two hour float in a wooden Mckenzie Boat or a wild river rapid ride (or both!), your guide will lead you on your personalized adventure on the Snake River. The river runs the valley floor, bordered by groves of willow trees, a favorite moose haunt, and wide open sagebrush flats, home to herds of pretty pronghorn antelope and packs of sage grouse.  After you arrive at a riverside camp, you’ll be served appetizers and drinks in a spectacular spring creek setting, before enjoying a gourmet dinner in the private tipi camp.

At night, you’ll be joined by a private astronomer as you head to a dark site inside Grand Teton National Park. Take advantage of the thin, high altitude air and dark skies to marvel at deep space objects through their high-powered telescopes.

Yellowstone National Park

You’ll drive north through Grand Teton National Park to the southern entrance of Yellowstone . Along the way you’ll cross the Continental Divide and m ake your way through the park, stopping along the way. This may be for the spectacular falls (Lower and Upper) that cut through the dramatic Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone or a trip to Old Faithful and the geothermal geyser basins nearby. Your professional naturalist guide will ensure you are able to spot as much of the native wildlife as possible. Finish your last day here on the edge of the park in the town of West Yellowstone .

Paradise Valley

Next, you’ll travel north along the steep sided and beautiful Gallatin River Valley.  Near the mountain town of Big Sky, stop for a hike up into the Gallatin National Forest. Alternatively, meet a wrangler for a private trail ride into the Yellowstone backcountry. When passing  through Bozeman, be sure to pay a visit to the Museum of the Rockies , an excellent insight into the history of The West. 

You’ll be met by your guide in the morning and driven to a put in point on the Yellowstone River that meanders through the idyllic Paradise Valley. The Yellowstone River is one of the greatest trout streams in America and, even if you are not an avid fisherman, there is no better way to spend a day than floating a river. After the morning float, you’ll pull up to enjoy a picnic lunch on the bank.

Cody is one of our favorite towns in Montana and Wyoming .

To get there, your road trip continues west through classic ‘Big Sky’ country. The town of Livingston , more rugged and down to earth than its booming neighbor Bozeman, is home to an eclectic mix of artists, writers and authors. 

Located between two spectacular wilderness mountain ranges, the Beartooths and Absarokas, you’ll travel two of the most breathtaking roads in the West. After the dramatic switchbacks of the Beartooth Highway , you’ll continue along the Chief Joseph Butler Highway that threads its way through the Shoshone Forest. 

A visit to the  extraordinary Buffalo Bill Center of the West , with the best collection of its type in the world, is a must for anyone interested in the history of the region. In the evening, make your way to the rodeo grounds for the Cody Nite Rodeo, where you’ll get a chance to see some of the country’s leading cowboys and cowgirls in action.

Next, you’ll drive through Wyoming’s Bighorn National Forest to the town of Sheridan.

Sheridan and Big Horn National Forest

Drive to the Southern Black Hills. Stop to explore the little western town of Buffalo, before continuing west.  At the edge of Wyoming, you’ll have the chance to detour to Devil’s Tower National Monument , an otherworldly rocky sentinel and site of significance for several Native American tribes.

After crossing into South Dakota , drive the spectacular Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway and visit the historic gold rush towns of Deadwood and Spearfish .

The Black Hills and Badlands National Park

With Keystone as your homebase for the next few days, you’ll have plenty of options to explore the Black Hills, Custer State Park and Mt. Rushmore.  Nearby Hill City , is well worth spending some time wandering through as well. The forming mining town is now home to multiple art galleries, as well as the Museum at Black Hills Institute .

Head south to the beautiful Custer State Park . Drive the scenic wildlife loop, where bison, pronghorn, prairie dogs, and deer are plentiful. Stop at one of the historic lodges in the park for lunch or a drink. Drive the beautiful Needles Highway as it climbs through the hills and past the peaceful Sylvan Lake.

The twisted spires and pinnacles of the Badlands give it an eerie, otherworldly feel. Despite its barren appearance, the Badlands are filled with life. Home to bison, pronghorn, bighorn sheep, deer, fox, coyotes, burrowing owls, and other prairie animals, including the rare black-footed ferret, the Badlands are a wildlife wonderland.

• Suggested Journeys

Glacier National Park, Pack Trip & Luxury Ranch

Luxury Winter Vacation to Montana

Yellowstone and Grand Teton Road Trip

From the magazine.

The 2024 Hotlist: Unforgettable Family Experiences

The 2024 Hotlist: Unpretentious Luxury

Connections: Jackson, WY with Hatmaker Christy Sing Robertson

The 2024 Hotlist: Adventures in the Wild

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Best Road Trips in the Northern Rockies: Montana, Wyoming and Idaho

Updated : June 14, 2024

AAA Travel Editor, Katie Broome

Bkamprath/iStockphoto.com

Best Montana Road Trips

The scenery in Montana is as impressive as it is varied. Thick forests, towering mountains, deep valleys and pristine lakes characterize the western part of the state, which includes the northern Rocky Mountains and the Continental Divide. It’s the topography of Montana’s west that inspired the name montaña, the Spanish word for “mountain” or “mountainous region.” Of all Montana road trips, this one is perhaps the most popular (and is sometimes referred to as Glacier National Park’s “Road to the Sun”). The 50-mile route cuts across Glacier National Park at an elevation of 6,646 feet and is open seasonally, so you’ll want to plan accordingly. To include the road as part of a longer trip, consider AAA’s , a 374-mile journey that starts in Kalispell, Montana, and ends in the capital city of Helena. (AAA members can take advantage of exclusive member benefits with car rentals from Hertz .)

A drive through the eastern portion of Montana will have you wondering, “Why is the sky so big in Montana?” It’s the prairie grasslands and wide-open vistas of the east that gave Montana the nickname “Big Sky Country.” To see these expansive, impossibly blue skies, consider the following road trips:

• Big Sky Country Road Trip : A scenic 425-mile journey that starts and ends in Billings, Montana, looping through southern Montana and a small section of northern Wyoming. You’ll see the cowboy town of Cody, snow-capped mountains and hairpin turns along Beartooth Scenic Highway , and important sites in Native American history like Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument.

• Big Sky Back Country Scenic Byway : Farther east in Montana’s Great Plains region, this 111-mile journey takes you through badlands, buttes and rolling prairies.

For Montana drives under one hour, consider these additional trips:

• Flathead Lake West Shore Scenic Highway : Follows the shore of glacially formed Flathead Lake, said to be the largest natural body of freshwater west of the Mississippi River

• Bitterroot Valley Scenic Highway : Begins in rustic Darby, a filming location for the TV series “Yellowstone”

Road Trips Around Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks

Established in 1872, was the first national park in the U.S. and continues to be one of its most-visited, with approximately 4 million visitors each year. If you want to be among those visitors and experience one of the best places for road trips in the U.S., here are a few things to know about Yellowstone:

• The park is big — very big. Based on total land area, Yellowstone is larger than Rhode Island and Delaware combined.

• The vast majority of Yellowstone’s 3,472 square miles lie in northwestern Wyoming, but its boundaries also extend into Idaho and Montana. (Three of the five park entrances are in Montana.)

• Wildlife sightings are common from park roadways, so drive with caution; you may see grizzlies, black bears, elk, bighorn sheep, moose and bison.

• Most park roads are open May through October (weather permitting), but check the Yellowstone road status website for the most current information.

To see Yellowstone’s dramatic river canyons, geysers, geothermal pools and waterfalls in all their glory, take the road trip, a 400-mile journey from Bozeman, Montana, to Jackson, Wyoming, with plenty of national park stops along the way. You’ll enter through the park’s west entrance (in West Yellowstone, Montana) before making a scenic loop that includes the popular Yellowstone Grand Loop in the heart of the park. This Yellowstone drive includes a trip through Wyoming’s Grand Teton National Park, with magnificent views of Jenny Lake, the Teton Range and the valley of Jackson Hole.

What Else to See on a Wyoming Road Trip (Besides Yellowstone)

Once you’ve done the scenic drives around Yellowstone National Park, what else should you see in Wyoming?Just outside Yellowstone’s northeast entrance is , a two-lane road that’s been called one of the most scenic American road trips. It rises to an elevation of almost 11,000 feet, with plenty of overlooks where you can stop for a photo. (If you’re starting from Cody, Wyoming, take the Chief Joseph Scenic Highway to reach Beartooth Scenic Highway; it offers more views of snow-capped mountains and deep canyons.)South of Yellowstone, you can explore the ski resorts and mountains around Jackson Hole and Star Valley. The Star Valley to Yellowstone Scenic Highway will take you from Yellowstone’s south entrance into Grand Teton National Park and then through Jackson Hole and a handful of small towns near the Idaho border. This trip is a good jumping off point for visiting Snow King Mountain and the National Elk Refuge in Jackson, Wyoming.North-central Wyoming near the Montana border offers many scenic drives and small towns worth exploring. From I-90 just south of the Montana–Wyoming border, you’ll have your pick of two scenic drives that start on US 14: the is a roughly 200-mile route across the Bighorn and Shoshone national forests on the way to Cody, while the Medicine Wheel Passage Scenic Highway heads toward Bighorn Lake on US 14A.The follows SR 120 past the vast prairies of Bighorn Basin to Thermopolis, Wyoming, a town known for its hot springs. Continue south on the Wind River Canyon Scenic Byway to Shoshoni for more views of canyons, rock formations and the Bighorn River.

Best Idaho Road Trips

Breathtaking mountain scenery, diverse wildlife, raging river rapids and a ski town that rivals Aspen — it’s easy to see why the state of Idaho makes a great road trip destination.The west region of Idaho boasts the , a 90-minute drive that snakes along the Payette River, with frequent pull-offs to admire the view.Scenic drives in Idaho’s central region will acquaint you with the state’s remote wilderness and craggy granite peaks. The follows SR 75 through Sawtooth National Recreation Area, passing the popular resort towns of Hailey, Ketchum and Sun Valley along the way. You may see wildlife like pronghorn antelope, deer, elk and wolves in this area.Another must-do road trip in the central region of Idaho is the , which follows the Salmon River (also known as the River of No Return, due to its strong current) past waterfalls and spectacular areas for whitewater rafting. As you near the Montana border, you can put yourself in the shoes of Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, who traveled through these mountain passes in 1805 on their journey west.In northern Idaho’s panhandle is a portion of the only International Scenic Byway in North America: . This 88-mile section of the Selkirk Loop offers great river scenery and wildlife watching opportunities around the Selkirk Mountains. (Make the full international loop — bring your passport! — by adding on Washington’s International Selkirk Scenic Loop to the west and British Columbia’s International Scenic Loop to the north.)Nearby is the Pend Oreille Scenic Byway , a two-lane road that follows the Clark Fork of the Columbia River from the Idaho–Montana border to Lake Pend Oreille (pronounced pond-ah-RAY), one of the largest freshwater lakes in the Pacific Northwest.

Best Time of Year for a Northern Rockies Road Trip

June to September is the best time of year for a Northern Rockies road trip, with the best chances of sunny skies and mild temperatures occurring in summer. July is the hottest month on average in these states.

Given the ideal driving conditions in June, July and August, expect plenty of crowds when road-tripping through tourist-heavy areas like Yellowstone, Glacier and Grand Teton national parks in summer months.

If you plan to visit Yellowstone National Park in the fall or spring, keep in mind that roads may close for winter conditions as early as October and remain closed until mid-April. In Glacier National Park, roads at higher elevations (such as the alpine portion of Going-to-the-Sun Road) can close in October and remain closed until late June or early July.

Some roads in Grand Teton National Park may close from November through April or mid-May for winter recreational use.

Winters are particularly harsh in the Northern Rockies, and driving in winter months can be dangerous due to slush, frost, snow, ice and white-out conditions.

No matter the season, always be prepared for dramatic temperature changes and unpredictable weather in the Northern Rockies, especially at higher elevations.

Start Your Next Road Trip with AAA

AAA Travel provides peace of mind for travelers — from the first mile of the journey to the last. Get inspiration for your next road trip and locate AAA Diamond designated hotels and restaurants with AAA’s TripTik Travel Planner , or browse pre-planned itineraries on AAA.com/RoadTrips . Estimating fuel costs for your trip is easy with the AAA Gas Cost Calculator , and if your car needs a quick tune-up before the trip, find a AAA Approved auto repair facility near you at AAA.com/AutoRepair . For printed maps, AAA TourBook guides and trip planning advice, contact your local AAA office .

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Montana & Wyoming National Park Travel Guide

My 6-day road trip itinerary for glacier, yellowstone and grand teton national park.

I recently joined a few other travel bloggers for a 6-day road trip between Montana and Wyoming. We visited some of America’s most incredible national parks and I’m sharing it all with you. This blog post is a complete travel guide to Glacier National Park, Yellowstone and Grand Teton. Read about everything from our logistics to hotels and all the photo spots in between.

Side note, the most hiking I’ve ever done is a few medium difficulty hikes in Colorado (you can read about those in my Colorado blog post here .) Although this trip was physically challenging at times, anyone from a beginner hiker to advance will find this national park travel guide useful.

OUR ITINERARY:

Day 1: Fly into Kalispell, Montana & explore Glacier National Park until sunset

Day 2: Drive to Yellowstone and explore until sunset

Day 3: Explore Yellowstone from sunrise to sunset & then drive to Grand Teton

Day 4: Grand Teton

Day 5: Grand Teton

Day 6: Explore Grand Teton at sunrise & fly out of Jackson, Wyoming

HOW TO GET AROUND:

You’ll want to rent a car for this trip. Not only will you need it to make the drive from Montana to Wyoming, but you’ll need it to get around the parks each day. Even if Uber’s are available in the local towns outside of the park, there is still a ton of driving to do once inside the different parks.

NATIONAL PARK ENTRANCE FEE:

These 3 parks are among the 115 national park’s that charge an entrance fee. You can buy a 7-day pass for $35 per vehicle. The same pass can be used for all 3 parks in this blog post since this guide is under 7 days long. If you plan on visiting at least 2 other parks outside of this trip, you will be better off buying the annual pass for $80.

NATIONAL PARK RULES AND SAFETY:

As with any place you visit, remember to respect the local rules. Especially since this is a national park and is out in nature. Leave no trace. Any garbage you bring into the parks, take out.

Remember to pack and dress appropriately. It is much colder at a higher elevation so it’s better to wear layers and strip down if you get warm. If you plan to do any long hikes, I recommend hiking boots with ankle support. This national park travel guide has a number of hikes included.

Lastly and most importantly, be bear aware. I saw this slogan posted on many signs throughout the parks but it’s important to be aware of other wildlife such as mountain lions and elk. Interfering with wildlife can result in serious injury or death.

Carry bear spray with you when you’re hiking. You can buy or rent it from most stores in town. You CANNOT fly with bear spray even in a checked luggage so pick it up when you arrive. Hike in groups when there is plenty of day light. Also, conversate loudly (some people even wear bells on their day packs) so that bears are aware of your presence.

D AY 1 : Glacier National Park

I bought 2 one-way flights because our trip started in Montana and ended in Wyoming. My recommendation is to fly into Kalispell, Montana which is ~30 minutes from the entrance to the national park. I landed, collected my luggage, picked up our rental car and then dropped my luggage off at our hotel by noon. This left the rest of the day to explore the park.

The park is closed east of the continental divide because of the pandemic. Going-to-the-sun Road, the two-lane, 50-mile highway that leads you through Glacier National Park, is currently only open from the West Glacier entrance to the St. Mary pass.

We drove all the way to the St. Mary Pass and then worked our way back towards the park entrance. The only hike we wanted to do was towards the end of the road and it was better to hike with daylight. We also wanted to time our arrival at Lake McDonald (right by the entrance) for sunset.

St. Mary & Virginia Falls

There were a limited number of hikes we could do on our day in Glacier. Not only was half the park closed due to COVID, but some hikes that are still open this year had been closed due to bear activity in the week we were there.

St. Mary and Virginia Falls is a 3-mile RT hike that took us 3.5 hours including stopping to take photos. You’ll pass by St. Mary Falls first which is 0.8 miles from the trailhead. This gorgeous waterfall boasts beautiful blue colors. There’s also a cute bridge that goes over the flow of water which is great for taking photos on.

If you continue hiking another 0.7 miles, you’ll arrive at Virginia Falls. This waterfall also offers a beautiful pool of blue water at its base and more incredible mountain views.

Bonus waterfall: I’m not sure if this waterfall is part of Virginia Falls but you’ll find it halfway between St. Mary and Virginia Falls. It’s off to the left-hand side as you’re hiking towards Virginia Falls. You can’t miss it. 

Wild Goose Island Lookout

This is one of the more popular lookouts in the park overlooking St. Mary Lake. Although very windy, it was worth the quick stop. There was plenty of space to park on the side of the road. It took us less than 10 minutes to check it out and take a few photos.

Going-to-the-sun-Road

Don’t limit yourself to marked places on the map. If you see a scenic spot to pull off, safely do so! We spotted this gorgeous field filled with purple flowers and a scenic backdrop to stop and take photos.

It was clearly a popular spot because there were several other groups of people standing in the field. However, there are so many other lookouts along this highway to stop at.

Lake McDonald

We arrived at Lake McDonald by 8pm. Lake McDonald starts immediately past the West Glacier entrance and stretches for 10 miles long towards the park.

We pulled off to take photos near the Apgar Visitor Center which is on the southern end of the lake. This spot had breathtaking views as the sun began to set. The sky and clouds had a pink glow to them that I’ll never forget.

Night 1 Hotel:

We stayed at Duck Inn Lodge * in Whitefish, Montana for the night. Whitefish is a nice area that’s central from the airport and the national park. It was a quiet area but still had major grocery stores around. This was really convenient for picking up last-minute snacks.

Duck Inn Lodge is a cozy bed & breakfast whose owners were so kind. This B&B offers a free homemade breakfast and coffee bar which can be enjoyed in their dining area with scenic views of the pond out back.

This B&B has 15 rooms, so you don’t have to worry about a lot of noise from your neighbors or foot traffic in general. The room I stayed in had 1 King bed, a full bathroom, a dining table & chair and wardrobe armoire. My favorite part of the room, however, was the private walk-out balcony. I caught sunrise here the morning we left town. It was so peaceful.

DAY 2 : Yellowstone National Park

We left our hotel at 8am and made the 4-hour drive to Bozeman, Montana to pick up another blogger. Although we didn’t plan on exploring Bozeman, we swung through downtown to pick up lunch while we waited for her flight to arrive. We grabbed sandwiches at Fink’s Delicatessen which were so good.

Mammoth Hot Springs

After picking up our friend, we drove 1.5 hours to our first stop in Yellowstone – Mammoth Hot Springs. Our original plan was to visit the Boiling River Hot Springs, but these were also closed due to COVID. Mammoth Hot Springs are in the same area and were completely open.

These travertine pools looked like we were on another planet. You can follow the boardwalk around and stop at several different springs. We spent about 2 hours here, but you can cover off in 1 hour if you’re not stopping for a lot of photos.

Night 2 Hotel:

It was just after 6pm when we finished at Mammoth Hot Springs. We opted to spend the evening casually driving around scoping out non-touristy photo locations to save for the next morning. When it started to get dark, we checked into our hotel at Lake View Suites in West Yellowstone.

Full disclosure, we did not partner with this hotel in way, but it was my least favorite hotel from the weekend. I truly hate to complain about accommodations, but I think it’s important to be transparent with my audience. Although the price tag didn’t lead me to believe this, I would rate this hotel as “budget” when it comes to quality. The travel life isn’t always glamorous!

DAY 3 : Yellowstone National Park

Cliff and wade lake.

Day 3 was our only full day in Yellowstone, and we had a lot on the agenda. We set our alarms for 5am and started with Cliff and Wade Lake. These lakes are on the west side of Yellowstone and were not far from our hotel.

We came here for sunrise, but I think you’re better off visiting when the sun is at its peak. These lakes are famous for their teal colors which show up best when the sun is high.

These lakes are also tricky to find. Use your phones navigation to get to the dirt road entrance off Highway 287. Then you’ll follow the dirt road over a small bridge, through several rolling fields (watch out for the herd of cows, we saw them both days we came here), arrive at your first fork in the road and stay right. Then arrive at your second fork in the road, Wade lake will be to your right and Cliff Lake will be to your left.

We also spotted this small but picturesque barn as we drove through the rolling fields I mentioned above. We stopped for a photo on the drive out as the sun was peaking over the mountains. I loved how these photos turned out! Between both lakes and the spontaneous photo pit-stop, we spent 2 hours total.

Artist Point & Inspiration Point

You don’t want to miss Artist point. Also known as the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. It’s an overlook on the south rim of the canyon. There’s a spacious parking lot and the walk to the lookout takes less than 5 minutes. Yay for not having to hike a lot! We spent 30 minutes here.

We then drove around the canyon to Inspiration Point which was 10 minutes away. You’ll be viewing the same stream of water, just from the other side of the canyon. It’s worth the drive to take a few additional photos with another perspective.

Grand Prismatic & Excelsior Pool

We finally arrived at the much-anticipated geyser pools of Yellowstone. I know that Yellowstone is famous for Old Faithful geyser, but these 2 pools are way better in my opinion (and have prettier colors.) You can view both pools by following the boardwalk around which is under a mile long.

Grand Prismatic Spring is the largest hot spring in the US and is famous for its orange, yellow and blue color combination. Excelsior Geyser is just blue in color but it’s the prettiest shade of blue I’ve ever seen.

We spent 2 hours here, but you can walk the boardwalk in 20 minutes if you’re not stopping for photos. As a warning, the boardwalk was extremely crowded! It was almost impossible to take photos or socially distance from strangers. Please keep this mind if you are more conservative with distancing during the pandemic.

I was a little bummed because we left here at 4:30pm and when we drove by later in the evening around 6:30pm, I could see the boardwalk from the road, and it was completely empty. Visit later for a lesser crowd if you can!

Morning Glory Pool

This pool is off the beaten path but one you won’t want to skip out on this one. We drove over to the parking lot for Morning Glory, but you must cross the street from the lot and walk about 1 mile to get to the pool. I made the walk in a dress and sandals so don’t worry about wearing actual hiking shoes.

There was a much smaller crowd at this pool than at the prior two pools. Although Morning Glory is smaller in circumference compared to the other pools, the color blend was my favorite. We spent 30 minutes here.

Old Faithful

You can’t go to Yellowstone and not see Old Faithful. Although it’s not the most visually appealing geyser, it’s a staple of Yellowstone since it was the first to be named in the park. It erupts every 45 minutes to 2 hours. We stuck around for 30 minutes to take some photos but didn’t see it erupt.

Night 3-5 Hotel:

After a long day in Yellowstone we made the 3-hour drive to our hotel in Grand Teton called Grand Targhee Resort **. Even though you can drive from Yellowstone to Grand Teton in under an hour, Grand Targhee is in Alta, WY in the west Teton valley which lengthened our drive.

Although this hotel was located 1.5 hours away from Grand Teton National Park, we loved our time there. The property is beautiful and is situated on a ski slope which of course offers snow sports in the Winter. They also run the ski lift in the Summer which is supposed to give you the best view of the Tetons. Unfortunately, we never made it back in time each day to try it out ourselves, but I recommend doing it when you stay!

There are several buildings on the property, and we stayed in the Teewinot Lodge. Our rooms had 2 queen beds, a mini-fridge and the sink/vanity mirror was separate from the bathroom which allowed us more space for getting ready each day.

DAY 4 : Grand Teton National Park

The great thing about GTNP is it has a 42-mile long loop which spans across the whole park. You can drive the loop in 1-2 hours depending on how many places you stop for photos. With 4 girls all here to create travel content, we spent between 20 minutes to 1 hour at each of our stops on this day. You could move through them quicker if you have a smaller crowd or less photos to take.

Close your eyes and picture the iconic Tetons staring into their own reflection in the water. Oxbow Bend is as close to that image as you’ll get.

There’s a parking lot to pull into where you can take in the view, but for photos I suggest walking down the highway a little in the direction of the mountains. There’s more standing room and the ground is flatter.

Snake River Overlook

This spot is only a 10-minute drive from Oxbow Bend and is worth stopping for. There’s a large parking lot with plenty of spots which only steps away from the overlook. The overlook itself is bound by a brick wall and you can see Snake River peeking out between the trees in the distance.

Mormon Row – Moulton Barns

Mormon Row is off Highway 191 on Antelope Flats Road. Follow the road for 1.5-miles until you arrive at the barns. There is a pink stucco house on the property next to the Moulton Barns, both of which are postcard worthy with the mountains in the background. We stayed here for about an hour because the views with both the barn and the house were so incredible.

Photo-Worthy Pit Stops

There are so many other photo worthy places that we spotted along the side of the road while driving around. As always, if you see a place you want to stop for, make sure you pull off the road entirely and are aware of your surroundings. GTNP was not overly crowded with cars when we were there but it’s important to stay safe.

String Lake & Jenny Lake

There is a half mile creek that connects String Lake to Jenny Lake. Because of their proximity to each other I recommend checking out both. The parking lot for String Lake is much smaller and we had to make several laps until a spot finally opened. The lot at Jenny Lake is much larger and we had no issue finding a spot as we pulled in.

Jenny Lake offers boat tours and you can rent a canoe for $20 / hour. We originally had this on our itinerary, but we were so exhausted by the time we got here that we just relaxed along the side of the lake instead.

We spent about an hour at each lake but as always, you can visit these much faster if you’re not taking a ton of photos.

Togwotee Pass

Togwotee Pass is a mountain pass that provides direct access to GTNP if coming from the East. The spot along the pass that is shown in my photo here is famous for photographers to visit. You can see the mountains in the background which turn into a silhouette as the sun sets behind them.

Clearly these photos are taken from standing in the center of the road so please use caution when shooting here. Many cars drove through while we were here, but we always had someone watching out and we always moved to the side as they passed through.

Day 5 : Grand Teton National Park

We saved the famous Delta Lake hike for our last day. This was the only activity we did on this day since we knew how tired we would be afterwards. Delta Lake is a 9-mile, 2,300 ft. elevation hike in GTNP.

This hike is rated as difficult and I will warn you that the last 1/3 of the hike is an unmarked trail. It took us 3 hours to reach Delta Lake, but we stopped for breaks more than the average group. I would plan for this be a 7-hour day for you (2.5 up, 2 hours there & 2.5 down.)

I plan on writing a dedicated blog post for Delta Lake because it was truly incredible. If you’re on the fence about going, I recommend making the leap. I’ve never experienced a more rewarding feeling than I did taking that final step around the rocky corner and seeing the turquoise blue water.

There are plenty of rocks surrounding the water and groups of people were able to adequately distance themselves from each other. Heads up if you plan on jumping in, this is glacier water after all, and the temperature is very cold.

Da y 6 : Grand Teton National Park

This was our final morning in Grand Teton National Park. Our flight was at noon which allowed us enough time to explore a few other places that we missed earlier in the weekend.

Luckily the Jackson Airport is right in the heart of the GTNP loop. You can still explore many of the places I listed in this blog post while still getting to the airport in under 30 minutes.

Cunningham Cabin

On the day we flew home, we had a few hours to burn before our flight. We enjoyed sunrise at Cunningham Cabin. The cabin is located on the Bar Flying U Ranch and offers gorgeous views of the vast land and mountains in the background. You won’t need to spend more than 15 minutes here.

Schwabacher Landing

We saved the best for last. Schwabacher Landing is a boat landing located on Snake River. Like Oxbow Bend, Schwabacher Landing is famous for its reflection of the Teton’s in the still, flat water. The parking lot is very close to the water. You won’t need to spend more than 20 minutes here.

IMPORTANT LINKS

I hope you found this national park travel guide to be useful. Be sure to save a link to the website of each park. This will tell you more about real-time park conditions and closures.

Glacier National Park

Yellowstone National Park

Grand Teton National Park

*Duck Inn Lodge provided us with a press rate for 1-night in exchange for this blog post.

**Grand Targhee Resort provided us with a free 3-night stay in exchange for content on our Instagram and this blog post.

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Montana: Exploring Big Sky Country

About this tour.

Step outside, take a deep breath in, and look towards the mountains – you’re in the big sky country of Montana, now. Explore both the Northern and Southern Loops of Yellowstone National Park, and visit Old Faithful, Mammoth Hot Springs, Yellowstone’s Grand Canyon, and more. Venture to Helena, the “Queen City of the Rockies.” Cruise on the Missouri River through the Gates of the Mountains, named by legendary explorers Lewis and Clark. Spend time in the mountain town of St. Mary Village before heading in to explore Glacier National Park. Take an adventurous white water rafting trip or a calm, scenic float down the Flathead River. Meet a descendant of the last Kootenai chief and learn about the importance of the land in native life. Get a glimpse into the heroic and dangerous life of a Smokejumper. A land of wilderness, adventure, and beauty, Montana is waiting for you.

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• 6 Handpicked Accommodations
• 4 Choice on Tour Options

Included Highlights

• Yellowstone
• Old Faithful
• Mammoth Hot Springs

Your Tour at a Glance

10 Breakfasts

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Explorations

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Must-See Inclusions:

Explore the wild beauty of Glacier National Park.

Spend time in the picturesque town of Whitefish.

Cruise along Lewis and Clark’s famous trail through the Gates of the Mountains.

Cultural Experiences:

Explore both the Northern and Southern Loops of Yellowstone National Park.

Learn about native culture at the Flathead Reservation.

Culinary Inclusions:

Dig into a mouth-watering barbeque dinner.

Sample traditional food of the Kootenai people.

• Yellowstone Grand Canyon
• Gates of the Mountains
• Great Falls
• Choice on Tour: Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Interpretive Center or C.M. Russell Art Museum
• Glacier National Park
• Going-to-the-Sun Road
• Choice on Tour: White Water Rafting or Flathead River Float
• Flathead Lake
• Kootenai Traditions
• Museum of Mountain Flying
• Holt Heritage Museum

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Grab a paddle and get ready for a white-water rafting adventure! Or, take the calmer, scenic route on a float down the Flathead River.

Visit the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Interpretive Center in Great Falls, where you can learn about the trials and travails of the legendary expedition and watch a movie.  Or, explore the exhibits of the C.M. Russell Art Museum during a guided tour. You’ll see the art of Charles Russell, a cowboy-turned-artist from the turn of the century, as well as his original home and log studio.

Hotel-AC Hotel Bozeman Downtown

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AC Hotel Bozeman Downtown

The ridgeline hotel at yellowstone, doubletree by hilton helena downtown, great bear lodge at st. mary village.

Grouse Mountain Lodge Whitefish

Doubletree missoula edgewater.

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Montana Wyoming road trip – 6 day travel guide

We packed our bags, loaded up the kid, the pup, and started our Montana Wyoming road trip early on Friday this past Labor Day weekend.

From Colorado, we drove through Wyoming, then visited Glacier National Park in Montana. On our way back, we drove through Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming. And concluded the trip at home in Colorado.

Here is our 6-day road trip guide for your next Montana family vacations, including our suggestions for what to see in Montana, and in Wyoming. And where we stayed (mixed hotel and camping spots), and picture guide for each location.

On map above:

• A – Hotel for the night 1 – Townplace Suites Billings (Billings, Montana)
• B – Camp site for night 2 – Big Larch Campground in Montana
• C – Camp site for night 3 – Lost Johnny Point Campground in Montana
• D – Glacier National Park in Montana – Logan Pass
• E – Hotel for night 4 – SpringHill Suites By Marriot Island Park Yellowstone (Island Park, Idaho). Where my location was, at the time I took the screenshot of the route
• F – Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
• G – Home – Denver, Colorado

Our 6-day Montana and Wyoming road trip timeline from Colorado

There are so many ways to explore Montana, and Wyoming, specifically Glacier National Park, and Yellowstone National Park. This is one way that we did, starting from Denver, Colorado.

Day 1 – Driving 8.5h from Denver, CO to Billings, MT

We started driving from Denver, Colorado around noon on Friday.

We made it to Billings, Montana late evening. It’s about an 8.5h drive from Denver. We stayed at Townplace Suites Billings for the night.

Day 2 – Driving 5h and setting up camp near Seeley Lake, MT

We had breakfast at the hotel, and did some shopping in Billings in the morning. Then we started heading towards the north-western part of Montana.

If you decide to go camping in Montana (or anywhere), I recommend finding a campground and setting up camp in the afternoon as soon as the check-in time allows. This gives you plenty of time to set up, pay the fee, find firewood, and get all your camping gear situated. Ideally, you want to do all of this before the sun goes down and the temperature drops. We were in a little bit of a rush trying to find an available campsite, but luckily were able to get set up before there was no more sunlight.

Day 3 – Glacier National Park and camping in Hungry Horse, MT

We packed up in the morning, and headed back to Seeley Lake town for coffee and breakfast. It’s just a quick drive back into town and I needed before the big day, so it’s worth the detour! We started driving north again towards West Glacier National Park for the day.

Before hitting the actual Glacier National Park, we wanted to find a spot for camping and set up the tent first, so we could just come “home” to a nicely set up tent in the evening.

If you can find a camp site inside of Glacier National Park, some suggested campgrounds are Apgar Village and Two Medicine . However, we knew to not even try during the busy holiday weekend.

We decided to find something close by instead. So we ended up passing Hungry Horse Dam, and found our spot at Lost Johnny Point Campground .

Now that our “home” for the night is set up and situated, we headed for West Glacier National Park at around 430pm, perfect timing to hit all the scenic spots at sunset. The rest of the evening was spent in Glacier National Park, sight seeing and exploring the park.

Day 4 – Driving 6h from Hungry Horse, MT to Island Park, ID

We are now on the second half of our trip, but we have big plans to hit one more national park to visit before heading back home. And you guessed it, we’re heading south towards Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming. But the hotel we booked was in Island Park, ID. So most of day 4 was spent driving to from Hungry Horse to the next hotel in Island Park, ID.

We stayed at Springhill Suites By Marriot . A hot shower at the hotel after 2 nights camping was in order. We had dinner at Cafe Sabor just across the river from the hotel and it was such a lovely evening.

D ay 5 – Yellowstone National Park and the Grand Teton National Park

Today is the big day for visiting the national parks in Wyoming! Driving from Island Park, ID, we headed to West Yellowstone. We drove by West Thumb, and decided to stop to see the Old Faithful Geyser. We took our time driving through the park, snapped pictures, and stopped to see buffalos crossing the street.

After that, we drove into Grand Teton National Park. Here, not too many pictures were taken because the view was obstructed by smoke from the forest fires on the day we visited. I could somewhat make out the mountain views, but on camera, it doesn’t show.

After the Teton range, we visited Jackson Hole, WY for a quick lunch. My husband also wanted to stop at a spot just outside of the town to visit with a friend and go fishing.

Our last hotel on this trip was in Green River, Wyoming. We stayed at the Hampton Inn & Suites Green River for the night.

Day 6 – Driving 5.5h home from Green River, WY to Denver, CO

The title says it all. We took some time on our last day to wake up, have breakfast at the hotel. And headed home.

We got to Denver at a decent hour in the afternoon. I still had time to unpack, do laundry and prepare to settle back into our usual routine.

And that concludes our 6-day road trip.

What to see in Montana – locations that you can get to by car

We were able to visit the below Montana vacation spots by car. We had limited amount of time spent here, so we drove through these places and stopped for pictures or very short sight-seeing hikes. If we have an opportunity to come back, there are tons of other fun activities for the whole family that we’d like to do. Maybe that’s for another trip (and another blog post) later.

These are some of the must see in Montana. We highly recommend if you visit to check out:

Lake Alva, Montana and other lakes along highway US-83

There are multiple lakes along highway US-83. I recommend checking out Seeley Lake, Lake Inez, and Lake Alva. These photos below were taken at Lake Alva.

If you have a state park pass, or would like to check out Salmon State Park for the day, that’s another beautiful option along this highway just right after the turn from Highway US-200.

Lake McDonald – Glacier National Park

Lake McDonald is inside Glacier National Park. It’s the first thing you will see after you enter the park via the West Entrance Station. The lake is huge, you can walk down to the shore, go for a stroll, and take in the breath taking views.

If you keep driving up the road a little, you will see many water falls, as well as cascades. We stopped at Sacred Dancing Cascade, for sure one of the popular spots. Pictures to follow below.

Going-to-the-Sun Rd

I highly recommend going through Glacier National Park via this scenic drive. The road is called Going-to-the-Sun Rd. This path takes you to the entrance of Glacier National Park, and to Lake McDonald. If you follow the road, you will also see some of the most beautiful mountain and valley views you’ve ever seen. There are many pull-outs on the sides of the road for you to park, come out and enjoy the views. Be sure to safely pull over, look both ways before crossing the road, and respect park rules and other park patrons.

Here are various photos along Going-to-the-Sun Rd in Glacier National Park (I changed outfits for blog outfit photoshoots, but this was all in one drive):

Logan Pass – Glacier National Park

We made it to Logan Pass in Glacier National Park. Unfortunately we were reaching the end of the day by the time we made it here, so we turned around after this. The view here was spectacular. We wish we could have kept going further up into Glacier National Park. Maybe next time!

Some photos of Logan Pass:

What to see in western Wyoming on a road trip

Old faithful geyser – yellowstone national park.

This is one of the most famous attractions known to Yellowstone National Park. Old Faithful is one geyser (of the nearly 500 geysers in Yellowstone) that erupts hot water from the ground into the air. The name Old Faithful is because it has not been common to be able to predict the eruption schedule of a geyser, but this one has lived up to its name.

When we were there, park rangers predicted the time of eruption time down to the minute, and we were able to catch a seat and watch the whole thing. It’s such a cool experience, and highly recommended.

Lewis Lake – Yellowstone National Park

Heading south on Highway US-191, passed Old Faithful Geyser you will see Lewis Lake and its river running alongside the road.

Our hotel and camping spots recommendations

We stayed a total of 5 nights on the trip, with a mix of hotels and camp spots located in various spots of Montana, Idaho, and Wyoming.

Night 1 – Townplace Suites Billings (Billings, Montana)

There are tons of hotels in Billings to pick from. Townplace Suites Billings is pet-friendly with a pet fee of $50 and there’s no pet weight restrictions. Their check out time is 12PM, amazing should we need to check out late. They also offer complimentary breakfast up till 10AM which is convenient when you’re on the road and need to get going quickly, so we went with this hotel.

Night 2 – Big Larch Campground (near Seeley Lake, Montana)

Big Larch Campground is about 5.5h driving from Billings, MT. Site fee was $20/night.

We actually weren’t sure where we were going to set up camp, we just know in the general direction, more north and more west from where we were of the state.

We asked a local what they’d suggest a good camping spot. Clearwater, Montana was the recommended spot. Once we got to Clearwater, we took US-83 North.

There are various camp grounds along the highway right after the turn. We were not able to find any vacancy due to busy Labor Day weekend here. But luckily Big Larch Campground further up the road, right after we passed Seeley Lake, had a few vacant camp sites.

This campground is close enough to the town, I had cell service while in my tent. It’s not a bad idea when you want to send friends and family beautiful pics of your trip. The campsite fee was $20 here (the fees may change, so this is meant to be a reference, not an exact number).

• Nearby suggestions for campgrounds: Salmon Lake State Park Campground
• Nearby suggestions for hotels: The Lodges on Seeley Lake , Double Arrow Lodge , and further distance but beautiful luxury resort The Resort at Paws Up

Night 3 – Lost Johnny Point Campground.

This campground Lost Johnny Point is only a 2h drive from Big Larch Campground. Site fee was $18 here.

From Highway US-2, take a turn onto West Side Road / NF-895. There are several campgrounds along this road. Lost Johnny Point Campground was ~20 minutes (10 miles) from the turn.

Photos of our camp setup at Lost Johnny Point:

• Nearby suggestions for similar campgrounds: Doris Creek Campground , Lost Johnny Campground (to be different from Lost Johnny Point Campground where we stayed, they’re close by each other)
• Nearby suggestions for hotels: Silverwolf Log Chalets Resort (no pet), Under Canvas Glacier (Safari-style tents)

Night 4 – SpringHill Suites By Marriot Island Park Yellowstone (Island Park, Idaho)

This hotel is a 6.5h drive from our previous night’s campground. It is pet-friendly, and offers complimentary breakfast. They only offer suites here (no room), and the suites are so spacious with a nice size walk-in closet. Pet fee is $75 per pet, and check out time is 11AM.

Night 5 – Hampton Inn & Suites Green River (Green River, Wyoming)

The Hampton Inn & Suites Green River is a 5h drive from Island Park, and perfect mid-way point before home. Also pet friendly, with a pet fee of only $25. And it also offers complimentary breakfast.

I also suggest staying at Rock Springs, WY which is another town nearby. Some hotels great for travelers include Hampton Inn Rock Springs , and Holiday Inn Rock Springs .

And that is our Montana road trip guide, with a detour through Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming. And by no means that I’m saying this is the only way (or the best way) for anyone to do Montana Wyoming road trips. I wanted to give you a reference guide on how we did it. But feel free to make as many changes as you need to suit your trip and family. If we (a family of four including a young child and a dog) could have this Montana Wyoming road trip, and had so much fun doing it, then anyone could do it! I encourage you to go out there and explore America, the beautiful. Hope I get to see you on your next trip, tag me on Instagram if you visit one of these spots I suggested!

Note : suggested time to visit is July-August. Actual time of visit was early September during Labor Day weekend.

Other trips we took:

• Spring Break in Colorado with the Ritz-Carlton hotels
• Colorado, Utah, and Arizona 5-day road trip in the winter
• New Mexico and Taos family trip with Toyota Tacoma

life style road trip summer travel travel guide

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Gawk at the glorious vistas dotting Glacier National Park. (Photo: Getty Images)

Road Tripping Montana and Wyoming’s National Parks on a Budget

From the heat of Devils (Tower) to the icy of Glacier ( National Park ) cool, a road trip t hat starts in eastern Wyoming before heading northwest into Montana will overload your mind with the wonders of nature — in the best possible way. Another perk? You can make the drive without taxing your wallet.

Hiking and star gazing make for mighty fine entertainment, and aside from national park fees (and there’s a way to reduce that cost, too), they don’t cost a thing.

The road ahead features stops where you’ll have to make choice after choice about what you have time to see and what can wait until your next visit. Anybody who tells you a national park is a one-trick pony is, quite simply, mistaken.

Before You Start your National Park Road Trip

The most important card you can put in your wallet for this trip? An America the Beautiful Pass from the National Park Service. The days ahead will find you in three national parks and a handful of national monuments. The joint entrance fees to Grand Teton and Yellowstone national parks alone run $50 per vehicle.

But the pass allows you to buy a year’s entry to the entire National Park system — that’s 59 National Parks and more than 1,950 other sites — for a budget-friendly $80. (Military members get a free pass. Seniors? Just $10 for a lifetime pass.)

SEE ALSO: Top 10 Road Trips to Take This Summer

Start in wyoming national parks: devils tower.

Start your road trip with a visit to Devils Tower National Monument , where you can spend hours walking around and around one of the grandest single-focus natural sites you’ll ever see. Devil’s Tower rises up out of the ground, looking like a massive tree stump statue carved from stone.

Hike around the Tower — and other nearby trails — by day, and stick around at night to see Devil’s Tower silhouetted against the night sky.

Devils Tower to Grand Teton National Park

Distance: 432 miles

Get an early start for a driving day that will take you to Wyoming ’s  Grand Teton National Park . There are two routes to consider: Head slightly south first for a visit to the shortgrass prairie of Thunder Basin National Grassland , or head toward Highway 90, which passes through Bighorn National Forest , a 189,000-acre wilderness area that offers plenty of hiking opportunities in view of the Rocky Mountains’ kissing cousins, the Bighorn Mountains.

After a leg-stretching hike, continue on to Grand Teton National Park. The Teton Mountain range has a jagged, “yeah, try-me” look about it — but there’s great beauty under that imposing view.

Take a scenic drive through the park to watch for wildlife , from the wee yellow-pine chipmunk to the massive (yet surprisingly graceful) bison.

Lucky wildlife spotters may even get a glimpse of a mountain lion or a lynx. To get a different view of the park, settle onto a raft for a relaxing jaunt (just $56 per person) with National Park Float Trips .

SEE ALSO:   Take an Untamed Road Trip to the West’s Best Adventure Towns

Grand teton to yellowstone national park.

Distance: 6.9 miles (does not include driving distances within each park)

A quick trip up Route 191 brings you to Yellowstone National Park . Though Yellowstone can be a crowded place — there are always loads of people waiting to watch Old Faithful do its thing — don’t skip it. The geothermal pools are mesmerizing.

Make the most of your visit by taking the park up on the bevy of free ranger activities and talks on offer. Definitely do some hiking in the park, from easy wanders down boardwalks to outings more extreme.

If you’ve done a drop of hiking but you’re not quite comfortable on your own (or you’ve never hiked in bear country ), consider going on a guided hike with one of the park’s licensed outfitters ; the outings are affordable, and because you’ll learn a lot and have a safe day on the trail, it’ll be well worth the price.

SEE ALSO:   A Local’s Guide to Driving Vancouver’s Picturesque Sea-to-Sky Highway

Yellowstone to glacier national park.

Distance: 440 miles

Another six to seven hours of driving (north this time) and you’ll land at your final destination: Glacier National Park in Montana. But you just might want to add an extra day or two to stop along the way there.

Just outside of Missoula — a college town worth a visit for lunch — sits the wonderfully-named Lolo National Forest , which offers two million acres of hiking and other adventures. Foragers take note: Lolo is rich with mushrooms and berries . But make sure you get the proper permits before picking a thing.

Then it’s on up to Glacier National Park. With some of the country’s most beautiful hiking trails , your eyes will be as busy as your legs. For an easygoing hike, head down the 1.1-mile Forest and Fire Nature Trail where you’ll see regrowth of a forest and, from spring into summer, a riot of wildflowers.

Since this is a road trip, take note: Don’t skip the 50-mile Going-to-the-Sun Road scenic drive . Between gawking at Mother Nature’s handiwork and marveling over the incredible engineering feat of building the road, you’re in for a treat.

Yeah, that thing about adding a few days? Think about it. Happy trails!

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Two Stunningly Beautiful Byways in Montana and Wyoming

An unforgettable summer road trip through the rugged landscape of cowboy country.

This remarkable three-day drive starts and ends in Cody, Wyoming, and includes the Chief Joseph Scenic Byway (Wyoming Highway 296); an overnight in Cooke City, Montana, at the edge of Yellowstone National Park ; then a cruise along the Beartooth Scenic Highway — one of the few drives in the U.S. that could impress more than the previous day's stunner. Both are National Scenic Byways and All-American Roads.

Day 1: Cody, Wyoming, to Cooke City, Montana (76 miles)

Before leaving this rodeo-happy town founded by Col. William F. “Buffalo Bill” Cody in 1896, fill up your gas tank and grab breakfast at the Station, a former gas station transformed into a cafe, with sweet and savory breakfast crepes. Now you're ready to hit the road — specifically, the 46-mile Chief Joseph Scenic Byway, which you can catch 16 miles north of Cody.

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It passes through ranchland, tops out at 8,061-foot Dead Indian Pass, and then drops into one of the Cowboy State's most remote valleys.

A little history will help you appreciate the miles ahead of you. The road gets its name from the Nez Perce chief who used this route in 1877 to lead about 700 of his people to Canada to escape being confined on a reservation by the U.S. government. In what historians have described as a “brilliant” military maneuver, Chief Joseph outwitted the U.S. Army at Dead Indian Pass. (The group had to surrender to the Army a month later when it was cornered about 40 miles from the Canadian border.)

A peak and a creek here also bear the name “Dead Indian,” and you hear two different accounts of where this name came from. According to one, in 1877, the U.S. Army killed a Nez Perce near here. The other says that in 1878, Crow Indian scouts working with the U.S. Army killed and buried a Bannock Indian near here.

Before you top out at Dead Indian Pass, pullouts offer bird's-eye views to the east of working ranches, rare evidence of any human presence in this area. At the pass itself, looking west into Sunlight Basin, you'll marvel at rugged, 1,200-foot-deep Clarks Fork Canyon, which winds through the basin, and the snaggly, glaciated Beartooth Mountains in the distance.

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From Dead Indian Pass, as you descend 3,000 feet to enter the eastern side of Sunlight Basin, you'll cross the area's defining man-made feature, a bridge 280 feet above Sunlight Creek. About 21 miles down the road, you can take a moderate 5-mile out-and-back flat hike along the edge of Clarks Fork Canyon. Just turn right onto Forest Service Road 407, about a mile past Painter's Outpost; in less than half a mile, you'll see the trailhead. Backpackers take this trail deep into the Shoshone National Forest, but you can turn around at the wooden bridge that crosses Beartooth Creek (or do an even shorter portion of the hike, if you wish).

At Sunlight Basin's far (western) side, the byway ends at the Beartooth Highway (U.S. Highway 212). There, head northeast for 13 miles to Cooke City, Montana, at the edge of Yellowstone National Park and home to only a couple of hundred people, even during the busiest summer months of July and August. There's also a general store and the Beartooth Cafe, where you can sit on a flower-filled patio facing the town's main street for a dinner of bison meatloaf.

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Where to stay: Handmade quilts, some featuring local animals and scenery, cover most beds at the basic but homey Cooke City Alpine Motel.

Day 2: Cooke City to Red Lodge, Montana (64 miles)

Before leaving Cooke City, treat yourself to the pastries (or the delicious biscuits and gravy) at Bearpaw Bakery, where owner/baker Terri Smith uses recipes passed down from her grandmother and mom. But don't dawdle too much; today's mileage is misleading. With the Beartooth Scenic Highway's many switchbacks and amazing scenery, it will take you most of the day to cover the 64 miles of this road, which the late journalist Charles Kuralt called “the most beautiful drive in America.”

The Beartooth, open only between Memorial Day and Columbus Day, climbs to an altitude of almost 11,000 feet, where glacially deposited boulders dot the landscape; clear lakes stay frozen into July; little grows but lichens, mosses and pinky-nail-sized wildflowers; and rock formations up to 4 billion years old dot the horizon. As you drive, you'll pass more lakes than you can count, including Beartooth Lake (elevation about 8,900 feet), some 23 miles up the pass from Cooke City. Here, you can stretch your legs on part of the 11-mile loop trail that connects Beartooth, Grayling and Beauty lakes; the trailhead is just off the highway. Covering the entire loop takes five to seven hours, so consider hiking a mile or so along Beartooth Lake itself (where the loop starts), then turning around. You'll be hard-pressed to resist taking photos of this turquoise alpine lake with snow-covered peaks rising in the background.

If you hit the pass's 10,947-foot summit — the Northern Rockies’ highest road — and do not yet appreciate the audacity of building a road in such a rugged and remote landscape, a stop at the Rock Creek Vista Point (at 9,190 feet in elevation on the Red Lodge side of the pass) should get you there. From the viewpoint, you can look 2,500 feet down, following the highway as it switchbacks, clinging to the side of the mountain, to the floor of Rock Creek Canyon.

Surprisingly, in the low-key former mining town of Red Lodge (population about 3,000), you'll need a reservation to dine at the must-try Piccola Cucina at Ox Pasture. It's a summer-only pop-up hot spot — open through Sept. 27 this year — where Sicilian chef Philip Guardione serves the dishes he grew up eating (he also has four restaurants in New York City). A menu favorite: cavatelli pasta in beef ragú. You can also order takeout and eat at nearby flower-filled Pride Park, where you'll find picnic tables.

Where to stay: You won't be basking in luxury at the Yodeler Motel, but many of its 23 rooms feature steam showers that do a tired body good after a long day of driving or hiking.

Day 3: Red Lodge back to Cody (63 miles)

Today's one-hour drive south (via Montana Highways 308 and 72 and Wyoming Highway 120) is an easy one through ranches and farms in the fertile floodplain of the Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone River. This brevity is good because before you leave, you'll want the morning to wander through Red Lodge's quaint downtown of locally owned art galleries, shops and cafes. Be sure to stop at Cattail Bakery, which makes pastries fresh every morning you can smell for blocks.

Plan to arrive in Cody by early afternoon to explore museums that are far better than you might expect in a small Wyoming city of 10,000 people. The Buffalo Bill Center of the West — a complex of five museums and a research library — has been called the Smithsonian of the West. Its Whitney Western Art Museum displays works by artists such as Albert Bierstadt, Rosa Bonheur, Thomas Moran and Frederic Remington. At its newly remodeled Cody Firearms Museum, see antique and rare firearms. You should also visit the Cody Dug Up Gun Museum , a less-polished downtown attraction not affiliated with the Buffalo Bill facility. It's quirky but fascinating, with a collection that includes Civil War revolvers, a Revolutionary War sword, and pistols used by outlaws in gunfights and robberies.

You can end your road trip here or extend it to explore Yellowstone National Park, just 52 miles west. 

Where to stay: Sleep in the same downtown boardinghouse where Ernest Hemingway finished writing Death in the Afternoon in 1932, now the 21-room Chamberlin Inn, a remodeled boutique hotel.

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"If you've always dreamed of taking on a classic American road trip, there's no better place to do it than Montana, where the scenic roads take you from golden prairies to snowy mountains, under the endless blue sky."

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Discover the Little Bighorn battlefield monument

We’ll take you on a journey to the Little Bighorn monument, which serves as a memorial to the Battle of Bighorn. You’ll see the infamous battlefield where Lieutenant Colonel Custer led his men against the Northern Plains Lakota and Cheyenne warriors led by Sitting Bull, and have some time to reflect on the history of this moving memorial.

Visit Billings, a city in southern Montana on the Yellowstone River

As the state’s largest and most laid-back city, Billing’s is one of the best places to visit in Montana. Set on the edge of the Yellowstone River, you’ll be surrounded by mountains and greenery, plus fantastic historic and cultural treasures. We’ll take you straight to the heart of Billings with a local dinner where you’ll discover that famous Western hospitality.

Drive through the scenic Montana roads

In Montana, all roads lead to yet another enchanting landscape, and we’ll take you on an unforgettable road trip to the most beautiful destinations in Montana. Cruise along the scenic Southern Road through Glacier National Park, cross the Continental Divide in a vintage style jammer, and wind along the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road over Logan Pass.

Our top 3 things to do in Montana

When you travel Montana with Trafalgar, we’ll reveal all the best Montana attractions, from the iconic national parks to the historic monuments and spectacular roads.

Museum of the Rockies

Dive into the history of the Rocky Mountains at this fantastic museum, home to the country’s largest collection of dinosaur remains and the largest T-Rex skull ever found. You'll also discover exhibits on the life of Native Americans, gold-miners, fur traders and frontier settlers on the Northern Plains, including an amazing Living History Farm.

C. M. Russell Museum

This Montana museum is dedicated to the legendary “cowboy artist” Charles Marion Russell. It holds the world’s largest collection of paintings, drawings, sculpture and illustrated letters by Russell, and you can even see his original log cabin studio and wooden frame home, including his work tools, cowboy gear and Indian artifacts.

American Computer & Robotics Museum

Renowned Harvard scientist Edward O. Wilson described this museum as the best in the world, and tech lovers are sure to agree as they explore the exhibits spanning 4,000 years from the original cuneiform tablets to the first computers. You’ll learn about the space race, artificial intelligence and even cracking the enigma code in this thought-provoking museum.

Best museums in Montana

One of the best things to do in Montana is check out its incredible museums, and our Montana tours will take you from the ancient remains of dinosaurs to the world of robotics.

Pickle Barrel Sandwiches

These legendary sandwiches have been voted best in Bozeman for seven years in a row and have been a popular staple of Montana for over 30 years - but they’re much more than a sandwich. Apart from being absolutely massive and stuffed with all kinds of delicious fillings like cheesesteak, these sandwiches are a local treasure that are homemade with love.

Huckleberry Bear Claws

If you ask a local for Montana’s most iconic food, they’d probably say huckleberries. You can pick them wild and fresh across the state… Or eat them in a huckleberry bear claw. These sweet Danish-like pastries are shaped like a bear claw and stuffed with scrumptious huckleberry filling, and you’ll soon fall in love with them on your Montana trip.

Wheat Montana Cinnamon Rolls

Everyone loves a good cinnamon roll, but they don’t get much better than the ones at Wheat Montana, a family-owned farm, flour mill and bakery in the Northern Great Plains. They sell all kinds of sandwiches and baked treats, but the real hero is their enormous cinnamon rolls, filled with lashings of cinnamon and sugar and sweet glaze drizzled on top.

Best food in Montana

Montana may be famed for its gorgeous landscapes, but you can’t forget about the delicious food, and our Montana holidays will introduce you to all the best dishes in the state.

What to pack for Montana

Reusable water bottle

Montana’s high elevation means you’ll be more prone to dehydration, so bring a stainless steel water bottle that you can refill throughout the day.

You’ll drive along plenty of spectacular highways when you travel Montana, and a pair of headphones and the right playlist will really set the mood for your road trip.

Portable charger

You’ll want to take plenty of gorgeous snaps when exploring Big Sky Country, and a portable charger will help keep all your devices on while you’re on the move.

Sun protection

The combination of high altitude and plenty of sunshine in Montana means you’ll need to take extra care with your skin. Pack a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen and you’re good to go.

Layered clothing

While you’re likely to see plenty of sunny days in Montana, it can get cold in the mornings and evenings, so come prepared with some warm layers.

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Yellowstone & Grand Teton National Parks

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TAUCK EXCLUSIVE – Insider stories about the national parks during filmed narratives by Ken Burns & Dayton Duncan

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Stays at sought-after inside-the-national-park accommodations in Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks

Rafting adventure along the Snake River, surrounded by the spectacular scenery of the Tetons

Visit to the Mormon Row Historic District inside Grand Teton National Park

Extensive exploration inside the world's first national park, Yellowstone National Park

Visits to the Crazy Horse Memorial and Mount Rushmore National Memorial

SEE WHAT YOUR JOURNEY INCLUDES

Guests should be able to easily walk one to two miles, which may include climbing one or two flights of stairs and walking over uneven pavement, groomed hiking trails or cobblestones. Standing up to one hour or more may be required.

Often robust – may include long days, active sightseeing, early starts, evening activities, significant travel times.

Legendary Journeys and Adventures

The soul of the American West... Naturally inspiring, the landscapes of the American West challenge the imagination with jaw-dropping canyons, gurgling mud pots, geysers, and wide-open spaces... while towering mountains are a study in contrast, harboring wildlife and man-made wonders. 

A day at ta guest ranch, a taste of the cowboy life at a working wyoming ranch.

Make your way through Wyoming's breathtaking Bighorn Mountains to an authentic (and fun) western ranch experience at TA Guest Ranch in Buffalo. Homesteaded in 1884, the ranch was once the site of a shootout during the infamous Johnson County War that pitched cowboy against cowboy in these parts in 1892 – you can still see some of the old bullet holes! But today's visit will be a peaceful one… where you can choose to meet a horse whisperer, learn roping techniques from real cowboys, ride in a horse-drawn wagon, or saddle up for a horseback ride... and enjoy a private lunch on the ranch.

A night at the rodeo

Attend the exciting cody nite rodeo (seasonal, june – august).

Way out here in Wyoming, nothing promises more real Western fun than an honest-to-goodness rodeo... especially in a town named for the legendary Wild West showman, "Buffalo Bill" Cody, and often called the "Rodeo Capital of the World." Established in 1938 and operating June through August, the Cody Nite Rodeo is the world's longest-running nightly rodeo. Get set for an evening filled with bull riding, saddle bronco riding, team roping, barrel racing, rodeo clowns, and a "calf scramble" for kids 12 and under.

Old Faithful Inn

Stay in a classic national historic landmark in yellowstone national park.

One of the largest log structures in the world, Old Faithful Inn was designated a National Historic Landmark. Built in 1904 of native lodgepole pine – and the epitome of the "National Park Rustic" architectural style – it is set within walking distance of Old Faithful Geyser, just one of Yellowstone's many natural wonders... including geysers, fumaroles and boiling hot springs.

This relatively untamed territory makes you proud of those who had the foresight to set aside the space for National Parks.

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Yellowstone & Grand Teton National Parks begins and ends in the U.S.

Real ID Act - Effective May 7, 2025

Beginning in May 2025, some state IDs will no longer permit you to board a domestic flight. Currently, some states are compliant, some have received extensions, and some are not compliant.  Click here  to see the status of your state. If your state license is not compliant, you can use a passport in lieu of a valid state ID. 

Please Note:  The federal government has extended the deadline to May 7, 2025 for domestic airline passengers to secure a Real ID driver's license for use as identification at the airport. Travelers without a verified license or ID card will also have the option of showing other identity documents, such as a passport or military ID to board a plane.

If you are a citizen of another country traveling internationally,   you should contact an embassy or consulate of the U.S. to determine what travel documentation is necessary. You may also log on to the U.S. State Department's Internet site by clicking  here.

If you are traveling by air to join and/or depart from this tour within the U.S., please read the section entitled Airline Security Measures under Additional Information to determine what travel documentation is required.

If you are a citizen of the U.S. or Canada who travels frequently between the two countries, you may benefit from the NEXUS program, which is a joint initiative between the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agency and the Canada Border Services Agency that allows pre-screened and approved travelers faster processing at designated highway lanes in high-volume border crossing locations, at a NEXUS kiosk at several airports, and at certain marine reporting locations in the Great Lakes and Seattle regions. For further information, you may log on to the Nexus Internet website by clicking here . Please note that longer stays abroad for any purpose may require additional travel documentation.

We recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your room while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents are misplaced, lost or stolen.

To facilitate Travel Requirements, destinations are increasingly utilizing online forms that require digital proof that you've successfully completed your submission (via an email, QR code, etc.) To ensure smooth travels and peace of mind, we strongly recommend all guests carry a personal smart phone and sign up for international data plans before traveling overseas.

Note: For activities marked with an asterisk (*) in day-by-day descriptions, participation is at your own risk; a signed liability waiver will be required.

TRAVELING WITH CHILDREN AS A GUARDIAN: If you are traveling as the guardian of a child/children, we strongly suggest that you carry a letter from both parents of the child authorizing emergency treatment in the event of illness or accident. For travel abroad, many foreign countries have specific entry requirements for children under 21 who are traveling internationally without BOTH parents. (These requirements are in response to the increased incidence of children being abducted and taken abroad.) PLEASE NOTE THAT TAUCK IS NOT RESPONSIBLE for the disruption of travel caused by improper documentation for children traveling without both parents.

How to Book a Tour

See your travel advisor, or call Tauck at 800-468-2825 to make a reservation.

At the time of booking, please have the following information ready for all members of your party:

• Tour Name and Departure Date
• Traveler's Name: First and last names as they appear on your passport or driver's license
• Traveler's Address(es)
• Email Address*
• Traveler's Phone Number(s)*
• Emergency Contact Information: Please provide the name and phone number  of a relative or friend (not travelling with you) whom we could contact during the tour in the unlikely event of an emergency
• Interest in purchasing a travel protection plan (US and Canada)
• Interest in extending your trip by staying in a Tauck recommended hotel before your trip begins or after it ends
• Interest in our specially negotiated airfares

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Deposit & Final Payment

The deposit and the fees for the optional Protection Plan or Cancel Fee Waiver [CFW] coverage are due at time of booking.

The deposit amount is $350 per person

Final Payment:

Final Payment is due to Tauck 90 days before departure for lands trips, and 120 days before departure for cruises and rail journeys. If your deposit was made by credit card, final payment will be automatic unless you opted out at time of booking. Bookings without full payment at this time may be subject to cancellation without notice. Failure to make payment will be a considered a cancellation by the guest and all applicable cancellation fees will apply.

Travel Protection Plan

Effective for plans purchased as of July 1, 2021:

Cancellation Waiver – Provided by Tauck:

Under Tauck's Cancellation Fee Waiver you can cancel your tour for ANY REASON up to the day before departure and receive a money-back refund (except in Extreme Circumstances*) on the land tour cost, based on your original method of payment.

*Extreme Circumstances:  In the event of an act of God, war (whether declared or undeclared), terrorism, accident, natural disaster, outbreak of disease, or other event or circumstance beyond our control that contributes to or results in cancellation rates above our historical cancellation rates in the absence of such event or occurrence, Tauck reserves the right to issue a credit to you in lieu of a money-back refund, applicable to a future Tauck journey.

Travel Insurance Benefits – Underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company.

• Trip Cancellation –  If you must cancel your tour due to a covered reason, the plan provides coverage for the amount you paid for your travel arrangements. Since the non-insurance cancellation waiver takes care of the land package cancellation fees already, this benefit reimburses the airfare cancellation charges up to the value of your original airfare purchase.
• Trip Interruption –  If you have to interrupt your tour for covered reasons, the plan provides reimbursement for up to $5,000 to catch up to your tour or return home.
• Travel Delay –  Provides reimbursement for missed, prepaid travel arrangements if you are delayed by a common carrier, natural disaster, unannounced strike, or other reasons as cited in the plan.
• Medical Expense –  Reimburses covered medical expenses incurred in the event you become injured or sick during your trip. 
• Baggage / Personal Effects Protection –  Provides reimbursement in the event your luggage or personal effects are, lost, stolen, damaged or delayed during your trip.

Worldwide Emergency Assistance Services –  Provided by Carefree Travel Assistance; 24-hour emergency telephone assistance hotline for medical and travel related problems.

The cost of Tauck's Guest Protection is: $349  per person

This protection provides insurance coverage that applies only during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home and automobile policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.

This optional Guest Protection must be requested at time of booking and fee must be included with initial payment. Fees are based on costs as of July 1, 2021, and are subject to change. Details will be provided with written confirmation of your tour reservation. Guest Protection does not protect travel agent commissions. Reimbursements will be made according to original method of payment. The amount of any refund shall be reduced by any recoveries obtained by you from any third parties.

The Guest Protection plan waives cancellation fees outlined below, provided we are notified of cancellation before your tour departs. Tour cancellation fees are waived regardless of reason, without written notice, and Tauck will refund land tour cost.

To obtain your state-specific Certificate of Insurance that contains the complete terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the certificate, visit  affinitytravelcert.com/docs/TACGPPDOM .

If You Have To Cancel

If you cancel within 10 days of initial deposit Within the first 10 days after you place your initial deposit, you may cancel your reservation for any reason with no cancellation fees. If you cancel more than 10 days after initial deposit Regardless of reason, cancellations result in costly charges from our travel and hotel providers covering penalties and fees incurred by canceling confirmed bookings. These fees vary from tour to tour. Therefore, the following fees apply.

Cancellation Fees with Tauck's Guest Protection Plan:

Loss of Guest Protection fee, per person

Cancellation Fees without Tauck's Guest Protection Plan :

90 days or more before departure = $350 per person

89-8 days before departure = $600 per person

7-1 days before departure = $900 per person

Time of cancellation  will be when notice is received in our Wilton Woods, CT office.

In the event of an unforeseen circumstance beyond our control,  Tauck reserves the right to amend the cancellation terms outlined herein.

Note:  All Guests, regardless of residency, who book a Tauck journey have the option of purchasing the Cancellation Fee Waiver provided by Tauck in the event they need to cancel their trip after making their reservations. Tauck's Guest Protection, which includes both the Cancellation Fee Waiver and the Travel Insurance Benefits and Assistance Services described above, is not available to residents of Puerto Rico.

Travel Terms and Conditions

Click here  to find Tauck's Travel Terms & Conditions.

Travel Requirements For This Tour

Air Information and Luggage Restrictions

AIRFARE: Airfare to and from this destination is not included in the journey cost. If purchasing your air elsewhere, it is very important to provide us with your confirmed arriving and departing flight information no later than 3 weeks before your arrival date. Flight information can be submitted to Tauck (or verified, if you've already provided it) in the My Account section of Tauck.com.

TAUCK AIRPORT TRANSFERS are included at the start and end of the journey between the airport and the Tauck hotel. Airport transfers are available for any pre tour or post tour hotel stays immediately consecutive to the tour, providing flight information is received in the Tauck office no later than three weeks in advance. Details on locating your transfer upon arrival to the tour start city will be included in your final documents.

AIRLINES and CHECKED LUGGAGE: Due to space limitations during your Tauck journey, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one average-size suitcase per person. Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and are free to revise luggage policies without notice. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies. PLEASE NOTE that if you are booked on a tour that includes on-tour flights, the checked luggage weight restrictions for these flights may be lower than the weight restrictions for your international flights.

Checked Luggage – General

Due to space restrictions, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one suitcase per person weighing no more than 50 pounds (23 kg) and with overall dimensions (length + width + height) not exceeding 62 inches (158 cm).

Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and luggage exceeding airline standards for size or weight may result in expensive overage fees or other consequences.

Airlines are free to revise luggage policies without notice, and certain airlines have different baggage allowances for different classes of service. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies.

Tauck luggage tags will be provided by your Tauck Director on Day 1 of your itinerary. Please do not attach a Tauck luggage tag to any carry-on items, as the Tauck tags designate luggage that is to be handled and transferred by ground operators and hotel staff during your journey.

Carry-on Luggage - General

Although oversize bags and wheeled, carry-on luggage are popular for airline travel, they are often not convenient or appropriate for motor coach travel or for many on-tour flights. Most modern sightseeing motor coaches offer limited space for numerous or larger items. Space under seats or in the overhead rack is typically small, and designed to accommodate items like coats, hats, purses, and small camera bags, etc.

For your day-to-day travel while on tour, we recommend that you limit your hand luggage to a small, soft-sided carry-on piece, and that you bring only those items you need handy during the day such as make-up, medications, cameras, film, etc. Items too large to fit under the motor coach seat or on the overhead rack must be stored in the luggage bays beneath the motor coach, and may be inaccessible during daytime travel.

Health, Safety and Mobility

HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS

Please check with your health insurance provider to determine whether you are covered while traveling. If you will not be covered under your current policy, we strongly suggest that you arrange for adequate coverage while on tour.

If you have a medical condition that might limit your participation in activities, please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice and notify Tauck as soon as possible, if you have not already done so. We will advise your Tauck Director accordingly.

VACCINATIONS

If you are a resident of another country traveling to or within the U.S., we suggest that contact your physician, the public health service in your area, or the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to obtain information regarding vaccinations and medications for vaccine-preventable diseases and other diseases for which you might be at risk when you reach your destination in the U.S. The Travelers' Health Section of the CDC operates a 24-hour "Travelers' Health Hotline" at 800-232-4636 (toll-free in the U.S.). You may also log on to the CDC website by clicking here.

To enjoy this tour, you should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances, often over unpaved and uneven surfaces. Some of the most memorable sightseeing can only be accomplished on foot. The amount of walking you do, however, is at your discretion.

Some of the excursions on this tour are:

• Whitewater rafting on the Snake River, the journey is roughly 2 hours and requires stepping in and out of an inflatable raft
• Guided horseback riding on a working cattle ranch, guests are required to show ability to mount/unmount and for safety reasons, a weight restriction of 225 pounds is in place. 

There are no elevators at The Ranch at Ucross or at the Holiday Inn® Cody at Buffalo Bill Village, and while none of the planned activities are especially strenuous or difficult, we urge caution when engaging in activities at high elevations. If you have a heart condition or lung ailment, please consult your physician before you book your trip.

PLEASE NOTE: We regret that we're unable to provide individual assistance to guests with walking difficulties or other personal needs. The responsibility of the Tauck Director who accompanies your trip is to ensure that the larger group enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing individual assistance to any one guest. Guests requiring such individualized assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion who can provide it. While drinking water is generally safe at all our hotels, bottled water will be available wherever the local water is not fit to drink. We also provide bottled water on the motor coaches.

The Jackson Lake Lodge, Old Faithful Inn and Lake Yellowstone Hotel are all non-smoking hotels and a very large fine will be assessed if it is determined that anyone has smoked while on property.

SPECIAL DIETARY REQUESTS

The restaurants, hotels, caterers and numerous other partners we work with all do their best to accommodate special dietary requests from Tauck guests. However, given the diverse nature of those food providers (from small wineries to grand hotels to world-famous restaurants in more than 70 countries worldwide), some of our partners are better able than others to accommodate such requests. We therefore cannot guarantee that all dietary requests can be accommodated at every meal. Also, please note that where dietary requests can be accommodated, choices will frequently be limited.

Reading List

We have compiled a reading list of recommended books to give you more information about the destinations you will be traveling to on your upcoming journey! You can view the reading list  here .

The high temperatures in the summer months average 70 to 90°F (21 to 32°C) and the lows average 40 to 60°F (4 to 16°C). The overnight temperatures can drop to the freezing point even during the summer at the highest elevations. Rainfall is light to moderate throughout the region. Salt Lake City receives the least amount of rain with an average of less than 1 in (25 mm) per month during summer; Jackson averages 1.5 in (38 mm) and Rapid City averages 2.5 in (63 mm.)

To read about current weather conditions, we suggest you log on to the Internet website, noaa.gov , by clicking here.

What To Pack

Bringing the right clothing for your trip is important – we've partnered with Necessary Gear who provide an "easy-to-use, one-stop shop" for your Tauck travel needs, specifically selected for this trip. Click here to visit their site .

Your journey is designed with leisure in mind. Dress for comfort and convenience with a wardrobe that is adaptable and allows for layering. Generally, during the day, casual, comfortable, cotton clothing is recommended. Cool weather at higher elevations or at night will require warmer, layered clothing. For the welcome and farewell receptions, casual resort wear is appropriate; formal wear is never required.

All of our hotels offer valet laundry service for a fee except for the Old Faithful Inn, Lake Yellowstone Hotel and The Ranch at Ucross.

We recommend that you pack an adequate supply of your prescription medication in its original container to last through your entire journey, together with a copy of your doctor's prescription or a letter from your health-care provider on office stationery explaining that the medication has been prescribed for you, a list of the generic names of your medication, your travel documents and a change of clothing in your carry-on bag to avoid any inconvenience in the event that your flight or luggage is delayed.

The national park lodges do not have televisions or Internet hook-ups, so bring along a good book to read!

Following is a list of recommended items to pack for your journey to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks:

• Comfortable walking shoes (VERY IMPORTANT)
• Casual daytime wear – shorts, slacks, long and short-sleeved shirts
• Long pants or jeans (long pants and closed-toed shoes are required for the horseback riding)
• Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat
• A light sweater or jacket for higher elevations or a breezy night
• Reusable water bottle
• Insect repellent
• Camera, lenses, batteries, memory cards and chargers
• Lightweight, comfortable, sturdy walking shoes that have already been broken-in
• Travel alarm clock/cell phone with alarm functions (many hotels do not have clocks in the rooms
• Rain poncho and collapsible umbrella
• Reusable zipper-lock bags or other waterproof bags
• Daypack for camera equipment
• Sundries and toiletries that may be difficult to find en route
• A book or e-reader to read in the evening, or downloaded podcasts or video programs to watch during your free time.
• Copies of your travel documents that should be secured in the safe in your hotel room while traveling

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Yellowstone National Park

Single and Multi-Day Tours for Groups & Families

Grand Teton National Park

Casual Meals or Elevated Picnics With a Grand Teton backdrop.

Wildlife Tours With A Twist

Snowshoe to our private Igloo with delicious snacks and hot chocolate by the fire pit.

Wildlife & Wild West Expeditions

Explore Wyoming’s Cowboy towns steeped in history and rich in landscapes.

Yellowstone | Grand Teton | Jackson Hole | Guided | Wildlife Tours

Two national parks, historic western towns, a handful of hot springs and a dinosaur dig. our private group experiences are like no other..

NATIONAL PARK TOURS

DINOSAUR DIGS

EXPLORE THE WILD WEST

SNOWSHOE TOURS

ELEVATED MEAL TOURS

CUSTOM TRAVEL

Custom designed experiences, whether it’s a day or a week, we’ll create the perfect experience for your family, group or special occasion..

If it’s your first visit to Jackson Hole, we’ll take you to Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. Ready to explore further? Wyoming offers small western towns rich in history and lore. Step back in time in Cody, WY, explore Devil’s Tower, or participate in a real dinosaur dig. Whether you’re on a family adventure , a corporate retreat , or celebrating a special occasion , our perfectly curated tours provide unforgettable experiences.

Welcome to Great Western Expeditions

Sharing the beauty of our state is what inspires us..

Our love for Wyoming is the inspiration behind our nearly 30 years of sharing it with people like you. From the spectacular Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks to the nearby cowboy towns, hot pots, deserts and sand dunes, our experiences are custom-crafted and allow you to immerse yourself in the landscape while your professional guide shares our history and wildlife. Welcome to the cowboy way. ~ Rob & Stacey Caesar

If there were a way to give Great Western Expedition Company and our Yellowstone/Grand Teton National parks trip host Anna Rode more than 5 stars, we would be very happy ... read more to do so . Her expertise, knowledge and friendly attitude made our recent trip with them a most enjoyable experience. If you really want to see and enjoy Yellowstone and Grand Teton parks and get the most out of the experience, you can’t go wrong booking with them.

We did a 3 day Yellowstone and Grand Teton tour with the most amazing guide, Ana. She was so knowledgeable and helpful. She made the whole experience the ... read more best vacation we’ve ever had. She took such great care of us - always had plenty of drinks and snacks and wonderful lunches. She was so familiar with the parks so was able to show us things most people didn’t see. I highly recommend this tour and especially Ana. You won’t regret it.

Some of the best tour guides our family has ever had.

Had a tremendous experience on this 4 day tour. David B. was very knowledgeable of both parks and had a great personality to make the entire experience very fun and ... read more informative. Trying to think of any minor complaints or suggestions but cannot think of any. We saw all the major attractions and he took us to some good offline spots too. Food, logistics, vehicle, equipment and facilities were all great! Thanks to David for making this trip one to always remember!!

We had a wonderful experience with this organization! From planning through execution of our 4 day, 12 passenger trip, Laurie and her team were excellent. We were very ... read more lucky to have both a guide and driver who were each experts in all things Yellowstone and Grand Tetons. Not to mention just great guys who love what they do. True professionals all the way around. If we could give 10 🌟 we would!

Our private tour of Yellowstone with GWE far exceeded our expectations (which were already high)! Thanks to our knowledgeable and passionate guide our experience was exceptional -and one that we ... read more will remember for many years to come. The level of service and attention to detail provide by GWE was above and beyond; we can't recommend them enough.

We had a magical day seeing wild life, private sleigh ride through the elk refuge , and snow shoe igloo dinner ! Everything was perfectly detailed down to the amazing ... read more homemade marshmallows ! David was a wealth of knowledge and a great guide 10/10 would recommend !

My family booked a 3 day tour in Yellowstone. Laurie helped me plan the perfect itinerary for 4 teenage boys who are very hard to impress! It was a complicated ... read more task because we were flying into one airport and flying out of another in the busiest month of the year- August. She knew exactly what we needed and the best guide for our group. David was a wealth of knowledge. There is no way we would have seen the park or wildlife he showed us if we tried to do it on own own. I was hesitant to hire a guide due to the cost but honestly David made out trip! Yellowstone is a lot of driving. We were all able to sit back, enjoy the scenery, eat snacks and quickly hop on and off to get a quick picture of bison, wolf, elk or a waterfall. Being from LA, we loved not having to worry about driving, parking or traffic. David took care of it all! We left Yellowstone wanting to come back for more ! I can't say enough about Laurie and David. They were very accomodating, service oriented and professional. Thank You!

The sundowner dinner experience was spectacular. The dinner site was secluded and had a great view of the mountains. Laurie, Rob and Stacey were very knowledgeable about the area and ... read more were a delight to talk to. Highly recommend.

Our tour guide was very informative and super friendly. She made extra stops for us to capture the beauty of the tetons and wildlife. Highly recommend!

We had an absolutely fantastic time on our tour with Great Western Expeditions! We were a group of 11 people ranging in age from 10 to 78 and they ... read more did a fantastic job balancing all of our needs. Both Laurie, our guide, and Larry, our driver were so knowledgeable, kind and accommodating. We saw so much in just one day and never had to worry about a thing! They also provided an elevated picnic lunch which was delicious-- we had to eat it on the bus because of rain but they were somehow able to make even that feel special. Thanks so much to Great Western Expeditions for a perfect bucket-list worthy day!

We had such a great experience! Planned a surprise proposal with a nature tour and dinner in Grand Teton National Park. Our tour guide Laurie was amazing and Rob ... read more and Stacey did a phenomenal job with the dinner and staging. Everyone played along to keep the surprises coming throughout the evening until I popped the question!

Laurie was our organizer for our Yellowstone/Teton expedition. She was prompt at replying and answering questions and made everything go smoothly. She also listened to our hopes and expectations of ... read more the trip and really helped get it organized. Having her set up the lodging, the itineraries, and just her overall knowledge of where to go and what time to be there was exceptional. I cannot recommend our guide, David Buth, enough! What a terrific person to have led our trip. He was professional, kind, practically a “professor”, and very knowledgeable about everything and everywhere we went. It’s obvious that he enjoys his work and does it very well. He is a true educator, and we were so pleased with his expertise and fun personality. The only thing I didn’t like, was that the first couple days we were in a mini bus that was very uncomfortable to sit in, hard to see out of, and generally not great. Luckily, we were then transferred to an Escalade, which we had been promised and was much more appropriate and so much more comfortable. Thanks again, Theresa and Vince Trujillo

Had a wonderful tour with Dave! Everything went smoothly and we saw plenty of wildlife.

Husband and I had a wonderful tour with the most knowledgeable and accommodating tour guide, David. We saw many wildlife and plenty of breathtaking sites. If you are looking to ... read more book a tour in the area, pick Great Western Expeditions! 10/10!

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Great Western Expeditions is no regular tour company. We specialize in crafting innovative tours and custom vacations for those looking for a truly unique experience. Relax and enjoy the scenery and wildlife while we tour in one of our comfortable vans, enjoy a specially prepared meal served in the field, and learn about the flora and fauna from our knowledgeable guides. Give us a call or click on the CUSTOM EXPEDITIONS link below to get started!

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11 Best Guided Montana Tours for Every Traveler

Montana has a way of casting a spell; its mountains bestow a continuous theater of some of the most beautiful vistas in America. But wouldn’t you agree that travel is a quest for more than just a view? Montana’s charm unveils a colorful world of both natural and cultural experiences that offer a roster of 11 must-do adventures.

This comprehensive destination guide is an essential read whether you’re embarking on a journey to soak in the geothermal wonders of Yellowstone National Park, explore the history of Glacier’s Red Buses or any of the wide-ranging tours this article has in store.

Expect insights on a breadth of adventures like helicopter tours, accessing Montana’s rich wildlife tours, experiencing historical and cultural Montana through private walking and story-hike tours, and more.

• Related article: What Can You Do in Montana ?

Are you ready to don your sun hat, winter boots, or perhaps even your water gear to embark on one of the 11 best Montana tours? There’s so much more to Montana than initially meets the eye, and we’re here to show you just that.

7 Key Takeaways on Best Montana Tours

• Yellowstone National Park offers diverse tours, suitable for family trips or individual pursuits, including fishing, backpacking, painting, and more.
• From boat tours and guided hiking to vintage Red Bus interpretive tours, Glacier National Park offers experiences that blend natural landscapes with rich human history.
• West Yellowstone is an exclusive gateway to personalized summer adventure vacations like fishing and whitewater rafting, as well as winter activities such as snowmobiling and snowshoeing in Yellowstone Park.
• The Yellowstone River provides diverse tour options, from thrilling jet boat rides to leisurely wooden boat tours. Tours cater to all levels of experience and offer a chance to connect with nature’s sounds and scenery.
• Wildlife tours are designed for wildlife enthusiasts, offering an educational, slow, and mindful exploration of Montana’s diverse habitats and its charismatic inhabitants.
• Montana’s historical and cultural tours provide a deep dive into the state’s historical and cultural legacy, covering everything from the wild days of Butte to the untold stories of Glacier National Park.
• Diverse adventure on action-packed experiences are available year-round in Montana, from ATV tours in the Bitterroot Mountains to eco-conscious activities in Glacier National Park.

11 Best Montana Tours

When it comes to touring Montana’s sprawling landscapes and unique attractions, variety is the name of the game. From hiking up the iconic Glacier National Park to strolls in the historic Butte, your Montana tour list is bound to be as diverse as the Big Sky State itself. So let’s dive into Montana’s rich tapestry, one tour at a time.

1. Yellowstone National Park Tours

If Montana has a one-stop shop for unforgettable experiences, it’s got to be Yellowstone National Park. I mean, it’s like the universe decided to blow our minds and pile up geysers, hot springs, and wildlife in one place. 

Authorized companies in Yellowstone National Park offer an array of services and tours including fishing, backpacking, painting, and more. And if you truly want to dive into the park’s heart and soul, staying a night within its borders is the way to go.

Did you know that after the day trippers hustle back home, Yellowstone becomes a serene dreamland for its in-park overnighters? It’s like having the world’s most famous geothermal playground all to yourself.

With 9 unique lodging options, Yellowstone National Park Lodges has a variety of options for adventure tours, including:

• Winter Adventures – Winter Adventures in Yellowstone National Park Lodges offer a side of Yellowstone poetry not everyone gets to hear. Think geysers mixed with snowflakes.
• Land Adventures – Authentic land adventures are your ticket for deep diving into Yellowstone’s ecological treasure chest under expert guidance. Get to explore the park’s magnificent natural wonders and ecological diversity.
• Water Adventures – Discover the unspoiled magnificence of Yellowstone Lake from the water. You can participate in a Montana guided boat tour , opt for boat rental services, or even hire a private boat for guided fishing or sightseeing.
• Wild West Adventures – If you’re into Wild West daydreams and want to channel your inner cowboy (or cowgirl), saddle up for their Wild West adventures. Traverse the aptly-named trails, saying hi to the local wildlife and soaking in every drop of Yellowstone’s rich cowboy history.

These tours offered by Yellowstone National Park Lodges provide exciting sights and family-friendly adventures, making it the ideal destination for Yellowstone hiking and exploration.

2. Glacier National Park Tours

If you think about it, a Glacier National Park tour is as close as you’ll get to time travel with over 700 miles (1,127 km) of trails winding through an ancient canvas painted by Mother Nature herself.

Between soaring alpine peaks, cascading waterfalls, and serene lakes, you’ve got a family fun adventure of epic proportions at one of Montana’s best tourist attractions . 

Types of Glacier National Park Tours:

• Boat Tours – Get to experience floating pensively on the azure waters of Lake McDonald, or if you’re feeling up to it, venture to Many Glacier or Two Medicine for even more splendor.
• Bus Tours – Sun Tours delves into the park’s cultural heritage, while the iconic Red Buses, managed by Xanterra, take you on a different narrative, through the park’s historic sites.
• Guided Hiking – From day journeys to multi-day adventures, take the unbeaten path to learn about the hidden stories of the park.
• Raft Tours – Seeking thrills downriver? Several companies offer commercial rafts on the park’s rivers.
• Horseback Rides – Saddle up for scenic rides at Many Glacier, Lake McDonald, or Apgar.
• Glacier Institute Field Courses – Take a deep dive into the park’s flora, fauna, and geology through the Glacier Institute’s educational courses.

Now, if you’re like me, a self-proclaimed history nerd, you’ll want to carve out some time for an interpretive tour. And what better way to get this than by lounging in a vintage 1930s Red Bus, and your trusty guide is peeling away layers of time, discussing everything from glacial formations to the impact of tourism on the park.

You see, these Red Buses aren’t just to look pretty — they’re part of Glacier’s story. The fleet of 33 you’ll find here is considered the oldest of their kind in the world.

So, whether you’re cruising the tranquil waters or stomping through the forests on a guided hike, your connection with Glacier National Park reaches beyond the visible, embracing both the natural and human essence of this spectacular place.

3. West Yellowstone Tours

If you consider Montana as the gatekeeper to Mother Nature’s best work, West Yellowstone is the exclusive VIP entrance. You don’t want to miss it!

Whether it’s a summer escapade or a winter wonderland you’re chasing, every adventure in West Yellowstone feels like a personalized exploration, thanks to highly articulate guides who are as passionate storytellers as they are knowledgeable trailblazers.

For the ultimate West Yellowstone guided tour, AllTrips should be your expert guide. Think of them as the conductors orchestrating your symphony of delight. And I do mean symphony because each experience in West Yellowstone is like scoring a different musical movement.

Summer tours in West Yellowstone:

• Fishing – For those with a rod in one hand and a dream in the other, West Yellowstone’s fly fishing is going to be your Disneyland, considered the trout capital of the U.S.
• Whitewater Rafting – The thrill-seekers among you are going to love the rush on the Gallatin River, one of the premier whitewater rafting rivers in the West.
• Horseback Riding – Channel the Wild West’s spirit with picturesque rides around West Yellowstone.
• ATV Rentals – Explore the untamed beauty of the public lands on an exhilarating ride, with many miles of area trails for ATV riding.

Winter tours in West Yellowstone:

• Snowmobiling – West Yellowstone is fondly referred to as the snowmobile capital of the world due to its expansive trail systems and proximity to Yellowstone National Park.
• Snowcoach Tours – Plunge into the heart of Yellowstone Park like a pro explorer.
• Cross-country Skiing – Around West Yellowstone, there are plenty of ski trails and snow to enjoy Nordic skiing.
• Snowshoeing – West Yellowstone becomes a blank canvas; it’s your job to paint the adventure.

Winter isn’t just about snowmobiling – though that is, absolutely, off-the-charts fun – but there’s an entire landscape of pure white awaiting your snowshoeing escapade. And when the mercury dips, the charming West Yellowstone gets cozier, beckoning you to explore in the crystalline serenity.

So whether you’re lured by the siren call of the park’s geological marvels or just a yearning to capture life moments that don’t fade in a hurry, West Yellowstone should top your list of must-do experiences. 

4. Yellowstone River Tours

The Yellowstone River, the longest undammed river in the continental United States, provides tours that are as diverse as the landscapes it carves through. I know, I’ve taken time to bask in its serene beauty and listen to its watery symphony as it etches a path through some of Montana’s most dramatic scenery.

Options for Yellowstone River Tours:

• Yellowstone River Adventures – This family-owned business offers more than just transportation, providing thrilling activities like jet boating or leisurely options like bird watching. Perfect for those seeking a customizable experience immersed in the sounds of nature.
• Yellowstone Wood Boat Tours – Perfect for history buffs and those who appreciate a good story, you can glide down the river in beautifully crafted wooden boats while indulging in custom-catered fare. Plus, their local guides ensure you’re not just passing through, but rather inhabiting moments in time.
• Montana Classic Boat Tours – If you’re after luxury, this is your go-to. These tours claim to “float in style” – and they’re not joking. It’s like drifting down the river on a cloud, except the ‘cloud’ is a boat with knowledgeable guides that ensure you don’t miss a single note in the “Sounds of Nature” album.

Each of these tours, be it on a high-speed jet boat or a leisurely wooden vessel, provides a unique opportunity to connect with Mother Nature. And don’t worry, none of this seafaring is only for experts; these tours are designed to accommodate all levels of experience.

So, if you want more than just an aesthetically pleasing boat ride, these Yellowstone River tours have got your ticket. Drift down the same river that Lewis and Clark traversed, and let the river be your guide to a Montana tour like no other.

5. Montana Wildlife Tours

Montana isn’t just mountains and clear lakes; it’s a wildlife spectacle that rivals any National Geographic documentary. As you prepped your checklist of mesmerizing Montana explorations, wildlife tours were probably etched in bold.

I mean, how could you resist the allure of spotting a grizzly bear in Lamar Valley or a wild wolf in Yellowstone, Montana’s natural habitat? Montana creates a vivid arena for playful critters and majestic predators alike. 

Top Montana Wildlife Tours for Intimate Encounters:

• Yellowstone Wild Tours – The Yellowstone Wild Tours is a safe bet if you’re particularly keen on making friends with the elusive Yellowstone wolves.
• Silver Gate Guides – If your wildlife wish list spans from grizzlies to osprey to mountain goats, Silver Gate Guides has a daily pass to paradise with guided tours into Lamar Valley.
• Big Sky Safaris – With a wildlife biologist at the helm, expect your nature tours around Missoula to be both insightful and awe-inspiring.

Whether you’re into birdwatching, sketching, or capturing Montana’s wildlife on camera, tour operators like Big Sky Safaris have expansive itineraries. They even offer trips to the National Bison Range, a genuine slice of Montana’s wildlife heritage.

Montana has many gorgeous theaters where nature unfolds and wildlife enthusiasts like us are welcome to sit right on the front row. These are not wild jeep rides, it’s more like a slow, mindful meander through the beautiful scenery that serves as a dramatic canvas to these encounters.

6. Montana Historical and Cultural Tours

Why take a Montana historical and cultural tour, you ask? Imagine diving into a time capsule and stepping back into Montana during its most vibrant, tumultuous, and historic periods.

From the urban landscapes of Butte to the untouched wilderness of Glacier National Park, these tours promise a deeper understanding of Montana’s rich and colorful past.

Check out some of Montana’s most captivating historical and cultural tours:

• Old Butte Historical Adventures – Walking back in time, these tours are an authentic stroll through the wild days of Butte, Montana, covering every decade from the 1890s through the 1950s. It’s not just architecture; it’s a living, breathing history lesson.
• Iron Shield Creative – A unique cultural adventure hike on Amskapi Pikuni (Blackfeet) homelands, their tours at Glacier National Park blur the lines between storytelling and nature. You’re not just walking; you’re walking through stories.
• Moss Mansion Museum Guided Tours – Dive into the entrepreneurial history of the Moss family, as the Moss Mansion Museum offers an intimate peek into the lives of the upper class at the turn of the century.

Montana cultural experiences are a wonderful way to create meaningful memories, enrich your understanding of local communities, and even capture stunning photography of the landscapes. In the end, historical and cultural tours are more than just adding variety to your itinerary; they’re about connecting with the heart of a place. 

7. Montana Adventure Tours

Montana is like that one friend who always has a surprise up their sleeve, except in this case, the surprise is endless jaw-dropping scenery and thrilling outdoor adventures. Whether you’re planning a high-energy summer vacation or a magical winter escape, Montana adventure tours have got you covered.

Here are a few celebrated adventure tour operators, each offering something unique to make your Montana trip unforgettable, whether you’re traveling on your own, with family, or as part of a group:

• Bitterroot Adventures – ATV Tours in the Bitterroot and Sapphire Mountains for adrenaline junkies.
• Glacier Guides and Montana Raft – Offers rafting, hiking, biking, and fishing experiences in Glacier National Park.
• Discovery Yellowstone Tours – Tailored private tours in Yellowstone National Park, complete with binoculars and gourmet lunch.

What’s so fantastic about these adventure travel consultants is their attention to detail. Whether you’re on a multi-day excursion or just looking for a day trip, they know how to cater to your interests and make the experience unforgettable.

These are human experiences, tailored for human enjoyment. So, seriously, in Montana, it’s never the wrong time for an adventure. Don’t keep Montana waiting; start planning your adventure now!

8. Montana Winter Sports Tours

Montana in winter is a winter wonderland, where snow-covered mountains, pristine landscapes, and outdoor adventure abound. The state might be a glacier of a good deal to navigate in winter but dare I say, it’s the coolest time to visit.

The snow-covered scenery provides the perfect backdrop for a variety of winter sports activities, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure-seekers.

Winter tours in Montana:

• Austin Adventures – Originating in North America’s national parks, Austin Adventures boasts a deep familiarity with these landscapes. Their expert guides offer an exceptional experience, particularly highlighted in their Yellowstone in Winter tour, featuring snowshoeing and snow coach adventures in the snowy beauty of Montana.
• Backcountry Adventures – Their guided snowmobile and snow coach tours are led by Montana veterans, some boasting up to 62 years of local expertise in the West Yellowstone area. It’s like carving through history – both natural and human – and the thrill knows no bounds.
• Big Sky Resort – Big Sky Resort is the home of the Biggest Skiing in America, and its menu of winter offerings is as vast as its alpine offerings. Snowmobile, snow coach, and snowshoe tours are available for visitors to enjoy. Visitors can also participate in dog sledding and sleigh rides as additional activities.

Winter in Montana is an experience that lets you run and ramble over the snow in places you’d never imagine. Whether you are a thrill-seeking action fiend or a beloved family-friendly adventure facilitator, the snowy playgrounds of Montana have got you covered.

9. Montana Brewery and Distillery Tours

What’s a Montana adventure without a touch of hops and spirits? The state’s craft brewery and distillery scene has been carving its delightful niche, and here’s your chance to drink it all in – quite literally!

With Big Sky Brews Cruise, experience Northwest Montana’s rich craft beer culture through a guided tour. The best part? The journey is as much about the people behind the brews as it is about the beer in your hand. It’s like a local TED talk but with more hops.

If your journey’s plotted around Billings, a stroll on the Billings Brew Trail is a must. You’ll be sipping and tasting your way through historic downtown on a 1.5-mile (2.4 km) loop, taking in not only 9 breweries and 3 distilleries but also a cider mill and winery. Your entire trip is neatly encapsulated in a spirited walk.

Drilling down further, you can visit Bridger Brewing, which offers private and public tours at their brewery locations in Bozeman and Three Forks. Whether you’re a beer geek or just love a good IPA, watching their brewers in action is a behind-the-scenes treat.

Actionable Tips for Enjoying Montana’s Brewery and Distillery Tours:

• Most tours have a limit on the number of guests, so it’s wise to book in advance, especially for private tours.
• Try to chat with the brewmasters and distillers. You’d be surprised how many have fascinating stories that are as rich as their beverages.
• Plan for responsible sampling. With so much to try, it’s easy to overindulge.

In this state where adventure abounds, the fizz of a cold beer and the kick of a crafted spirit is just another way to experience Montana’s vitality.

10. Montana Culinary Tours

If you thought Montana was just about awe-inspiring landscapes and thrilling outdoor adventures, boy, do I have a flavorful surprise for you. Montana’s culinary landscape is a fantastic trip for your taste buds and a must-explore facet of this state.

Immerse yourself in delectable huckleberry-flavored treats, savoring flavorful bison dishes, and enjoying a glass of Montana-produced wine while soaking in breathtaking mountain views. It’s a 360° sensory experience that’s uniquely Montanan. 

Top Montana Culinary Experiences:

• Polebridge Mercantile – Renowned for its Huckleberry Bear Claws, right outside Glacier National Park. With your morning coffee, this sweet delicacy is just the “claw” you need to start the day.
• Ted’s Montana Grill – Known not only for its chic ambiance but also its distinct Bison dishes. Satisfying gourmet burger cravings and steak enthusiasts, this grill is a playground for your palate.
• Loula’s Café – Nestled in the mountain town of Whitefish, huckleberry pies here are a sensation. If you thought classic huckleberry was the only option, also on the mix are huckleberry-peach, huckleberry-cherry, huckleberry-raspberry, and huckleberry-blackberry.

So, suppose you’re looking to supercharge your gastronomic adventures in Montana. In that case, I can’t recommend these food tours enough. Trust me, these tours are not just for foodies; they’re an essential part of any Montana adventure.

11. Montana Helicopter Tours

Taking to the skies over Montana is a challenging activity that’ll carve a forever spot in your memory. Surveying the vast, untamed world laid out below — that’s the magic of Montana helicopter tours. They are the ultimate cherry on top of your adventure cake.

Now there are various ways to slice the aerial pie in the Big Sky Country. Each Montana helicopter tour is as unique as the landscape it reveals. Here are 3 standout trip options to consider:

Are you still walking through the mountains like an amateur? It’s time to take on Montana’s vastness from the sky. Your options aren’t just limited to the tours listed above.

With the expansive horizons and the intricate river and mountain tapestry Montana flaunts, every single minute on these helicopter tours is a breathtaking fraction of the world’s canvas.

Best Montana Tours Final Thoughts

By immersing yourself in Yellowstone’s geysers and fishing in its pristine waters or venturing on a vintage Red Bus to unravel the tales of Glacier National Park, each tour paints an intricate portrait of Montana’s diverse charm.

Whether you’re captivated by the state’s rich human history or its breathtaking natural landscapes, the tours offered across the Big Sky Country are the key to unlocking an adventure unlike any other.

As Montana redefines adventure with stories etched in time and nature, there’s always another surprise around the corner. From a curated wildlife tour spotted with grizzlies to a historical walk through Old Butte, the options are as varied as the state’s enchanting scenery.

So as you plan your Montana travel checklist, remember: it’s not just about the sights but the stories that echo through Montana’s landscapes and historical avenues. The ultimate Montana tours are beckoning; are you ready to answer their call?

Learn more about Pocket Montana’s Private Tours to have your own personalized fun.

Best Montana Tours FAQs

1. why do tourists go to montana.

Tourists visit Montana for its stunning natural landscapes, including Yellowstone & Glacier National Parks, offering opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and wildlife viewing, as well as to experience the state’s authentic Western culture and outdoor recreational pursuits.

2. What Is the Best Time to Travel to Montana?

Montana is most enjoyable during the summer due to the agreeable weather conditions and the plethora of outdoor activities available. During the winter, Montana also becomes a hotspot for visitors seeking thrilling skiing and snow-related adventures, particularly in destinations like Big Sky and Whitefish.

3. Is There a Yellowstone Tour in Montana?

Numerous tour operators offer Yellowstone tours in Montana. These tours provide opportunities to explore the unique features of Yellowstone National Park, including its stunning landscapes, geothermal wonders, and diverse wildlife, while often incorporating activities such as hiking, wildlife viewing, and educational experiences.

4. How Many Days Do You Need in Montana?

For a general visit to experience the highlights, including places like Glacier National Park or Yellowstone National Park, a week to 10 days is often recommended. This allows time for outdoor activities, sightseeing, and potentially exploring nearby cities or towns.

5. What Is Montana’s Peak Season?

Montana’s peak tourist season is typically during the summer months, from July to Early September. During this time, the weather is generally more favorable, with warmer temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and exploring national parks.

Explore more captivating articles to fuel your curiosity about Montana:

• Top Outdoor Activities in Montana
• Montana Road Trip Ideas
• Wildlife in Montana
• Montana Hunting Basics
• https://www.nps.gov/yell/planyourvisit/guidedtours.htm
• https://www.nps.gov/glac/planyourvisit/guidedtours.htm
• https://www.nps.gov/yell/learn/nature/yellowstone-river.htm

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23 top things to do in montana.

From museums to national parks, Montana has something for everyone.

Top Things to Do in Montana

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Montana is the fourth-largest state in the U.S. by landmass, measuring more than 147,000 square miles. The Treasure State is also home to some of the most beautiful natural wonders in the world, including Glacier National Park , Yellowstone , Flathead Lake – the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi – and 300 mountain peaks standing more than 9,600 feet tall.

If you love the outdoors, Montana has so much to offer, from hiking and camping to skiing and fishing. It's also an excellent place to go on a dinosaur dig, learn about the history of its inhabitants (particularly the Native American tribes), or view the wildlife roaming the region. Read on to learn some of the best things to do in Montana on your next visit.

Glacier National Park

Established in 1910, Glacier National Park is sometimes referred to as the Crown Jewel of the Continent. Here, you'll find an abundance of glaciers, lakes and streams, as well as hundreds of species of animals and thousands of plant species. The national park also includes more than 700 miles of hiking trails, making it a paradise for avid hikers. Some of the more iconic routes include the Trail of the Cedars to Avalanche Lake, the Grinnell Glacier Trail and the Highline Trail . Just be sure to look up trail conditions and difficulties before you set out. The best time to visit is July or August when trails and roads are cleared of snow.

While you're visiting, you'll also want to add Going-to-the-Sun Road to your itinerary. The 50-mile road that crosses the Continental Divide is an engineering marvel, passing glaciers, valleys, waterfalls, alpine meadows covered in wildflowers and more. Keep in mind that the upper portion of the road past Lake McDonald Lodge closes during the winter months. If you begin your visit to the park at the East Glacier entrance, Sun Tours offers interpretive tours led by Blackfeet Indian Reservation residents. The guides focus on the natural history of the park and its significance to the tribal culture and lifestyle.

Visitors hail the park as one of the most beautiful places they've been to, citing stunning views and clear blue glacial water that's almost unreal. Get out on the water in a canoe, kayak, paddleboard or raft – and consider a half-day or full-day whitewater rafting tour . Depending on what kind of experience you seek, set up camp at one of the park's many campgrounds, or book a stay at a lodge, hotel or nearby bed-and-breakfast. If you're considering more formal accommodations, the Lake McDonald Lodge and Belton Chalet should be on your list of options.

Let Going-to-the-Sun Road take your breath away on a bicycle

Courtesy of Visit Montana

Driving Going-to-the-Sun Road is a must-do in northwest Montana, but did you know you can enjoy the views on a bicycle? While you can cycle up Going-to-the-Sun all summer long, it's possible (and a lot more fun) to do it without worrying about vehicle traffic. There's a short window – typically from mid-May to mid- or late June – when the road is only open to hikers and cyclists as plow crews finish preparing the road for the peak season. The dates that this scenic road opens to cyclists change every year depending on snow conditions and the snowplows' progress, so you'll need to be flexible and keep an eye on the National Park Service's road report.

When the road does open for this seasonal opportunity, cyclists and hikers can park at the Avalanche Campground and Picnic Area before enjoying the views as far as the snowplows will allow. This ride is sure to take your breath away in more ways than one. It's an uphill climb, but for those worried about their physical fitness, most outfitters have electric bikes available to rent.

Yellowstone National Park

Only 3% of Yellowstone National Park resides in Montana, but the state is home to three of the park's five entrances. Near the north entrance of the park, you'll find Mammoth Hot Springs , which has been said to look like a cave turned inside out. The large terraces are formed by limestone that is dissolved by the hot, acidic water rising from the chambers below, then reforms after it's above ground. If you decide to enter through the west entrance, located just across the Wyoming and Idaho borders in West Yellowstone, you'll be a quick drive away from several hydrothermal wonders, including geysers and hot springs.

Some of the more popular attractions in this area include Old Faithful , Grand Prismatic Spring , Fountain Paint Pot and more. Finally, the northeast entrance, which is closed during the winter months, gives you the best access to the park's famous Lamar Valley , where you can observe wildlife like grizzly bears, black bears, bison and wolves. Visitors to Yellowstone National Park have called it a piece of heaven on Earth, a breathtaking experience and nature at its best.

Book a private Yellowstone tour for a guided experience in the park. You can also get a unique perspective out on the water by fly-fishing, kayaking and boating on Yellowstone Lake – or by taking a half-day or full-day whitewater rafting tour . A night photography tour with one of Yellowstone Wildlife Profiles' expert guides is another excellent way to explore the park and photograph star formations from prime vantage points.

Depending on where you're coming from, there are plenty of lodging options for each entrance. In West Yellowstone, the 1872 Inn and the Golden Stone Inn are top-rated. If you're coming from the north entrance in Gardiner, Montana, Park Hotel Yellowstone and Yellowstone Gateway Inn have great reviews. And if you're coming from the northeast, consider the Skyline Guest Ranch or Alpine Motel in Cooke City.

Soak in one of the state's many hot springs

Courtesy of Noah Couser Photography

The Treasure State is home to dozens of hot springs perfect for a relaxing soak. One of the top options is Quinn's Hot Springs Resort in Paradise, Montana, which is about 70 miles northeast of Missoula. At this resort, you can take a dip in five natural hot spring pools and stay overnight in one of the cabins or lodges. Past guests called the resort a relaxing experience, with some making repeat visits.

If you enjoy a hot dip but also appreciate a cold plunge, pay a visit to Yellowstone Hot Springs, which you'll find near Gardiner, less than 10 miles from Yellowstone National Park's north entrance. Here, you'll enjoy the best of both worlds. These springs are considered "flow through," meaning the water is constantly flowing from the earth. No matter what time of day you visit, you'll know you're soaking in the freshest mineral water.

You can bed down at the Park Hotel Yellowstone or glamp at the Dreamcatcher Tipi Hotel just north of Gardiner. Other favorite hot springs to visit in the state include the Chico Hot Springs, Bozeman Hot Springs and Norris Hot Springs.

Museum of the Rockies: Bozeman

Courtesy of Museum of the Rockies

The Smithsonian affiliate museum offers an incredible array of exhibits. For starters, it has one of the world's largest collections of North American dinosaur fossils, including T-Rex, one of very few mounted Tyrannosaurus rex skeletons on display in the U.S. The Museum of the Rockies also displays exhibits about the history of Yellowstone National Park and the Indigenous peoples who lived on the Northern Plains and near the Rocky Mountains, among other topics. Several programs are dedicated to introducing children of all ages to science, history and art.

Every year, the museum showcases new temporary exhibitions, so there is always something new to see. You'll also find a planetarium, where you can watch shows about the cosmos. Past visitors call out the dinosaur fossil collection, in particular, as a major draw. If you're looking for accommodations in Bozeman, consider staying at the RSVP Hotel or the SpringHill Suites Bozeman .

Address: 600 W. Kagy Blvd., Bozeman, MT 59717

Dig for dinosaurs and more on the Dinosaur Trail

Consisting of 14 different sites, the Montana Dinosaur Trail gives visitors a chance to step back into prehistoric times. The state is home to some key paleontological finds, and the stops along the trail include destinations with activities, programs and extensive exhibits of fossils, dinosaur skeletons or paleontology displays. You'll also find dig sites where visitors can dig for dinosaurs alongside paleontologists. You never know what might be unearthed, as paleontologists recently discovered the Lokiceratops – a new species of horned dinosaur – in northern Montana.

If you're planning to visit all 14 sites, the Montana Dinosaur Trail Prehistoric Passport lets you get a stamp at each stop. It has space for field notes and provides more information about each of the places to go.

World Museum of Mining: Butte

Josie Trudgeon | Courtesy of World Museum of Mining

This is one of the few mining museums in the world located on an actual mine yard, called the Orphan Girl Mine. It's home to 50 exhibit buildings and 66 primary exhibits in the mine yard itself. With a visit here, you'll learn about the history of hard-rock mining in Butte, which was home to one of the most productive copper mines ever. Take an underground mine tour of Orphan Girl, which includes a 100-foot descent to the mine's original shaft station. You'll be able to touch the rock and hear stories about the people who worked there.

Past visitors highly recommend the mine tour and praise the tour guides' knowledge and presentation. Reviewers also say you'll want to bring a jacket, because the museum is primarily outdoors and the mine is chilly year-round. When it's time to bed down, some of the best-ranked accommodations in Butte include the Copper King Convention Center, Ascend Hotel Collection and the Hampton Inn Butte.

Address: 155 Museum Way, Butte, MT 59701

Visit the Bison Range

Set on more than 18,700 acres of wildlife conservation land on the Flathead Indian Reservation, the Bison Range was restored to be managed by the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes in 2022. It's home to roughly 350 bison as well as around 200 species of birds; you can also see bears, bighorn sheep, deer, elk, mountain lions, pronghorn and more. Explore this day park by walking its nature trails or venturing on one of its two drives. Parkgoers must purchase a day pass at the visitor center and keep a safe distance from wildlife at all times (bear spray is recommended).

Address: 58355 Bison Range Road, Charlo, MT 59824

Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center: Great Falls

The Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center offers a look into the history of the famous 19th-century expedition, with a focus on the Corp of Discovery: President Jefferson's special team of explorers led by Captain Meriwether Lewis and Second Lieutenant William Clark, during their time in Montana. The museum – created in collaboration with the U.S. Forest Service – features exhibits with hundreds of artifacts and art collections that collectively tell the story of the explorers' journey and the Native Americans they met along the way.

Past visitors say that even for travelers who know the basics of the story of the Lewis and Clark expedition, there's a lot more to learn. Others highlight that it's a family-friendly activity. If you're planning to stay in Great Falls, consider a stay at the Historic Hotel Arvon or the Best Western Plus Riverfront Hotel and Suites.

Address: 4201 Giant Springs Road, Great Falls, MT 59405

Learn about the cattle industry at Grant-Kohrs Ranch

Originally established in 1862 by Canadian fur trader John Grant, then expanded by cattle baron Conrad Kohrs, this ranch was once the headquarters of a 10 million-acre cattle empire. Now a historic site, the ranch serves as a commemoration of the Western cattle industry from the mid-1800s through recent times. It's also still a working cattle ranch, so travelers can witness some live demonstrations. Walk through dozens of historic buildings, hike nearly 10 miles of ranch roads and trails, and take a tour of the ranch house.

Grant-Kohrs Ranch National Historic Site is located in Deer Lodge, which sits 40 miles northwest of Butte. Many travelers say they stopped by the ranch on their way to somewhere else and describe the historic site as a worthy detour.

Address: 266 Warren Lane, Deer Lodge, MT 59722

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Enjoy a luxury all-inclusive dude ranch experience

Courtesy of The Resort at Paws Up

Montana is home to a number of all-inclusive dude ranches , where travelers can experience Western culture (think: horseback rides, nightly campfires and fly-fishing) in a luxurious setting. The Resort at Paws Up , located about 30 miles northeast of Missoula in Greenough, is home to 28 luxury vacation homes and dozens of glamping tents and cabins. The resort offers more than 70 activities for travelers to enjoy on its 37,000-acre cattle ranch, including backcountry tours, canoeing, dog-sledding, fly-fishing, geocaching, snowshoeing, horse-drawn carriage rides and more.

The rate includes all meals and more than a dozen activities that can be enjoyed solo. There are also 50-plus guided activities for an additional charge. Travelers describe the resort as beautiful and intimate and say staying here is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Other top-rated all-inclusive dude ranches in Montana include the Ranch at Rock Creek , Blacktail Ranch, the Hawley Mountain Guest Ranch and Elkhorn Ranch.

Address: 40060 Paws Up Road, Greenough, MT 59823

Explore Montana's state parks

While the state is known for its national parks, Montana's state parks offer much to be explored along with less crowds. Makoshika State Park is the largest state park in Montana, with plenty of fossil remains and badland formations to explore. Take in the natural beauty on a drive or hike the park's many trails – and be sure to stop by the visitor center to see triceratops and Tyrannosaurus rex fossils.

Geological wonders await at Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park, where visitors can hike, camp and take a tour of the limestone caves. At Bannack State Park, step back in time and explore the state's best preserved ghost town. There are more than 50 buildings along the Main Street, and tours are held from Memorial Day to Labor Day. For a unique camping experience, rent the park's conical tent along Grasshopper Creek.

Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument

Located in south-central Montana, Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument memorializes the Battle of Little Bighorn, which is also known as Custer's Last Stand. The battle was between the U.S. Army and the Lakota Sioux, Northern Cheyenne and Arapaho tribes. The monument includes a visitor center, a museum, a bookstore, the Indian Memorial and Fort Custer National Cemetery, where you can view artifacts and learn about the battle and some of the prominent people who fought there. You'll also discover what life was like for Native Americans on the plains.

Take a 4.5-mile self-guided tour between two battlefields, the Custer Battlefield and the Reno-Benteen Battlefield, with parking lots at each site. Travelers describe visiting the monument as a solemn experience, but also an important one to learn the real history of the events that took place here. The nearest major city to the national monument is Billings, which is around 60 miles northwest.

Address: 756 Battlefield Tour Road, Crow Agency, MT 59022

Relax in the Garden of One Thousand Buddhas

It's not where you'd expect to find a shrine to the Buddha, but the Flathead Indian Reservation just north of Arlee, Montana, is home to the Garden of One Thousand Buddhas. This botanical garden and public park features 1,000 hand-cast Buddha statues, all arranged around the central figure of the Great Mother, or Yum Chenmo, who is the manifestation of the perfection of wisdom. The builders of the shrine hoped those who visit would feel an atmosphere of serenity and compassion.

The garden, filled with native trees and flowers, only adds to the ambience. That's exactly what past travelers say they experienced here. Located in western Montana, Arlee sits just about 25 miles north of Missoula.

Address: 34756 White Coyote Road, Arlee, MT 59821

Ski at Big Sky Resort

Courtesy of Big Sky Resort

Considered one of the top ski vacations in the U.S. , Big Sky Resort is home to 5,850 skiable acres and 39 chairlifts. There are runs for skiers of all experience levels, including a 2,142-foot vertical ride up to Lone Peak, giving seasoned skiers an experience similar to heli-skiing. After you're done skiing for the day, hit the spa or one of the many restaurants for après-ski or dinner. There are also a handful of retailers if you want to upgrade your ski uniform. Other winter activities include cross-country skiing, zip lining, snowshoeing, dog-sledding, sleigh riding and more.

During the summer months, the resort remains open with a variety of outdoor activities, such as golfing, zip lining, hiking, disc golf, whitewater rafting and more. Vacationers talk up the resort's beautiful setting, both in the winter and the summer. If you're staying at the resort, there are four hotels and a variety of vacation rentals to choose from. There's also the family- and pet-friendly Whitewater Inn, which is a short drive from the resort.

Address: 50 Big Sky Resort Road, Big Sky, MT 59716

Admire rock paintings at Pictograph Cave State Park

Andy Austin | Courtesy of Pictograph Cave State Park

Within Billings city limits, Pictograph Cave State Park is an area with three caves where generations of prehistoric hunters made their mark. They left behind artifacts and more than 100 rock paintings, or pictographs. The oldest painting dates back more than 2,000 years, while the most recent are from 200 to 500 years ago. To reach the caves, there's a loop trail of less than a mile with displays providing more information about the pictographs, as well as the vegetation and natural features of the area.

Check out the visitor center to see some of the artifacts collected from the caves. The deepest of the three caves, Pictograph Cave, is roughly 160 feet wide and 45 feet deep. Some visitors describe the pictographs as a bit too faded to see clearly, but bringing a pair of binoculars may help with that concern. Others warn that there's a steep climb to Pictograph Cave that may not be suitable for small children and casual hikers.

Address: 3401 Coburn Road, Billing, MT 59101

Discover Montana mining history in a ghost town

Ever wonder why Montana is called the Treasure State? Gold mining was what drew people to permanently settle in Montana about 50 years after the Lewis and Clark expedition. Following a big gold discovery in 1858, miners flocked to Montana. Today the state is rich with historical sites that offer a glimpse into this vibrant past. Garnet Ghost Town, located about 30 miles east of Missoula, is one of Montana's best-preserved ghost towns. Visitors can explore more than 30 buildings, including a saloon, a hotel and various homes, all offering a window into the gold rush era of the late 19th century.

Similarly, Virginia City Ghost Town, situated in the southwestern part of the state about 75 miles south of Butte, transports visitors back to the 1800s. With 100 original buildings, an opportunity to pan for gold and a cast of living history interpreters, Virginia City offers a lively and immersive experience. Both Garnet and Virginia City Ghost Towns (among several others) provide unique opportunities to step back in time and experience Montana's rich mining heritage. Garnet Ghost Town is open year-round, while Virginia City Ghost Town is open between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Check each individual ghost town's website for their hours of operation.

See 'Yellowstone' TV series filming locations

If watching the Duttons (and those gorgeous panoramic backdrops) on the TV show "Yellowstone" has you yearning for Montana, head to western part of the state. Despite the show's name, it's not filmed in or near the national park, but rather in the scenic Bitterroot Valley. This area is home to authentic cowboy culture and charming small towns like Darby, where you can walk along the wooden sidewalks to a local brewery, an old-fashioned candy store or even a custom cowboy hat shop.

Fans of the show's prequel "1883" will want to stop at the Darby Pioneer Memorial Museum. Take a drive a few miles south of Darby along U.S. Route 93 past the Dutton Ranch (which, in real life, is called the Chief Joseph Ranch and is located on private property), and see the show's "Train Station" located at a highway turnout – Sula Peak Road 5727. From there, check out the Montana Livestock Association in downtown Hamilton, and order the "Yellowstone" Salisbury steak special at Glen's Cafe in Florence. Or, if you want to see where the famous shootout scene took place, stop by Ruby's Cafe for a burger and fries.

In Missoula, you can see the Garlington Building, the filming site of Beth's Market Equities office and Jamie's attorney general's office, and head across the street for a self-guided tour of the Missoula County Courthouse, where the trial was filmed. For accommodations after seeing all these sights, the Bitterroot River Ranch in Darby is an all-season B&B set within a log home. Located around 5 miles from the Dutton Ranch filming site, this ranch is an ideal setting for "Yellowstone" fans.

Marvel at the Ringing Rocks in Whitehall

David Abrams | Courtesy of Western Montana BLM

Less than 20 miles east of Butte is a unique geological area where the rocks actually chime with the light tap of a hammer. Experts believe that this phenomenon was caused by a combination of the rocks' composition and the joining patterns that have developed during the natural course of erosion – if one of the boulders is removed from the pile, it no longer rings.

Some visitors note that the road leading to the rocks can be tough on smaller vehicles without four-wheel drive. There may also be a hike, depending on where you stop your car. Reviewers say that there are hammers near the entrance, so you don't have to worry about buying one at the local hardware store before you go. Aside from Montana, you'll find a similar experience at Ringing Rocks Park in Pennsylvania, one of the state's most unique attractions .

C.M. Russell Museum: Great Falls

Courtesy of C.M. Russell Museum

Charles Marion Russell was an American artist whose works centered on the Old West. His artwork, which includes paintings, sculptures and drawings, portrays the daily life of cowboys and Native Americans, as well as the landscapes of Big Sky Country, through the lens of his personal experiences. Russell's home, which was built in 1900 – along with his log studio, built three years later – reopened in 2019 with new interactive exhibits that give visitors a deeper understanding into the artist and his life at home.

The C.M. Russell Museum contains more than 3,000 works of Western art across 16 galleries, an outdoor sculpture garden and a research center. Many visitors are impressed with the sheer volume of work showcased here, saying it gives you the feeling of stepping back in time to the artist's life.

Address: 400 13th St. N., Great Falls, MT 59401

Discover the destructive power of nature at Quake Lake

Roughly 25 miles northwest of West Yellowstone is Earthquake Lake, called Quake Lake for short. The lake was formed in 1959 when an earthquake rocked an area near the Madison River. The seismic activity created a landslide of roughly 80 million tons of rock, halting the water flow in the Madison River Canyon gorge. Tragically, 28 people were killed as a result of the landslide. The 7.2 magnitude earthquake was so devastating that it altered the geyser patterns in Yellowstone National Park and was felt as far away as Salt Lake City , which is 330 miles away.

Today, Quake Lake is a popular fishing spot, with authorities stocking it each year with brown and cutthroat trout. Just watch out for the timbers below the surface that were brought down in the landslide.

Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center: West Yellowstone

Located in West Yellowstone, the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center opened in 1993 with the mission to give visitors a better understanding and appreciation of grizzly bears. The center acts as a sanctuary for bears, wolves, otters, birds of prey and ground squirrels that are unable to live in the wild for one reason or another. Visitors will not only get the chance to see some of the wildlife housed at the center, but you'll also be able to learn about the animals through interactive exhibits, films, displays and demonstrations.

The Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center is a good stop to begin or end a trip to Yellowstone National Park. The center is highly recommended by travelers, with some saying it's worth a visit even if you only have a little time to spare. Others say that it can be a great way to get close to the wildlife if you didn't get that opportunity in the national park.

Address: 201 S. Canyon St., West Yellowstone, MT 59758

Enjoy a craft brew with a view

Courtesy of Flathead Lake Brewing Company

Montana has plenty to be proud of when it comes to its craft beer scene. The views of lakes, rivers and mountain ranges complement the hops to create the perfect pairings. With nearly 100 craft breweries, Montana is ranked No. 3 in the U.S. for breweries per capita. At Flathead Lake Brewing Company in Bigfork, choose from 16 beers on tap and enjoy them on the outdoor patio overlooking the nearly 28-mile-long lake of the same name. MAP Brewing Company in Bozeman takes ambience to a whole new level, often offering live music along with its brews and views. Its location on the shore of Glen Lake in the foothills of the Bridger Mountains makes it the perfect place to unwind after a day of outdoor adventure.

If you enjoy the sound of a babbling brook, you'll want to check out Tamarack Brewing Co. in Lakeside. And if a cider is more your speed, Western Cider's patio on the banks of the Clark Fork River won't disappoint. Wherever you go, there are a few things all visitors should know about Montana's taproom laws. Breweries are only to stay open until 9 p.m., with the last call at 8 p.m. When the bartender cuts you off after three pints, don't take it personally: They're only allowed to serve 48 ounces per person per day. They'll be happy to serve you again tomorrow.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Kelsey J. Lawrence is a freelance writer and award-winning journalist with a passion for outdoor adventure and family travel. She splits her time between Tennessee and Montana, finding her greatest joy in the mountains. She enjoys hiking, biking and camping – all with her toddler in tow. She is the author behind Adventure Baby, a blog designed to encourage first-time parents to keep traveling and exploring the great outdoors with their new sidekicks.

You might also be interested in:

• Amazing Montana Vacations
• The Top Ski Resorts in Montana
• The Best U.S. National Parks
• The Best Places to Hike in the U.S.
• The Best Places for National Park Camping

Tags: Travel , Montana Vacations , U.S. West Vacations

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