Northwestern Montana Travel Guide

Explore the best of Northwestern Montana with our comprehensive travel guide, featuring must-visit places, activities, safety measures, and more.


Introduction to Northwestern Montana

Located in the Rocky Mountains of the United States, Northwestern Montana is a breathtakingly beautiful region known for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and engaging outdoor activities. The region is home to stunning national parks, jaw-dropping mountain ranges, and an abundance of wildlife making it an ideal destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and outdoor enthusiasts.

List of Places to Visit in Northwestern Montana

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Montana Historical Society Museum - This museum is dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of Montana and is home to a vast collection of artifacts, exhibits, and photographs.
  • Miracle of America Museum - This unique museum is located in Polson and features more than 100,000 artifacts that showcase the history of America.
  • Flathead County Historical Museum - This museum is located in Kalispell and offers an in-depth look at the history of Flathead County.

Natural Attractions of Northwestern Montana: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Glacier National Park - This stunning national park is home to 700 miles of trails that offer breathtaking views of glaciers, mountains, and wildlife.
  • Flathead Lake - Flathead Lake is the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi, and the scenic views around the lake are simply breathtaking.
  • Kootenai National Forest - Kootenai National Forest is a beautiful destination for hiking, fishing, and camping.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Northwestern Montana

Northwestern Montana is a haven for hiking and biking enthusiasts, with numerous trails that span across the region. Some of the popular hiking and biking routes include:

  • The Highline Trail
  • Avalanche Lake Trail
  • Going-to-the-Sun Road

Best Things to Do in Northwestern Montana: Activities and Tours

  • Whitewater Rafting - Northwestern Montana is home to numerous streams and rivers that offer whitewater rafting adventures.
  • Horseback Riding - Horseback riding through the mountains is one of the best ways to explore the natural beauty of the region.
  • Zip-lining - Soar through the mountains and take in the stunning views of the Rocky Mountains from above.

Week-Long Itinerary for Northwestern Montana

Day 1: Arrival in Kalispell Day 2-3: Explore Glacier National Park Day 4: Visit Flathead Lake Day 5: Go Whitewater Rafting Day 6: Horseback Riding Adventure Day 7: Zip-lining Adventure

Food and Drink Scene of Northwestern Montana

Must-Try Dishes

  • Huckleberry Jam
  • Bison Burger
  • Fresh Trout

Local Beverages

  • Huckleberry Wine
  • Micro-brewed Beer
  • Montana Whiskey

Where to Stay in Northwestern Montana: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Belton Chalet - Located just outside Glacier National Park, this historic chalet is a luxury retreat amidst stunning natural beauty.
  • Swan River Inn - This charming inn, located in Bigfork, offers serene views of the surrounding Rocky Mountains.
  • Red Lion Ridgewater Inn - Located in Polson, this hotel is situated by the gorgeous Flathead Lake and offers numerous amenities.

What to Buy in Northwestern Montana: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Huckleberry Jam
  • Native American Art
  • Handcrafted Jewelry

Local Culture and Customs of Northwestern Montana

Northwestern Montana has a rich cultural heritage, which is influenced primarily by the Native American tribes that have lived in the area for thousands of years. Visitors to the region are encouraged to learn about the local customs and traditions and respect them during their stay.

Best Time to Visit Northwestern Montana

The best time to visit Northwestern Montana is during the summer months, between June and September, when the weather is warm and the region’s natural beauty is at its peak.

Do’s and Don’ts of Northwestern Montana

Do:

  • Respect the natural beauty of the region
  • Research the local customs and traditions before your trip
  • Carry bear spray with you when hiking

Don’t:

  • Litter or harm the environment in any way
  • Disrespect the local culture and customs
  • Approach wildlife in the region

Safety and Health

Safety in Northwestern Montana

While Northwestern Montana is a safe destination to visit and explore, visitors are encouraged to be aware of potential dangers, such as wildlife encounters and unpredictable weather.

Health in Northwestern Montana

Visitors to Northwestern Montana should ensure they stay hydrated and protect themselves from the sun when spending time outdoors. Additionally, visitors should be prepared for the high altitude, which can cause altitude sickness in some people.

Getting to Northwestern Montana: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Northwestern Montana

  • Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) - located in Kalispell, is the nearest airport to Northwestern Montana.

Bus Stations Near Northwestern Montana

  • Greyhound Bus Station - located in Kalispell
  • Glacier Park Bus Lines - offering transportation to and from Glacier National Park

Other Options

  • Car Rentals - Renting a car is a great way to explore Northwestern Montana at your pace. Car rental options are available at the Glacier Park International Airport.

How to Get Around in Northwestern Montana

The best way to get around Northwestern Montana is by renting a car. Alternatively, visitors can explore the region by utilizing the shuttle service provided by local tour operators.

Where to Go Next from Northwestern Montana: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Yellowstone National Park
  • Banff National Park
  • Grand Teton National Park

Conclusion

Northwestern Montana is a stunningly beautiful and vibrant region that offers visitors a unique mix of outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and natural beauty. Whether you’re looking to hike through the mountains, explore the local culture, or simply relax by the lake, Northwestern Montana has something for everyone. With our comprehensive travel guide, you’re sure to have an unforgettable trip to this incredible destination.

St. Mary Lake, Glacier National Park. St. Mary Lake, Glacier National Park. Downtown Missoula Downtown Missoula Horses on the road in Glacier National Park Horses on the road in Glacier National Park


    Babb
    Bigfork
    Glacier National Park
    Hamilton
    Polebridge
    Polson
    Seeley Lake
    Thompson Falls
    Troy