If you’re seeking a destination that combines breathtaking natural landscapes, outdoor adventures, and charming small-town vibes, Montana should top your travel list. Our weeklong trip to Whitefish, Glacier National Park, and Missoula was unforgettable. Here’s my detailed Montana travel diary, complete with recommendations to help you plan your own Montana adventure.
Day 1: Travel Day – Missoula to Whitefish
We began our trip with a flight into Missoula, connecting through Denver. After landing in Missoula mid-afternoon, we picked up our rental car and hit the road for the scenic 2.5-hour drive to Whitefish.
The journey itself was part of the adventure. Towering mountains, lush forests, and cherry orchard lined roads surrounded us as we made our way north. By the time we arrived in Whitefish, we were eager to unwind. We checked into the Firebrand Hotel, a stylish and cozy retreat perfectly situated in the heart of town. After a delicious dinner at Abruzzo Italian Kitchen and a stroll downtown, we turned in early to prepare for the exciting days ahead.
Day 2: Adventures in Whitefish
The next morning, we fueled up with breakfast at Loula’s Cafe, a local gem famous for its huckleberry pancakes and hearty omelets.
The top recommendation was to spend a day at Flathead Lake, the largest natural freshwater lake in the western United States.
Flathead Lake is stunning, with crystal-clear water and picturesque mountain backdrops. You can rent a boat through Boatsetter, spending the day cruising the lake, fishing, and exploring Wild Horse Island, a state park accessible only by boat.
For lunch, you can dock near Flathead Lake Brewing Co., and enjoy craft beers and a casual meal overlooking the water. The brewery’s outdoor seating area is the perfect spot to soak in the view while sipping on locally brewed IPAs.
Although we’d initially planned to go whitewater rafting or horseback riding in the afternoon, we opted for a relaxed evening Downtown instead, grabbing drinks at Blackstar Brew Pub and dinner at Mackenzie’s River Pizzo Co.
Day 3: Glacier National Park – A Day to Remember
We dedicated the third day to Glacier National Park, a bucket-list destination that exceeded every expectation. We arrived early, entering the park through the West Entrance to drive the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road.
The road is one of the most scenic drives in the world, with breathtaking views at every turn. Our first stop was Apgar Village, where we grabbed snacks and admired the stunning reflection of the mountains in Lake McDonald.
While we had initially planned to hike the Hidden Lake Trail, heavy snow made it inaccessible. Instead, we opted for the Avalanche Lake Trail, a moderate hike through lush forest and along glacial streams. The trail culminated at Avalanche Lake, a pristine alpine lake framed by cascading waterfalls—a sight straight out of a postcard.
Another highlight was walking along parts of the Going-to-the-Sun Road, which were still closed to vehicles due to snow. The lack of cars made for a peaceful experience, allowing us to fully appreciate the towering peaks and serene atmosphere.
Our favorite part of the day, though, was renting a boat on Lake McDonald. Cruising across the glacial-fed lake, we marveled at the turquoise waters and towering mountains. The view of the glaciers in the distance from the middle of the lake was unforgettable. We even cast our lines and tried our hand at fishing in the creeks that feed into the lake—a serene way to connect with the park’s beauty.
For dinner, we opted for Indah Sushi in Downtown Whitefish, a quaint spot offering delicious sushi.
Day 4: A Relaxed Day in Whitefish
We started the day with a hearty breakfast at Buffalo Cafe. After two days of adventure, we decided to slow things down, spending the morning fly fishing in a nearby creek, enjoying the solitude and tranquility of Montana’s rivers. We hung out at Blackstar Brew Pub in the afternoon.
For dinner, we headed to Jalisco Cantina, a fantastic spot in Whitefish that offers creative takes on Mexican cuisine. Their tacos were flavorful, and the margaritas were the perfect way to toast to a relaxing day. Our Tex-Mex loving bellies thoroughly enjoyed this meal!
Day 5: From Whitefish to Missoula
It was time to say goodbye to Whitefish as we packed up and headed to Missoula. Along the way, we stopped at the Bison Range, a 19,000-acre wildlife refuge on Flathead Reservation that gave us a close look at bison, elk, and deer. The self-guided drive through the refuge offered sweeping views of the landscape, and we even spotted a herd of bison, deer, and other critters.
After checking into the Residence Inn by Marriott Missoula, we treated ourselves to an afternoon at Quinn’s Hot Springs, about an hour from Missoula. The natural mineral pools, surrounded by mountain views, were incredibly rejuvenating. Whether you prefer the warm soak of a hot spring or the refreshing dip of a cooler pool, Quinn’s has options for everyone.
Day 6: Exploring Missoula
We dedicated this day to fly fishing, exploring the Bitterroot River and Clark Fork River, both known for their excellent trout fishing.
In the evening, we joined friends at Highlander Beer Co., a brewery with a lively outdoor space and great beer. The atmosphere was relaxed and inviting—a perfect way to end the day.
Day 7: Hiking, Markets, and a Wedding
A must when visiting Missoula is to hike The “M”, a steep but rewarding trail that offers panoramic views of Missoula and the surrounding valley. It’s a short but challenging trek.
We visited the Missoula Farmers’ Market, a bustling hub of local vendors offering everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. The energy of the market, combined with the friendliness of the locals, made it a delightful experience. We grabbed a delicious riverfront brunch at Finn.
The day culminated in a beautiful wedding celebration, which was the primary reason and perfect bookend to our Montana trip!
Day 8: Heading Home
On our last morning in Missoula, we took one final stroll downtown, grabbing breakfast at Tres Bonne, before packing up for the journey home. With a little time to kill, we decided to go for a drive to Kettlehouse Brewing Company, a great spot to enjoy local brews, board games, and unbelievable views. The flight back was bittersweet—we were leaving behind the natural beauty of Montana but taking with us countless memories of an unforgettable trip.
Tips for Your Montana Adventure
- Plan for the weather: Glacier National Park’s trails can still be snowy well into late spring, so pack layers and waterproof gear.
- Book ahead: Whether it’s lodging or tickets for attractions like Going-to-the-Sun Road, early reservations are essential.
- Take your time: Montana’s beauty lies in the journey, not just the destination. Leave room in your schedule to explore at your own pace.
- Try new activities: From fly fishing to hot springs, Montana offers unique experiences you won’t want to miss.
Other Montana Destinations to Consider
While we chose to start our adventure in Whitefish to explore Glacier National Park, Montana offers plenty of other incredible destinations within driving distance from Missoula. Bozeman, located about 3 hours away, is a vibrant city known for its outdoor recreation, museums, and thriving food scene. Big Sky, 3.5 hours from Missoula, is a premier destination for skiing in the winter and hiking in the summer, with stunning mountain vistas year-round. For a shorter trip, Flathead Lake is just an hour away, offering water activities and scenic views. Each destination has its own unique charm and outdoor attractions, making Montana a place you can visit again and again without running out of adventures.
Montana’s blend of rugged wilderness, charming towns, and warm hospitality made this trip truly special. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer adventure, I hope this guide inspires you to explore the wonders of Big Sky Country.
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