Northwestern Montana is a land of many wonders, from scores of lakes to scenic farmland to huge, muscular mountains that beckon with hiking trails and ski runs.
The area is easily drivable, with roads in great condition and non-existent traffic. No matter your route, you’ll hit charming small towns and pass loads of incredible scenery. There’s a lot to see and do here, so here are a few must-hit spots to help narrow it down:
Whitefish, Mont.
With its historic downtown of great restaurants and worthwhile shops, Whitefish is an ideal place to hang out for an afternoon. If you’re here in summer, head to Whitefish Lake, a scenic spot with a swimming beach and stand-up paddleboard rentals.

Glacier Country, Montana © Martin Molcan | Dreamstime
Glacier National Park
Drive the famed Going to the Sun Road, stopping at scenic viewpoints to gaze at glacially sculpted mountains. Keep an eye out for bears, bighorn sheep and mountain goats.
Garnet
An incredibly well-preserved ghost town about 45 minutes from Missoula. It’s now a protected park, with walking maps and a visitor center.
Flathead Lake
The huge lake is surrounded by welcoming towns like Bigfork and Lakeside, plus numerous farms with roadside stands.
Read This Next
What to Expect if You’ve Never Been to a Buc-ee’s
Tips / Destination
Oct 23, 2024#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedHotel
Apr 24, 2025Arapaho Valley Ranch Redefines Colorado Glamping with New Experiences
This year, Arapaho Valley Ranch, a glamping destination in Colorado’s Grand County, celebrates its 80th anniversary. The ranch started as a dude ranch and later turned to a guest ranch and private home before being purchased by Tiehen Group to become the glamping destination it is today.
Sponsored Content
Madrid: The Charm of an Authentic City
They say Madrid is in vogue for many reasons: its lifestyle, its heritage, its cuisine and all of its new attractions. And it’s true, because Madrid is on the radar of travelers looking for a cutting-edge destination that still holds onto its essence. Join us as we explore its charms.
Hotel
Apr 24, 2025Hilton Anaheim Introduces Hansen’s Market
Orange County, California’s, largest hotel, Hilton Anaheim, recently unveiled Hansen’s Market, a curated, premium convenience store to offer guests fresh, high-quality food and locally sourced specialties. The market is named for Anaheim’s founder, George Hansen.
Destinations / North America
Apr 23, 2025Where to Find Responsible Wildlife Tourism Around the United States
While wildlife tourism in general often gets a bad rap, there are places around the country where you can experience wildlife tourism in a responsible, sustainable manner.
Sponsored Content
AmaWaterways’ Specialty River Cruises
When you embark on a river cruise with award-winning AmaWaterways, unpack once and step aboard a world of unparalleled experiences. With enriching excursions, exquisite locally sourced food and wine, nightly entertainment and more included in the fare, you will learn why AmaWaterways has the most returning guests out of any river cruise line.
Hotel
Apr 23, 2025Flamingo Resort & Spa to Join Tapestry Collection by Hilton
Flamingo Resort & Spa, in Santa Rosa, California, recently announced it will join the Tapestry Collection by Hilton this spring. Tapestry Collection is a portfolio of unique upscale hotels known for style and character. With this transition, the 170-room resort will also allow guests to earn and redeem points within the Hilton Honors loyalty program.
ShareThis