Montana is a top destination for a memorable road trip because of its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and endless outdoor adventure. Montana is also known as “Big Sky Country,” it is blessed with pristine national parks, vibrant towns, and iconic scenic routes.
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Montana Itinerary – Road Trip to Montana
Read this blog on Montana vacation itinerary with a detailed Montana road trip itinerary with routes, things to do, places to stay, and tips to make the most of your journey.
Starting Point: Billings, Montana
Billings, Montana’s largest city, serves as a gateway to several national parks and is well-connected with a regional airport. It’s filled with cultural landmarks and close to the famous Beartooth Highway.
Things to Do in Billings:
- Visit Pictograph Cave State Park: Explore ancient pictographs in this historic park. The 2,000-year-old rock art tells the story of Montana’s early inhabitants.
- Yellowstone Art Museum: Experience Montana’s art and culture at this prominent museum that showcases contemporary and Western art.
Scenic Route to Take: From Billings, take I-90 towards Red Lodge, then take US-212 to reach the Beartooth Highway.
Overnight Stay: Northern Hotel for its modern comfort and convenient location in downtown Billings.
Day 1: Beartooth Highway and Red Lodge
The Beartooth Highway is one of the most scenic drives in the U.S., with towering mountains, sparkling alpine lakes, and panoramic views.
Things to Do:
- Drive the Beartooth Highway: This 68-mile highway twists and turns through the Absaroka and Beartooth Mountains, reaching an elevation of 10,947 feet. It’s a photographer’s dream, with views of snow-capped peaks, wildflowers, and pristine lakes.
- Explore Red Lodge: This charming mountain town has Western charm, quaint shops, and local eateries.
Overnight Stay: Rock Creek Resort lies within a mountain stream and therefore, a cozy retreat perfect for relaxing after a day of driving.
Must-Do Tour: Consider a guided nature tour to spot Montana’s unique wildlife and learn about the region’s ecology.
Day 2: Red Lodge to Bozeman
Distance: 127 miles (approx. 2.5 hours)
Bozeman is a lively town known for its outdoor activities, vibrant art scene, and proximity to Yellowstone National Park.
Things to Do:
- Museum of the Rockies: Home to one of the largest dinosaur collections in the world, this museum provides a fascinating journey through Montana’s prehistoric past.
- Bozeman Hot Springs: After exploring, unwind in a natural hot springs known for its soothing mineral waters.
Scenic Route to Take: Take MT-78 S and I-90 W towards Bozeman. This route showcases views of mountains, grasslands, and beautiful rivers.
Overnight Stay: Kimpton Armory Hotel – With a mix of historic charm and modern luxury, it’s one of Bozeman’s best mid-range stays.
Must-Do Activity: Book a fly-fishing lesson on the Gallatin River, known for its abundance of trout and tranquil scenery.
Day 3: Bozeman to Yellowstone National Park (North Entrance)
Distance: 80 miles (approx. 1.5 hours)
Yellowstone is America’s first national park, filled with geothermal wonders, wildlife, and stunning landscapes.
- Mammoth Hot Springs: Wander through limestone terraces and enjoy views of unique hot springs formations.
- Lamar Valley: Known as the “Serengeti of North America,” it’s a fantastic place to spot bison, wolves, elk, and more.
Scenic Route to Take: From Bozeman, drive south on US-191 to Gardiner, the park’s north entrance. This route winds along the Gallatin River and offers stunning views of lush forests and mountains.
Overnight Stay: Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel & Cabins – Located within Yellowstone, this historic hotel provides easy access to park attractions.
Must-Do Tour: Opt for a guided wildlife safari tour in the Lamar Valley to enhance your wildlife-watching experience.
Day 4: Yellowstone to Missoula via Big Sky and Ennis
Distance: 270 miles (approx. 5 hours)
On this road trip to Montana, you can see Montana’s diverse landscapes, from rugged mountains to rolling plains.
Things to Do:
- Big Sky Resort: If you’re a fan of outdoor adventures, stop by Big Sky for a scenic chairlift ride, mountain biking, or hiking trails with epic views.
- Ennis: This small fishing town offers picturesque views along the Madison River and is famous for trout fishing.
Scenic Route to Take: Take US-287 and MT-41 north, passing through the lush Madison Valley and scenic plains toward Missoula.
Overnight Stay: AC Hotel Missoula Downtown – A chic and comfortable option with a central location, perfect for exploring Missoula’s vibrant downtown.
Must-Do Activity: Go fly-fishing in the Madison River, known as one of the best fly-fishing spots in the country.
Day 5: Exploring Missoula and Nearby Hot Springs
Missoula offers a mix of outdoor adventure, vibrant arts, and culinary scenes.
Things to Do:
- Clark Fork River Market: Visit this famous farmer’s market and try local products while enjoying the lively community atmosphere.
- Lolo Hot Springs: Located 30 miles from Missoula, these hot springs are a perfect way to relax and enjoy Montana’s natural beauty.
Overnight Stay: Gibson Mansion Bed and Breakfast – A unique stay in a Victorian-style mansion with cozy rooms and beautiful gardens.
Must-Do Tour: Book a river rafting trip on the Clark Fork River for an adventurous experience of Montana’s wilderness.
Day 6: Missoula to Glacier National Park
Distance: 140 miles (approx. 2.5 hours)
Why It’s Worth Visiting: Glacier National Park is a crown jewel of the U.S. National Park System, with its rugged mountains, glaciers, and wildlife.
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Things to Do in Glacier:
- Going-to-the-Sun Road: This iconic drive offers incredible vistas, waterfalls, and mountain views.
- Lake McDonald: Take a kayak or paddleboard out on crystal-clear waters for a peaceful afternoon.
Scenic Route to Take: Drive north on US-93 and MT-35, enjoying views of Flathead Lake.
Overnight Stay: Lake McDonald Lodge is within the park. It’s a historic lodge with easy access to the park’s top attractions.
Must-Do Tour: Book a Red Bus Tour along the Going-to-the-Sun Road for a guided experience of Glacier’s iconic sights.
Day 7: Exploring Glacier National Park and Return to Billings
Why It’s Worth Visiting: Glacier’s varied hiking trails, like Avalanche Lake and Hidden Lake, showcase its natural beauty and unique ecosystems.
Scenic Route to Take: Return to Billings via US-89 and I-90, which features expansive views of Montana’s open plains and mountain ranges.
Overnight Stay in Billings: The Northern Hotel.
Tips – Montana Vacation Itinerary
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early fall (May-September) when the weather is mild and most roads and attractions are open.
- Wildlife Safety: Montana is home to bears and other wildlife. Keep a safe distance and follow park guidelines.
- Plan for Limited Mobile Network: Mobile network coverage can be dicey, especially in national parks. Download maps and guides in advance.
- Book Accommodations Early: Especially for places like Glacier and Yellowstone, which fill up quickly during peak season.
- Stay Flexible: Weather can change quickly in Montana, so allow extra time for detours or road closures.
FAQs for a Montana Road Trip Itinerary
Montana’s vast wilderness, scenic routes, and iconic landmarks make it a perfect road trip destination that combines adventure, relaxation, and awe-inspiring landscapes.
- What is the best time of year for a road trip in Montana?
The best time to explore Montana is between late spring and early fall, from May to September. Summer months (June to August) provide the warmest weather and fully open roads in places like Glacier National Park and the Beartooth Highway. Late September can also be a beautiful time to visit as the fall colors appear.
- How many days should I plan for a road trip across Montana?
A good Montana road trip typically requires 7-10 days, especially if you want to cover major destinations like Glacier National Park, Yellowstone, Bozeman, and Missoula. However, shorter itineraries (4-5 days) focusing on specific areas like Glacier or Yellowstone are also possible.
- What are the best scenic routes in Montana?
Let’s check some amazing scenic routes in Montana.
- Beartooth Highway (US-212): One of America’s most scenic drives, with alpine views and mountain switchbacks.
- Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park: This iconic route offers jaw-dropping views of glaciers, lakes, and rugged mountains.
- I-90 and I-94: These interstate highways offer expansive views across plains and mountain ranges as you traverse the state.
- Is it possible to visit both Glacier and Yellowstone National Parks on one trip?
Yes, with at least a week, you can visit both parks on a single trip. Start from Glacier (north) or Yellowstone (south) and follow scenic routes, like I-90. Driving from Glacier to Yellowstone takes about 6-7 hours, so plan a stopover in towns like Missoula or Bozeman.
- Are there wildlife safety precautions I should follow?
Absolutely. Montana has various wildlife, including bears, bison, elk, and moose. Follow these precautions:
- Keep a safe distance (at least 100 yards from bears and 25 yards from other wildlife).
- Don’t feed or approach wildlife.
- In bear country, carry bear spray and make noise when hiking.
- Do I need a 4×4 vehicle for a Montana road trip?
A standard car is sufficient for most main highways and park roads. However, a 4×4 is helpful if you plan to explore off-the-beaten-path areas or visit during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) when road conditions vary.
- Are reservations required for Glacier and Yellowstone National Parks?
Reservations are not required to enter Yellowstone but are highly recommended for accommodations, especially in summer. Glacier requires a vehicle reservation to drive the Going-to-the-Sun Road between May and September and to stay inside the park; book in advance.
- What is the driving distance across Montana?
Montana is a large state, over 550 miles from east to west. Driving across can take around 8-10 hours, depending on the route and stops.
- Can I bring my pet on a Montana road trip?
Pets are welcome in most of Montana’s state and national parks, but restrictions apply within parks. In Glacier and Yellowstone, pets must stay within developed areas and are not allowed on trails or backcountry areas.
I hope you will soon plan road trip to Montana after reading this detailed 7 day Montana itinerary with tour of two famous National parks, rugged nature’s beauty with some historic charm.
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