Explore Montana’s Scenic Road Trips

Road trips in Montana truly take you places. With massive mountains, glacial lakes, and wild rivers stretching outside the window along the state’s wide-open roads, each journey unveils a state of exploration and pure natural wonder. Scenic vistas and outstretched landscapes make road-tripping across Montana more about the journey than merely reaching destinations.

Along the way, numerous roadside attractions invite you to pull off the designated route. Small towns, campgrounds, and unique adventures cater to longer layovers. Come as you are; every type of vehicle can navigate the atlas of Scenic Byways and All-American Roads throughout the state.

1. Going-to-the-Sun Road, Glacier National Park

Best introduction to Montana driving

Apgar Village – St. Mary Lake; 50 miles

Experience breathtaking views on the 50-mile Going-to-the-Sun Road, the only route that crosses the width of Glacier National Park in northwest Montana. With narrow shoulders, winding curves, and rushing waterfalls below, this drive adds an exhilarating adventure to your journey. The towering mountains will leave you in awe as you take the scenic route.

Start your drive at either Apgar Village near Lake McDonald or St. Mary Lake, located on the park’s west and east sides, respectively. A typical trip without stops takes about 90 minutes, but you should allocate an entire day to explore roadside attractions like the Logan Pass Visitor Center, the highest accessible point in the park at an elevation of 6,646 feet.

Planning Tip: The Going-to-the-Sun Road opens seasonally, typically from early June to September. A Vehicle Reservation System is in place, requiring permits for personal vehicles during this period. Alternatively, the fare-free GTSR Shuttle offers a practical option for those unable to obtain a permit.

2. Beartooth Highway

Best way to get to or from Yellowstone National Park

Red Lodge – Cooke City; 68 miles

The Beartooth Highway in southern Montana offers eye-popping views of majestic mountains and glacier-carved valleys along every mile. This All-American Road dips into Wyoming as it journeys from Red Lodge to the northeast entrance of Yellowstone National Park, peaking at Beartooth Pass (10,947 feet) and showcasing Montana’s tallest peaks—the stunning Beartooth Mountains.

Surrounded by Custer Gallatin National Forest, this route provides access to the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness, a haven for bears, moose, and elk. An incredible array of hiking trails and outdoor activities await, including an opportunity to ski at Beartooth Basin Summer Ski Area.

Planning Tip: Be sure to time your visit; this highway is typically open from Memorial Day (early May) until October 15th. Regardless of when you visit, always pack warm clothing due to colder temperatures at high elevations.

3. Pintler Veterans’ Memorial Scenic Highway

Best alternative route for driving between Yellowstone and Glacier

Drummond – Anaconda; 64 miles

The Pintler Veterans’ Memorial Scenic Highway, also known as the Anaconda-Pintler Scenic Route, is an excellent diversion from Interstate 90, particularly for those venturing between Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks. This scenic route is approximately halfway between these popular destinations, making it a perfect spot to explore.

While the speed limit is a bit slower on this two-lane highway, the historic towns and recreational opportunities along the way encourage leisurely stops. Notable stops include Anaconda and Phillipsburg, where you can mine for Montana Sapphires or enjoy a game of golf at the Old Works Golf Course, all while being surrounded by rich history and scenic beauty.

4. Seeley-Swan Scenic Byway (Highway 83)

Best road trip into lake country

Clearwater – Swan Lake; 84 miles

If you favor the sight of massive mountains reflecting on tranquil lakes, the Seeley-Swan Valley in western Montana is a must-visit. Highway 83 traverses this approximately 90-mile corridor, bordered by the Mission Mountains and the Swan Range. This driving destination is renowned for its beautiful chain of mountain lakes along the Clearwater River.

Highlights include Seeley Lake, the largest in the chain, featuring campgrounds and private resorts. Stop at Holland Lake midway for the Holland Falls National Recreation Trail, where hikers can enjoy scenic vistas. Swan Lake, located at the northern end, is also famous for its excellent fishing and camping opportunities.

Planning Tip: Plan to spend 2-3 days exploring the Seeley-Swan Valley, and consider reserving campsites or accommodations in the area.

5. Pioneer Mountain Scenic Byway

Best road trip for uncovering gems of the Treasure State

Wise River – Polaris; 45 miles

The Pioneer Scenic Byway offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures and Montana’s breathtaking scenery. This 45-mile route runs alongside the Pioneer Mountain Range through the Beaverhead Deerlodge National Forest, making it an excellent choice for a leisurely trip.

This scenic drive presents multiple opportunities for outdoor recreation. The Big Hole River awaits at the northern end, renowned as a premier fly fishing spot. National forest campgrounds also line the route, providing ample space for tent and RV camping. Don’t miss Crystal Park, a unique site where visitors can harvest quartz crystals.

Planning Tip: The Pioneer Scenic Highway is open from May 15th to December 1st and transforms into a popular snowmobile trail during the winter months.

6. A Journey through Paradise Valley

Best road trip for historic hot springs

Livingston – Gardiner; 54 miles

The Yellowstone River flows through Paradise Valley, framed by the Absaroka and Gallatin Mountains. Although this idyllic area stretches just 40 miles, it offers enough attractions to fill a week of exploration.

Allocate time to enjoy the journey, especially the stunning landscape along Highway 89, the main route through Paradise Valley. For a relaxing overnight stay, consider the historic Chico Hot Springs, which has welcomed visitors since 1900 with its rustic charm and inviting dining.

7. ZooTown to Whitefish through the Flathead Valley – Highway 93

Best route for an unplanned adventure

Missoula – Whitefish; 138 miles

The drive from Missoula to Whitefish will capture your heart. The path winds through the Rattlesnake Mountains and enters the Flathead Reservation, home to the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes. An unmissable highlight is Flathead Lake, the largest natural lake west of the Mississippi River in the contiguous United States.

Highway 93 hugs the western shoreline and passes through quaint towns like Polson and Big Arm, offering opportunities for boat rentals and local cultural events, such as the Flathead Cherry Festival on the last weekend in July. As you continue north, the city of Kalispell serves as a great base for exploring the region, which culminates in the charming mountain town of Whitefish, famed for its skiing at Whitefish Mountain Resort.