Montana is a state known for its breathtaking natural beauty, and one of the best ways to experience it is by taking a scenic drive. With its vast open spaces, towering mountains, and crystal-clear lakes, Montana offers some of the most stunning landscapes in the country. From the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park to the winding Beartooth Highway, there are countless scenic drives to explore in this picturesque state. Whether you’re a nature lover, outdoor enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of the great outdoors, Montana’s scenic drives are sure to leave you in awe.
Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park
One of the most famous and iconic scenic drives in Montana is the Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park. This 50-mile road winds its way through the heart of the park, offering stunning views of snow-capped mountains, pristine alpine lakes, and lush forests. The road is a marvel of engineering, with hairpin turns and steep cliffs that provide breathtaking vistas at every turn. As you drive along the road, you’ll have the opportunity to stop at various overlooks and trailheads to take in the natural beauty of the park. Whether you’re visiting in the summer or winter, the Going-to-the-Sun Road is a must-see for anyone exploring Montana’s scenic drives.
The Going-to-the-Sun Road is not only a scenic drive, but it also provides access to some of the best hiking trails in Glacier National Park. From short, easy walks to challenging backcountry treks, there are options for hikers of all skill levels. Along the road, you’ll also find opportunities for wildlife viewing, with the chance to spot mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and even grizzly bears. For those looking for a truly unforgettable experience, consider taking a guided tour along the Going-to-the-Sun Road to learn more about the park’s history, geology, and ecology.
Beartooth Highway
Another must-see scenic drive in Montana is the Beartooth Highway, which stretches from Red Lodge to Cooke City and provides access to Yellowstone National Park. This 68-mile stretch of road is known for its jaw-dropping views of the Beartooth Mountains, alpine meadows, and pristine lakes. The highway climbs to an elevation of over 10,000 feet, offering panoramic vistas that are truly awe-inspiring. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to stop at various pullouts and overlooks to take in the stunning scenery and snap some photos of the rugged landscape.
In addition to its natural beauty, the Beartooth Highway is also a popular destination for outdoor recreation. The area offers opportunities for hiking, fishing, camping, and wildlife viewing, making it a great place to experience Montana’s outdoor splendor. Whether you’re driving the Beartooth Highway as part of a larger road trip or simply taking a day trip from nearby Yellowstone National Park, this scenic drive is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Bitterroot Valley Scenic Drive
For those looking for a more leisurely and relaxed scenic drive, the Bitterroot Valley Scenic Drive is an excellent choice. This 96-mile route follows the Bitterroot River through a picturesque valley surrounded by the Bitterroot Mountains and Sapphire Range. The drive offers stunning views of rolling hills, lush farmland, and charming small towns that capture the essence of rural Montana. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to stop at local wineries, art galleries, and historical sites to learn more about the region’s rich cultural heritage.
The Bitterroot Valley Scenic Drive is also a great way to experience Montana’s outdoor recreation opportunities. The area offers access to hiking trails, fishing spots, and wildlife viewing areas, making it a great destination for nature lovers. Whether you’re interested in exploring the valley’s natural beauty or simply taking a leisurely drive through the countryside, the Bitterroot Valley Scenic Drive is a must-see for anyone visiting Montana.
Chief Joseph Scenic Byway
Named after the famous Nez Perce leader Chief Joseph, the Chief Joseph Scenic Byway is a 47-mile route that winds its way through some of the most stunning landscapes in Montana. The drive offers breathtaking views of towering mountains, deep canyons, and rolling prairies that are sure to leave you in awe. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to stop at various pullouts and overlooks to take in the natural beauty of the area and snap some photos of the rugged landscape.
In addition to its natural beauty, the Chief Joseph Scenic Byway also offers access to some of Montana’s best outdoor recreation opportunities. The area is home to numerous hiking trails, fishing spots, and wildlife viewing areas, making it a great destination for nature lovers. Whether you’re interested in exploring the region’s natural beauty or simply taking a leisurely drive through the countryside, the Chief Joseph Scenic Byway is a must-see for anyone visiting Montana.
Flathead Lake Scenic Drive
Flathead Lake is one of Montana’s most iconic natural landmarks, and one of the best ways to experience its beauty is by taking a scenic drive around its shores. The Flathead Lake Scenic Drive follows a 28-mile route along the lake’s western shore, offering stunning views of crystal-clear waters, lush forests, and snow-capped mountains. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to stop at various pullouts and overlooks to take in the natural beauty of the lake and snap some photos of its serene surroundings.
In addition to its natural beauty, Flathead Lake also offers access to a wide range of outdoor recreation opportunities. The area is home to numerous hiking trails, fishing spots, and wildlife viewing areas, making it a great destination for nature lovers. Whether you’re interested in exploring the lake’s natural beauty or simply taking a leisurely drive along its shores, the Flathead Lake Scenic Drive is a must-see for anyone visiting Montana.
Yellowstone River Scenic Byway
The Yellowstone River Scenic Byway is a 70-mile route that follows the course of the Yellowstone River through some of Montana’s most stunning landscapes. The drive offers breathtaking views of towering cliffs, deep canyons, and rolling prairies that are sure to leave you in awe. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to stop at various pullouts and overlooks to take in the natural beauty of the area and snap some photos of its rugged landscape.
In addition to its natural beauty, the Yellowstone River Scenic Byway also offers access to some of Montana’s best outdoor recreation opportunities. The area is home to numerous hiking trails, fishing spots, and wildlife viewing areas, making it a great destination for nature lovers. Whether you’re interested in exploring the region’s natural beauty or simply taking a leisurely drive through the countryside, the Yellowstone River Scenic Byway is a must-see for anyone visiting Montana.
In conclusion, Montana’s scenic drives offer some of the most stunning landscapes in the country. From iconic routes like Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park to lesser-known gems like Chief Joseph Scenic Byway, there are countless opportunities to experience Montana’s natural beauty from behind the wheel. Whether you’re interested in exploring rugged mountains, pristine lakes, or rolling prairies, there’s something for everyone on Montana’s scenic drives. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure through Big Sky Country.