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Montana

Places, parks and practical ideas for this part of the journey.

Hikes & walks in this region ↓

Planning this region

Montana is known as "Big Sky Country". Hardly any other state conveys a similar sense of freedom. Powerful mountain ranges, endless prairies, crystal clear lakes and historic western cities characterize a landscape that inspires even experienced North American travelers time and again.

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Camping, services & boondocking

This proposal combines comfortable supply nights with simple campgrounds and free overnight stays. After two to three self-sufficient nights at the latest, a place with fresh water and disposal is deliberately followed again. Where Boondocking with a large Fifth Wheel does not make sense, the plan remains with an official campground.

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Missoula & surroundings

Missoula is far more than just a university town in western Montana. For many travelers, the real adventure through the Rocky Mountains begins here. Thanks to its excellent infrastructure, the city is ideal for starting a longer camper trip relaxed.

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Flathead Lake & Bigfork

Only about two hours drive north of Missoula the landscape changes noticeably. The mountains move closer, the water becomes omnipresent and suddenly opens up to one of the most beautiful lakes in North America.

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Whitefish & Kalispell

Just a few kilometers north of Flathead Lake are two places that could hardly be more different and yet perfectly complement each other. While Kalispell, as the economic centre of the region, offers all important shopping and services, Whitefish delights with a charming city center, a lively gastronomy scene and close proximity to Glacier National Park.

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Glacier National Park

The Glacier National Park is one of the most spectacular national parks in North America and is the highlight of a trip through Montana for many travelers. Powerful mountain peaks, turquoise lakes, over 700 kilometres of hiking trails and an exceptionally diverse wildlife make it a paradise for nature lovers.

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Polebridge

If you want to experience Montana from its original side, you should definitely plan a detour to Polebridge. The tiny settlement is located northwest of the Glacier National Park and still conveys today the feeling of the real Wild West. Dusty gravel roads, rustic wooden houses, hardly any mobile reception and an impressive natural backdrop ensure that time has apparently stopped here.

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Helena & Virginia City

After leaving behind the impressive mountains of Glacier National Park, a completely different Montana awaits you. Helena and Virginia City tell the story of the gold rush that shaped this state in the 19th century. Instead of rugged peaks, historical buildings, old mines and authentic western cities are now at the center.

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Bozeman & Paradise Valley

Bozeman is one of Montana's most dynamic cities and combines the charm of the Wild West with a modern, young atmosphere. The university city is known for its excellent restaurants, outdoor shops and its proximity to some of the state's most beautiful landscapes.

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Beartooth Highway & Red Lodge

The Beartooth Highway is considered one of the most spectacular panoramic roads in the world. At around 110 kilometres, the route runs from Red Lodge in Montana to the north-east entrance of Yellowstone National Park, crossing the Beartooth Pass at an altitude of 3,337 metres.

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More highlights

In addition to the famous highlights such as Glacier National Park, Missoula or Flathead Lake, Montana offers countless other attractions that enrich a journey. Historical western cities, spectacular panoramic streets, impressive state parks and impressive natural areas invite you to leave the planned route again and again for a worthwhile stopover.

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Hidden Gems

Montana is known for its large national parks and vast landscapes. But far from the famous sights, hidden mountain lakes, historic ghost towns, remote valleys and spectacular natural sites that only a few travellers visit. Those who take time to explore these less well-known places experience Montana especially originally and discover the true "Big Sky Country".

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Conclusion

Montana is known as "Big Sky Country". Hardly any other state conveys a similar sense of freedom, vastness and untouched nature. Powerful mountain ranges, crystal clear lakes, endless prairies and historic western cities shape the landscape and make every trip a special experience. At the same time, the comparatively low population density and great distances ensure that you can enjoy many places in peace and quiet.

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Hikes & walks nearby.

All hiking ideas →

Glacier National Park

Avalanche Lake

Distance
7.4 km return
Time
2.5–3 h (estimate)
Difficulty
Moderate
Route
Out & back

Start at Avalanche Picnic Area. Forest and lake views. Difficulty and time are planning estimates; confirm current conditions.

Elevation gain: approximately 152 m

Back to the start

Return to the same trailhead on the same path; distance includes both directions.

Official trail information ↗

Glacier National Park

Grinnell Glacier Viewpoint

Distance
17 km return
Time
6–8 h (estimate)
Difficulty
Hard
Route
Out & back

Full walking route from Grinnell Glacier trailhead; no boat assumed. Difficulty and time are planning estimates; confirm current conditions.

Elevation gain: approximately 488 m

Back to the start

Return to the same trailhead on the same path; distance includes both directions.

Official trail information ↗

Glacier National Park

Hidden Lake Overlook

Distance
4.4 km return
Time
2–3 h (estimate)
Difficulty
Moderate
Route
Out & back

Start behind Logan Pass Visitor Center; overlook only. Check snow, bears and parking rules. Difficulty and time are planning estimates; confirm current conditions.

Elevation gain: approximately 140 m

Back to the start

Return to the same trailhead on the same path; distance includes both directions.

Official trail information ↗

Glacier National Park

Trail of the Cedars

Distance
1.1 km loop
Time
30–60 min (estimate)
Difficulty
Easy
Route
Loop

Avalanche Picnic Area; accessible boardwalk. Parking can be busy. Difficulty and time are planning estimates; confirm current conditions.

Back to the start

Return to the same trailhead by completing the loop.

Official trail information ↗

Glacier National Park

Aster Falls

Distance
3.8 km return
Time
1–2 h (estimate)
Difficulty
Easy
Route
Out & back

Start at South Shore Trailhead, Two Medicine. Difficulty and time are planning estimates; confirm current conditions.

Elevation gain: approximately 31 m

Back to the start

Return to the same trailhead on the same path; distance includes both directions.

Official trail information ↗

Glacier National Park

Forest and Fire Nature Trail

Distance
1.8 km loop
Time
45–60 min (estimate)
Difficulty
Easy
Route
Loop

Camas Road option away from Logan Pass. Check access first. Difficulty and time are planning estimates; confirm current conditions.

Elevation gain: approximately 55 m

Back to the start

Return to the same trailhead by completing the loop.

Official trail information ↗

Glacier National Park

Redrock Falls

Distance
5.8 km return
Time
2–3 h (estimate)
Difficulty
Easy
Route
Out & back

Start at Swiftcurrent Trailhead. Low-elevation alternative to glacier hikes. Difficulty and time are planning estimates; confirm current conditions.

Elevation gain: approximately 31 m

Back to the start

Return to the same trailhead on the same path; distance includes both directions.

Official trail information ↗

Glacier National Park

Running Eagle Falls

Distance
1 km return
Time
30–45 min (estimate)
Difficulty
Easy
Route
Out & back

Accessible falls walk. Two Medicine construction and seasonal access require checking. Difficulty and time are planning estimates; confirm current conditions.

Back to the start

Return to the same trailhead on the same path; distance includes both directions.

Official trail information ↗

Glacier National Park

Scenic Point

Distance
12.6 km return
Time
4–5 h (estimate)
Difficulty
Hard
Route
Out & back

Exposed climb from Scenic Point parking area; allow longer with breaks. Avoid storms. Difficulty and time are planning estimates; confirm current conditions.

Elevation gain: approximately 716 m

Back to the start

Return to the same trailhead on the same path; distance includes both directions.

Official trail information ↗

Glacier National Park

Swiftcurrent Nature Trail

Distance
3.7 km loop
Time
1–2 h (estimate)
Difficulty
Easy
Route
Loop

Lake circuit from Many Glacier Hotel or Grinnell trailhead; a gentler alternative, not a guarantee of quiet. Difficulty and time are planning estimates; confirm current conditions.

Back to the start

Return to the same trailhead by completing the loop.

Official trail information ↗

From our travel guide

Missoula & surroundings

Walk along the Riverfront Trail

The well-developed trail runs along the Clark Fork River and connects several parks. Ideal for a relaxing afternoon.

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Check trail length, difficulty and the return route with the park before choosing a walk.

From our travel guide

Flathead Lake & Bigfork

Hiking in the Jewel Basin

Only about 30 minutes east of Bigfork begins one of the most beautiful hiking areas in Montana. Here you are:

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Check trail length, difficulty and the return route with the park before choosing a walk.

From our travel guide

Whitefish & Kalispell

Walk through Whitefish

The city is perfect for relaxing strolls. Numerous cafés and small shops invite you to linger on the way.

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Check trail length, difficulty and the return route with the park before choosing a walk.

From our travel guide

Glacier National Park

Avalanche Lake Trail

A varied hiking trail through an ancient cedar forest to a mountain lake surrounded by waterfalls. Distance: approx. 7 km

Grinnell Glacier Trail

One of North America's most impressive day walks. Distance: approx. 18 km

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Check trail length, difficulty and the return route with the park before choosing a walk.

From our travel guide

Polebridge

Short hiking tours

Several hiking trails start around Bowman Lake. Depending on the available time, short walks or more demanding day trips are possible.

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Check trail length, difficulty and the return route with the park before choosing a walk.

Trail details checked against park sources in September 2026. Check current closures, weather, permits and any return transport before setting out.