Montana Magic: Saying Yes to Glacier National Park & beyond!

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Why visit Montana?

Montana has been all over my Instagram feed in recent years. It is gorgeous and any photos from Montana always make me stop the scroll to dream of Montana travel! Talk about an area of America with stunning natural beauty. The countless mountains, lakes, waterfalls, and rivers of Glacier National Park & beyond in Northwest Montana are so enticing.

I was fascinated by an often common thread which was stories of how life-changing immersing yourself in Montana and its nature can be. I found myself dreaming of kayaking on some of the world’s most beautiful lakes, spotting wildlife I’d never seen before, and getting to know more about these captivating human stories of Montana and its people.

Is it just me, or do you also crave a peaceful place to reset your life priorities? Whether it’s a serene sunrise at Two Medicine Lake or an adventurous day elsewhere in Glacier National Park, Montana as seen through the ‘gram seems to offer it all.

Montana – Big Sky Country

My Montana Travel Story

My Montana Story, which some might call a wild adventure, was Inspired by my Instagram friend Ruth, found at @elysian_reflections. I decided to visit her in Montana after being captivated by her stunning photos.

Without extensive research or a checklist of must-see places, I made this journey simply as part of my year of saying “yes” to all travel adventures that come my way. Trusting in the universe, and the fact that others had gone before me. I went ahead and booked my flights to meet in person and see for myself why Montana was so special. I’m up for some of that Montana magic in my own life!

When I packed my hiking boots and set off to Montana to hang out, it didn’t feel at all scary. It’s weird as Bloggers we’ve been turning up to meet and visit with each other for years. I’ve always had a great time. It always felt natural when we finally connected in person. I always say we already know a lot about each other via our social media pages, there are just some blanks to fill in!

Best things to see and do, in and around Glacier National Park

Meeting Montana was a lot like this too. There was the ease of familiarity through Montana travel knowledge gleaned from the internet and Instagram, but to see ‘The Last Best Place’ with my own eyes was very special.

Roadtrips: Going-to-the-Sun Road

This iconic scenic drive is often described as one of the world’s top road trips. With 50 miles of breathtaking views, it takes about two hours to drive. No matter how prepared you are, the engineering feat of these impressive and narrow roads with their steep drop-offs and jaw-dropping vistas will keep you transfixed.

We took our time and I must say I was very happy not to be driving. We enjoyed the many different stopping places to enjoy the scenery or to search for mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and other wild animals along the route.

Driving along this road I begin to get a sense of the sheer scale of this diverse natural landscape. They don’t call it Big Sky Country for nothing! In the search for personal ‘meaning of life’ stuff, Going to the Sun Road takes you on a journey that elevates the spirits to the sheer enormity of the world. The world’s natural disasters, wars, and even my own issues, all start to feel more distant.

The Lakes of Northwestern Montana

Lake McDonald

The Lake McDonald scenic boat trip on the historic boat, De Smet, is a lovely way to enjoy the largest lake in Glacier National Park. The hour-long boat tour is narrated and we are introduced to the mountain views, history, and potential wildlife to be spotted at the shores of this stunning emerald-watered lake.

On that beautiful evening, we could see the impact of the Howe Ridge wildfire Ignited by a thunderstorm on the evening of August 11, 2018. The tall proud blackened tree stumps stand proud on the charred landscape.

I reflect if ever there was a metaphor for ‘This too shall pass’, this was it. The undergrowth was returning, and with the sun setting there was still beauty to behold.

Two Medicine Lake

This was my favourite day of Montana travels. This tranquil area in Glacier National Park offers boat tours on the historic “Sinopah,” scenic hiking trails to Twin Falls and Upper Two Medicine Lake, and a picturesque lakeside drive.

Scenic boat ride

Arriving before dawn, we benefited from Ruth’s pre-booked permit for the first boat ride of the day. Sinopah, the fleet’s oldest boat, accommodated 49 people for a 25-minute trip to the lake’s end. Even late in the 2023 season, all departures remained waitlisted, showcasing the park’s popularity.

Despite windy conditions, I enjoyed the mountain’s moody reflections at Two Medicine Lake. On a still day, the reflections are picture-perfect, but knowing nothing else the reflections appear stunning.

Hiking at Two Medicine Lake

Hiking to Upper Two Medicine Lake, Ruth knows the wildlife advantage of being first off the boat and on the track. We also choose to miss the more popular route whereby everyone heads straight to Twin Falls.

Taking the path less traveled, we encountered a mother moose and her calf along the way. The protective mother moose’s actions add to the excitement and stop us in our tracks. This was definitely one of those magic Montana moments. As was arriving to observe Upper Two Medicine Lake in tranquil silence all alone for a few precious moments.

On our return, we encountered a constant stream of hikers heading our way. Not all had read the ‘leave no trace’ memo. A woman in the undergrowth seeking the perfect alone-in-nature picture springs to mind. But the vast majority were in their happy place. There was lots of jovial banter between the hikers and the sharing of animal sightings along the track.

An elderly man appears holding hands with his very stooped wife shuffling along the path. It’s a moving encounter. Age or athletic ability is no barrier to enjoying nature.

Bowman Lake

Kayaking on the picturesque Bowman Lake, nestled in the northern area of Glacier National Park, was probably my most memorable Montana travel experience. While getting there involves navigating a bumpy road with deep potholes, we were thankful the dry ground made it more manageable than Ruth’s previous visits.

Along the way, we couldn’t resist a stop at the famous Polebridge Mercantile for a delicious warm Huckleberry Bear Claw. Made with local Huckleberries, that I’d not tried before, it was hard not to be impressed by these juicy pastries.

For those that may know the words of an ancient hymn, this was a ‘Glad that I live am I’ day! For me, my Bowman Lake paddle on the remote paradise lake was a day full of gratitude that I’d said yes to my Montana travels.

Kootenai Falls 

On our way to Kootenai Falls, Ruth and I shared stories from our past. It’s a two-hour drive from Kalispell and we had lots to catch up on. The drive takes you through the town of Libby, famous for the giant steel and iron eagle sculptures that decorate the town. It was also the place where a Little Wren from Australia was asked if they speak English where I come from. I mean how are you supposed to reply to this?

This brief exchange brought it home to me, that whilst not everyone is able to wander the world. I must be the best Ambassador I can be for the world arriving at some of these far-off places.

Kootenai Swing Footbridge

The Kootenai Falls Trail is an easy 0.8-mile (round-trip) to both the swinging footbridge and the falls. Our tip is to visit the swinging footbridge before heading to the waterfall.

If you are into soft adventure it’s all here. First, you need to climb the bridge tower over the railway tracks, it’s not for anyone with dodgy knees.

The swingbridge is just over 200 feet long and sits 100 feet above the Kootenai River and yes it’s bouncy and wobbly! We were lucky to see three kayakers passing beneath us. Notably, parts of the film “The River Wild,” starring Meryl Streep, were filmed in this scenic area.

Kootenai Waterfalls

The immense power of this cascading waterfall is staggering. Despite this, it is one of the few waterfalls on a major northwest river that remains untouched by power generation.

It’s a unique place that commands a feeling of the power of nature to all who visit. For those looking to wash away their worries, this could be just what you need! Needless to say, we spent quite some time here just watching the water, it was fabulous. My pictures don’t do it justice

Wildlife Viewing

It’s definitely part of the fun to keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife. You might be lucky (or not depending on how you look at it) to encounter grizzly bears, black bears, moose, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and a variety of bird species.

I never got to see any bears as I’d hoped and that the next lesson from Montana, nothing in life is necessarily exactly how you want it. Acceptance!

The CSKT Bison Range

The Bison Range, just 84 miles from Kalispell is a sure way to see wildlife. Here from the safety of your car, you will find majestic buffalo (bison) herds and other animals in their natural habitat. This 19-mile prairie drive takes over two hours. There is a map at the excellent Visitors Centre which is updated frequently to ensure you know where the recent sightings are.

The visitor’s center and museum are a great way to learn the area’s history, including its connection to three tribes.

Learning that in 2022, the range was officially restored to the Confederated Salish & Kootenai Tribes (CSKT) adds an emotional element to the visit. Witnessing the positive outcomes of conservation efforts and the acknowledgment of tribal land rights is heartwarming.

Wildlife Safety

Montana is known for its wildlife. If you plan to hike or camp, be aware of bear safety guidelines and other wildlife precautions. Ruth carried bear spray which impressed me and is a common recommended practice. Although the only bear I saw was stuffed at the airport!

Tips to help you plan your Montana Travel

National Parks

If you’re visiting Glacier National Park or Yellowstone National Park, check the park’s official websites for information on entry fees, trail conditions, and visitor guidelines. These parks are popular, in peak season you need entry permits, so plan ahead and pre-book the scenic cruises.

Weather Considerations for Montana Travel

Montana experiences distinct seasons. Check the weather conditions for the time of your visit and pack accordingly. If you’re traveling in the winter, be prepared for cold temperatures and snow. We saw fresh fallen snow on the mountains as we left In September.

Cultural and Historical Sites

Whilst in Montana I enjoyed learning more about the state’s cultural and historical heritage by visiting museums and sites related to Native American history and the Old West.

A special surprise awaited us on the Two Medicine Scenic boat ride. Park Ranger Carlson, also known as First Strike in Blackfeet culture, shares captivating stories from his community. He performed a traditional sage ceremony, and passengers eagerly embraced its healing properties.

Our connections with Native American history and meeting rangers such as First Strike help encourage a deeper understanding and respect for their history, culture, and connection with the land. I am often in search of grounding in my world. This is something First Strike and his community find effortless. I found my grounding with Planet Earth here in Montana.

My Montana Travels

I flew into Kalispell City Airport with United Airlines from New York via Denver. My flight cost: USD $554.40 return. All flights departed and arrived on time.

Flight times: Newark (EWR) to Denver, CO, (DEN) 4h 20m flight duration with Layover: 1h 15m

Denver, CO, (DEN) to Kalispell (FCA) 2h 12m flight duration.

Booked with Expedia.

Where we stayed

Super 8 Kalispell by Wyndham

Check out my stay in Kalispell at Little Wandering Wren’s YouTube channel here: Queen Bedroom cost: USD $162.92 (13 September 2023). Booked via Expedia.

AirBnB Columbia Falls

We enjoyed our AirBnB in Columbia Falls which sleeps 6 with two bedrooms: 1 King bed, 1 Queen bed, and a sofa bed. The house is recently renovated & very clean. I liked the rustic charm styling and the snowshoe decorations in the bedrooms. To find this Airbnb search for 𝐀𝐟𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐝𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐨 𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐭𝐨 𝐆𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐢𝐞𝐫 & 𝗪𝐡𝐢𝐭𝐞𝐟𝐢𝐬𝐡.

Total cost for 7 nights USD $1,386.53, booked direct with AirBnB.

Columbia Falls is a 25-minute drive to Glacier National Park, and cheaper than staying in the park.

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Final Thoughts on Saying Yes to Montana Travels

I set off to Montana not sure what I would find. I was intrigued by a place that seemed to offer an intensely personal experience for those immersed in its natural beauty. Did I find this too? Yes, I did. I now understand when people say ‘the Mountains are calling’ and why this would appeal. The wilderness areas of Montana are a special place, full of thunderous waterfalls, reflective lakes, and wildlife encounters. Such experiences, I found moving at times and rather cathartic after those pandemic years.

The icing on the cake, for the last 12 months I’ve been diagnosed with an auto-immune issue, I’ve returned and my Doctor declares my bloods are normal, time to try coming off my medication. Woo-hoo, Montana! It’s either First Strike and his healing sage bath, or the grounding in Montana but I left there feeling the fittest and the happiest, I’d been in a long while.

If you’re searching for a deeply personal vacation experience, Montana might just be your magic destination. With stunning landscapes, including Glacier and Yellowstone National Parks, it could be your outdoor paradise too.

Further reading

For more information check out Inge’s Montana travel post for Destination Explorer: Visiting Glacier National Park.

For great Montana travel inspiration then follow Ruth @elsyian_reflections and don’t forget to tell her a little bird sent you!

Happy wanderings!

Check out more USA wanders here: Weekend Wanders in the Hudson Valley: Exploring New York’s Backyard

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