Western Montana Road Trip Itinerary Episode One of Two – On the Road with Lou

Buckle up and breathe deep—this is Big Sky Country, and it’s about to leave a mark on your soul.

📍 Day 1: Kalispell Arrival – Gateway to the Crown Fly into Glacier Park International (FCA), grab your rental and supplies, and settle in. Optional overnight to rest up before the wild begins.

📍 Days 2–4: Glacier National Park Just 45 minutes from Kalispell, Glacier is raw, rugged, and unforgettable. Must-Sees:

• Lake McDonald
• Avalanche Lake or Grinnell Glacier
• Going-to-the-Sun Road

Spend at least one day—ideally two or three—soaking up the trails, turquoise lakes, and epic views.

📍 Day 5: Flathead Lake + Polson Drive south to the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi. Paddle, float, or picnic—this place is pure peace. Optional:

• Miracle of America Museum
• Boat rental + lakeside dinner Stay the night in Polson for small-town charm and killer sunsets.

📍 Day 6: Garnet Ghost Town From Polson, head 2 hours east to Garnet—Montana’s best-preserved ghost town. Wander the wild past, creaky saloons, and silent hills. Plan for a half-day if you love history or hiking.

📍 Day 7: Butte – Mining Soul & Irish Roots Two hours later, you’re in Butte. Grit meets gold rush nostalgia. Don’t Miss:

• World Museum of Mining
• Copper King Mansion
• Underground tunnel tours Stay overnight to catch Butte's glow after dark.

📍 Day 8: Lewis & Clark Caverns Just 40 minutes from Butte, Montana’s first state park is full of surprises. Top Picks:

• Guided limestone cave tours (it’s 50°F inside—bundle up!)
• Hikes with panoramic views Plan for a couple of hours or stretch it to a lazy half-day.

📍 Day 9: Pictograph Cave State Park Drive 3 hours to Billings, stopping at this serene site to see ancient cave art and take a peaceful loop hike. Time: ~2 hours.

📍 Day 10: Billings Send-Off Wrap up in Montana’s biggest city. Fly out of Billings Logan International (BIL) after one last good meal and a walk to reflect on your trip.

🛣️ Quick Tips:

• Reverse works too: Start in Billings, end in Kalispell
• Go in summer/early fall for best weather + wildlife
• Glacier deserves extra time—trust us on this

💬 Lou’s Parting Thoughts: Whether you're starting with waterfalls or ending in whispering caves, Montana isn’t just a trip—it’s a story you take with you. Thanks for joining me on Episode One. Two more epic routes to go. Until next time—stay curious, drive safe, and keep chasing the magic.