Montana’s most spectacular road trips promise sweeping landscapes, wild rivers, and mountain views that redefine scenic drives. Known as “Big Sky Country,” Montana offers an array of breathtaking routes, from the renowned Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park to the thrilling Beartooth Highway leading into Yellowstone. Each road invites you to delve into the state’s untouched beauty, where towering mountains, glacier lakes, and endless prairies create a journey of discovery.
For those craving more than a quick drive-by, Montana’s most spectacular road trips are lined with roadside vistas, charming small towns, and adventures that urge you to stay a while. With Scenic Byways and All-American Roads crisscrossing the landscape, every vehicle—be it a rugged 4×4 or a family sedan—can experience Montana’s rich offerings. So buckle up and set out to explore the treasure trove of landscapes that make road-tripping across Montana a must for every traveler.
Table of Contents
Embark on Montana’s Most Spectacular Road Trips for Unforgettable Scenery
1. Take on Montana’s Most Spectacular Road Trip: The Iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road
Embark on one of Montana’s most spectacular road trips with the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park. This 50-mile marvel stretches across the park, offering breathtaking views of towering mountains, pristine glacier lakes, and cascading waterfalls. Starting from either Apgar Village near Lake McDonald or St. Mary Lake, drivers can experience winding curves and narrow shoulders that add an adventurous thrill to the journey. Although a non-stop drive takes about 90 minutes, allocating a full day allows you to explore key attractions like the Logan Pass Visitor Center at 6,646 feet and the stunning Jackson Glacier Overlook.
Montana’s most spectacular road trips are perfect for nature enthusiasts, featuring wildlife sightings of grizzly bears, mountain goats, and bighorn sheep. To make the most of your trip, remember that the Going-to-the-Sun Road is open seasonally from early June through September. A Vehicle Reservation System requires permits during this period, but the fare-free GTSR Shuttle is a great alternative if permits are unavailable. Whether you’re camping under Montana’s vast skies or staying in nearby lodges, this road trip promises an unforgettable adventure through Big Sky Country’s unparalleled landscapes.
2. Experience Montana’s Most Spectacular Road Trips: Beartooth Highway’s Alpine Wonder
For one of Montana’s most spectacular road trips, look no further than Beartooth Highway. Stretching 68 miles from Red Lodge to Cooke City, this scenic route weaves through the rugged landscapes of the Custer Gallatin National Forest and climbs up to Beartooth Pass at 10,947 feet. As you travel this All-American Road, marvel at sweeping views of the glacier-carved Beartooth Mountains and alpine valleys that lead to Yellowstone’s northeast entrance.
Known for its “Top of the World” vista, Beartooth Highway showcases everything from dense lodgepole pine forests to shimmering alpine lakes. Wildlife like moose, elk, and grizzly bears roam nearby, and adventure-seekers will find trailheads throughout, along with Beartooth Basin Summer Ski Area for skiing even in warm months.
Planning Tip: Beartooth Highway is open seasonally, typically from Memorial Day weekend until mid-October, depending on weather conditions. Due to its high elevation, be sure to pack warm clothing, as temperatures can drop even during summer.
3. Discover the Montana Hi-Line
The Montana Hi-Line, a 666-mile route along U.S. Highway 2, is one of Montana’s most spectacular road trips, stretching from Idaho’s border across Montana to North Dakota. This scenic drive offers a slice of true Americana, with charming small towns, historic railroad sights, and endless views of rolling prairies. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of reasons to stop along the way—try fishing at the pristine McGregor Lake, hiking in the Kootenai National Forest, or floating down the Missouri River for unbeatable landscapes.
The Montana Hi-Line road trip provides a slower-paced, authentic glimpse into the state’s rural beauty and unique attractions, making it an ideal adventure for travelers seeking to explore Montana’s vast and open land on one of its most iconic routes.
4. Bitterroot Valley Scenic Drive
Take one of Montana’s most spectacular road trips through the stunning Bitterroot Valley on U.S. Highway 93. This 60-mile route stretches from Florence to Sula, taking roughly 1.5 hours without stops, though you’ll want extra time to explore. Flanked by the Bitterroot and Sapphire Mountains, the valley offers breathtaking views and plenty of outdoor attractions.
The Bitterroot Valley Scenic Drive showcases the Bitterroot National Forest, home to lush woodlands and the sparkling Bitterroot River, perfect for fishing or picnicking. Stop in historic towns like Darby to experience local dining and Western hospitality. For wildlife lovers, the Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge along the way hosts over forty species of mammals, including white-tailed deer, muskrats, and American beavers.
5. Journey Through Montana’s Most Spectacular Road Trips: The Missouri Breaks Backcountry Byway
The 80-mile Missouri Breaks Backcountry Byway offers one of Montana’s most spectacular road trips, winding through the dramatic uplands south of the Missouri River, near the Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge. Starting in the small town of Winnifred, this rugged, unpaved route is ideal for adventure-seekers with a four-wheel drive, as it traverses rough terrain not accessible in wet conditions.
The Byway is steeped in history, tracing part of the Lewis and Clark Expedition route. Known as “The Deserts of America,” it inspired awe for its untouched wilderness. The road also follows the Upper Missouri National Wild & Scenic River, where float trips, boating, and fishing are popular. This scenic route also overlaps with the Nez Perce National Historic Trail, adding cultural depth to its breathtaking vistas and wildlife. For thrill-seekers and history buffs alike, it’s one of Montana’s most spectacular road trips.
6. Pioneer Mountain Scenic Byway
The 45-mile Pioneer Mountain Scenic Byway in southwest Montana is one of the state’s most spectacular road trips, offering a beautiful journey through the heart of the Pioneer Mountain Range. Starting in Wise River, the route follows Forest Service Highway 73 and County Highway 278, traveling through the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest. The drive takes about 1.5 hours, passing granite peaks towering over 10,000 feet, sprawling meadows, and dense lodgepole pine forests.
As you navigate the winding roads, the scenic beauty of “Big Sky Country” unfolds, with panoramic views of rugged mountains and pristine wilderness. The highest point of the Byway reaches 7,800 feet, providing awe-inspiring vistas.
While the road is closed from December 1 through May 15, the Byway transforms into a National Recreation Snowmobile Trail during winter, offering snowmobiling and cross-country skiing opportunities. For those seeking an all-season adventure, the Pioneer Mountain Scenic Byway is a gem among Montana’s most spectacular road trips.
7. Seeley-Swan Scenic Byway
The Seeley-Swan Scenic Byway (Highway 83) offers an unforgettable road trip through one of Montana’s most picturesque regions. Stretching 84 miles from Clearwater to Swan Lake, this scenic route is bordered by the Mission Mountains and the Swan Range, providing stunning views of pristine mountain lakes. The corridor is home to over two dozen mountain lakes along the Clearwater River, perfect for outdoor activities.
Seeley Lake, the largest of these, is a popular stop, offering campgrounds, private resorts, and stocked rainbow trout. Halfway up the highway, Holland Lake provides a tranquil setting, with the Holland Falls National Recreation Trail leading hikers to breathtaking views of the waterfall. At the northern end, Swan Lake offers eight miles of beautiful shoreline, renowned for fishing and camping.
For a complete experience, budget 2-3 days to explore this stunning region and consider staying at Lake Alva, Lindbergh Lake, or the Holland Lake Lodge. The Seeley-Swan Scenic Byway is one of Montana’s most spectacular road trips for lake lovers.
8. Pintler Veterans’ Memorial Scenic Highway: Montana’s Most Spectacular Road Trip Alternative
For travelers seeking an alternative route between Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks, the Pintler Veterans’ Memorial Scenic Highway (64 miles) offers one of Montana’s most spectacular road trips. Stretching from Drummond to Anaconda, this scenic byway provides a serene escape from the crowded tourist hubs, winding through historic towns and pristine outdoor landscapes.
Along the way, drivers will pass charming towns like Anaconda and Phillipsburg, each offering unique ways to explore Montana’s rich history. In Phillipsburg, visitors can try their luck mining for sapphires, while Anaconda boasts the iconic Anaconda Smelter Stack and the Old Works Golf Course, built on a historic slag heap.
Georgetown Lake, located midway along the route, invites outdoor enthusiasts to hike, fish, and enjoy nature. For a relaxing stop, Fairmont Hot Springs Resort near Anaconda is an excellent place to unwind. Whether you’re en route to Yellowstone or Glacier, this scenic byway is a must for anyone looking to experience Montana’s most spectacular road trips.
9. Madison Valley Scenic Drive
The Madison Valley Scenic Drive offers a 90-mile journey through southwestern Montana, highlighting some of Montana’s most spectacular road trips. Starting at Earthquake Lake, northwest of West Yellowstone, this 1.5-hour drive winds through the stunning Madison River Valley to Three Forks, where the Missouri River begins. Along the way, travelers can admire breathtaking views of the river and surrounding landscapes. The route is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for fishing and wildlife viewing. A stop in the historic town of Ennis allows visitors to enjoy local dining and some of the best fly fishing in Montana.
10. Flathead Lake Loop: A Must-See Among Montana’s Most Spectacular Road Trips
The Flathead Lake Loop offers a two-hour journey through one of Montana’s most spectacular road trips, taking travelers through diverse landscapes and charming towns. Starting south on U.S. Highway 93, the route travels along Montana Highway 35 East and U.S. Highway 82 West, offering beautiful views of Flathead Lake and its surroundings.
Along the way, visitors can stop in towns like Somers, where they can experience the unique Flathead Lake Alpine Coaster. The drive features stunning scenery, including the Flathead National Forest, fruit orchards, Blacktail Mountain, and the Flathead Indian Reservation. For the best experience, time your trip to coincide with sunset, and be sure to stop at one of the scenic overlooks for an unforgettable view of the vibrant colors reflecting on the lake. The Flathead Lake Loop is undeniably one of Montana’s most spectacular road trips for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
