Destination Debrief: Montana & National Parks

Image courtesy of Montage Big Sky

Known for wide open vistas and miles of pristine wilderness, Montana is known as “Big Sky Country'' – a reference to its seemingly endless horizon. Captivating landscapes and stunning national parks, including the world-famous Yellowstone and Glacier, offer unparalleled wildlife viewing, hiking and geothermal explorations, while vibrant towns like Big Sky and Bozeman add a mix of cultural experiences and charming local hospitality. 

Whether it's the serene wilderness vibe, breathtaking mountain vistas or the storied cowboy lifestyle, Montana's virtues make it a premier destination for those seeking to get back to nature. For expert advice on where to stay and what to see, reach out to a Fora Advisor to start planning your Montana adventure.

Need to know

Airport: Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN)

Transportation: Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring Montana because it provides the freedom to visit attractions at your own pace. Your Fora Advisor can help you square away a rental.

Best time to visit: June to September is the best time for pleasant weather and outdoor activities, or from December to March for skiing and winter sports.

Ideal length of stay: 4-5 days is great to experience the gorgeous landscape, outdoor adventures and cultural attractions. If you have longer to travel, Montana is an ideal destination for slow travel.

Dress code: Casual and comfortable clothing is key, with layers for variable weather. Outdoor gear such as hiking boots, waterproof jackets and warm clothing for winter visits are essential.

Big Sky & Bozeman

Only an hour apart, Big Sky and Bozeman offer spectacular access to outdoor activities all year round and deliver two different experiences. Big Sky Mountain Village encompasses mostly a resort area, with an abundance of rentals and hotels nestled at the base of the mountain, while the small town of Big Sky sits about 10 minutes east of the mountain resort. Bozeman is a small city, with a bustling downtown area pleasantly populated with shops and restaurants. 

“Over the years, Bozeman has changed from a sleepy western college town to a destination in itself as the starting point for either travels to Yellowstone National Park or Big Sky,” Fora Advisor Melissa Friedman-Levine said. “Not only is this a great base for amazing outdoor activities such as fly fishing, hiking, water rafting or rock climbing, but the food scene is wonderful with James Beard-nominated chefs.”

What to do in Big Sky & Bozeman

Even though the outdoors is the big draw, Bozeman offers a surprising number of cultural sights. Museum of the Rockies is a highlight, featuring an impressive collection of dinosaur fossils and exhibits on the region's natural and cultural history. Charming downtown Bozeman is perfect for perusing boutique shops and art galleries, and don’t miss a live show at theaters like the Emerson Center for the Arts & Culture and Rialto.  

The main attraction in this region of Montana is Yellowstone National Park, which sits less than two hours south of Bozeman (read on for more intel). In addition to Yellowstone, outdoor enthusiasts head to the nearby Gallatin River for world-class fly fishing or tackle hikes like Drinking Horse Mountain Trail and picturesque Hyalite Canyon, home to stunning waterfalls. 

Winter time is a skier’s paradise, with Big Sky Resort touting almost 300 trails and Bridger Bowl Ski Area offering about 100, providing exceptional skiing and snowboarding without the crowds.

And after a day of outdoor fun, don’t miss the opportunity to relax at the Hot Springs at Bozeman. The hot springs boast 12 different pools, as well as saunas and steam rooms.

Where to eat in Big Sky & Bozeman

Bozeman and Big Sky both deliver on the culinary front, specializing in hearty fare, with cafes and breweries as well. The larger selection resides in Bozeman, with Blackbird as a must-visit for its wood-fired pizza and comfort dishes served in a cozy, modern setting. For upscale dining, Plonk Wine Bar offers an inventive menu paired with an extensive wine list, perfect for a date night. For a drink with friends, Montana Ale Works has a large bar with beer flights, plus a complete menu with casual fare, and Bozeman Taproom & Spirits touts a large rooftop deck and live music. Other tasty spots include Jam! for breakfast and brunch, Brigade for craft cocktails and elevated plates. 

In Big Sky, Horn & Cantle delivers the fresh flavors of Montana with its farm-to-table approach in a timber-frame setting, plus there’s live music nightly. Olive B’s Big Sky Bistro combines classic bistro fare with a rustic twist, combining a warm dining experience with stunning mountain views. For a casual beer with friends or even a flight of brews, head to Beehive Basin Brewery, a favorite among locals. A little bit outside of town, Riverhouse BBQ satisfies barbecue lovers, serving up mouthwatering smoked meats and classic sides in a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere – worth the 10-minute drive!

Where to stay in Big Sky & Bozeman

Image courtesy of Kimpton Armory Hotel Bozeman

Montage Big Sky: Luxe interior design with room and residences, some with ski-in/out access. Book with Fora to receive perks like $100 hotel / resort credit, daily breakfast credit, upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever available.

“The Montage exudes quiet luxury in a rugged environment. (…) Walk through the doors of The Montage to all the amenities you want,” Fora Advisor Melissa Friedman-Levine noted. “It may be surprising to some, but Big Sky has some of the most epic golf in the country, and staying at The Montage gets you access.”

Kimpton Armory Hotel Bozeman: Downtown gem with rooftop pool and sleek decor. Fora’s partner perks with IHG Luxury & Lifestyle program include $50 hotel credit, welcome amenity, upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever available.

Sage Lodge: A comfortable lodge touting grand common spaces an hour from Bozeman and near Yellowstone. Fora Perks include $100 food / beverage credit, breakfast daily, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever available.

Yellowstone National Park

A vast and awe-inspiring wilderness, Yellowstone is home to geothermal wonders, breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife. Entering the park through the western entrance in Montana, visitors are surrounded by the park's natural splendor. This gateway is conveniently located near the town of West Yellowstone, giving visitors quick access to the western area of the park, renowned for its dramatic geysers, like Old Faithful. Continue reading to find out where to go, eat and stay near the park. 

What to do in Yellowstone National Park

Mammoth Hot Springs and Old Faithful

Begin your exploration by witnessing the iconic Old Faithful Geyser, which erupts approximately every 90 minutes. Explore the Grand Prismatic Spring, the largest hot spring in the US, known for its vibrant colors. To spy some wildlife, drive through Lamar Valley, often referred to as "America's Serengeti" because of the bison, wolf and grizzly bear population. Hike the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, where the views are astounding. 

Another must-see is Mammoth Hot Springs, an other worldly area with terraced travertine formations created by thermal waters. Other scenic spots include Yellowstone Lake, the largest high-elevation lake in North America, Norris Geyser Basin, the hottest and oldest of Yellowstone's thermal areas, and Hayden Valley, another prime spot for wildlife viewing and superb sunsets.

Where to eat near Yellowstone National Park

Traveling to and from Yellowstone’s West Entrance, visitors have their pick of tasty venues. For a portable pie, Wild West Pizzeria & Saloon whips up pizzas in a lively atmosphere, perfect for families to eat in or take out. And for a taste of Mexico, grab a picnic bench and dig into the tacos at Taquería Malverde, served out of a whimsical converted bus. For more upscale bites, Madison Crossing Lounge features dishes with local game and fresh seafood in a warm setting.

There’s no shortage of barbecue and grilled meats in cowboy country, and The Buffalo Bar serves up classic American fare with a Montana twist, including bison burgers and local craft beers. Firehole BBQ Co. is a no-nonsense food stop, turning out mouthwatering smoked meats and savory sides. 

For breakfast, Running Bear Pancake House is a crowd pleaser, turning out platters of steaming hot cakes, egg combos and French toast. And if you’re heading south near Island Park, Connie's Restaurant & Saloon is the place to go for comfort food like ribs, burgers and steaks, plus all the sides.

Where to stay near Yellowstone National Park

Image courtesy of Under Canvas West Yellowstone

Under Canvas West Yellowstone: Posh platform tents with stylish interiors and communal spaces just 15 minutes from Yellowstone’s West Entrance.

Under Canvas North Yellowstone - Paradise Valley: Glamping option in a meadow setting with river views, plus dining options.

Glacier National Park

Encompassing more than one million acres in northern Montana, Glacier National Park offers an unforgettable wilderness experience. Although lacking the hot springs so plentiful in its southern neighbor Yellowstone, Glacier is home to gorgeous landscapes, including sweeping alpine meadows and towering glaciers. The park also sees considerably less visitors, making the 700 miles of hiking trails less crowded. Plan travel in late June through early September to ensure access to the most roads, which can be closed out of season.

What to do in Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park

With such a large area, one of the best ways to see the park is to travel the Going-to-the-Sun route, a 50-mile scenic drive featuring astounding views. Along the route, travelers cross the Continental Divide at Logan Pass, the highest point of the drive at 6,646 feet. Be on the lookout for the park’s impressive wildlife, such as grizzly bears, mountain goats and moose. And for eager hikers, park at the Logan Pass visitor center for convenient access to a variety of trails.

Hikers who tackle the Grinnell Glacier Trail are treated to spectacular sights, including mineral-blue mountain lakes, dramatic waterfalls and serene forested landscapes. For moderate-level hikers, the Highline Trail runs parallel to the Going-to-the-Sun road and offers incredible views. Another option is a short roundtrip on Hidden Lake Overlook, which is less than three miles. Although steep, this short hike is rewarding, with panoramic views of spectacular Hidden Lake and Bearhat Mountain.

Where to eat near Glacier National Park

After working up an appetite exploring the park, here are some top choices to satisfy your hunger. In West Glacier, Belton Chalet Grill Dining Room & Tap Room is set in a historic railroad building with an upscale menu and craft beers. In nearby Apgar Village, Eddie’s Cafe & Gifts is a beloved spot for breakfast and lunch and has an adjacent shop, perfect for picking up a souvenir.

In the town of Whitefish, the Whitefish Lake Restaurant combines gorgeous golf course views with fine dining, featuring a seafood menu. For casual bites, check out Loula’s Cafe, a cozy, family-owned restaurant in downtown Whitefish, and Great Northern Bar & Grill for live music, local beers and a hearty pub menu.

Columbia Falls is about 20 minutes from Whitefish and is home to Nite Owl & Back Room Restaurant, a popular down-to-earth spot for generous portions of comfort food. Three Forks Grille cooks up lighter dishes, with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. And for your favorite pie, North Fork Pizza is the perfect choice, with a low-key dining space or take out.

Where to stay near Glacier National Park

Image courtesy of The Lodge at Whitefish Lake

The Lodge at Whitefish Lake: Rustic lakeside manor with summertime pool, cozy lobby fireplace and comfortably appointed rooms. 

Under Canvas Glacier: Glamping experience with platform tents, communal campfires and a cafe within seven miles of Glacier National Park.

Bonus all-inclusive ranches and secluded stays

Image courtesy of Triple Creek Ranch

One of the draws of Montana is its wide open spaces, and western Montana has its fair share of gorgeous areas to allot to these hideaways. Here are a few favorites that are nestled on sprawling properties. From nature-inspired resorts to all-inclusive ranch stays, discover how to get away from it all and connect with nature while experiencing VIP perks. Here are a few Fora Advisor favorites that know how to deliver exceptional western experiences.

The Resort at Paws Up: About a half-hour east of Missoula, this magical destination sets the scene for a variety of experiences, from luxury platform tents to four-bedroom homes. Delve into activities like cattle drives on horseback, ATV tours and fly fishing on the resort’s 37,000 acres, then balance your adventures with some relaxation at the spa. Multiple dining options are included and cater to a host of tastes, including al fresco chuck wagon dinners, a white-tablecloth dining room and campfire s’mores. Fora Perks include a $300 activity credit, roundtrip airport transfers, a bottle of wine, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever available.

Triple Creek Ranch: In western Montana close to the Idaho border, this destination takes all the worry out of traveling with its all-inclusive rates. Charming log cabins and larger houses make guests feel at home with amenities like full kitchens, fireplaces and outdoor living spaces. Get in touch with your inner cowboy on a cattle ride, or savor mountain views while tubing down a river before diving into the ranch’s upscale dining and wine pairings. Fora’s VIP perks include a $100 hotel / resort credit, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever available.

The Ranch at Rock Creek: This original 19th-century homestead combines a luxe getaway with eco–friendly mountain adventure. Set in a river valley, this property epitomizes the mountain-chic vibe, with cabins touting clawfoot tubs and beamed ceilings and glamping tents boasting rustic chandeliers and brass beds. Cuisine is next level, with the all-inclusive rates eliminating the stress of planning ahead, and a thoughtful menu of activities (including a spa!) will satisfy even the most particular member of your group. Book with Fora to secure a $100 hotel / resort credit, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever available.

Image courtesy of Riverview Ranch

Riverview Ranch: It’s hard to believe this all-inclusive ranch is only 40 minutes from Missoula. Superb mountain views, serene ponds and majestic forests surround the stylish lodge, which offers well-appointed suites, all equipped with soaking tubs, private decks and fire pits. Western adventures include riding lessons and excursions, as well as white water rafting, mountain biking and outdoor wellness classes. Lock in withIN by SLH Perks including a resort credit, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever available.

Alpine Falls Ranch: Also close to the Idaho border, Alpine Falls delivers a posh experience amidst rugged surroundings. Think wood-paneled villas with floor-to-ceiling windows and warmly decorated cabins with bunks – perfect for families. All-inclusive packages are available, and activities include the expected horseback adventures and fly fishing, plus a clay course for shooting. Book with Fora to lock in Tablet Pro Perks like a $25 resort credit, and upgrade and extended checkout whenever available.

Connect with a Fora Advisor to make your wild west dreams a reality.