A Guide to Montana’s Fall Colors
Soak in autumn in Big Sky Country

In Montana, fall is one of the quietest and most undiscovered seasons. With comfortable temperatures, shoulder season prices and vibrant shades of yellow and gold lining the region’s ridgelines and valleys, autumn is one of the best times to visit Western Montana’s Glacier Country. Fall also offers an array of recreational activities, including wildlife watching in Glacier National Park’s Many Glacier Valley, fishing the Bitterroot River, kayaking the Alberton Gorge, hiking in the Cabinet Mountains or taking a drive along one of the area’s scenic byways and backroads.

For more fall travel ideas or help planning your trip to Montana, visit glaciermt.com.

Outdoor Fun + Fall Events

While fall is one of Montana’s most serene seasons, there’s no shortage of things to do here. Notable events include Montana Dragon Boat Race & Festival in Lakeside, Nordicfest in Libby, Great Northwest Oktoberfest in Whitefish, McIntosh Apple Days in Hamilton and Tamarack Festival & Brewfest in Seeley Lake. Our best advice for attending a fall event in Montana: round out your visit with area offerings, including a day hike at Lone Pine State Park, a brewery tour in Missoula, cruising on a zip line tour at Whitefish Mountain Resort or paddling the Clearwater Canoe Trail near Seeley Lake.

Fall in Glacier Park

The heart of the region, Glacier National Park is one of the best places to view the colors of fall. With glacial-carved terrain, old growth forests, brilliant teal waterways and plentiful wildlife viewing opportunities, the park is a peaceful oasis in the middle of the Rocky Mountains. Recommended viewing destinations include the North Fork—complete with a drive to Bowman Lake—Two Medicine Valley and the Going-to-the-Sun Road. This year, the Going-to-the-Sun Road will be open in its entirety (weather dependent) through October 16, while the park’s free shuttle service is available through September 18.

© 2016 Glacier Country Regional Tourism Commission. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use of any material must be with the consent of the Glacier Country Regional Tourism Commission. Produced with Accommodations Tax Funds.