Autumn Adventures in Western Montana
Fall Fun Abounds in Glacier Country

In Western Montana, Autumn is a season for the senses—vibrant colors, crisp mountain air, the unmistakable scent of fall, and the harvest flavor of pumpkin spiced everything, including handcrafted Montana beer and spirits. Fall fun is plentiful here, from scenic drives to hiking, biking, fly-fishing, golfing and wildlife watching. Our thriving communities are bustling with arts and culture, as well as festivities and events. Don’t miss The Great Northwest Oktoberfest in Whitefish September 27 – 29 and October 3 – 6. Hamilton’s McIntosh Apple Day is October 6, and the Flathead Celtic Festival is September 14. Head to the Libby Nordicfest Heritage Festival September 7 – 8 or visit Seeley Lake for the Tamarack BrewFest October 13 and the Alpine Artisans Tour of the Arts October 13 – 14.

Fall Frolic
Near the Park

Beauty and adventure span well beyond Glacier National Park into our state parks and charming towns. For a stunning view of the park, Flathead Lake and the Jewel Basin, head to Kalispell’s Lone Pine State Park. Flathead Lake’s Wild Horse Island, accessible by boat through early October, offers jaw-dropping autumnal light, and Whitefish Lake State Park boasts dazzling fall colors plus kayaking and paddleboarding fun. Take a zip line tour through the end of September at Whitefish Mountain Resort. For a bit of Montana history set against fall hues, Travelers’ Rest State Park in Lolo offers interpretive tours, fishing, hiking, bird-watching and wildlife viewing.

Fall Foliage:
A Montana Tour

Every road and trail in the region leads somewhere scenic, festive, or both, whether you’re headed off the beaten path or straight into the heart of one of our small towns. Leaf peepers, take note: a scenic fall road trip tops the list of our favorite autumn adventures in Western Montana. Glacier National Park and the Flathead, Bitterroot, Missoula, Seeley-Swan and Clark Fork valleys all offer the magic of fall foliage intertwined with open highways, sweeping meadows, sparkling rivers, mirrored lakes, and an authentic local spirit and admiration for our most colorful season. Plus, Western Montana’s shoulder-season prices are a great reason to consider a fall tour of Glacier Country.