Luxury hospitality company Four Seasons is wowing travelers with a brand-new around-the-world private jet trip from California back to Canada, touching on three different continents.
25.09.2024 - 14:41 / matadornetwork.com
Fall is the ideal time to visit Montana if you’re looking to get away from the crowds and into nature. The shoulder season welcomes the colorful displays of foliage, crisp, clean air, rivers teeming with fish, and active wildlife. Because Big Sky Country is vast, we’ve put together some top spots to see fall colors in all their glory. From the shimmering golden tapestry of aspen groves and deciduous trees in the southwestern and central regions, to the golden hues of the wheat fields against the backdrop of the setting sun over the northern and easter plains, here are some of the best places to visit in fall and where to stay.
We hope you love the spaces and stays we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.
Photo: Visit Montana
The optimal time to visit Montana for fall foliage varies depending on the region. In general, the peak foliage occurs in September and early October, but check out this year’s forecast map for accurate predictions.
Photo: Amy Jimmerson
Northwest Montana offers many opportunities to witness the splendor of fall foliage and the shoulder season is also a great time for a road trip.
One of the better routes at this time of year is the North Fork Road, where you can enjoy the foliage of Glacier National Park on one side and Flathead National Forest on the other. A must-stop is North Shore Flathead Lake, the shoreline is adorned with yellows and oranges, and it’s a great place to watch the fall migration of birds.
Photo: Visit Montana
Seeley Lake, in the heart of Montana’s Lolo National Forest, offers a breathtaking backdrop for hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities. For a light hike, consider the Seeley Lake Loop Trail. This route will treat you to scenic views of the lake and surrounding landscape. The lake’s calm waters also provide a peaceful setting for paddling, and several rental companies offer equipment and guided tours.
The Hungry Horse-Glacier View Ranger District is another excellent choice if you’re planning a road trip. Numerous larch trees were planted along the Hungry Horse Reservoir after the 2003 fires. The West Side Road (Forest Road 895) and the East Side Road (Forest Road 38) are beautiful picturesque drives with access to hiking trails, camping, and boat launches.
The Bison Range and the Mission Valley are also must-see destinations for fall foliage enthusiasts. The Bison Range, a wildlife preserve, offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, while the dirt roads of the Mission Valley, particularly around Polson and Ronan, are lined with colorful trees.
Photo: Explore Whitefish/Brian Schott
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