DISCOVER OUR MOST COLORFUL SEASON

The abundance of a Montana autumn.

There’s no doubt fall is one of the loveliest times to explore Western Montana’s Glacier Country. In addition to vibrant colors, visitation tends to quiet down a bit. The valleys and mountains say goodbye to the green shades of summer and hello to the brilliant and rich yellows and golds, as aspen, cottonwood and tamarack trees show off their perfectly coordinated hues.

Top 5 Fall Drives

1. THE SEELEY SWAN: A hot spot for fall colors, the Seeley Swan Valley provides extraordinary views via the quiet corridor of U.S. Highway 83.

2. LAKE KOOCANUSA SCENIC BYWAY: What’s better than a scenic byway? A scenic byway in autumn. Take in the golden hues as you drive along the reservoir.

3. HIGHWAY 200, SANDERS COUNTY: From Ravalli to Thompson Falls, Highway 200 travels through a beautiful, quiet valley with breathtaking river views.

4. HIGHWAY 12, LOLO TO IDAHO: This heavily forested, scenic route from the Bitterroot Valley into Idaho has you immersed in stunning fall color for most of the drive. Bonus: This is the same spot where Lewis and Clark crossed into Idaho in 1805.

5. HUNGRY HORSE RESERVOIR LOOP: Just outside Glacier National Park, this shoreline loop across from the South Fork of the Flathead River offers stunning mountain views.

Top 5 Fall Activites

1. GOLFING: Golfing against the backdrop of our fall colors is a must. Tee up at Mission Mountain Golf Club in Ronan.

2. FLY FISHING: Come fall, the rivers are quieter, but the fish are still biting, and the scenery is extra vibrant. Cast a line on the Kootenai River with Kootenai River Fishing Charters.

3. SKALKAHO BEND PARK: This park in Hamilton is the perfect spot for taking a fall stroll or birding among the beauty of the Bitterroot Valley on a quiet autumn day.

4. ATV RIDES: Power up for an off-road excursion and enjoy the fall colors by ATV. Book a trip with Action Rentals in Whitefish.

5. FALL FESTIVALS: We celebrate all year long here, and fall is no exception. Plan your trip around a fall favorite, like Great Northwest Oktoberfest in Whitefish or the Scarecrow Festival in Stevensville.

BONUS: Fall in Glacier Country is best paired with a seasonal beverage. Try local hard cider from one of a handful of cideries in the region.

See more tips on fall travel and scenic byways at glaciermt.com/things-to-do-in-the-fall and glaciermt.com/fall-road-trips