Montana Road Trip Itinerary
The Montana Road Trip is an unforgettable journey through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the United States. Starting in Helena, the trip takes you through Gardiner, Billings, St. Mary, and Missoula, covering a total distance of around 1845km. It is recommended to take around 10 days to complete the trip, with the best time to drive being spring or summer.
The route takes you through lush forests, rolling hills and majestic mountain ranges, offering stunning views of nature at its best. The roads are generally in good condition, however, some sections are not suitable for motorhomes and there may be seasonal closures due to weather conditions. Some roads are also narrow and winding, so please take care.
This road trip is suitable for all drivers and offers a great experience, with plenty of memories to take home. It can be managed with a moderate budget, making it a great option for those looking for a memorable trip.
10
number of days
1,845 km
route length
fair
budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
moderate
accident level
START
Helena
Distance 1,754 km
Driving time 22.8 h
Pace: fast
526.3 kWh
Airports
HLN
[detailsContainer]
Helena, the capital of Montana, is the ideal starting point for a road trip through the state. Located at the junction of the Missouri and the Yellowstone rivers, Helena is a great place to experience the natural beauty of Montana. With its historic sites, vibrant downtown and nearby national parks, Helena offers visitors a wealth of experiences.
The Montana Historical Society, the Governor's Mansion and the State Capitol are the three must-see historic sites in Helena. For those looking to explore the great outdoors, Helena is surrounded by mountains and rivers. The nearby Helena National Forest offers miles of trails and breathtaking views. Helena is also home to the Gates of the Mountains, which boasts limestone cliffs and stunning views of the Missouri River.
The nearest international airport to Helena is the Billings Logan International Airport (BIL), located just over an hour away. Car rentals are available at the airport. For those looking to explore Helena by car, there is an abundance of parking downtown, as well as in the surrounding neighborhoods.
Helena is the perfect place to start the Montana Road Trip. Whether you're looking for a weekend of outdoor adventure or a day of sightseeing, Helena has something for everyone.
1
Helena
- Gardiner
Distance 301 km
Driving time 3.5 h
Pace: fast
90.2 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Welcome to the Helena-Gardiner road trip stage! This leg of your journey is one of the most exciting, as it takes you through some of the most interesting places in the United States. You'll be covering a distance of 187mi in less than 4 hours, so make sure to plan your stops accordingly.
Start your journey in Helena, the capital of Montana. Here you can visit the iconic Montana State Capitol, stroll the streets of Last Chance Gulch and take in the breathtaking views at the Mount Helena City Park.
As you make your way to Gardiner, you'll come across some of the most stunning landscapes in the region. Make sure to take a few pictures of the Yellowstone River and the iconic Roosevelt Arch. There's also the Yellowstone National Park, which is a must-see for any road-tripper.
Finally, you'll reach Gardiner, a small town located on the north entrance of the Yellowstone National Park. Here you can visit the Roosevelt Lodge, a historic hotel built in the early 20th century. You can also visit the Yellowstone River Picnic Area, where you can take in the beauty of the Yellowstone River.
This Helena-Gardiner road trip is an unforgettable experience. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage.
Gardiner - United States - North America - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
❯
❮
2
Gardiner
- Cooke City
Distance 90 km
Driving time 1.7 h
Pace: modest
23.4 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Embark on a thrilling road trip from Gardiner to Cooke City, a journey of 56 miles and fewer than 2 hours of driving time. As you make your way through Yellowstone National Park, you’ll be treated to some of the most spectacular scenery in the world. Along the way, be sure to take in the breathtaking views of the mountains, rivers, and lakes. You may even spot some wildlife! As you drive, keep an eye out for the winding roads and narrow sections of the route. Please note that some sections of the route may be closed seasonally. As you arrive in Cooke City, you’ll be greeted with a wealth of attractions, including some of the best skiing and snowmobiling in the region. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the “Itinerary” of this stage.
Cooke City - United States - North America - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
❯
❮
3
Cooke City
- Billings
Distance 200 km
Driving time 2.5 h
Pace: fast
60.1 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Are you ready for an amazing road trip? Start your adventure in Cooke City, United States and explore the incredible Beartooth Road. This 125-mile drive will take you less than 3 hours, and the route is full of incredible sights and attractions. Along the way, you'll be able to admire the wild beauty of the mountains and the breathtaking views of the valleys. You'll also drive through some steep ramps, winding roads, and some sections may be closed seasonally. Make sure to keep your eyes open for the scenic road, as you'll be able to spot some amazing wildlife and landscapes. Once you reach Billings, you'll have the chance to explore the city and its many attractions. Don't forget to check the "Itinerary" of this stage for more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. So, what are you waiting for? Start your journey today and explore Beartooth Road!
Billings - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikipedia
❯
❮
4
Billings
- Great Falls
Distance 398 km
Driving time 5.8 h
Pace: fast
119.4 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Welcome to the wonderful road trip stage from Billings to Great Falls! This stage of the tour takes you through the beautiful landscape of Montana, covering a distance of 247 miles in less than 6 hours.
Start your journey in Billings, the largest city in Montana. Here you can visit the Pictograph Cave State Park, the Moss Mansion, the Yellowstone Art Museum and the Western Heritage Center.
Continue your journey to the city of Havre, where you can visit the H. Earl Clack Museum and the Havre Beneath the Streets Museum.
Your next stop is Fort Benton, the oldest settlement in Montana. Here you can visit the Grand Union Hotel and the Old Trail Museum.
Finally, you will reach your destination, the city of Great Falls. Here you can visit the C.M. Russell Museum, the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center, and the Giant Springs State Park.
For more detailed information about attractions, accommodation, recommended restaurants and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Great Falls - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
❯
❮
5
Great Falls
- St. Mary
Distance 245 km
Driving time 2.8 h
Pace: fast
73.4 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Great Falls, United States and explore the beauty of Glacier National Park. This stage of your tour will take you through mesmerizing landscapes, crystal clear lakes, and lush forests, all in a distance of 152 miles and a driving time of fewer than 3 hours.
Start your journey in Great Falls and take a break at the Giant Springs State Park to admire the mesmerizing beauty of the largest freshwater spring in the US. Make sure to visit the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center to learn more about the famous expedition of the two explorers.
Continue your road trip and make a stop at the majestic Two Medicine Lake, one of the most beautiful lakes in the park. Take a boat tour and sail through the lake to discover the hidden gems of the area. Don't forget to visit the majestic St. Mary Falls and explore the surrounding area.
At the end of your road trip, you will reach St. Mary, the gateway to the park. Relax at the St. Mary Visitor Center and learn more about the park's history. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the park from the Going-to-the-Sun Road.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage.
St. Mary - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wallpaperflare
❯
❮
6
St. Mary
- Kalispell
Distance 139 km
Driving time 2.4 h
Pace: modest
36.2 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Embark on a thrilling 87mi road trip from St. Mary, United States to Kalispell, passing through the Going to the Sun Road in Glacier National Park. This scenic route will take you fewer than 3 hours to complete, and you’ll be able to enjoy the incredible views of the mountains and valleys. Be aware that some sections of the route are not recommended for campers, and cars with camper trailers may not be able to access certain sections. Additionally, there may be a lack of gas stations in some areas, and some sections may be closed seasonally. You’ll also encounter steep ramps, winding roads, and narrow sections. As you drive, be sure to take in the breathtaking views and snap some pictures. Keep in mind that this is only one stage of a larger tour, and there is plenty more to explore and discover. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the “Itinerary” of this stage.
Kalispell - United States - North America - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
❯
❮
7
Kalispell
- Missoula
Distance 196 km
Driving time 2.2 h
Pace: fast
58.8 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Ready for an amazing road trip? Starting in Kalispell, United States and ending in Missoula, this 122mi journey can be completed in less than 3 hours. Along the way, you'll be treated to some of the most beautiful mountain views, so make sure to keep your eyes open. Be sure to take the time to explore the charming towns of Kalispell and Missoula, both of which offer plenty of attractions and activities to keep you busy. Kalispell is known for its stunning lakes, while Missoula is a great spot to learn about the history of the area. Don't forget to stop at the Flathead National Forest, where you can take a hike or just relax and take in the scenery. As you drive, you'll also find plenty of restaurants, campsites, and other great spots to explore. So don't forget to keep your camera handy to capture all the incredible sights. Keep an eye out for more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route in the "Itinerary" of this stage. Bon voyage!
Missoula - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
❯
❮
8
Missoula
- Helena
Distance 185 km
Driving time 1.8 h
Pace: fast
55.6 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Welcome to the Missoula to Helena road trip! This 115 mile journey is the perfect way to explore the stunning landscapes of Montana. You'll have the chance to take in the breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains and the shimmering waters of the Missouri River. Along the way, you'll get to visit some of the most interesting places in the state, such as the Montana State Capitol in Helena, the Museum of Mountain Flying in Missoula, and the Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park. You'll also have the opportunity to explore the quaint towns of Elliston and Wolf Creek. The drive takes less than two hours, so you'll have plenty of time to take in the beauty of the countryside. Be sure to take some photos of the stunning mountain peaks and the peaceful rivers that flow through the area. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to consult the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your trip!
Helena
[detailsContainer]
The "Montana Road Trip" ends in Helena, Montana, the state capital. Helena is a city full of history, culture, and adventure. Sitting at the base of the Rocky Mountains and surrounded by vast, open landscapes, Helena is the perfect spot to end your road trip.
In Helena, you'll find endless outdoor activities like hiking in nearby forests and mountains, fly fishing, and horseback riding. If you’re looking for a unique experience, take a visit to Last Chance Gulch, the area that houses the original settlement of Helena. There you can explore the shops, museums, and galleries that line the streets.
At night, take in a live show at the Myrna Loy Center for the Performing Arts. With its mix of music, theater, dance, and comedy, it's sure to provide a night of entertainment. For a more laid back evening, sample a craft beer at one of Helena’s many breweries.
Helena is also home to the state’s main airport, Helena Regional Airport (HLN). This airport is served by two major airlines, making it easy to end your road trip and continue your journey.
No matter what you’re looking for, Helena has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, or a night of entertainment, Helena is the perfect place to end your Montana road trip.
Montana Road Trip at a glance
-
Start:
Helena
-
End:
Helena
-
Distance:
1,845 km
-
Stay:
10 days
-
Getting there:
Helena Regional Airport (HLN)
-
When to drive:
June, July, August, September
-
More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on the Montana Road Trip, a picturesque journey spanning approximately 1,145 miles (1,845 km) across the diverse terrains of the Big Sky Country. The route begins in the state capital, Helena, and threads through captivating towns such as Gardiner, Billings, St. Mary, and Missoula. This expedition not only showcases Montana's natural grandeur but also offers a deep dive into the state's rich cultural tapestry.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Helena: Delve into Montana's history by visiting the Montana State Capitol, strolling through the charming Last Chance Gulch, and hiking the trails of Mount Helena City Park.
- Gardiner: An essential stop as the northern gateway to Yellowstone National Park, where you can witness the majestic Old Faithful geyser, encounter diverse wildlife, and marvel at the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.
- Billings: Explore the ancient Pictograph Cave State Park, which features cave paintings over 2,000 years old, or take in the panoramic views from the sandstone cliffs known as the Rimrocks.
- St. Mary: The eastern entry point to Glacier National Park, where you can drive the Going-to-the-Sun Road and experience the awe-inspiring sights of glacial lakes, rugged peaks, and remnants of glaciers.
- Missoula: A vibrant university town that boasts cultural attractions like the University of Montana campus, the Missoula Art Museum, and the historical Fort Missoula.
Best Time to Go:
The ideal time for this Road Trip is from late spring to early fall, particularly between May and September, when the climate is pleasant, and the full splendor of Montana's flora and fauna can be appreciated. This is also when the Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park is more likely to be fully open.
Potential Risks:
- While most Roads can accommodate a range of vehicles, RVs and motorhomes may find certain mountain passes challenging.
- Be prepared for seasonal Road closures, especially from late fall through early spring, due to heavy snowfall and ice conditions.
- Exercise caution on narrow, curving mountain Roads, and be mindful of wildlife crossings.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- Montana's diverse geography includes everything from the Rocky Mountains to the Great Plains.
- The state is renowned for its fly-fishing opportunities, especially in the crystal-clear streams near Missoula.
- With fewer than 7 people per square mile, Montana offers a sense of solitude and vast open spaces unlike anywhere else in the U.S.
- The Road Trip can be comfortably done with a moderate budget, with camping and lodging options available for various preferences.
- The route provides an enriching experience with both cultural and natural attractions, such as local rodeos, Native American heritage sites, and outdoor recreational activities.
A good choice for:
A journey through Montana is a journey through the heart of America's untamed wilderness and historical landscape. This Road Trip promises a compelling mix of adventure, serenity, and stunning vistas, presenting a perfect opportunity for travelers seeking to connect with nature and discover the unique heritage of Montana.
-
