After enjoying the beautiful landscape around Missoula, discover more Montana treasures on a drive through the countryside. A short journey to these three spectacular Missoula day trips is well worth the time. Destinations, from under an hour’s drive to less than three, offer breathtaking views, historic sites and outdoor recreation. Plan a day trip to the Blackfoot Valley, Bitterroot Valley and Glacier National Park to enhance any Missoula vacation. Not only does each area offer a wealth of memorable experiences, the drive reveals the matchless beauty of Montana. After expanding your view of the Big Sky Country, return to your very own mountainside retreat at the Blue Mountain Bed and Breakfast. Our private suites offer sweeping valley views in a serene setting. Wake up each morning to a gourmet breakfast and ready for a new day of adventures. Book your Missoula summer getaway at the beautiful Blue Mountain Bed and Breakfast.
3 Missoula Day Trips
- The Bitterroot Valley – Just under an hour drive from Missoula explore the Bitterroot Valley with soothing hot springs, historic sites and an expansive wildlife refuge. The Lolo Hot Springs Resort sits on 125 acres in the middle of the Lolo National Forest. Relax in the peaceful setting while soaking in the natural mineral hot spring pools. The resort also offers dining and live entertainment at its’ saloon and restaurant. Step back in time visiting the old gold dust town of Darby located on the Bitterroot River, or stunning Daly Mansion and Historic St. Mary’s Mission. However, wildlife photographers and bird watchers must visit the 2,800 acres Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge. The diverse habitats attract over 250 species of birds, and 37 different mammals.
- The Blackfoot Valley – A bit further from Missoula, a little over an hour drive, find the pristine rivers and rolling hills of the Blackfoot Valley. The Blackfoot River is a popular fly-fishing location that inspired the novella by Norman Maclean, A River Runs Through It. Learn about the history of Montana ranching and cattle industry at the Grant-Kohrs Ranch National Historic Site. The tiny historic town of Ovando, with only 50 residents, offers a rich background of Montana history and culture. While the town of Garnet has become a ghost town where once was a thriving gold miners community.
- Glacier National Park – The two and a half hour drive is well worth it to see the dramatic peaks carved by ancient glaciers in this park. Hikers are treated to rolling hills surrounded by meadows of wildflowers and magical waterfalls. The famous 50-mile-long Going-to-the-Sun-Road runs along the glacier and crosses the Continental Divide with stunning views. Sit back and leave the driving to the park’s free shuttle service or a guided tour on the Red Bus or Glacier Sun tour.
Returned to the Blue Mountain Bed and Breakfast after the inspiring Missoula day trips and relax on our multi-level deck to watch the sunset. The grand and magnificent Montana vistas are waiting to be explored this summer. Book an amazing Missoula escape you’ll never forget.
