Leap Day Escapades: Day Trips for Your Extra 24 Hours

Leap Day Escapades: Day Trips for Your Extra 24 Hours

1. Garden of One Thousand Buddhas

A quick 30-minute drive to the Jocko Valley, the Garden of One Thousand Buddhas is nestled on Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribal land. The Garden is “a public park, botanical garden and Buddhist center in the Nyingma School of Tibetan Buddhism.” Enjoy a serene stroll through the grounds – with over 1,000 handcrafted sculptures, native flora, koi ponds – designed to “inspire visitors and awaken our innate wisdom and compassion.”

2. Bitterroot Valley

Take the day and head south! The Bitterroot Valley offers a perfect daycation – 90 miles of  historical landmarks, quintessential charming small towns, wildlife refuges, and more! A few of our favorites: Stevensville (first permanent settlement in Montana), Lee Metcalf Refuge, Daly Mansion, Darby (pro tip: stop in for something sweet at Old West Candy!).

3. Soak It All In: Hot Springs

 

 

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Spend the day at one of the 10+ hot springs that surround Zootown! Hike to an undeveloped spring or drive up to a resort – serenity awaits in every direction.

4. Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes Bison Range

About an hour north of Missoula, check out the CSKT Bison Range. The historical wildlife conservation area is home to a heard of 350 bison, a variety of native birds, deer, elk, pronghorns, even the occasional bear sighting! The self-guided driving tour takes around 2 hours – buckle up and enjoy a day of wildlife viewing!

5. Historic Hot Spots

 

 

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Travel back in time at some of the Treasure State’s most historically rich destinations! From ghost towns to “the richest hill on earth” – a glimpse into Montana’s past is just a short drive away. Notable mentions: Garnet Ghost Town, Butte, Phillipsburg.

6.Fresh Air Chronicles: Hit the Slopes

Find fresh powder while you still can – explore one of the five ski resorts located under two hours away from Zootown! An extra day to enjoy some of Western Montana’s premier ski resorts? Sign us up.

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A sunset stroll along the Riverfront Trail is never a bad idea!

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