During National Parks Week, we celebrate the stunning beauty and wild landscapes of America’s beloved national parks. Montana is home to two national parks, Glacier and Yellowstone, and if you're planning a visit to both Missoula is the perfect basecamp for your adventure. Centrally located between both parks, Missoula offers the ideal blend of small-town charm, big-city amenities, and quick access to some of the most awe-inspiring natural landscapes in the world.
Nestled in the heart of western Montana, Missoula is a vibrant city situated in the valley of five river basins, making it a gorgeous spot with great access to outdoor recreation opportunities. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned adventurer, Missoula provides the perfect starting point for exploring Glacier and Yellowstone, both of which are just a few hours away by car. After exploring the parks, return to Missoula and enjoy our amazing culinary scene and top-notch art and cultural attractions. Missoula boasts a lively downtown with local restaurants offering farm-to-table meals with rotating seasonal menus and dozens of charming craft breweries serving up Montana-made brews. Whether you're catching a live performance at the world-class Wilma or strolling along the scenic Clark Fork River, Missoula is the perfect place to bookend your national park adventure.
Located 2.5 scenic hours north of Missoula, Glacier National Park is known for its dramatic mountainscapes, stunningly clear lakes, and pristine wilderness and wildlife. The park is home to over 26 glaciers, hundreds of miles of hiking trails, and the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road, which offers breathtaking views along its winding roads. Be sure to check out Western Montana’s Glacier Country for information about attractions, lodging, and things to do while visiting Glacier National Park.
Photo Credit: Cole AllenA little over 3 hours southeast of Missoula, Yellowstone National Park is the world’s first national park and is famous not only for its historical significance, but also for its geothermal geyser activity, abundant wildlife and wildlife viewing opportunities. From the infamous Old Faithful Geyser to the impossibly vibrant Grand Prismatic Spring, there’s no shortage of awe-inspiring sights. Wildlife such as bison, elk, bears, and wolves call Yellowstone home, and wildlife enthusiasts can spot them from the roadside in the Lamar Valley. In addition, Yellowstone has excellent hiking opportunities and is surrounded by charming small Montana towns. Be sure to check out Yellowstone Country for information about attractions, lodging, and things to do while visiting the park.
Photo credit: James LeeInspired and ready to plan a trip to see Montana’s national parks? Let Missoula be your home base for exploring! Whether it’s hiking, fishing, scenic driving, wildlife viewing, or basking in the beauty of these special places, Missoula offers easy access to it all, with plenty of local charm to make your trip even more memorable as you set out to experience the wonders of these national treasures.
