From riverside trails and historic mining towns to ski runs and alpine lakes, the Flint Creek Valley offers a full day of Montana adventure just beyond Missoula.
Reconnect with nature as you explore the Flint Creek Valley and its rivers, mountain towns, ski runs and wide-open valleys. The best part? See it all on an easy day trip from Missoula. Rich in mining history—and outdoor adventure—you’ll find equal parts small town escape and adrenaline-pumping fun. As bending corners surrounded by dramatic peaks open up to wide valleys, you’ll see the best of the region as you travel east on I-90 and south on Highway 1. From a morning by the water at Beavertail Hill State Park to small-town wandering in Philipsburg, high-energy laps at Discovery Ski Area and a scenic pause at Georgetown Lake, this day trip delivers big Montana moments without straying far from town. And by sunset, you’ll be back in Missoula, tired in the best way.
Beavertail Hill State Park, MontanaYour day starts in Missoula, where you’ll grab any last minute snacks or gear you may need before hitting I-90 to make your way towards Beavertail Hill State Park. Situated on the banks of the Clark Fork River, this park provides plenty to do both on and off the water. From fishing and canoeing, to bird watching and hiking, this is the perfect place to like you’re in the heart of the wilderness without going too far out of town. Set out on the Riverside Loop Walk to explore at the water’s edge, or stop to scout for the native wildlife that make their homes among the trees.
To make the most of your forest expedition, pick up lunch supplies in Missoula and pack a picnic to enjoy while you relax under a canopy of cottonwoods if the weather’s warm enough. If you’re passing through the winter months, set out on snow packed trails with your snowshoes to see the landscape dusted with a layer of soft, fluffy powder and imagine you’re spending the day in a real life snow globe.
Philipsburg, MontanaHead east on I-90 towards Drummond, where Highway 1 meets the interstate. From the junction, head south towards the community of Philipsburg. Cradled by the surrounding mountains, the tight, winding canyons outside Missoula give way to a sweeping valley with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks. Smelter mining history runs deep in this area, with traces of its impact evident throughout town. The charming downtown is home to shops, restaurants and breweries that are warm and inviting no matter the weather outside, and a stroll down Broadway Street is a must-do if you’re passing through. A trip here isn’t complete without a stop at famous The Sweet Palace—an old-fashioned candy shop with over 1,000 different kinds of goodies that are sure to please kids, and kids-at-heart alike.
Just 30 minutes west of Philipsburg’s city limits is Gem Mountain Sapphire Mine—Montana’s oldest and largest sapphire mine. In the summertime, it’s worth the detour over Skalkaho Pass to mine for the precious gems. Purchase a bucket of sapphire gravel directly from the mine, and sift through the contents to uncover the stones. The mine is closed from September through the end of May, but the Gem Mountain storefront downtown allows visitors to mine for sapphires all year long.
Discovery Ski Area, MontanaFor a rush of adrenaline, head south to Discovery Ski Area. While it’s a winter wonderland for skiers and snowboarders, this mountain is a playground year-round. When the snow flies, choose from 67 trails for every skill level, then warm up in the cozy day lodge with one of Discovery’s famous shortbread chocolate chip cookies—fresh from the oven daily. In summer, the slopes transform into a biker’s paradise, with lift access making it easy to reach the summit before sending it down trails that weave through the trees and offer sweeping mountain views.
Georgetown Lake, MontanaA quick, scenic 24-minute drive south of downtown Philipsburg is Georgetown Lake. This waterway is the perfect setting for warm weather activities, with prime conditions for boating, fishing for Kokanee salmon and relaxing on, in and around the water. When winter comes, Georgetown Lake is perfect for ice fishing, and the trails surrounding the lake are a snowmobiler’s haven with routes traversing both technical and scenic terrain. Need to gear up before hitting the road? Stop by Pintler Adventures in Anaconda before heading south to outfit your crew with all the equipment you need for your alpine excursion.
Once you’ve had your daily dose of adrenaline, head back towards Missoula for the night. You’ll return to town the same way you came, by way of the Pintler Veterans Memorial Scenic Highway. Make sure to take a look out the window and admire the views along the way, and keep your eye out for bighorn sheep, deer or elk. When you get back into town, stop by Tamarack Brewing Co. for a locally brewed beer and a delicious meal as you unwind after your Flint Creek Valley adventure. Then, tuck in for some well-deserved rest at a nearby accommodation, and prepare for another day of play.
