Montana is known for its rugged beauty and endless outdoor opportunities. The Montana 200 highway is a perfect way to experience all that the state has to offer. This 200-mile stretch of road takes you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the state, from rolling hills to rugged mountains. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a nature lover, or just looking for a scenic drive, the Montana 200 has something for everyone.
Outdoor activities
Enjoy two of the most popular outdoor activities along the Montana 200 highway - hiking on popular trails and fishing at Blackfoot river.
Hiking
The Montana 200 highway is home to some of the best hiking in the state. One must-see trail is the Lolo Trail. The Nez Perce tribe and Lewis and Clark expedition used this historic trail. Today, it offers hikers a chance to experience the rugged beauty of the Montana wilderness. The trail is roughly 45 miles long and offers a variety of terrains, including rocky cliffs, dense forests, and meadows filled with wildflowers.
Fishing
The Montana 200 highway also offers some of the best fishing in the state. The Blackfoot River, which runs parallel to the highway, is known for its trophy-sized trout. Anglers can fish for rainbow, brown, and cutthroat trout, as well as steelhead. The river is also home to a variety of other fish, including bass and pike.
Must See Places
Montana 200 Highway has many places to see and visit. Here are two of the most known tourist destinations that you must not miss during your travel.
Glacier National Park
No trip on the Montana 200 highway would be complete without a visit to Glacier National Park. The park is home to over 700 miles of hiking trails and offers visitors the chance to experience some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world. Some of the must-see attractions in the park include the Going-to-the-Sun Road, which offers stunning views of the park’s glaciers, and the Highline Trail, which takes hikers along the edge of a sheer cliff.
The National Bison Range
The National Bison Range is located just off the Montana 200 highway and offers visitors the chance to see one of America’s most iconic animals in their natural habitat. The range is home to a herd of around 400 bison and offers a variety of activities, including hiking, wildlife viewing, and educational programs.
Unusual Tip
Uncover the hidden gems of Montana 200. This unusual tip will let you turn your travel into an unforgettable experience.
Hot Air Ballon Ride
If you’re looking for a unique way to experience the Montana 200 highway, consider taking a hot air balloon ride. Hot air balloon companies offer rides that take you over the highway’s beautiful landscapes, offering views you can’t get from the ground. It’s a unique and unforgettable experience that will make your trip to Montana truly special.
Hidden Wonders
These two places add an unusual and unique touch to your trip, the Garden of 1,000 Buddhas is a perfect place to find inner peace and tranquility while the World's Largest Grizzly Bear statue is a perfect spot for a family photo and a fun activity for kids.
The Garden of 1,000 Buddhas
This serene garden is located just off the Montana 200 highway and is home to over 1,000 statues of Buddha. The garden is a peaceful oasis in the middle of the rugged Montana wilderness and offers visitors a chance to experience the tranquility of Buddhism. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the garden and explore the different statues and meditation spots.
The World’s Largest Grizzly Bear
This unique attraction is located in the town of The Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center in West Yellowstone. The statue is of a grizzly bear, and it is claimed to be the largest grizzly bear statue in the world. Visitors can take a walk around the statue and take pictures. The statue is located in a park-like setting with picnic tables, a playground, and a mini train.
Accommodation Suggestions
These are some suggestions for accommodations along the Montana 200 highway. You can find various options that suit your budget and preferences.
Budget:
The Glacier Park Lodge is a budget-friendly option located just outside Glacier National Park. The lodge offers basic accommodation, including various room types and a campground. The lodge also has a restaurant, a gift shop, and a swimming pool.
Mid-range:
The River Rock Lodge is a mid-range option located along the Blackfoot River. The lodge offers comfortable rooms and cabin rentals, as well as a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The lodge also has a restaurant and a bar.
Luxury:
The Lodge at Whitefish Lake is a luxury option located on the shores of Whitefish Lake. The lodge offers spacious rooms and suites, as well as a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing, hiking, and boating. The lodge also has a restaurant, bar, and spa.
Unique:
The Yellowstone Under Canvas is a unique option for those looking for a unique outdoor experience. The campground offers luxury camping tents with comfortable beds, electricity, and private bathrooms. The campground is located close to Yellowstone National Park and offer guided tours to the park as well as other outdoor activities like hiking and fishing.
Overall, the Montana 200 highway offers visitors a chance to experience the state’s rugged beauty in various ways. From hiking to fishing and from visiting national parks to hot air balloon rides, there’s something for everyone on this 200-mile stretch of road. So, pack your bags and hit the road. Montana awaits you!
