Here Are The Best Times And Places To View Montana's Fall Foliage In 2023
By Michelle|Published September 18, 2023
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Michelle
Author
Michelle's life is a colorful map of exploration and adventure. From the iconic streets of New York to the sunny shores of Florida, the jagged coast of Maine to the rugged terrain of Montana, she's been fortunate to call some of America's most beautiful states home. Beyond the U.S., Michelle's wanderlust has taken her on a motorcycle journey through India, led her to teach English in Hanoi, and saw her studying Spanish in Guatemala. Michelle graduated with a communications degree from the S. I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University and in addition to a career in advertising has worked with OnlyInYourState since 2016, where her love for travel and storytelling converges. Alongside writing and exploring, Michelle finds joy in photography, staying active, and time with her family.
For questions, comments and inquiries please email: mstarin@onlyinyourstate.com.
Every year I try to determine which season is my favorite to experience in Montana. With hikes, camping, and rafting trips, summer is usually high on the list. But, undoubtedly, when fall shows up I’m completely in love. Chillier weather means cozy nights and more comfortable hikes. It also means incredible changing leaves. Fall in Montana is one of a kind and we wouldn’t want to be anywhere else to see it all unfold. Of course, timing is the most important part. You could spend time conducting a clunky search for things like “When do leaves change color in Montana?” or you could make things simple by checking out the interactive Montana fall foliage map 2023. Put together by the good people of SmokyMountains.com, here is everything you need to know for a fun fall.
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While fall does not officially begin until September 23rd, parts of Montana have already begun experiencing some changing colors.
In early September, a good portion of the Kootenai National Forest had already begun seeing changing leaves. Some slight color change also began early along the Canadian border in places like Hill, Blaine, and Phillips Counties.
While the change was considered minimal, those in search of signs of fall were certainly thrilled.
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By September 10th, the northern areas experienced moderate fall foliage changes and places like Helena and Great Falls saw their own first signs of the season.
By September 18th, the northern part of the state will go from patchy to partial fall foliage. This is when things truly become impressive. Yellows and reds will be prominent throughout the area and much of the rest of the state will see some activity.
More southern areas like West Yellowstone, Big Sky, and Butte are likely to see impressive colors between September 18th and September 25th. This would be a great time to visit Humbug Spires if you're equipped for such a trip.
Between September 25th and October 2nd, fall in northern Montana will be in full swing. This area will see peak foliage, while the rest of the state begins to fill in with color. Places like Billings and a portion of the
Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest will be entering minimal foliage, which helps spread the season out for a few more weeks.
Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest, Neihart, MT 59465, USA
To truly maximize your ability to see the best fall colors in Montana, plan your viewing for any time between October 9th and October 16th. By this time, northern Montana will be just passing peak, while the rest of the state will be smack in the middle of it. This is a good time to be just about anywhere.
Montana will be among the first in the country to experience fall foliage, but we'll also be the first to bid it a fond farewell. So, of course, be sure to get out there as soon as you can.
When do leaves change in Montana? Right now and for just a few weeks, so be sure to get out there and enjoy it!
With just a few weeks to watch the colors change, you’ll want to be sure you have the season planned. A fall foliage road trip is one of the best ways to take it all in. Make your journey even more of a vacation by booking a few overnight spots along the way.
And, now, if anyone asks you, “When do leaves change color in Montana?” you can confidently tell them. You’re welcome!
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