It isn’t difficult to appreciate living in Montana. All we ever have to do is step outside to know how amazing it is to live in the Last Best Place. Still, there’s nothing quite like a nice little road trip to remind us of how good we have it. The Treasure State has many magnificent scenic drives, but the primitive Skalkaho Highway truly ranks among the best. While this is a drive you’ll only want to take in the late spring or summer, it’s definitely one worth enjoying at least once in your lifetime. Embark upon this incredible Montana road trip to learn to appreciate this state in a whole new way!

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First, it should be known that the Skalkaho Highway is not for the faint of heart.
RobertandGinnie / TripAdvisor
This is a winding road that is mostly gravel, and it's typically only open from Memorial Day weekend until Halloween or early November.
This peaceful 45-mile drive runs between the Bitterroot Valley and the Philipsburg Valley.
jimbev2015 / TripAdvisor
You'll cruise through the Sapphire Mountains, a remote and seldom visited part of the Treasure State. Start in the charming town of Hamilton if you'd like to end up in the tourist-friendly Philipsburg.

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As you head east, you'll gain elevation slowly and steadily, passing through open agricultural lands until you reach the rugged mountain terrain.
jimbev2015 / TripAdvisor
Luckily, you'll stay on the same highway the entire time, so it's easy to avoid getting lost.
Don't miss the chance to check out the beautiful Skalkaho Falls, which is one of the highlights of the trip.
Christina B / TripAdvisor
Just make sure to watch out for wildlife while you're on the road. It isn't uncommon to spot mule deer, black bears, mountain goats, and even moose.
This is sometimes called Montana's loneliest highway because it's so rugged and remote.
trvlloop / TripAdvisor
However, it's also a great opportunity to reconnect with nature and remind yourself of why you fell in love with Montana in the first place.
Before you know it, you'll be in the charming little city of Philipsburg.
Jasperdo / Flickr
Park your vehicle and stay awhile. You'll certainly have earned it.

Want to do this drive from your couch and just get the highlights? Check out this awesome drive to Skalkaho Falls!

Where do you go in Montana when you want to get away from it all? What kind of stops would you want to add to this Montana road trip? Let us know!

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Montana Road Trip

Tori Jane | February 02, 2023
  1. Where should I go on a scenic road trip in Montana? 

This state is an intensely beautiful one and it’s ideal for an amazing road trip. We have countless favorite destinations for the perfect scenic road trip in Montana, like:  

  • Billings. It’s a beautiful town surrounded by a ridiculous number of outdoor attractions and sure to make any outdoors enthusiast fall in love. 
  • Great Falls. Spend some days (or longer) exploring the amazing waterfalls of the Missouri River, including (but not limited to) the 50-mile-long River’s Edge Trail, which features a handful of amazing cascades. 
  • Western Montana – explore the entire western portion of this amazing state in the best way: on the road. It’s classic Montana that you’re sure to adore. 

Learn about even more of our favorite scenic road trips in Montana. 

 

  1. What are some of the most scenic places in Montana? 

Montana is probably one of the states most famous for just how incredibly scenic it all is. It seems like no matter where you turn, you’re sure to find somewhere amazing. Some of our favorite scenic places in Montana are places including:  

  • Glacier National Park – we're pretty sure this might actually be one of the most beautiful places in the United States, and it’s all ours! 
  • Fairy Lake – it's probably named that because it’s like something ripped right out of the pages of a fairy tale. 
  • The Flathead River – borders the western boundary of Glacier National Park, so if you find yourself there, be sure to remember to check out the river as well.  

Learn more about some of the most amazing scenic places in Montana. 

 

  1. Where can I go to admire some of the most amazing Montana scenery? 

Can’t get enough of the wonders of Montana? Us either. If you’ve already checked out the above attractions, there are many more – hundreds more, even! Some other awesome Montana scenery you ought to check out are places like:  

  • Drive the incredible Going-To-The-Sun road, one of the best scenic drives in the USA.  
  • Hike to Iceberg Lake – another bucket list item within Glacier National Park.  
  • Visit the National Bison Range if you enjoy wildlife watching to check out the lives of some truly majestic bison herds.  

Learn more about some of the most amazingly scenic destinations in Montana.  

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Skalkaho Pass, Montana 59858, USA