Take This Road Trip Through Some Of Montana’s Most Picturesque Small Towns For A Charming Experience
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Jessica Wick
Author
Going on a weekend getaway to a new city is fun. But what’s even more fun is exploring several different smaller places in the same amount of time, don’t you think? This Montana small towns road trip will take you through some of Western Montana’s most charming small towns and can easily be completed in a weekend.
Your trip starts in the pleasant town of Philipsburg, a favorite weekend destination for Western Montanans. Check out the charming downtown area until Doe Brothers opens and you can enjoy a sweet treat or an old-fashioned soda.
Head south on Highway 1 until you reach Anaconda. Stretch your legs at the beautiful Washoe Park and feed the trout at the Anaconda Fish Hatchery. Take a few photos of the ornate Washoe Theater, which was built in 1936.
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There’s not much to the charming little town of Wisdom, population 98 (in 2010). But it does have the Hook & Horn Trading Post, where you’ll find unique Western art, gifts and jewelry. Grab a coffee or a cookie from the bakery for the road.
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Darby is a quaint town located near the Idaho border, and it’s a favorite stop for people heading off to explore the Bitterroot. Walk through the picturesque downtown area and you’ll feel like you’re in the Old West.
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When you’re ready for a great dinner, head to Hamilton. Enjoy a burger or entree at the local favorite, Nap’s Grill. The casual, comfortable environment is perfect for relaxation after a long drive. This is a beautiful place to spend the night since you’ll have several great hotel options.
In the morning, head 20 miles north to the picturesque town of Stevensville and treat yourself to brunch at Morningstar Caffeine & Cuisine. Browse for treasures at the Creamery Antiques Mall and pay a visit to the historic St. Mary’s Mission.
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Next you’ll come to Lolo, a mid-sized town in Missoula County. Depending on who you’re traveling with, you may want to stop at the Lolo Peak Brewing Company for an early lunch and a brew for the passengers, or swing by the adorable Sweet Barn for some candy (or both).
No Montana road trip is complete without a ghost town, right? Head to Garnet and explore our state’s best-preserved ghost town in the mountains. Garnet wasn’t actually built to last, but a century after the buildings were constructed, most of them remain intact.
For the last leg of your journey, you’ll head to Deer Lodge to check out to Old Montana State Prison. The prison complex actually includes five museums, so you’ll have plenty of places to explore.
This is a fun road trip to go on before winter hits Western Montana. And if you’d rather see more ghost towns than small towns, check out this journey.
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