IDAHO & MONTANA
The Idaho & Montana Wilderness is the untamed heart of the American Rockies, defined by vast, towering peaks, glacier-carved lakes, and immense, unbroken forests. It represents the quintessential American frontier.
This region is a sanctuary for iconic wildlife and a haven for outdoor adventurers. It is a land of profound, raw beauty, where the rhythms of nature dictate life, and solitude is easily found.
Most Popular Attractions
Iconic National Parks & Preserves:
Glacier National Park (MT): Known as the “Crown of the Continent,” famous for its rugged mountains, pristine lakes, and the historic Going-to-the-Sun Road.
Yellowstone National Park (MT/ID): Though mostly in Wyoming, the Montana and Idaho sections offer quieter entrances and access to geysers, hot springs, and wildlife.
Sawtooth National Recreation Area (ID): A spectacular alpine range with over 40 peaks exceeding 10,000 feet, popular for high-altitude hiking and camping.
Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve (ID): A vast ocean of lava flows with volcanic cones and caves, offering a unique, otherworldly landscape.
National Bison Range (MT): A crucial refuge dedicated to the conservation of the American bison, offering excellent wildlife viewing.
World-Class Ski & Mountain Resorts:
Big Sky Resort (MT): Features the massive Lone Mountain peak and some of the largest, most varied ski terrain in North America.
Sun Valley Resort (ID): America’s first destination ski resort, known for its consistent snow, famous history, and the challenging slopes of Bald Mountain.
Schweitzer Mountain Resort (ID): Located in the Idaho Panhandle, offering stunning views of Lake Pend Oreille and a family-friendly atmosphere.
Whitefish Mountain Resort (MT): Located near Glacier, offering superb skiing with panoramic views of the entire Flathead Valley.
Major Lakes & River Systems:
Flathead Lake (MT): The largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi, offering sailing, fishing, and scenic drives.
Lake Pend Oreille (ID): Idaho’s largest and deepest lake, a prime spot for sailing and home to the Farragut State Park.
Salmon River (ID): Known as the “River of No Return,” famous for white-water rafting, fly fishing, and deep canyons.
Lake Coeur d’Alene (ID): A beautiful lake known for its floating golf green and scenic cruise tours.
Historic Towns & Cultural Hubs:
Missoula (MT): A vibrant, culturally rich city home to the University of Montana, surrounded by seven wilderness areas.
Bozeman (MT): A rapidly growing hub for outdoor sports and home to the Museum of the Rockies, featuring one of the world’s most significant dinosaur fossil collections.
Ketchum/Hailey (ID): Gateway towns to Sun Valley, known for their connection to Ernest Hemingway and vibrant arts scenes.
Wallace (ID): A historic mining town where the entire downtown is on the National Register of Historic Places.
Butte (MT): The “Richest Hill on Earth,” a fascinating historic city known for its rich copper mining past and historic architecture.
Wilderness Areas & Trails:
Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness (ID): One of the largest contiguous wilderness areas in the lower 48 states, defined by rugged mountains and deep river canyons.
The Continental Divide Trail (MT/ID): A portion of this massive trail system passes through the region, offering epic long-distance backpacking opportunities.
Bitterroot National Forest (MT/ID): A vast forest straddling the state lines, offering extensive hiking and camping in the Bitterroot Mountains.
Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center (MT): An educational center in West Yellowstone that provides a safe environment to view grizzly bears and wolves.
Hells Canyon National Recreation Area (ID): Contains Hells Canyon, the deepest river gorge in North America, offering spectacular views and river access.
Activities & Experiences
Trek the Continental Divide Trail (CDT): Hike a section of this epic trail, which follows the spine of the continent. Excellent access points are near Glacier National Park or in the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest.
Go Whitewater Rafting on the Salmon River: Experience world-class rafting on the “River of No Return” in Idaho, ranging from multi-day wilderness expeditions to thrilling day trips.
Explore Glacier National Park’s Going-to-the-Sun Road: Drive, bike, or take a shuttle along this iconic, scenic mountain road (seasonal closure is typical from October to June).
Hike to an Alpine Lake: Choose from countless trails leading to pristine, high-altitude lakes, such as Hidden Lake in Glacier or the Chain Lakes in the Idaho Panhandle National Forest.
Soak in Natural Hot Springs: Relax at one of the many secluded, undeveloped, or resort-style hot springs found throughout both states (e.g., Jerry Johnson Hot Springs in Idaho, or Chico Hot Springs in Montana).
Fly-Fish the Big Hole River: Cast a line in one of Montana’s blue-ribbon trout streams, renowned for its healthy population of brown, rainbow, and cutthroat trout.
Go Horseback Riding in the Bitterroot Valley: Join a guided trail ride through meadows and forests, offering an authentic “Big Sky Country” experience.
Visit the National Bison Range (Pablo National Wildlife Refuge): Drive the scenic loops in Montana to view herds of bison, elk, pronghorn, and bighorn sheep in a protected habitat.
Explore the Ghost Town of Bannack: Step back in time at this incredibly well-preserved gold rush-era ghost town in Montana, now a state park.
Take a Llama Trek: Go on a guided multi-day backpacking trip using llamas as pack animals in the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness (Idaho) for a truly unique way to explore the backcountry.
Mountain Bike the Hiawatha Trail: Cycle a section of this famous rail-to-trail path that features ten dark tunnels (including the 1.66-mile St. Paul Pass Tunnel) and seven sky-high trestles in the Bitterroot Mountains.
Witness a Cattle Drive or Rodeo: Depending on the season, catch a local rodeo or visit a working ranch for an authentic glimpse into Western agricultural life.
Local Tips & Transport
A High-Clearance Vehicle is Essential: Much of the best scenery and access to trailheads requires driving on unpaved, often rough, Forest Service roads. A vehicle with good ground clearance (and ideally 4WD/AWD) is strongly recommended outside of the main highway corridors.
Fuel Up and Go Slow: Distances between towns and services can be vast. Always fill your gas tank when you have the chance. On backroads, speed limits are often low, and wildlife crossing the road is a constant hazard, especially at dawn and dusk.
Airports are Small: Commercial air travel often routes through smaller, regional hubs like Missoula (MSO), Bozeman (BZN), or Boise (BOI). From there, you will need a rental car to reach most wilderness destinations.
Limited Public Transport: There is virtually no public transportation between towns, and none into the wilderness areas. The main exceptions are limited shuttle services within popular parks like Glacier and Yellowstone.
Use Maps Offline: Cell service is sporadic to non-existent in the backcountry. Download digital maps (like Google Maps or Gaia GPS) for offline use and carry a physical map as a backup.
Bear Safety is Non-Negotiable: Both Grizzly and Black Bears are active in the region. Carry bear spray, keep it easily accessible, and know how to use it. Store all food and scented items in bear-proof containers or hang them properly when camping. Make noise while hiking.
The Weather Changes Fast: Mountain weather is unpredictable. Carry layers, including a waterproof/windproof jacket, even for short day hikes. Snow can fall at high elevations any month of the year.
Water Sourcing: Do not drink stream water directly. Carry a reliable water filter or purification tablets for all backcountry hiking and camping.
Embrace the “Mountain Time”: Things move a bit slower out here. Enjoy the lack of hustle. Don’t be surprised if small-town restaurants or stores operate on highly variable or short seasonal hours—always check ahead.
Respect Private Land & Gates: Much of the West is a mix of public and private land. If a gate is closed, close it behind you. If it’s open, leave it open. Respect all signs regarding trespassing.
Fire Safety: Forest fires are a serious, often season-ending, hazard. Check local fire restrictions before lighting any campfire, even in a designated ring. A single spark can cause a disaster.
Hidden Gems:
- The Craters of the Moon National Monument (Idaho): A surreal landscape of lava fields, cones, and caves formed by ancient volcanic activity—it feels like walking on the moon.
- The Pintler Scenic Route (Montana): A less-traveled alternative to the main interstates, offering spectacular views of the Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness and charming small mining towns like Philipsburg.
- The Lewis and Clark Trail: Follow sections of this historic expedition’s route, especially along the Missouri and Salmon Rivers, for a deep dive into the region’s exploratory history.
- Idaho’s Goldbug Hot Springs: A rewarding 4-mile roundtrip hike that leads to a series of stunning natural pools cascading down a hillside.
Top Restaurants
North Highway Cafe [$15-$25] – A classic, no-frills, old-school diner in Idaho Falls, renowned by locals for its large portions and arguably the best traditional breakfast in the area.
The Notorious P.I.G. [$15-$25] – Highly-rated, authentic, and simple BBQ joint in Missoula, Montana, focusing on North Carolina-style pulled pork and excellent smoked gouda mac ‘n cheese.
Frank’s Diner [$15-$25] – A Spokane favorite worth the short drive from North Idaho, housed in a historic rail car, serving classic, well-executed American diner food all day.
Red Arrow Drive-In [$15-$25] – A popular, old-fashioned drive-in in Cle Elum, Washington (gateway to the Idaho/MT I-90 corridor), famous for classic burgers, shakes, and a large picnic area.
The Wild Crumb [$10-$20] – A must-visit bakery and breakfast spot in Bozeman, Montana, known for its incredible pastries, sourdough bread, and light breakfast/lunch fare.
Chet’s Bar & Grill [$20-$35] – A family-friendly tavern at Big Sky Resort, serving homestyle Montana comfort food, burgers, and pub classics in a casual mountain setting.
Montana Jack [$20-$35] – A lively taphouse at Big Sky Resort specializing in a wide selection of craft burgers and local Montana beers in a relaxed atmosphere.
Triple B Diner [$15-$25] – Located at Tamarack Resort in Idaho, this is a quintessential mountain diner offering hearty breakfasts, burgers, and comfort food in a casual setting.
Wilderness Grille [$20-$35] – A favorite at the Wilderness Club in Eureka, Montana, offering fresh flavors and American classics in a warm, resort-style atmosphere.
The Red Pickle [$20-$35] – Originally a food truck, this now brick-and-mortar spot in Ellensburg offers unique fusion tacos, burgers, and sandwiches with Guatemalan and global spices.
Snake Bite Restaurant [$20-$35] – Located in the heart of downtown Idaho Falls, this spot is frequently mentioned by locals for serving one of the best burgers around.
Lupitas [$10-$20] – A beloved, no-frills taco place in downtown Idaho Falls, known for its great-tasting, budget-friendly Mexican food and authentic local vibe.
Dixie’s Diner [$15-$25] – A fun, retro 1950s-style diner in Idaho Falls, serving up classic American comfort food, especially good burgers and milkshakes.
The Old Faithful Lodge Cafeteria & Bake Shop [$15-$25] – A value-focused option within Yellowstone National Park, offering traditional cafeteria-style lunch and dinner in a historic setting.
Eddie’s Cafe [$15-$30] – A family-friendly, long-running spot in Apgar (Glacier National Park), offering hearty American fare with a Montana twist for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Biga Pizza [$15-$30] – A popular Missoula spot known for its gourmet, wood-fired pizzas with innovative toppings, as well as excellent salads and antipasti.
The Teton House [$30-$50] – Worth the short drive from Idaho Falls to Menan, this spot is highly regarded by locals for its truly excellent, traditional steakhouse experience.
Jaker’s Bar & Grill [$25-$45] – An upscale casual bar and grill in Idaho Falls offering a wide range of American dishes, including quality steaks, burgers, and salads in a great atmosphere.
The Belton Chalet Dining Room [$40-$70] – Located in West Glacier, this historic and charming dining room offers locally-inspired cuisine in a classic setting near the park entrance.
Logan’s Bar and Grill [$35-$60] – An upscale, full-service restaurant in Whitefish, Montana, offering classic, hearty Montana cuisine with a focus on local ingredients in a friendly atmosphere.
The Reserve [$40-$70] – The fine dining option at Tamarack Resort in Idaho, known for a gourmet multi-course dinner menu focusing on regional ingredients and a great wine selection.
Old Faithful Snow Lodge Obsidian Dining Room [$35-$65] – Located in Yellowstone National Park, this restaurant features a unique selection of wild game and other upscale dishes in a rustic-elegant setting.
The Mammoth Hotel Dining Room [$30-$55] – A historic dining experience within Yellowstone National Park where you can often see elk and bison grazing outside the windows while enjoying regional cuisine.
Yellowstone Mine Restaurant [$30-$50] – Located in Gardiner, MT (near the North Entrance to Yellowstone), this spot serves classic American fare in an Old West setting.
The Branch Restaurant and Bar [$30-$50] – Situated in West Yellowstone, this restaurant offers hearty Montana staples like steaks and burgers, including bison, with a full bar.
The Lake Yellowstone Hotel Dining Room [$40-$70] – A creative and upscale dining experience inside Yellowstone, showcasing a commitment to sustainable cuisine in a casually elegant setting with lake views.
Russell’s Fireside Dining Room [$30-$55] – Located in the historic Lake McDonald Lodge in Glacier National Park, offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a cozy setting with a fireplace.
Ptarmigan Dining Room [$30-$55] – Found in the Many Glacier Hotel in Glacier National Park, this spot offers meals with impressive views in one of the park’s most stunning locations.
Headwaters Grille [$25-$45] – A slopeside bar and grill at the Madison Base in Big Sky, offering quality, elevated casual fare perfect for refueling after a day on the mountain.
Peaks Chophouse & Wine Lounge [$50-$80] – A modern chophouse at Big Sky with an award-winning wine selection, specializing in high-quality steaks and regional specialties.
Sandpiper [$40-$70] – Located in Idaho Falls, this spot offers an elevated atmosphere for an enjoyable evening, known for hand-cut steaks and seafood flown in daily.
Stockmans Restaurant [$40-$65] – A highly-regarded steakhouse in the Snake River Landing area of Idaho Falls, also offering other meat, seafood, and pasta entrees.
The Mill [$30-$50] – A popular spot in McCall, Idaho, known for its quality steaks, ribs, and American comfort food in a cozy, rustic atmosphere.
Everett’s 8800 [$70-$120] – A curated fine dining experience at 8,800 feet atop Andesite Mountain at Big Sky Resort. Reservations are essential for the views and the exclusive menu.
M by the Alinea Group [$150+] – An exclusive and highly unique culinary residency from globally acclaimed Chef Grant Achatz at Big Sky, offering a one-of-a-kind, high-end tasting experience.
Beverly’s [$70-$120] – An upscale restaurant on the 7th floor of the Coeur d’Alene Resort, offering elegant dining with stunning views of Lake Coeur d’Alene and exceptional seasonal cuisine.
The Cedars Floating Restaurant [$50-$90] – A unique dining experience in Coeur d’Alene, where the restaurant is on a floating barge, offering upscale steak and locally sourced seafood dishes.
Bear’s Den Snowcat Dinner [$100-$150] – A truly unique dining experience near McCall, Idaho, that includes a snowcat ride up Brundage Mountain to a rustic lodge for a high-end, limited-seating dinner experience.
Contained [$70-$120] – A unique concept in the Bozeman/Big Sky area that often offers pop-up or tasting menus with a focus on local, sustainable, and innovative cuisine.
Barbacoa [$80-$130] – A Boise restaurant that brings a touch of Michelin-inspired fine dining to the area, known for its elegant decor, Latin-infused dishes, and fire-cooking techniques.
Coa De Jima [$70-$110] – A top-rated fine dining experience in Boise/Star, offering a blend of perfectly grilled steaks, fresh seafood, and bold Latin-inspired flavors in a vibrant, upscale atmosphere.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
The Old No. 1 Bar (Whitefish, MT): A local classic located in the heart of downtown Whitefish. This bar offers a classic pub atmosphere but is a premier spot for high-end whiskeys and well-crafted cocktails, popular after a day on the slopes.
Plonk Wine & Cocktail Bar (Bozeman, MT): Found in downtown Bozeman, Plonk is known for its sophisticated and cozy atmosphere, a deep list of high-end wines, and a rotating selection of innovative signature cocktails.
The Stave & Hoop (Missoula, MT): Tucked away in the basement of a historic downtown Missoula building, this speakeasy-style bar offers a dim, intimate setting perfect for savoring classic cocktails and unique, inventive house creations.
The Warfield Distillery & Brewery (Ketchum, ID): Located near the ski slopes of Sun Valley, this spot is a working distillery and brewery known for its spirits and unique cocktails crafted with their house-made liquors and local ingredients.
The Falcon (Boise, ID): A chic, modern cocktail bar in downtown Boise known for its meticulously crafted drinks, seasonal menu, and stylish ambiance that elevates the traditional bar experience.
Roadhouse Bar & Grill (Jackson, WY – Gateway area): A popular spot in Jackson’s town square, offering a lively atmosphere, an excellent selection of local craft brews, and well-made classic cocktails, perfect for winding down after a day in the Tetons.
O’Haire Motor Inn’s Sip ‘n Dip Lounge (Great Falls, MT): An iconic, kitschy destination not far from the Bob Marshall Wilderness. It’s famous for its mermaid performers swimming in a pool visible through a window behind the bar, serving classic cocktails like Mai Tais.
Bar 301 (Missoula, MT): Situated downtown, this spot offers a relaxed and elegant setting, focusing on classic cocktails, fine spirits, and small plates, making it an ideal pre- or post-dinner stop.
The Crystal Lounge (Whitefish, MT): Located in the historic town center, this classic, wood-paneled establishment offers a cozy fireplace, strong drinks, and a local feel, specializing in classic cocktails and a wide selection of bourbons.
10 Barrel Brewing Co. Boise Pub (Boise, ID): While a brewery, its downtown location and spacious rooftop patio make it a top social spot, offering beer cocktails and house-crafted seltzers in addition to their popular IPAs.
The Limelight Lounge (Ketchum, ID): Found inside the Limelight Hotel near Sun Valley, this stylish lounge offers a vibrant après-ski scene with specialty cocktails, craft beers, and often features live acoustic music.
Montana Ale Works (Bozeman, MT): A Bozeman institution housed in a historic railway depot, popular for its large bar, massive selection of rotating craft beers, and solid selection of well drinks and classic cocktails.
Tupelo Grille (Whitefish, MT): Located in the city center, this sophisticated restaurant has an excellent bar area known for its great wine list and expertly prepared classic cocktails in an upscale setting.
D. L. Evans Bank Speakeasy (Boise, ID): A hidden gem accessed through a downtown restaurant, this speakeasy offers a unique theme, high-end spirits, and meticulously crafted Prohibition-era cocktails.
The Raven (Woods Bay/Bigfork, MT): Situated right on the scenic shores of Flathead Lake, this popular bar and restaurant offers a relaxed, waterfront setting with a great deck for enjoying drinks like margaritas and Moscow Mules with a view.
The Pub Station (Billings, MT – Gateway area): Housed in a former bus station, this is a premier live music venue near the eastern edge of the Montana wilderness, hosting both regional and national touring acts and featuring multiple bars.
The Wilma (Missoula, MT): A historic, beautifully restored theater in downtown Missoula that acts as the region’s top mid-sized venue, transforming into a high-energy spot for concerts and occasional dance nights.
Eagles Lodge/The Mint (Bozeman, MT): A classic, no-frills Bozeman dance hall (in the old tradition of fraternal organization halls), famous for its large dance floor, live country bands, and two-stepping crowd.
The Reef (Boise, ID): Located in downtown Boise, this bar is known for its tropical, tiki-themed atmosphere and often features DJs and a lively dance floor, making it a high-energy party spot.
The Filling Station (Bozeman, MT): A popular, high-energy live music venue in Bozeman, known for hosting rock, alternative, and local bands, creating a loud and energetic club atmosphere.
Mangy Moose Saloon (Teton Village, WY – Gateway area): Located at the base of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, this iconic, rustic saloon is legendary for its lively après-ski scene, often featuring live bands and a crowded dance floor well into the night.
VFW Post 209 (Missoula, MT): A local legend for late-night weekend dancing in downtown Missoula, featuring DJ sets that range from funk to electronica in a large, casual setting.
Remington Bar & Casino (Whitefish, MT): A popular downtown Whitefish spot known for its late hours, casino games, and a separate room often hosting DJs or bands for those looking to dance.
The Knitting Factory (Boise, ID): A large, established downtown Boise venue that is part of a national chain, hosting major touring bands and creating a high-energy club atmosphere for concerts.
Whiskey Jacques’ (Ketchum, ID): A Sun Valley institution near the slopes, this spot is famous for its lively atmosphere, pool tables, and frequently features live bands or DJs, making it the area’s top late-night dance spot.