National Parks of Montana
If you’re heading to the Pacific Northwest or Rocky Mountains, traveling to the Midwest, or planning a trip to Canada, we suggest making a pitstop in Montana for an enjoyable summer that’s sure to create memories for a lifetime.
The great state of Montana is a mecca for outdoor adventurers who like camping, hiking, rafting, skiing, and fishing. There are so many places to see in Montana and things to do, that even a lifetime wouldn't be enough to discover it all. A worthy place to start is with the National Parks. Montana has two national parks and another one close by (Yellowstone National Park, Glacier National Park, and Waterton Lakes National Park).
Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park spans across the states of Wyoming, Idaho, and Montana. The park, covering over two million acres, sits on top of a volcanic hot spot, which creates a magnificent terrain of canyons, rivers, forests, hot springs, and geysers. The most famous geyser, Old Faithful, is a must-see. Every hour or so, the geyser erupts thousands of gallons of hot water (above 200 degrees) into the air 150 feet or more. This geyser is faithful and continues to put on a show for all those who visit.
Beyond the impressive geysers and colorful hot springs, Yellowstone National Park features historic lodges, historic Yellow Bus Tours, and incredible wildlife. Expect to see bears, wolves, bison, elk, and antelope. Spotting wildlife from the car is typical. Remember to stay in your vehicle. These animals are wild and unpredictable.
Glacier National Park
Travel north from Yellowstone about 400 miles (a beautiful trip along the Rocky Mountains) to arrive at Glacier National Park. Glacier Park covers over 1 million acres of rugged mountains, deep glacier-carved valleys, crystal clear waters, rushing rivers, rainforests, and prairies. And, the best feature of all: the Going to the Sun Road (although the 700 miles of hiking trails is pretty great too).The Going to the Sun Road is a 50-mile road stretching from the west to the east side of the park. The Sun Road starts at an elevation of about 3,500 feet but eventually climbs to a staggering 6,646 feet at Logan Pass. Along the way, view historic lodges, massive 10-mile long lakes, sheer mountains, active glaciers, and wildlife. Glacier National Park is home to bears, mountain lions, mountain goat, bighorn sheep, marmot, and more. The Sun Road requires an attentive driver since it winds through valleys and traverses the side of mountains. If you'd prefer to sit back and enjoy the scenery, historic Red Bus Tours are available.
Waterton Lakes National Park
Just beyond the northern border of Montana is Waterton Lakes National Park in Canada. Remember to bring a passport so that you can visit this International Peace Park. Waterton Lakes National Park offers hiking trails, wildlife, boat tours, and the Prince of Wales Hotel. The Prince of Wales Hotel was constructed in the 1920s, to lure visitors up from America. To this day, Americans and other tourists are flocking to see the hotel and enjoy afternoon tea in the lobby that overlooks Waterton Lake.
With these National Parks to see along the way, we hope you enjoy your summer vacation in Montana! Don't forget to book a cabin or RV site ahead of time. These National Parks see millions of visitors each summer, most of them visit in campers and RVers. While you're in northwest Montana, stay at Mountain Meadow RV Park near Glacier National Park. Our park is conveniently located and offers guests fifty-six isolated RV sites or four cozy cabins. Book today to secure your place!