Romantic Getaways in Montana

Nicknamed the ‘Treasure State’, Montana is actually a goldmine of romantic attractions for couples who are looking to get away from it all. Home to the Rocky Mountains, several National and State Parks, pristine Rivers & Lakes, Montana also draws visitors with its man-made wonders and a rich cultural heritage. Thus if you and your partner are planning a romantic vacation, here are some fabulous getaways destinations of Montana.

Glacier National Park

famous for canyons, forests, wildlife, hot springs. The park is unique among US parks in that it shares a border with the Waterton Lakes National Park in Alberta, Canada. Though administered by separate countries, the parks are cooperatively managed in recognition that wild plants and animals ignore political boundaries. Glacier National Park is served by three Visitor Centers; Apgar, Logan Pass and St. Mary's. Ranger-guided-naturalist activities are available throughout the park from mid-June through September and you can take advantage of more than 700 miles of trails ranging from day hikes to extended treks. A favorite activity of couples here is going up the famed 52-mile Going-to-the-Sun Road which climbs 3,000 feet to provide spectacular views across the Continental Divide from June to October. However if you do not fancy making  the climb on your own, Glacier Park operates a daily shuttle service along this road, from July 1 to Labor Day Weekend in September. In and around the Glacier National Park, you will have no problem settling down at a cozy place to spend the night. Within the Park, you can chose from large hotel-like lodges dating from the early 1900s to modern motel-type accommodations and rustic cabins. Outside the Park you will find a great variety of hotels, motels, bed & breakfasts, cabins, cottages, lodges and resorts that could very well make for the perfect romantic getaway.

Missoula

Missoula, sits along the Clark Fork River and upon an old glacial lakebed, in the midst of the Rocky Mountains surrounded by millions of acres of National Forest, wilderness and recreation areas. Thus the city attracts loads of vacationers who are interested in the outdoors; in summer you and your partner can go bicycling, hiking, backpacking, horse packing trips, whitewater rafting, fishing, and more while in Winters you can have fun  snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, downhill skiing and snowboarding on the slopes around the city. Being the largest city in western Montana, also offers all the amenities of a big city which is why after a hectic day in the outdoors, you can enjoy the cultural attractions of the city, ranging from the University of Montana, the Charlie Russell Outdoor theatre and a Symphony to a wide range of galleries, shopping centers, coffee houses, book stores, museums, hotels, restaurants and a ballet company. History lovers should not miss the Northern Rockies Heritage Center which is geared to the preservation of the heritage and integrity of historic Fort Missoula, including nine structures, the parade grounds, and the water tower. For a more conventional romantic idea tour the Lolo Peak Winery and raise a toast to your love or settle down for a romantic meal at any of the city’s fine dining destinations.

Hot Springs

One popular draw for couples in Montana is its hot springs. Thanks to volcanic activity near the earth’s surface, hot springs can be found all over western Montana. While some hot springs are well-kept secrets, others have been developed and make a great romantic getaway option. Chico Hot Springs Resort, 60 miles from Bozeman and 30 miles north of Yellowstone, is a classy and a popular place to get married. Potosi Hot Springs in Pony is smaller in scale but offers a cozier experience with your beloved. In the Big Hole Valley, 60 miles southwest of Butte and 100 miles south of Missoula, Jackson Hot Springs offers a good soak and a good time for big parties too with their offer unlimited recreational opportunities.

Beartooth Highway

The Beartooth Highway in Montana is one of the most spectacular alpine highways in North America. It offers sweeping vistas of snow-covered mountains, unlimited outdoor recreation opportunities, unparalleled wildlife watching, and panoramic views of hundreds of high alpine lakes. Thus you and your partner can hire a car or even a bike  and set about explore the long state through Bear tooth Highway covering scenic Mountains, Silk Cook City, Yellowstone National Park, Lakes & Waterfalls, Colorful foliage and even the odd lookout tower. You can Begin your Beartooth Highway exploration in the small but adventurous town of Cooke City and even  Learn something about the mining history of the town as you stock up on whatever you need at a trading post or fill up your tank at a local gas station. Some of the stops you can make on the way are West Summit Overlook and Rock Creek Vista Point Rest Area. At the end of the drive, a great place to crash out is the Red Lodge which is well stocked with tourists’ amenities. Check out the diverse dining options or take in the unique art galleries. Visit the Nature Center or live cowboy-style at a guest ranch; If possible make a booking with Beartooth Wagon Sleigh Rides which is sure to offer you a charming experience. The Beartooth Highway in Montana is a great way to appreciate the beauty of the state both in the summer and winter.

Flathead Valley

Yet place in Montana that would make a great getaway destination for couples fond of the outdoors is the Flathead Valley. The Valley lies in the heart of the Rocky Mountains wild lands between the Salish Mountains to the west, and the Whitefish, Swan and Mission Ranges, rising to the continental divide, to the east. A highlight of the Valley is the Flathead Lake at the Bigfork Bay of the Lake you can enjoy access to a wide range of outdoor recreation, including rafting, kayaking, fishing as well as ski resorts and golf courses. With the lake to the south, and mountain ranges protecting the other three sides, the Flathead's climate is surprisingly mild for an area so far north. The result is that here you can wander through numerous orchards and vineyards which could make the perfect setting of a romantic day. So take your sweetheart along and meander through country byways to find peppermint, Christmas trees, cherries, champagne grapes as well as barley, wheat, oats and potatoes. stop in at Mission Mountain Winery and have a sip of home grown wines. Lovers of history can also take a tour of Flathead Indian Reservation which together with Flathead National Forest and the encircle this patchwork agriculture.