The Missoula to Whitefish Scenic Route
The drive from Missoula to Whitefish can take as little as 2.5 to 3 hours, passing through wide valleys, dramatic mountains, and lakeside communities, but we suggest taking the leisurely route to experience a quieter side of Montana where wildlife, open landscapes, and unexpected discoveries are part of the journey.
STARTING THE ROUTE : MISSOULA
Home to the University of Montana, Missoula is known for its classic tree-lined streets, bustling art and music scene, and access to outdoor activities. There's so much to see, you may choose to spend a night! The Lodge at Whitefish Lake's sister properties, the Holiday Inn Downtown Missoula and the Edgewater, are offering special rates for guests planning to stay at any of Averill Hospitality's Whitefish hotels. Check back for details coming soon!
The Clark Fork River flows through the heart of the city offering blue-ribbon fly fishing, kayaking, floating, and more. Plus, Missoula offers eclectic shopping, restaurants, breweries, and entertainment. Be sure to check out Caras Park and the famous Missoula Carousel before heading north on your great Montana road trip!
RECOMMENDED STOPS ALONG THE WAY
- A Peaceful Cultural Landmark
The serene Garden of One Thousand Buddhas is a hidden gem in Western Montana and a beautiful place to stretch your legs and harmonize with your surroundings.
One thousand hand-cast Buddha statues are arranged based on the eight-spoked Dharma wheel, aligning positive properties of the physical world in what is considered to be a sacred architectural arrangement. This symbol evokes the turning or awakening of the enlightened qualities of altruism and wisdom. The garden is elegantly adorned with native trees, flowers, and other other inspiring landscape features.
- Wildlife Viewing at the National Bison Range
Located at the center of the Flathead Indian Reservation, the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes (CSKT) National Bison Range is home to roughly 350 bison and offers one of the best opportunities in the region to see free-roaming bison, elk, deer, and prairie wildlife in a sweeping natural landscape.
Visitors to this historical 18,766 acre wildlife conservation area can enjoy a self-directed scenic drive as well as two easy walking trails.
CROSS ROADS : HOT SPRINGS or POLSON
- Hot Springs
Your trip to the Bison Range will allow you to head along Montana highway 200 and eventually into Hot Springs, Montana. While this detour adds some time to your road trip to Whitefish, the experience is worth the extra miles.
If you choose this detour, make sure you have your swimsuit ready. Once in Hot Springs, a variety of establishments provide day-use of hot mineral water pools.
- Kerr Dam
If you decide to stay the course on US highway 93, just outside of Polson, Montana lies Kerr Dam, or what is now known as Seli’š Ksanka Qlispe’.
This concrete arch-type dam stands at 204 feet high–54 feet higher than Niagara Falls. Also managed by CSKT, the dam provides a 1,000 foot boardwalk that leads down to above the falls, where you can enjoy an amazing view of the canyon.
- The Beauty of Flathead Lake
As you progress north, the road reveals the stunning waters of Flathead Lake—the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi. Cruise the west side of the lake through Elmo, Rollins, Lakeside and Somers or drive along the east side visiting Finley Point, Woods Bay and Big Fork. In summer, the surrounding orchards are filled with Montana cherries at peak harvest.
Various state parks line the shores providing areas to rest, picnic, and grab selfies. If you are on the west side of Flathead Lake, you'll catch views of Wild Horse Island State Park, home to abundant wildlife including untamed horses. However, this state park is only accessible by boat! A shuttle is available in Big Arm, Montana.
CONCLUDING THE ROUTE : ARRIVE LAKESIDE AT THE LODGE
Past Flathead Lake is the town of Kalispell, and from there glimpses of Whitefish Mountain Resort come into view. Once you arrive in Whitefish, phase two of your adventure is only beginning. Unwind at The Lodge at Whitefish Lake, where lake views, spa treatments, and curated dining await.
Just minutes from downtown Whitefish and within easy reach of Glacier National Park, the Lodge offers a relaxed lakeside basecamp for exploring Northwest Montana. Enjoy long, leisurely days on Whitefish Lake, biking or hiking local trails, and exploring Glacier National Park. This year, you can drive into Glacier with just a park pass, no vehicle reservation needed!
PLAN YOUR MONTANA ROAD TRIP TODAY
There’s a kind of freedom you only feel on a Montana road trip. Time loosens its grip. You breathe a little deeper and linger a little longer. Mountains rise, lakes sparkle, and every bend in the road feels like it’s leading you somewhere unforgettable.
Check out our OFFERS page to find the best deal for you!
Rental Cars Without One-Way Fees
This summer, guests traveling between Missoula and Whitefish can take advantage of a special offer with Dollar Rent-A-Car Missoula: visitors can rent a car in Missoula and return it in Whitefish without the typical one-way drop fees. Contact The Lodge concierge for assistance with your reservation.
Prefer to let someone else do the driving?
Guests arriving and/or departing Monday through Thursday can also enjoy transportation between Missoula and Whitefish through our partnership with The Local, and we’ll offset a portion of your transportation costs with a credit to your lodging folio. (Conditions apply. Contact a reservations agent for details.) This option allows travelers to enjoy the stunning Montana scenery without worrying about driving. Even without the stops, you'll pass by a portion of the National Bison Range, witness the stunning Mission Mountains, and enjoy views along beautiful Flathead Lake.
Plan your scenic arrival today and experience Montana the way it was meant to be discovered. It’s not just the scenery-it's the feeling of being wide open to it all, where the journey becomes just as meaningful as the destination.