Fall Activities in Montana’s Glacier Country

Every summer, millions of visitors flock to Montana’s Glacier Country, home to Glacier National Park. The roads are clogged with cars and the trails are just as busy. After Labor Day, though, the crowds inevitably disperse, and the region becomes noticeably quieter — yet remains just as beautiful.

Though fall travelers will have to contend a bit with finicky weather as winter approaches, you’ll be rewarded with a brilliant fall color show, far fewer people and an overall worthwhile experience.

Hit the trails in Glacier and the surrounding area; Jewel Basin is another wonderful spot for hiking that’s a favorite among the locals. Just be sure to check with the park service before you set out on high alpine trails, in case snow has fallen recently.

Head to Wild Horse Island State Park, accessible only by boat, to glimpse the island’s resident wild horses, abandoned homesteader cabins and wild mule deer and bighorn sheep.

Get cozy at a bevy of local distilleries and breweries around the area, all of which offer craft concoctions.

Take a scenic drive for leaf peeping, including Looking Glass Highway (Highway 49), Seeley Lake to Swan Lake on Highway 83 and more.