Montana offers uniquely adventurous travel for anyone itching to experience the American West. Nicknamed “Big Sky Country” for its vast yet unpopulated wilderness, solo travelers are bound to find an experience of a lifetime when traveling through its mountainous countryside. Explore some of the possibilities with this sample itinerary.
Arrival
Missoula International Airport is the most common entry into Montana. South of Flathead Lake and Glacier National Park, the area is known for its tall oak scenery. Montana is big, so be prepared for a hefty amount of scenic driving.
Spending your night(s) under the Big Sky
Typical travel is tourist packed and overwhelming. When visiting Montana, I suggest a different approach. The state was founded on agriculture, and in the modern day a phenomenal type of accommodation has developed: the Ranch Resort. There are a good number of Ranch Lodges and camping available, with the premier luxury Ranch Resort being The Resort at Paws Up where you can rent a private vacation home or go ‘glamping’ in a butler attended luxury tent. At night, regardless of where you stay, the skies are breathtakingly clear and a solo traveler can find tranquility unlike anything else.
Day(s) of outdoor adventure
The length of your travel may vary – but there is no shortage of adventure to be had! Depending on your accommodations a variety of activities are available. Virtually every Lodge will have fly fishing (which is fantastic in Montana) and I know that the list at Paws Up includes everything from horseback riding to hot air ballooning. Of the many options the must do’s for a solo traveler in Montana has to be horsebacking and fly fishing. The sheer size of Montana is a wonder to take in and the natural beauty is both relaxing and invigorating.
A night on the town
Once you’ve gotten your fill of the outdoors a solo traveler’s travel wouldn’t be complete without a night on the town. Bozeman is a popular city between Missoula Airport and Yellowstone Park. There’s fine dining and plenty of socializing in Bozeman’s Historic Downtown. For lodging, cozy Bed & Breakfasts like Lehrkind Mansion or Olive Branch Inn can be found nearby. There’s plenty to do daytime as well and a traveler could easily spend a day or two here.
Return or Continue
After Bozeman there’s the appeal of extending your travel to reach Yellowstone National Park, America’s first National Park. There’s also no shame in calling it a day and heading back to Missoula. Your individual itinerary options are truly limitless. Enjoy Montana and find out why it’s been called “The Last Best Place!”
