O N E L A ST TH O U GH T
Blodgett Canyon. © AARON THEISEN
FIND YOUR MONTANA MOMENT 8 perfect views in Western Montana. 1. L IBBY DAM: This powerful dam that holds back the Lake Koocanusa Reservoir is a site to behold, and views of the dam can be seen from the Lake Koocanusa Scenic Byway. The nearby Souse Gulch day-use area offers playgrounds, picnic shelters and boat ramp access to the lake, as well a stunning view of the lake. 2. H OLLAND FALLS: While Holland Falls is viewable from the shore of Holland Lake, set out on the 1.6-milelong hike in the Holland Falls National Recreation Area. This easy hike puts you up close with the waterfall, and provides expansive views of the lake and the Mission Mountains. 3. R OSS CREEK CEDARS: About 29 miles south of Troy off state Highway 56 on Bull Lake and Ross Creek Cedars Road 398, find 100 acres of 1,000-year-old western red cedar trees, some of which are more than 8 feet in diameter. An interpretive walking trail, just under a mile long, explains the area’s ecology and history, and intermittently follows along the scenic Ross Creek. 4. B LODGETT CANYON: This local-favorite hiking spot just outside Hamilton is one of the Bitterroot’s best. It’s also popular with rock climbers. Follow the tranquil Blodgett Creek 3.5 miles deep into the canyon along breathtaking cliffs and spires, with beautiful foliage and a stunning waterfall.
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5. M ISSION MOUNTAINS: Travel north on U.S. Highway 93 from Missoula through the small town of Ravalli. As you climb Ravalli Hill, be sure to keep an eye on the rolling hills to the left, as they are part of the Bison Range and home to 350 head of bison. Upon cresting Ravalli Hill, focus your eyes straight ahead for a jaw-dropping view of the Mission Mountains. 6. T HE “M”: This is a Missoula must, and—though slightly steep—the Missoula Valley view is well worth it. This local gem is a .75-mile switchback trail that ends at the giant letter M on Mount Sentinel above the University of Montana. 7. C UT BANK TRAIL: Explore Cut Bank Creek Coulee on this charming little city’s unpaved 2-mile Coulee Trail. Take in beautiful views of the gorge to the south and the majestic Rocky Mountains to the west, and don’t miss the giant penguin while you’re in town. 8. S T. REGIS-PARADISE SCENIC BYWAY: From St. Regis, take one of the most scenic drives in Western Montana. This easy, curving road travels along the Clark Fork River and through the Lolo National Forest before connecting with Highway 200 near the small town of Paradise. Be sure to take advantage of the pullouts along the road for uninterrupted views of this region’s forested landscape.
