No matter how you might feel about these strange times, we can all admit that having more time to explore our beautiful state is a good thing. And if you happen to live within a few hours of Lake County, we highly recommend taking a little day trip to the tiny town of St. Ignatius. Not only can you get a glimpse of a breathtaking historic mission, but there’s a waterfall hike just outside of town that most Montanans don’t even know about.

Note: The Flathead Indian Reservation had to temporarily close their recreation areas for non-residents earlier this year. Check the current status before you go to make sure things are open, and if nothing else, bookmark this idea for later.

With a population of just 830, St. Ignatius is the definition of a small town.
Frank McNamara / Flickr
It's located on the Flathead Indian Reservation, surrounded by the rugged natural beauty of the Mission Mountains.
The St. Ignatius Mission was originally built in the 1890s by Catholic priests.
Michael Lusk / Flickr
The mission church still serves the St. Ignatius parish to this day, and mass is held here weekly.
The interior is especially stunning, still showcasing the art of Brother Joseph Carignano, an untrained artist who worked as a cook in the mission.
SheltieBoy / Flickr
Carignano painted 58 murals, and the original paintings are still there.
The Mission is open daily for tourists in the summer, although hours may be limited (and face coverings are required).
SheltieBoy / Flickr
This beautiful mission is definitely worth stopping to see.

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Next, spend your afternoon hiking the Mission Reservoir Trail.
Mike Lozar / alltrails.com
Located about seven miles from town, this 3.6-mile trail makes a perfect day hike.
The trail is ranked as moderate, meaning it's good for all skill levels, if not a bit challenging.
Shyanne Racine / alltrails.com
While there are a few slippery spots, most hikers report that the trail is pretty tame.
Mission Falls is a man-made reservoir created in the 1930s, but that doesn't make it any less stunning.
Shyanne Racine / alltrails.com
Have a picnic by the falls or try your hand at fishing (which you'll need a permit for, as well as a day pass for the hike).
When you're ready for a change of scenery, St. Ignatius will be ready for you.
Karin Potter / alltrails.com
Come explore this wildly underrated part of the Treasure State.

Have you ever been inside the beautiful St. Ignatius Mission?

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St Ignatius, MT 59865, USA