Explore This Underrated Montana Valley Before Summer Ends

Summers in Montana tend to fly by, which is a bit of a bummer for those of us who love them. Before the leaves start to turn and the sunsets get earlier, hop in the car and head out for one more summer road trip. We highly recommend checking out the beautiful Big Hole Valley. This 160-mile loop can easily be done in a day, and you'll experience Southwest Montana at its finest.

This loop has a little bit of everything: historic sites, stunning scenery, wildlife, quirky attractions, and good eats.

Best of all, it can easily be done in a day, assuming you live within driving distance of Dillon.

Start your road trip in Dillon, one of Montana's original gold rush towns.

Walk around the classic main streets, stopping for breakfast or road trip snacks if you want them.

One must-see spot, which happens to be located near Dillon, is Bannack State Park.

Montana's first territorial capital is now its best-preserved ghost town. It would be easy to spend an entire day here, but you can definitely enjoy all the main attractions in an hour or two.

Drive up the beautiful Highway 278 until you reach the little town of Wisdom.

Admittedly, there's not much to Wisdom, but you'll definitely want to check out the Hook and Horn Trading Post for some souvenirs and a coffee.

The Big Hole Valley consists mainly of a vast meadow surrounded by mountain peaks, with the Big Hole River coursing through it.

Eventually, the Big Hole River meets the Wise River.

For a final pit stop before looping around back to Dillon, check out Wise River Club in the tiny community of Wise River.

Enjoy a tasty dinner, shop for souvenirs, and toast to a road trip well done over a cold beverage.

Do you have a favorite road trip route in Montana? Share your suggestions with us in the comments!