The Fairytale Road Trip That’ll Lead You To Some Of Montana’s Most Magical Places

We might be a bit biased, but we truly believe that every mile of Montana is beautiful. Whether you prefer sweeping mountains, open plains, rushing rivers or rugged cliffs, you'll find it in the Treasure State. That being said, there's something truly special about Glacier National Park and its surrounding area... after all, the park is called the Crown Jewel of the Continent for a reason.

To celebrate all the beauty and wonder of Glacier National Park as one of the most magical places in Montana, we've created a dreamy road trip. This trip is for everyone; those who want to take in as much scenery as possible in a single weekend, or for those who would prefer not to spend much time out of the car to avoid potential crowds and practice social distancing. This little drive will make you fall in love with Montana all over again.

You can use this interactive ​​map to follow along on our trip to these magical places in Montana.

Start your adventure by spending part of your morning at ​​Flathead Lake, the largest freshwater lake west of the Mississippi.

There are plenty of areas to relax and enjoy the scenery from the shoreline, including several state parks. You'll begin to think Flathead Lake is too beautiful to be real.

Next, hop on Highway 35 West, then take Highway 206 and US-2 West to Glacier National Park.

Stop and take in the beauty of ​​Lake McDonald, which is quite possibly the most iconic lake in the park. Take a good look at the beautiful colorful rocks on the bank, the result of subjecting the iron-rich rocks to heat and pressure.

Then cruise up to Logan Pass, which is the highest elevation reachable by car in the park.

While this area is absolutely gorgeous, you'll probably want to admire it from the road. It's a popular place in the summertime, and parking can get tricky. If you do want to get out and stretch your legs, there is a great boardwalk trail that begins at ​​Logan Pass that is a true gem.

And speaking of the road... up next is the iconic, magical Going-to-the-Sun Road.

This is one of the most scenic drives in America, and we're so lucky to have it in Montana. Be aware that this road doesn't usually open until late June due to snow, and it's wise to take those curves slowly. ​​Going-to-the-Sun Road may not be for the faint of heart, but you'll be glad you experienced this magical place in Montana.

All that driving will definitely leave you ready for a respite, so find the Running Eagle Falls Trail and enjoy a quick hike to this enchanting waterfall.

The ​​trail is only one-mile round-trip, and the payoff is totally worth it.

Next, head south past East Glacier Park Village and take US-2 through the southern part of the park all the way to Lake Five.

Lake Five is an underrated spring-fed lake that's both visually stunning and perfect for swimming. It also happens to have a laid back campground called Lake Five Resort, so you can spend the night in a cozy cabin.

When you're ready to hit the road again, end your adventure by taking MT-40 W out to Whitefish Lake.

Montana lakes are second to none, and this one is especially stunning. And since ​​Whitefish is somehow just as charming in the summertime as it is when it's dusted with snow, it's the perfect place to end a fairytale road trip.

Are you planning a visit to Glacier National Park soon? Or if you have already been here, did we capture your favorite sites to see? We know Glacier Park is just one piece of the beauty that is Montana. What are some other magical places in Montana? Let us know in the comment section. We would love to hear from you!