Itinerary for 3 day trip to Montana

Montana is a stunning state with breathtaking landscapes, outdoor adventures, and plenty of family-friendly activities. Let’s plan a fun-filled 3-day road trip itinerary that includes activities for the whole family, including your furry friend!

Day 1: Bozeman to

Morning:

Start in Bozeman: Grab breakfast at a local favorite, like , known for its delicious pancakes and kid-friendly options.
Hit the Road: After breakfast, head towards (about 1.5 hours away). The drive is beautiful, so keep your camera handy!

Midday:

Enter Yellowstone: Stop at the . Make sure to have your dog on a leash and check the park’s pet policy.
Wildlife Watching: Head to for some wildlife spotting. It’s often called the “Serengeti of North America” and is a great place to see bison, elk, and maybe even wolves!

Afternoon:

Picnic Lunch: Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the designated picnic areas in the park. There are plenty of scenic spots to spread out a blanket and enjoy the views.
Explore Geysers: After lunch, visit the area. The terraces are fascinating, and the boardwalks are stroller-friendly for the little ones.

Evening:

Stay in Gardiner: Head to the town of Gardiner, just outside the park, for the night. Check into a dog-friendly hotel like the .
Dinner: Enjoy a family dinner at , where you can find hearty meals and a relaxed atmosphere.

Day 2: to Glacier National Park

Morning:

Early Start: Have breakfast at your hotel or grab something quick from a local café.
Explore More of Yellowstone: Before leaving, take a quick detour to see the and the . The views are breathtaking!

Midday:

Drive to Glacier National Park: Start your journey to Glacier National Park (about 6 hours). It’s a long drive, but the scenery is stunning, so take your time and stop for breaks.
Lunch Stop: Consider stopping in for lunch. has a casual vibe and is dog-friendly.

Afternoon:

Arrive at Glacier: Once you arrive, head to the to get maps and information.
Short Hike: Take a family-friendly hike on the , which is an easy loop that’s perfect for kids and dogs.

Evening:

Stay in West Glacier: Check into a dog-friendly lodge or cabin, like .
Dinner: Enjoy dinner at , which has a lovely outdoor patio where dogs are welcome.

Day 3: Glacier National Park Adventures

Morning:

Breakfast: Start your day with breakfast at your lodge or a local café.
: Drive along this iconic road (check for seasonal openings) and stop at various viewpoints. It’s a must-see!

Midday:

Family-Friendly Hike: Stop at and take the . It’s a bit of a climb, but the views are worth it, and it’s manageable for kids. Just keep an eye on your pup!

Afternoon:

Lunch: Pack a lunch to enjoy at one of the scenic picnic areas along the way.
Lake Activities: Head to for some fun! You can rent a canoe or kayak (check for dog-friendly options) or just enjoy the beach area.

Evening:

Wrap Up Your Trip: Head back to West Glacier for a final dinner at . They have a great selection of family-friendly meals.
Stargazing: If you have the energy, take a short evening walk to enjoy the stunning night sky. Glacier is known for its dark skies, perfect for stargazing!