12-Day Nature Adventure Road Trip in Bozeman, Montana

Day 1: Explore Bozeman

Bozeman, Montana

8:00AM

Breakfast at The First Street Market

Start your trip with a hearty breakfast featuring locally-sourced ingredients, like a hearty breakfast burrito.
Walk to First Street Market from downtown.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Museum of the Rockies

Explore this fascinating museum showcasing dinosaur fossils and regional history.
Drive (10 min) or take a local bus.
USD14, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Hummingbird Cafe

Grab a healthy and delicious sandwich or salad made with fresh ingredients.
Drive back into downtown Bozeman.
USD12, 1 hour

1:30PM

Hike in the Gallatin National Forest

Take a scenic hike on one of the many trails, such as the 2.5-mile Bridle Path Loop.
Drive 20 minutes to access trailhead.
Free, 3 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Black Bear Diner

Enjoy a hearty dinner with options like burgers or classic American comfort food.
Drive back to downtown Bozeman.
USD20, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Yellowstone's Wonders

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

7:00AM

Breakfast at Wild Crumb

Fuel up with a fresh pastry and coffee before a long day in the park.
Drive to Wild Crumb (10 min).
USD10, 1 hour

8:30AM

Enter Yellowstone National Park

Prepare to be awed by stunning landscapes, including geysers and hot springs.
Drive about 1.5 hours to the park entrance.
USD35 (weekly pass), Full day

12:00PM

Picnic Lunch at Fountain Paint Pot

Enjoy your packed lunch while soaking in the thermal features surrounding you.
Find a picnic spot near Fountain Paint Pot.
Free (pack own lunch), 1 hour

1:00PM

Explore Grand Prismatic Spring

Witness one of the park's most famous geothermal features with its brilliant colors.
Drive to Grand Prismatic (30 min).
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Old Faithful

Watch the iconic geyser erupt and learn about its geothermal activity.
Drive to Old Faithful (1 hour).
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Old Faithful Lodge

Dine on hearty options such as steak or fresh trout while enjoying park views.
Walk to Old Faithful Lodge.
USD25, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Drive to West Yellowstone

Head to your lodging for the night to rest after a full day.
Drive to West Yellowstone (30 min).
Free, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: More of Yellowstone

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

7:00AM

Breakfast at Timberline Cafe

Get a quick breakfast including wholesome options like oatmeal or pancakes.
Walking distance from motel.
USD10, 1 hour

8:30AM

Visit Mammoth Hot Springs

Marvel at the bright terraces formed by mineral deposits in this unique area.
Drive to Mammoth (1 hour).
Free, 2 hours

10:30AM

Stop at Tower Fall

Take in the spectacular view from the overlook before descending to the base.
Drive to Tower Fall (30 min).
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Canyon Village

Select from a variety of quick-service options to recharge for the afternoon.
Drive to Canyon Village (1 hour).
USD15, 1 hour

1:00PM

Explore the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone

Take in breathtaking views from Artist Point and hike along the rim trails.
Drive to Grand Canyon of Yellowstone (30 min).
Free, 3 hours

4:30PM

Head back to West Yellowstone

Wrap up the day and prepare for a nice dinner.
Drive back to West Yellowstone (1 hour).
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Slippery Otter

Savor a comforting burger or local craft beer to relax after a great day.
Walking distance from lodging.
USD20, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Big Sky Bliss

West Yellowstone, Montana

7:00AM

Breakfast at Running Bear Pancake House

Enjoy a delicious pancake breakfast to start your day right.
Walking distance from lodge.
USD12, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Big Sky Resort

Embark on a scenic drive to Big Sky for mountain views and outdoor adventures.
Drive to Big Sky (1 hour).
Free, 1 hour

10:00AM

Hiking in Big Sky

Explore beautiful hiking trails such as Ousel Falls or the Beehive Basin.
Start at trailhead in Big Sky.
Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Hungry Moose Market & Deli

Choose from a great selection of sandwiches or grab-and-go snacks.
Drive back into Big Sky Village.
USD15, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore the Town Center

Wander through local shops and galleries for a taste of Big Sky culture.
Walking distance throughout Town Center.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Buck’s T-4 Lodge

Dine on a delicious plate of bison steak or other local favorites.
Short drive from Town Center.
USD30, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Drive to Bozeman

Return to Bozeman for a restful night, reflecting on the adventure.
Drive back to Bozeman (1 hour).
Free, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Ski & Snow in Bridger

Bridger Bowl, Montana

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Pot Bakery Cafe

Indulge in fresh baked goods and hot coffee to gear up for a ski day.
Drive to Bridger Bowl (30 min).
USD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Skiing at Bridger Bowl

Enjoy a day on the slopes, with some of Montana's best skiing available.
At Bridger Bowl Resort.
USD50 (day pass), 6 hours

4:00PM

Return to Bozeman

Take a scenic drive back after an adventurous day on the slopes.
Drive back to Bozeman (30 min).
Free, 30 min

5:00PM

Dinner at South 9th Bistro

Enjoy a lovely meal with farm-to-table options and seasonal flavors.
Drive to the restaurant (10 min).
USD25, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Gallatin National Forest

Gallatin National Forest, Montana

7:30AM

Breakfast at Bacon Ranch

Delight in a meat-lover's breakfast, featuring crispy bacon and eggs.
Drive to the diner (15 min).
USD12, 1 hour

9:00AM

Hiking at Gallatin River

Witness stunning views while hiking along the trails near the river.
Drive to the selected trailhead (30 min).
Free, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Eatery 113

Savor a rotating selection of sandwiches and craft beer in a cozy atmosphere.
Drive back to Bozeman.
USD15, 1 hour

2:00PM

Trip to Ousel Falls

Accessorize your hike with the splendid Ousel Falls for an afternoon adventure.
Drive to Ousel Falls (45 min).
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Dog House

Enjoy brunch-style dinner with burgers or hot dogs in a casual setting.
Drive back to Bozeman (30 min).
USD20, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Lewis & Clark Caverns

Whitehall, Montana

7:00AM

Breakfast at Maple Street Breakfast

Dig into an array of choices from omelets to pancakes before hitting the road.
Drive to Whitehall (1 hour).
USD12, 1 hour

8:30AM

Visit Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park

Explore one of the largest limestone caverns in the Northwest through guided tours.
Arrive at the visitor center (30 min).
USD12, 2 hours

11:00AM

Enjoy a Nature Walk

Trek along the scenic nature trails surrounding the caverns.
Walk the designated park trails.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Silver Spur Café

Dine on hearty cowboy cuisine before re-entering the woods.
Drive to nearby café.
USD15, 1 hour

2:30PM

Drive to Helena

Head towards the historic state capital for your next destination.
Drive to Helena (1 hour).
Free, 1 hour

3:30PM

Explore Helena

Visit local points of interest like the State Capitol or Last Chance Gulch.
Walk in downtown Helena.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Brunch and Bakery

Enjoy a tasty burger or sandwich in Helena's charming downtown.
Short walk to the restaurant.
USD15, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Flathead Lake Getaway

Flathead Lake, Montana

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Breakfast Nook

Fill up on a well-rounded meal of eggs, toast, and fresh seasonal fruits.
Drive from Helena to Polson (2 hours).
USD10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Explore Flathead Lake

Enjoy swimming, kayaking, or lounging at the stunning lake.
Head directly to Flathead Lake.
Free, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Cove Deli & Pizza

Feast on delicious pizzas and deli sandwiches with beautiful views of the lake.
Short drive to the deli.
USD15, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Wild Horse Island

Take a ferry or kayak over to this pristine island habitat filled with wildlife.
Access from Polson Town.
USD5 for ferry (round-trip), 3 hours

5:00PM

Return to Polson

Wrap up your island visit and enjoy a peaceful evening.
Ferry back to Polson.
Free (if pre-purchased ticket), 30 min

5:30PM

Dinner at The Great Northern Bar

Relax with a classic burger or Montana trout to finish your day.
Drive to the restaurant.
USD15, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park, Montana

7:00AM

Breakfast at The Huckleberry Patch

Unwind at this local favorite known for delicious pancakes and coffee.
Drive to East Glacier (1.5 hours).
USD10, 1 hour

8:30AM

Explore Glacier National Park

Hike along some iconic trails like the Hidden Lake Trail for breathtaking scenery.
Access via park entry.
USD35 (week pass), Full day

12:00PM

Pack a Picnic Lunch

Enjoy a cozy picnic amidst the beautiful landscapes of the Glacier.
Bring food from Bozeman or purchase at park.
USD10 (if purchased), 1 hour

1:00PM

Sightseeing

Explore some drives like the Going-to-the-Sun Road, one of the most scenic drives in the country.
Drive along the designated routes in the park.
Free, 3 hours

4:30PM

Return to Lodging

Find a local lodge nearby or head back to your previous lodging.
Drive back to lodge.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Park Café

Savor delightful local fare in a charming atmosphere.
Drive to restaurant.
USD20, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Glacier Adventures

Glacier National Park, Montana

7:00AM

Breakfast at Swiftcurrent Motor Inn

Grab a quick bite before diving into another adventure.
At your lodging.
USD15, 1 hour

8:30AM

Hiking at Glacier National Park

Continue exploring iconic trails like Grinnell Glacier with amazing views.
Access via park entry.
Free, Full day

12:00PM

Lunch at Apgar Village

Choose from local deli options amidst breathtaking views.
Head to Apgar Village (1 hour drive).
USD15, 1 hour

1:30PM

Kayaking on Lake McDonald

Enjoy a refreshing kayaking experience on one of Glacier's beautiful lakes.
Kayak rentals available at the lake.
USD30 (rental for 2 hours), 3 hours

4:30PM

Relax at the Lake

Unwind at Lake McDonald before heading back.
Stay along the shore.
Free, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at The Lakehouse

Indulge in a memorable meal while gazing out at the lake.
Drive to The Lakehouse (30 min).
USD25, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 11: Return to Bozeman

Bozeman, Montana

8:00AM

Breakfast at A Bakery - pop into one you discovered along the way.

Savor a final breakfast to bid farewell to Glacier.
In the area where you stayed.
USD10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Return Drive to Bozeman

Enjoy the scenic return drive with some last-minute sightseeing.
Drive back to Bozeman (4 hours).
Free, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Nova Café

Stop for a delicious lunch and some downtime before concluding your travels.
In downtown Bozeman.
USD15, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Downtown Shops

Spend your afternoon browsing unique shops and galleries in Bozeman.
Walking distance from lunch.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Pine Cone Café

Enjoy a cozy dinner featuring locally-sourced ingredients to end your adventure.
Short drive from downtown.
USD20, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 12: Depart from Bozeman

Bozeman, Montana

8:00AM

Breakfast at a local café

Take a moment to reflect on your wonderful trip over a final breakfast.
At a nearby café.
USD15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Pack and Check Out

Prepare your belongings and get ready for departure.
At your lodging.
Free, 1 hour

10:00AM

Final Stroll in Bozeman

Enjoy a leisurely walk through a park or along Main Street.
Walking distance from lodging.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at the airport

Grab a quick bite before catching your flight or heading back home.
In the airport.
USD15, 1 hour
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