5-Day Family Adventure Itinerary in Montana

Day 1: Explore Bozeman

Bozeman, Montana

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Eating Establishment

Start your day with a hearty breakfast featuring local ingredients, such as the famous Montana breakfast burrito.
Located in downtown Bozeman.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Museum of the Rockies

Explore the rich history of Montana through dynamic exhibits, including dinosaur fossils from the nearby Hell Creek Formation.
Drive 5 minutes from the restaurant to the museum.
USD14, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Red Tractor Pizza

Enjoy delicious farm-to-table pizza with a variety of topping options made from local ingredients.
Just a quick 5-minute drive from the museum.
USD20, 1 hour

1:30PM

M Trail Hike

Take a family-friendly hike up to the iconic 'M' on Mount Baldy for wonderful views of Bozeman and surrounding mountains.
Drive 10 minutes to the trailhead.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Relax at Bozeman Hot Springs

Unwind and soak in the natural hot springs, where kids can enjoy the facilities and parents can relax.
Drive 20 minutes from the hike to the hot springs.
USD25, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at 406 Kitchen & Taproom

Savor farm-fresh dishes and local brews while enjoying a family-friendly atmosphere.
Drive back 20 minutes to downtown Bozeman.
USD65, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Wildlife Wonders in Yellowstone

Yellowstone National Park, Montana

7:00AM

Breakfast at The Town Pump

Fuel up with a quick breakfast sandwich and coffee before heading to Yellowstone.
Drive 1.5 hours from Bozeman to Yellowstone's north entrance.
USD12, 30 minutes

8:00AM

Wildlife Watching Tour

Join a guided tour to seek out black bears, bison, and elk while learning about their habitats and behaviors.
Meet at a designated tour location inside the park.
USD60 per person, 4 hours

12:30PM

Picnic Lunch in the Park

Pack a picnic from local stores or grab snacks, and enjoy your lunch surrounded by breathtaking nature.
Find a picnic area in the park after the tour.
USD15, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Mammoth Hot Springs

Explore the unique terraces of Mammoth Hot Springs and enjoy the geothermal wonders of Yellowstone.
A short drive within the park.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Explore the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone

Take in the stunning views of waterfalls and colorful canyon walls on an easy family-friendly trail.
Drive to the canyon viewpoint.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Yellowstone General Store

After a scenic day, enjoy hearty sandwiches and salads at the park's general store restaurant.
Drive back to the general store.
USD30, 1 hour
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Day 3: Education and Adventure in Missoula

Missoula, Montana

7:30AM

Breakfast at The Catalyst Cafe

Start the morning with delicious, locally-sourced breakfast options in a cozy setting.
Drive 4 hours from Yellowstone to Missoula.
USD20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Missoula Children’s Museum

Explore interactive exhibits designed to spark creativity and education for children of all ages.
Just a 5-minute drive away.
USD10, 2 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at The Notorious P.I.G.

Indulge in mouth-watering barbecue dishes that the whole family will love.
Drive 10 minutes from the museum.
USD50, 1 hour

12:30PM

Explore the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation

Learn about elk conservation efforts and see displays of beautiful wildlife artifacts.
Drive 15 minutes to the foundation.
Free, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Riverfront Walking Trail

Take a leisurely stroll along the Clark Fork River and enjoy the beautiful scenery and wildlife.
Walk to the nearby riverfront trail.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Dinner at The Depot

End your day with a delightful dinner featuring homemade pasta and seasonal dishes, perfect for families.
Just a 10-minute drive from the river trail.
USD65, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Journey Through Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park, Montana

7:30AM

Breakfast at The Bison Sandwich Company

Get your day going with tasty breakfast sandwiches made with local ingredients.
Drive 2.5 hours from Missoula to the park.
USD15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Going-to-the-Sun Road

Experience breathtaking views while driving the iconic scenic route, with plenty of spots to stop and take photos.
Start your drive on Going-to-the-Sun Road from the park entrance.
USD35 (park entry fee), 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Lake McDonald Lodge

Enjoy a relaxing lunch overlooking Lake McDonald with a selection of regionally inspired dishes.
Stop at the lodge during your drive.
USD30, 1 hour

2:00PM

Hiking at Avalanche Lake

Take an easy 5-mile hike to Avalanche Lake, surrounded by stunning scenery and cascading waterfalls.
The trailhead is nearby from the lodge.
Free, 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Belton Chalet

Enjoy a meal in a historic lodge with local favorites and a family-friendly atmosphere.
Drive 30 minutes back towards West Glacier.
USD60, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Relaxing Day at Flathead Lake

Flathead Lake, Montana

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Lunch Box

Enjoy a delightful breakfast at this quaint café, featuring homemade pastries and hearty meals.
Drive 1.5 hours from Glacier National Park to Flathead Lake.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Kayaking on Flathead Lake

Rent kayaks for a family adventure on the stunning waters of Flathead Lake; great for kids and adults.
Visit a local kayak rental service on the shore.
USD60 for 2 hours, 2 hours

12:00PM

Picnic Lunch by the Lake

Prepare or buy picnic sandwiches and snacks to enjoy lakeside with a view.
Find a scenic spot along the lake.
USD20, 1 hour

1:00PM

Biking the Flathead Lake Trail

Take a leisurely bike ride along the trail surrounding the lake, enjoying the fresh air and beautiful scenery.
Grab bikes from local rental services.
USD40 for bike rentals, 2.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit Bigfork Village

Stroll through charming Bigfork Village, exploring local shops and art galleries; perfect for finding souvenirs.
Drive 15 minutes to Bigfork.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Garden Bar

End your trip with fresh salads, burgers, and homemade desserts in a family-friendly environment.
Drive back to the lakeshore for a delicious meal.
USD50, 1.5 hours
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