Blue Mountain Bed and Breakfast – Missoula, Montana
An Incredible Road Trip From Missoula to Glacier National Park
Missoula to Glacier National Park Road Trip Guide
Missoula is the kind of place that makes a Montana adventure feel easy from the start. You get mountain views in every direction, a lively downtown with breweries and local shops, and a laid-back atmosphere that helps you actually relax before the early drive. If you’re planning a Missoula to Glacier National Park road trip, Missoula is an ideal home base because you can explore the town, sleep well, and then head north ready for a full day in one of the most iconic National Parks in the country.
Glacier sits in northwest Montana near the Canadian border, about 140 to 160 miles from Missoula, depending on your entrance. The drive from Missoula to Glacier National Park typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours, and it’s scenic the whole way through Mission Valley, where big-sky views and rising peaks build anticipation. For a classic stop, plan time at the National Bison Range; it’s one of those only-in-Montana moments. If you want coffee or supplies before you enter the park, Kalispell is a convenient place to pause on the way to West Glacier.
Where to stay in Missoula for your Glacier day trip
After a long day on the road driving from Missoula to Glacier National Park, ending the day surrounded by comfort matters. Our Montana bed and breakfast offers five cozy guest suites, warm hospitality, and a hearty, homemade breakfast to fuel your morning. Set on 20 private acres overlooking the Bitterroot River and Missoula Valley, it feels removed from the noise but still close to town, so your getaway stays smooth from check-in to checkout.
Once you arrive, Glacier delivers on its reputation. Most Missoula travelers use the West Entrance near West Glacier to access Lake McDonald, Apgar Village, and the start of Going-to-the-Sun Road. For a different feel, the St. Mary Entrance brings dramatic mountain views right away and sets you up for areas like Many Glacier and Two Medicine. If you want quieter routes, consider Camas or Polebridge.
For an adventure day trip, build your plan around a few standout experiences. Start with Lake McDonald, then drive Going-to-the-Sun Road if conditions allow. If you want a hike with a big payoff, Avalanche Lake is a favorite. At Logan Pass, the Hidden Lake Trail is a classic for alpine scenery and the chance to spot mountain goats. Finish with scenic pullouts like Weeping Wall and Bird Woman Falls Overlook, then head back to Missoula with the kind of views you’ll be talking about all year.
Check Out a Bison Range Near Missoula, MT
Best Bison Range in Montana for Summer Wildlife Viewing
A visit to the Bison Range in Montana offers one of the most rewarding wildlife experiences in western Montana. Located in Charlo on the Flathead Indian Reservation, this remarkable conservation area gives visitors the opportunity to observe Montana bison and other native wildlife across thousands of acres of protected grasslands and mountain scenery. Just an hour from Missoula, the National Bison Range is an ideal destination for a unique summer mountain getaway.
Covering more than 18,000 acres, the Bison Range is home to approximately 350 bison, along with elk, deer, pronghorn, coyotes, black bears, hawks, and eagles. The area was originally established in 1908 and remains an important conservation site managed by the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes. Visitors can experience both the natural beauty and cultural significance of this landscape while learning about the ongoing stewardship efforts that help preserve it.
The most popular way to explore the bison park is by taking the scenic driving routes. Red Sleep Drive and Prairie Drive combine to create a 19-mile wildlife viewing experience featuring rolling hills, mountain vistas, and excellent opportunities to spot bison near Missoula. During the summer season, visitors can also enjoy walking trails and panoramic overlooks throughout the route. Early morning and evening visits often provide some of the best wildlife viewing conditions.
Stay Near the National Bison Range
After spending the day exploring the National Bison Range, return to Blue Mountain Bed and Breakfast in Missoula for a comfortable and relaxing stay. Located just outside Missoula, our property offers convenient access to many of western Montana’s most popular attractions while providing a peaceful mountain setting.
Guests enjoy well-appointed accommodations with private bathrooms, comfortable furnishings, and beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. Each morning begins with a freshly prepared breakfast featuring homemade specialties and locally inspired ingredients. Favorites may include huckleberry Dutch Babies, Eggs Benedict, or hearty steak and eggs.
Visitors looking to extend their adventure can also explore the nearby Garden of One Thousand Buddhas in Arlee, located just a short drive from the Bison Range. Whether you are planning a summer wildlife tour, a scenic road trip to Glacier National Park, or a unique Montana getaway, Blue Mountain Bed and Breakfast provides the perfect home base for enjoying all the best things to do in Missoula. Book your stay today and experience some of the best wildlife viewing in Montana.
Lolo Pass Day Trip & Wildflower Viewing Guide
Best Lolo Pass Weekend Scenic Drive in Montana
A visit to Lolo Pass offers one of the most rewarding ways to experience a mountain weekend in western Montana, especially in late spring and early summer when Montana wildflowers begin to bloom. Located about 40 miles from Missoula, this scenic drive follows Highway 93 before connecting to the historic Lolo Trail along Highway 12. The route gradually climbs alongside Lolo Creek, with forested slopes and layered mountain views that define this stretch of the Bitterroot Range.
One of the most memorable stops along the way is Packer Meadow, where Missoula wildflowers create a vivid display across the open landscape. During peak bloom, camas flowers spread in shades of purple and blue, joined by lupine, Indian paintbrush, arrowleaf balsamroot, and yarrow. This easy roadside stop provides a convenient opportunity to step out, take photos, and experience the seasonal color up close.
As the drive continues toward higher elevations, the scenery shifts with the terrain. Beargrass appears along the hillsides with tall white blooms, while glacier lilies can emerge earlier in the season as the snow recedes. Scenic pullouts along the Lolo Trail offer safe places to pause and take in the surrounding mountains, making this one of the most scenic drives in Montana.
The Lolo Pass Visitor Center, located at the summit on the Montana and Idaho border, is a key stop along the route. Visitors will find parking, picnic areas, and interpretive exhibits that share the history of the Lolo Trail, including its connection to the Lewis and Clark Expedition and the Nez Perce Tribe. Staff are often available to provide updates on current conditions and recommendations for what to do at Lolo Pass, including nearby hiking options.
Stay at a Bed and Breakfast in Montana
After a day exploring Lolo Pass, returning to a Bed and Breakfast in Montana offers a comfortable and well-appointed place to relax. Guests can expect thoughtful amenities such as fireplaces in select rooms, jetted tubs, and views of the Bitterroot Valley. Mornings begin with a freshly prepared breakfast, providing a strong start before heading out to explore all the great things to do in Missoula or nearby trails.
Spring at the Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge in Montana
Best Lee Metcalf Wildlife Refuge Wildlife Experience
Spring is an ideal time to experience the Lee Metcalf Wildlife Refuge, when the Bitterroot Valley wakes up with migrating birds, active wetlands, and long days built for exploring. Located about 30 minutes south of Missoula, this protected landscape offers an accessible way to experience Montana wildlife without committing to a full backcountry trip. For travelers who like their adventure balanced with comfort, Missoula makes an excellent home base.
The Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge spans more than 2,800 acres of river corridors, wet meadows, grasslands, and forested areas. Spring brings peak Montana birdwatching, with hundreds of species passing through or settling in for the season. Walking trails loop through diverse habitats, making it easy to spend a few hours or an entire day observing wildlife, taking photos, or enjoying a relaxed hike with wide-open views.
Beyond birds, visitors often spot deer, muskrats, river otters, and other native species. Interpretive signs and viewing areas add helpful context along the way, making the refuge enjoyable for both first-time visitors and experienced wildlife watchers. The pace here feels flexible, letting you explore as actively or casually as you like.
Beyond this, you can expect to find even more wonderful things to do in Missoula. The Clark Fork River winds through town, offering walking paths and scenic viewpoints, while nearby areas like the Rattlesnake National Recreation Area and Bitterroot Valley expand your adventure options. Fly fishing, biking, rafting, and spring hiking are all within easy reach.
A Bed and Breakfast in Missoula That Completes the Experience
After a day exploring the Lee Metcalf Wildlife Refuge, returning to a quiet Bed and Breakfast in Missoula makes all the difference. Comfortable guest rooms, peaceful outdoor spaces, and thoughtful amenities give you space to recharge between outings. Mornings start with a fresh, home-cooked breakfast before heading back out into Montana’s open landscapes.
This spring adventure is about balance, wildlife, fresh air, and a welcoming place to land at the end of the day. Book your stay and start planning your Lee Metcalf Wildlife Refuge experience today.
The Best Lodging Near the University of Montana for Campus Visits
Why Blue Mountain Is the Right Base for Your Campus Visit
Lodging near University of Montana does not have to mean staying in a standard hotel. Some of our favorite guests come to Missoula for the university, including parents visiting current students, families on campus tours, alumni back for a Grizzlies game, and loved ones celebrating graduation. Our guests get to campus in about fifteen minutes, then return to twenty acres of ponderosa pine, views of the Bitterroot River Valley, and a delicious breakfast each morning. If you are looking for Missoula lodging near University of Montana with easy access to campus and an authentic Montana setting, you have come to the right place.
The university is often the reason people visit, but with so many things to do in Missoula, it is rarely the reason they fall for the place. Grizzly football Saturdays spill into downtown, where you can walk from a morning at the Clark Fork River Market (seasonal) to an afternoon float on the Clark Fork River. Hike the “M” Trail on Mount Sentinel for the classic view over campus or venture to other hiking spots in Montana, then spend the evening exploring the best Missoula breweries. If you are looking for where to stay in Missoula, Blue Mountain Bed and Breakfast puts downtown, hiking trails, and the river within easy reach without planting you in the middle of the bustle.
We are a short drive from campus, but our mornings start with a made-from-scratch breakfast overlooking the valley. If you are comparing places to stay in Missoula, Montana, and you want somewhere that feels like Montana rather than another hotel off the interstate, book your stay today and find out what makes us the best lodging near University of Montana.
Where to Find the Best Lodging Near the University of Montana
If you are comparing lodging near University of Montana, convenience matters. We are about a fifteen-minute drive from campus, twenty minutes from Washington-Grizzly Stadium, and just off Highway 93 between Missoula and Lolo. Missoula Montana Airport is also about twenty-five minutes away, making arrivals and departures just as convenient as getting to campus. Our twenty acres adjoin Lolo National Forest and are certified as a Backyard Wildlife Habitat, offering birdsong, mountain views, and the soothing sound of the waterfall in our water gardens. Blue Mountain Bed and Breakfast is ranked the #1 Bed and Breakfast in Missoula on TripAdvisor, where guests consistently praise the breakfasts, scenery, and personalized hospitality.
University visits often leave time to experience more than campus. From here, you are just minutes from downtown Missoula’s restaurants, breweries, local shops, the Clark Fork River Trail, and the seasonal Clark Fork Market. If you are staying an extra day, Missoula also makes an excellent base for exploring western Montana, from scenic drives through the Bitterroot Valley to Travelers’ Rest State Park, Lolo Pass, and the CSKT Bison Range. That is one of the advantages of choosing lodging near University of Montana. You are close to campus while having easy access to many of western Montana’s top attractions.
If you are comparing places to stay in Missoula, Montana, you will quickly notice that most options are traditional hotels. Here, you will stay in one of five guest rooms spread across two log buildings, the Lewis and Clark Lodge and Hawk Hill House. Every room has a private bath with a jetted tub, a king or queen bed, a smart TV for your streaming accounts, and picture windows overlooking the mountains or gardens. The Lodge’s top floor is a favorite gathering spot, with billiards, board games, a library filled with books on Montana history, and views of the Bitterroot River Valley.
Every day begins with a full, made-from-scratch breakfast, with a menu that changes throughout your stay. Throughout the inn, you will find western art, family heirlooms, and pieces of Montana history that reflect the place we have called home for generations. After welcoming University of Montana visitors for nearly two decades, we have learned that some of the best memories happen after campus. We are always happy to recommend a scenic drive through the Bitterroot Valley, a favorite hiking trail, a local coffee shop, or a brewery depending on how much time you have.
A few planning notes: book well ahead for Grizzly home football weekends, commencement in May, family weekends, and summer orientation dates, since our five rooms fill quickly. If you are comparing cool places to stay in Missoula, MT, or weighing lodging near Missoula against the chain hotels by the interstate, we think you will appreciate the unique nature of our property.
Why Blue Mountain Is One of the Best Places to Stay in Missoula, Montana
One of our favorite things about hosting university guests is how often we get to say welcome back to our lodging in Missoula. The campus tour becomes freshman move-in, move-in becomes parents’ weekend, and four years later the same family is here for graduation. The university keeps giving people reasons to return to Missoula, and we love being the place they return to. Your stay gives back to this community, too. Every booking supports organizations we are proud to contribute to, including the University of Montana Alumni Band Association, Travelers’ Rest State Park, and the Tamarack Grief Resource Center, which helps children and families who have lost someone close.
Book Your Campus Visit Today
Wherever you are in that university journey, we would be glad to be part of it. Check availability and book your stay at Blue Mountain Bed and Breakfast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the University of Montana located?
The University of Montana is located in Missoula, Montana, about a fifteen-minute drive from Blue Mountain Bed and Breakfast.
What is there to do in Missoula, MT?
Missoula offers Grizzly football at Washington-Grizzly Stadium, floating and hiking along the Clark Fork River, the “M” Trail on Mount Sentinel, downtown breweries, and scenic drives through the Bitterroot Valley.
How far is Blue Mountain Bed and Breakfast from campus?
Blue Mountain Bed and Breakfast sits about a fifteen-minute drive from the University of Montana campus and twenty minutes from Washington-Grizzly Stadium.
Where should you stay for a University of Montana campus visit?
Blue Mountain Bed and Breakfast, ranked the #1 Bed and Breakfast in Missoula on TripAdvisor, offers an easy fifteen-minute drive to campus along with an authentic Montana setting away from chain hotels.
The Best Things to See in Missoula, Montana
Best Things to Do in Missoula Montana This Year
Missoula offers a dynamic mix of outdoor access and cultural experiences, making it a fabulous destination for visitors seeking variety. Set along the Clark Fork River and surrounded by rolling peaks, the city provides easy access to some of the most engaging things to do in Missoula Montana. Whether you are exploring for a weekend or planning a longer stay, there’s a great variety of experiences to add to your itinerary.
Downtown Missoula is a natural starting point, where locally owned shops, galleries, and restaurants line walkable streets. The riverfront trail system runs nearby, offering scenic views and a convenient way to connect with the outdoors. Caras Park serves as a central hub for Missoula events, from seasonal festivals to live music, all set along the river.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find no shortage of options. The “M” Trail on Mount Sentinel provides a short but steep hike with stunning views, while nearby routes like Mount Jumbo and Waterworks Hill offer additional variety. The Clark Fork River invites everything from relaxed riverside walks to floating and fly fishing, with local outfitters available to guide both beginners and experienced anglers. Biking is equally accessible, with paved trails and nearby mountain biking terrain at Blue Mountain Recreation Area and Pattee Canyon.
Art and history anchor the cultural side of a Missoula visit. The Missoula Art Museum highlights regional artists through rotating exhibitions, while the Historical Museum at Fort Missoula offers insight into the area’s past. Downtown venues such as the Wilma Theater and KettleHouse Amphitheater host performances that range from touring acts to local productions, adding energy to the city’s evening scene.
Stay at Unique Lodging in Missoula
After a full day exploring what to do in Missoula, returning to a comfortable and thoughtfully designed space enhances the overall experience. Our Unique Lodging in Missoula provides guest rooms with private bathrooms, jetted tubs, heated floors in select rooms, and electric fireplaces for added comfort. The setting reflects the surrounding mountain environment while maintaining a refined, welcoming atmosphere.
Each morning begins with a freshly prepared breakfast, featuring options such as Swedish pancakes and savory dishes served in the dining room or on the patio. Outdoor spaces, including a water garden, offer a quiet place to unwind before or after a day of exploring Missoula Montana attractions. Booking directly ensures a seamless stay that complements your time discovering the best things to do in Missoula Montana.
Winter in Missoula: Plan the Ultimate Winter Getaway!
Winter in Missoula Brings the Best Adventure Getaways
Winter in Missoula brings a lively blend of mountain scenery, outdoor adventure, and small-town comfort. The season transforms this Montana destination into an appealing mix of snowy fun and cozy moments, perfect for travelers seeking both excitement and relaxation. With crisp air, fresh snowfall, and access to unforgettable winter activities, it is easy to see why a winter adventure in Missoula continues to grow in popularity.
Exploring Missoula in winter is easy – there are endless things to do in Missoula no matter the season! Snowmobile across breathtaking terrain at Lolo Pass, Clearwater National Forest, or the Blue Mountain Recreation Area, where miles of groomed trails and unforgettable views await. Skiers and snowboarders can head to Montana Snowbowl for satisfying runs surrounded by rugged alpine scenery. If you prefer a slower pace, winter hiking or snowshoeing on nearby trails provides a quiet way to enjoy the snow-covered landscape.
Relax at Our Montana Bed and Breakfast
Between mountain outings, Missoula’s welcoming food and drink scene keeps you warm and well fed. Local breweries like Bayern Brewing serve flavorful craft beers, while restaurants around town offer hearty Montana dishes ideal after a day outside. You can warm up even more with a visit to natural hot springs such as Jerry Johnson or Weir Hot Springs, both known for their peaceful setting and soothing water. Ice skating at Glacier Ice Rink, browsing downtown shops, or catching a University of Montana hockey game all add to the season’s fun.
Choosing our Montana Bed and Breakfast as your home base enhances your winter getaway with comfort and thoughtful hospitality. Our guest rooms feature plush bedding, private baths, and appealing touches like jetted tubs or private decks. Each morning begins with a homemade breakfast, from huckleberry Dutch Babies to steak and eggs, served with beautiful views of the Missoula Valley.
With 20 acres of wildlife habitat and direct access to Blue Mountain Recreation Area, our Missoula Bed and Breakfast makes it easy to balance exploration with relaxation, as you enjoy the best of winter in Missoula. After your adventures, unwind with billiards, a glass of wine, or a quiet evening in the lodge-style setting. This inviting inn offers a warm home base for your winter and adventure travel in Missoula.
Your Guide to Visiting Travelers Rest State Park
Best Things to Know Before Visiting Travelers Rest State Park
Travelers Rest State Park is one of the most significant historic sites in the American West and an essential stop for anyone interested in the Lewis and Clark Trail. Located just south of Missoula in Lolo, Montana, the park is the only archaeologically verified campsite of the Lewis and Clark Expedition in the United States. Visitors can stand in the same location where the Corps of Discovery camped more than two centuries ago while exploring a landscape that has long served as a gathering place for Indigenous peoples.
The history at Travelers Rest State Park extends well beyond the Lewis and Clark Montana story. For generations, the Salish, Pend d’Oreille, and Nez Perce peoples used this area as a seasonal campsite and travel corridor. Today, exhibits throughout the park help visitors understand both the expedition’s journey and the deeper cultural significance of the region.
The park’s 65 acres offer more than historical interpretation. Walking trails wind through the property alongside Lolo Creek, providing opportunities for birdwatching, wildlife viewing, and quiet exploration. More than 130 bird species have been documented here, making it a rewarding destination for nature enthusiasts. The Visitor Center and Museum feature archaeological discoveries, expedition replicas, Native American crafts, and exhibits that highlight the traditions of the Séliš and Ql̓ispé people.
A visit to Travelers Rest State Park pairs perfectly with other nearby attractions. Continue your adventure getaway with a drive to Lolo Pass and the Lolo Pass Visitors Center, where exhibits provide additional insight into the challenges Lewis and Clark faced crossing the Bitterroot Mountains. Visitors can also explore other Montana State Parks, discover local breweries, browse downtown Missoula, or enjoy the many things to do near Missoula throughout the year.
Stay at a Montana Bed and Breakfast Near Travelers Rest State Park
After a day exploring Travelers Rest State Park and the surrounding mountain landscapes, return to a welcoming Montana bed and breakfast overlooking the Bitterroot Valley. Guests enjoy comfortable accommodations, panoramic views, and personalized hospitality just minutes from the historic site. Spacious guest rooms, scenic outdoor spaces, and freshly prepared breakfasts create an ideal setting for relaxation after a full day of sightseeing. Whether you are tracing the Lewis and Clark Trail or discovering western Montana for the first time, a stay at a Montana bed and breakfast provides the perfect complement to your adventure.