ROAD TRIP: Yellowstone National Park to East Glacier
Heading from Yellowstone National Park to Glacier National Park? With multiple routes to get there find one that is the best for you. If you are looking for a good old fashioned road trip this might be the route for you. You won’t find much fast food along these highways or cell phone service for that matter. Just lots of Montana’s small town charm. Roll your windows down, and get out the map as you traverse along Montana’s Route 2.
1. 2 Basset Brewing, White Sulfur Springs
A brewery inspired by the social laid back personalities of the owners two basset hounds, Stanley and Leroy. “They remind us every day of the importance of taking time to enjoy simple pleasures such as friendship, socializing, laughter and of course a pint or two.” Grab a beer at this well stocked brewery.
2. Spa Hot Springs, White Sulfur Springs
Pumped up from a well 35 feet down, this water is 130 degrees. By being piped through the hotel the water provides heat to the building. By the time it reaches the pools the water has cooled to 105 degrees in the smaller pool and 98 degrees in the larger pool.
3. Historic Hotel Arvon, Great Falls
A hotel, an art gallery and an on-site Irish restaurant all located under one roof. The Arvon hotel is the oldest commercial building in Great Falls, built in 1890. Named Montana’s best Irish pub be sure and grab a bite here.
4. Sip ‘N Dip Mermaid Bar, Great Falls
Enjoy summer all year long at this Montana bar. Hidden inside the O-Haire Motor Inn is a tiki bar. Enjoy a tropical drink while watching mermaids swim by. Built in 1962 this unique design was Inspired by the Playboy club in Chicago. If you are around Wed, Thursday or Fridays stop in for the legendary Piano Pat’s performance. Don't forget, always tip your mermaid!
5. River’s Edge Trail, Great Falls
Enjoy this extensive paved trail system in Riverside Park. With more than 60 miles these trails lead through spectacular views of the mountains, prairies, river canyons, waterfalls, reservoirs and five hydroelectric dams. This trial system connects to Great Falls historic downtown with many parks and dining options. Perfect for dogs, kids, biking and strollers. Be sure and check out Giant Spring State Park which the trail system goes through.
6. Freezeout Lake Wildlife Management Area, Choteau
Bring your binoculars to this birder's paradise. Cross tundra swan, black crowned night herons, and more off your life list at this important migration spot for shoreboard and waterfowl.
7. Montana Dinosaur Center, Bynum
Participate in a real dino dig! One of the few active fossil sites around folks can book half day or full day digs. Learn fossil identification, surface mapping, local history and geology.
8. Carousel Rest Area, Shelby
Stop by this historic indoor carousel. This rest area was created by Henry Benjamin, a farmer and mechanic, in 2018. Mr. Benjamin purchased and restored the 1936 carousel for his community and travelers to enjoy. Grab some Wilcoxson's ice cream and be sure and check out the garage themed bathroom.
9. Swiss Lounge at Many Glacier Hotel, Many Glacier
Built in 1915 by the Great Northern Railway, Many Glacier Hotel is situated on the shores of Swiftcurrent Lake. Enjoy food and drink from the Ptarmigan dining room or the Swiss Lounge inside. The Swiss Lounge or the Interlaken Lounge provides casual fare in a European atmosphere. Enjoy the view while you eat!
An easy 2.6 mile paved loop around Swiftcurrent Lake. Wheelchair and stroller friendly. Watch out for moose! *Park Reservation Required
