Chase the Adventure
2-Day Itinerary
Get ready for a day exploring Montana’s Rocky Mountain Front. Known for its breathtaking views, diverse wildlife, and epic wilderness experiences, the Rocky Mountain Front is an all-around hub for outdoor adventure in Central Montana. We think you’re going to love it!
Choteau, MT | Kick off your day at the foot of the Rocky Mountains in Choteau, MT – the little town close to everything, For the early birds, fuel up with breakfast at Copper Creek Cafe or grab a mid-morning coffee and picnic lunch to go for your first full day in Montana!
Freezout Lake Wildlife Management Area | Speaking of birds...Whether it’s your first time in the area or your tenth, a drive to Freezeout Lake is a must – especially in spring and fall during the snow goose migration. During the migration, you’ll be treated to a jaw-dropping experience as thousands of trumpeter swans and snow geese fill the lake and mountain air. Visiting outside of these seasons? Freezeout Lake is a great year-round spot for wildlife viewing, photography, or an outdoor picnic!
Choose your afternoon adventure:
We get it - not all adventurers are alike. Lucky for you, neither is recreation in Central Montana! For your afternoon excursion, take on a scenic hike (our top pick), try your hand at fly fishing, or stay put for a little down time.
Hike Our Lake | Hidden in a forest of spruce is the alpine lake of your dreams. With a little work (6.4 miles roundtrip) and a moderate elevation gain, you’ll soon find yourself in another world entirely. It’s a favorite of the locals.
Fish Pishkun Reservoir | With 13 miles of shoreline, Pishkun Reservoir offers major game fishing for kokanee salmon, northern pike, and rainbow trout. Did we mention the views are amazing? They are.
Venture Around Freezeout Lake | There’s no shame in taking things slow. Stay put at Freezeout Lake, bust out your binoculars and camera, and see how many species of wildlife you can spot in the area.
Pack up for your stay at Sun Canyon Lodge.
Sun Canyon Lodge | Now that you’ve dipped your boot in, it’s time for a real taste of the west! Continue your scenic drive southwest to Augusta, MT – where you’ll be met with towering rock walls, rising mountain views and an abundance of backcountry charm and adventure at Sun Canyon Lodge.
Horseback Ride | Settle in and take advantage of the daylight with a guided horseback ride though the Bob Marshall Wilderness. Equipped with everything you need – horseback riding is the perfect activity for all ages. You’ll need to make reservations ahead of your trip.
Dinner | Don’t worry about packing a meal (or going hungry)! The lodge has authentic western cuisine, featuring hand-cut steaks and local beef burgers.
Stargazing | A trip to Central Montana wouldn’t be complete without standing in awe of the cosmos. Stay up late, roast a few s’mores, and peer into the milky way – taking in the stars, planets, and maybe even the Northern Lights!
Pro Tip: The sun sets earlier in fall and winter – making it the best time to stargaze.
The birds are chirping, the sun is rising, and the first cup of coffee has your name on it! Wake up slow with breakfast in the mountains and then pack your bags because we’re heading east to Great Falls – but not before an adventure on the water!
Choose your water adventure:
Half-Day Fish | Lean into the expertise at Sun Canyon Lodge with a guided fishing trip or explore the area’s many rivers and reservoirs. Nearby: Sun River, Willow Creek Reservoir, North Fork Simms Creek, Dearborn River.
Half-Day Float | Channel your inner Lewis & Clark with a float down the Missouri or surrounding waterways. Go by raft, kayak, or try your hand at paddleboarding – your adventure, your choice! Take to the water solo or book a guided trip with Prairie Mountain River Adventures.
Pro Tip: Augusta and Vaughn are great stops for a quick snack or break! For lunch, head to The Buckhorn Bar for their famous chicken or Big Sky Deli & Bakery for a hand-crafted sandwich.
First Peoples Buffalo Jump | As you head east for the afternoon, take a detour to First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park – the largest bison cliff jump in North America. Depending on the season, you can take a drive up to the top of the cliff or opt for the nature trail instead.
Great Falls, MT | Centered around the Missouri River (yes, that one), Great Falls is one of Central Montana’s largest basecamps. And though your trip may be coming to an end, there’s still plenty of adventure ahead! Here are some of our top picks in the area.
River's Edge Trail | Hike, bike, walk, or mosey – whatever you do, make your way down to the River’s Edge Trail. Stretching alongside the Mighty Missouri River, this 53-mile paved trail offers spectacular scenery and wildlife.
Pro Tip: Start your adventure at Giant Springs State Park, where the world’s largest natural spring and shortest river can be found side by side!
Sluice Boxes State Park | Drive a scenic 40 minutes outside of Great Falls and you’ll stumble upon a hidden recreation area buried in the cliffs of Belt Creek Canyon. Both the upper and lower loop are great hikes with epic views.
Downtown Great Falls | End the evening or start it in downtown Great Falls. Home to local shops, vibrant art murals, and handcrafted eats & drinks – embrace the adventure as you explore this charming town.
Trip Add-Ons
Add a day, swap an adventure, or continue your way through Central Montana – the adventure is in the journey.
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