As springtime begins to take hold, the entire landscape of the state of Montana begins to change. As the snowmelt accelerates, wildflowers bloom, roads open, and many of the state’s many hiking trails are finally clear to traverse.
This is a great time to visit Glacier National Park and Yellowstone as many of the roads will be open by the middle of the month, and the summer tourists will not yet have arrived. Though there can still be occasional storms in May if you’re lucky you could find yourself enjoying a near-empty park with warm breezes under bluebird skies.
Universities will still be in session, so Montana’s cities like Missoula, Bozeman, and Billings will feel extra lively as students spend more time outside. From parks to patios, everyone in town will be spending more of their time reconnecting with their communities; it’s the perfect time to grab a pint and strike up a conversation at one of Montana’s many eclectic bars and restaurants.
And even if you don’t plan on spending a considerable amount of time in the park, this is a great time to drive Beartooth Highway. This 68-mile highway connects Red Lodge with Gardiner, dipping into Wyoming through Yellowstone. The views are incredible, so although it only takes about three hours, you’ll probably want to schedule a bit more time to stop for photos along the way.