The months of September and October offer a wide and unique variety of attractions and activities in and around the Canyon area of West Glacier, Coram and Hungry Horse. The Going-to-the-Sun Road’s open season will be extended this year until Oct. 20, allowing visitors to experience one of the Northwest’s most scenic drives and to access Logan Pass with all of its hiking trails well into autumn. The road is also a great way to take advantage of the park’s natural beauty in the fall. The reds and yellows of the autumn leaves stand out among the still-vibrant green of the lodgepole pines, creating a beautiful natural mosaic overlaying the peaks and valleys of Glacier; and the lakes and streams visible from the road and the pass, including Lake McDonald, turn a deep, clear, blue-green color. Whether you’re just driving the road or complementing it with some hiking around Logan Pass, the awe-inspiring autumn vistas of Glacier, the Bob Marshall Wilderness and the surrounding area are worth the trip.
As for one of the area’s main attractions, the Flathead River, the four commercial rafting companies continue to run rafting and fishing trips. While there isn’t as much whitewater for rafting, the river itself is at one of its most beautiful points – the water is so clear you can see the rock formations 30 feet under water, and a rafting trip is a great way to see the autumn views in the park and the Bob Marshall Wilderness from a different perspective. The fly fishing, however, is at its absolute best at this time of year because of the clarity of the water. Take a half- or full-day fishing trip with an experienced guide who will take you down the river and show you the best fishing holes! Catch rainbow, lake, and cutthroat trout while experiencing the beauty of the park from the scenic Flathead. For those who want to get out into some lesser traveled wilderness without going on the water, there is an outfitter who runs trail rides on horseback through September and October out of West Glacier. You can explore the Bob Marshall on horseback, and even take a guided hunting trip with them as autumn brings in bow and rifle hunting season for elk, deer and even black bear.
Wilderness activities aside, the Canyon area is bustling with fun restaurants and bars. From West Glacier up through Coram to Hungry Horse, there are a variety of quintessential Montana restaurants where you can sample elk steaks and huckleberry pie, and even a general store for groceries and gift shopping. Coram features a friendly bar with great music, and a whiskey distillery that offers tastings and tours. Starting Sept. 15, most lodging options offer discounted off-season rates, so you can take advantage of all the Canyon and Glacier area has to offer without having to overspend on lodging. With the incredible natural surroundings, guided trips, fall special rates, and the added bonus of the summer crowds being gone for the start of the school year, autumn is a great time to visit the Glacier area! For more information on businesses, services and what the area has to offer, visit www.gateway2glacier.com.