Top ways to navigate Montana

For those unaware, Montana is vast. It stands as the largest landlocked state in the U.S., requiring at least 10 hours to traverse its width and a minimum of five hours to drive vertically. Despite its size, it ranks among the least populated states, resulting in limited public transportation options across its expanse.

A car is the ideal choice for exploring Montana, allowing access to its many trailheads, river spots, and natural wonders. However, if you’re staying in a town or city, getting around without your own vehicle is quite feasible. Places like Missoula, Bozeman, and Helena are bike-friendly, easily walkable, and well-serviced by public buses, bike rentals, and pedestrian pathways.

Here are our best recommendations for getting around in Montana.

Montana is perfect for enjoying open-road adventures

Montana is ideal for road trips and van living. The rental car prices reflect the high demand and the necessity of having a personal vehicle. The state’s paved highways, byways, and scenic routes are usually wide open, especially during summer. However, keep in mind that cell phone reception can be spotty, so it’s wise to download maps before you travel.

Although cross-country driving is generally straightforward and less crowded, be prepared for mountain passes, winding river canyons, and other rugged terrains, even on Interstates 90 and 15, which are the main highways crossing the state. Speed limits can go up to 80 mph in rural areas, so stay in the right lane and concentrate on the road if you’re feeling anxious while driving.

Exercise extra caution when leaving the pavement for dirt and gravel Forest Service roads. Some trailheads and outdoor spots may require 4WD or high-clearance vehicles to access—definitely not suitable for an ordinary rental. The Forest Service provides vehicle restrictions for its designated trailheads and destinations.

Winter driving in Montana requires similar caution, as snowfall and sub-zero temperatures can pose risks for motorists. If you're visiting during winter, you may already know what to expect, but keep an eye on the weather and limit travel if a storm approaches. Chains or 4WD vehicles are necessary for navigating mountain passes in winter conditions.

Electric vehicle charging stations are primarily located along I-90

While Montana isn’t at the forefront of electric vehicle infrastructure, the state is steadily increasing its capacity for electric road trips. There are now over 100 charging stations, including both public and private options.

Most charging stations can be found around cities along the Interstate 90 route, including Billings, Bozeman, and Missoula. The Flathead Valley, which encompasses Whitefish and Glacier, also offers several charging locations.

The bus network links major cities

Statewide bus services in Montana are mainly provided by FlixBus and Greyhound. These routes connect all major cities, making bus travel a practical choice for navigating the state.

The route through the Flathead Valley, linking Missoula and Whitefish, is particularly convenient, with daily service and several strategic stops. Tickets for intrastate bus travel in Montana typically cost less than $100.

Utilize the Going-to-the-Sun Road shuttle in Glacier

During the busy summer months, driving along the Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park can be quite frustrating, especially when aiming to reach the iconic Logan Pass. Limited parking can lead to stress among visitors. To manage this congestion, the National Park System has introduced a Vehicle Reservation System for peak periods.

The most effective way to sidestep permit issues and parking stress in summer is by taking advantage of the free Going-to-the-Sun Road Shuttle, which operates from July 1 to early September. An express route delivers passengers directly to Logan Pass from either side, while the full route includes a dozen stops between Apgar Village and St. Mary Lake. The shuttle operates on a first-come, first-served basis, with no reservations available.

Whitefish serves as a stop on Amtrak's Empire Builder Train

Experiencing Montana by train is truly unique. From the observation car of Amtrak’s Empire Builder Train, which traverses the northern part of the state, you can soak in the stunning scenery along its route between Seattle and Chicago. Whitefish is a key stop, providing access to Depot Park and the western entrance to Glacier National Park.

Amtrak operates 13 stops in northern Montana, all near the Canadian border. The 11 stops east of Whitefish connect travelers to remote regions and small towns like Havre, Glasgow, and Wolf Point—the largest town on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation. Coach fares for intrastate travel are budget-friendly ($40–70), and the journeys are short enough to eliminate the need for a private car or roomette.

Embark on a bikepacking adventure through Montana

Attach your bike to a rack or bring it along on the Empire Builder Train to discover the state on two wheels. Bicycles are a fantastic way to explore Montana’s cities and towns, as most communities support the cycling lifestyle. For instance, Missoula features a network of bike paths, including the Clark Fork River Trail, Ron’s River Trail, and the Bitterroot Trail, all conveniently located near downtown.

Missoula also hosts the Adventure Cycling Association headquarters, which oversees a national network of bicycle touring and “bikepacking” routes. This location is an ideal starting or finishing point for those seeking an adventurous way to traverse Montana by bike.

City buses provide free or affordable options

All major cities in Montana offer some form of low-cost or free public transportation. Bozeman’s Streamline Bus and Butte’s Butte Bus run fare-free services, as does Missoula, which boasts an electric fleet of over 40% with its Mountain Line—awarded Outstanding Public Transportation System of the Year in 2021.

Cities like Helena and Billings provide affordable day passes for their bus systems (Capital Transit & MET Transit). Using smartphone navigation apps such as Google Maps can help you plan your journey on any public bus route.

Ski shuttles operate to major resorts during the winter months

If you’re heading to Montana for a ski trip, consider skipping the car rental. Many of the state’s premier resorts offer free or inexpensive shuttle services from nearby towns.

Bridger Bowl runs a free shuttle from Bozeman, where skiers can also catch the Skyline Bus to Big Sky Resort. The free Shuttle Network in Whitefish (S.N.O.W. Bus) serves multiple stops within Whitefish Ski Resort, and there’s a low-cost shuttle from Missoula to Montana Snowbowl on weekends.

Transportation options become limited outside the main towns and cities

Montana has implemented infrastructure upgrades to enhance accessibility in its larger cities, featuring curb cuts, accessible public transit options, and ADA-compliant construction.

As a result, navigating cities like Bozeman, Missoula, and Helena is generally easier compared to some of Montana’s smaller towns. For those seeking adventures further into nature, Ability Montana provides valuable resources for exploring the vast Montana landscape.