Land of Scenic Vistas and Local Charm
Communities: Heron, Noxon, Trout Creek, Thompson Falls, Plains, Paradise, Dixon, Hot Springs
Montana's scenic Highway 200 between Dixon and Heron is tucked between two mountain ranges and travels along the banks of the Clark Fork River. Vibrant small towns and local personalities come together in this quiet yet thriving part of Glacier Country, where you'll find good home-cookin' and fine western hospitality.
Some of the country's largest cedar trees stand tall—and wide—right here in Sanders County. Walk among giants at the Ross Creek Cedar Grove in Heron, where 1,000-year-old trees reach up to 12 feet in diameter. There's a short hiking trail at the grove.
Visit the historic Noxon Bridge in Noxon and get your huckleberry fix in Trout Creek, especially if you're visiting during the annual Trout Creek Huckleberry Festival. Also in Trout Creek, hike to Vermillion and Graves Creek falls. In Thompson Falls explore the Old Jail Museum, Thompson Falls dam and Thompson Falls State Park followed by homestyle comfort food at Minnie's Montana Café.
One of the best ways to unwind after a Clark Fork adventure is a soak at Quinn's Hot Springs Resort in Paradise—the healing mineral waters are an authentic Montana treat. Sunday brunch at the Dixon Mercantile is something to savor as well. You can also soak in the unique and quirky town of Hot Springs at the Symes Hot Springs Hotel, and don't miss the fresh food and baked goods at Camas Organic Market.
Highlights: Ross Creek Cedar Grove; Thompson Falls Dam; Island Park; Quinn’s Hot Springs Resort; the Ice Age Floods exhibit at The Paradise Center; home-style comfort food; fishing; wildlife watching; golf; waterfalls; historic sites and museums; snowmobiling
Length: 131 miles
Travel time: 2 1/2 hours
Spring Seven: Western Montana’s Must-Do List
Dive into the season with our exclusive "Spring Seven" list—a treasure trove of must-do experiences that prove spring in Montana is the perfect time to visit.
