3 Reasons You Need to Visit Montana in the Fall

From iconic national parks and towering mountains to cities with friendly faces, Montana is a dream destination for anyone who loves the outdoors. Here are three great reasons to add visiting Big Sky Country to your bucket list this fall.

1. Two words: fall foliage

Imagine an already scenically beautiful place that gets enhanced by the crisp colors of fall and you'll find yourself in Montana. Whether you're hiking through Glacier National Park, biking the Hiawatha Trail, or simply putting the car in drive, you're bound to find yourself surrounded by bursting colors and stunning views.

Spanning 1 million acres, Glacier National Park is especially breathtaking in the fall, as its valleys and mountainsides are painted with seasonally coordinated yellows, oranges and reds. Flathead Valley, Seeley-Swan Valley and the University of Montana's Missoula Valley are also popular viewing destinations with their colorful views of surrounding terrain.

2. There are tons of good eats and drinks

Montana certainly doesn't disappoint when it comes to seasonal treats. To kick off rifle hunting season, Montanans and tourists alike can graze at the annual Ennis Hunters Feed in Ennis, Montana, where locals create custom creations such as elk and deer chili, moose meatballs and even antelope – all for free!

Another annual fall favorite is McIntosh Apple Day in Hamilton, Montana, a fundraiser that serves up 600, made-from-scratch apple pies baked by Ravalli County Museum staff and local volunteers. Fresh apple cider and roasted pork with apple chutney are also within arm's reach.

Feeling thirsty? Montana ranks No. 4 in the nation for craft breweries per capita. Swing by one of the state's 49 craft breweries to satisfy your hankering for a pint of freshly brewed pumpkin ale.

3. Wildlife is everywhere

Montana's copious national parks, forests and refuge areas, in addition to state wildlife management areas and parks, provide ample opportunities to see wild critters year around; however, fall is particularly great for viewing.

Winter requires all animals, especially bears, to frantically fatten up for hibernation, so there's a good chance you'll see wildlife roaming freely along roadsides as they graze and eat. Fall is also the best time of year to spot bald eagles as they migrate from Canada to Alaska to winter in Montana. In late fall, you can hear the echoes of bighorn sheep butting heads on early morning hikes, making an impressive sound and even more impressive sight.

Enjoy everything Montana has to offer this fall with Town Pump Hotel Group. Named one of the 10 highest rated TripAdvisor GreenLeaders in the U.S., Town Pump Hotel Group is home to six hotel brands in 13 cities and an RV Park and Resort equipped with full hook-ups, Wi-Fi, laundry facilities and more.

With all lodging properties located near local attractions and outdoor recreation, there’s something to see and do for everyone.

To plan your next vacation, visit TownPumpHotels.com or call 1-800-442-4667.