and with so much land to cover, taking a drive is one of the most satisfying ways to see Montana’s great beauty. When even a trip home from the grocery store can take your breath away, getting in your car for a drive usually seems like a very good idea. Sometimes, just seeing where the road will take you is the best way to go. We recommend being prepared for any situation that may arise (especially carrying a paper map with you!) There are uncountable back roads to “get lost” on here in Montana. Some are wide valley roads, some are unbelievable engineering marvels that you can’t believe could even exist. And most are awe-inspiring. As with most things in life, the road less traveled will get you to the very best places. Places where the beauty leaves you speechless, inspiring thought, and wanting more. There are also many dedicated Scenic Byways in Western Montana. One of our favorites here in the Bitterroot Valley is the Skalkaho Highway. This “highway” is a narrow gravel road that takes you deep into the Sapphire mountains and past the stunning Skalkaho Falls. (This road is one of those engineering marvels we mentioned). It connects Hamilton to Phillipsburg and is typically only open June through September, weather depending. A couple of our other favorites drives are in the southern end of the Bitterroot Valley where you will see the stunning jagged peaks of the Bitterroot Mountains, the highest of these is Trapper Peak at 10,157 feet. South of Darby you will find West Fork Road. Take it west toward Painted Rocks Lake. This road follows the West Fork of the Bitterroot river through stunning colorful cliffs surrounding Painted Rock Lake (Aptly named). Or, head south out of Hamilton to Lost Trail Pass then turn east onto Highway 43 into the Big Hole Valley (Don’t forget to stop and visit the Big Hole Battlefield!). This enormous valley is also aptly named and is surrounded by the Pioneer and Bitterroot mountain ranges. Once you reach Wisdom, head south again onto Highway 287 which will take you through more breathtaking valley and into the town of Dillon. Or, let your finger land on the map and pick another drive. Here in Montana, we often “Get Lost” on purpose.