Missoula / Whitefish / Fernie / Walla Walla loop?

Question

Hi All,

Boise resident here who's working on plans for a summer vacation with a toddler and a dog. Last year, we took this crew to Hood River, the Oregon Coast, Mt. Hood, and Bend. We've done loops through Big Sky, Bozeman, and Jackson in the past as well (though no baby for that one). We generally like to do day hikes in the morning, grab a beer in the afternoon, and turn in early for the night with the little one.

This year, we're considering heading up to Missoula and planning a trip from there. We're thinking something like five nights in Missoula, three nights in Whitefish, five nights in Fernie, and maybe two nights in Walla Walla or or the Wallowas to break up the drive home. Banff just seems a bit too far for this crew over two weeks despite being where this concept started. All in late July / early August.

Curious if this sounds like a good itinerary or if you'd make any changes. We're also weighing a Park City/Steamboat itinerary for the same timeframe. Any input is appreciated - thank you!

Answer

Your proposed itinerary sounds fantastic and offers a wonderful mix of outdoor adventures, scenic landscapes, and relaxation, especially with a toddler and dog in tow. The combination of Missoula, Whitefish, Fernie, and Walla Walla is both manageable and scenic, and it covers some of the best spots in Montana and British Columbia. Here are a few thoughts and suggestions based on your plans:

1. Missoula (5 nights): Missoula is a charming, laid-back town with a lot to offer. It’s great for a home base to explore surrounding areas. Some activities in the area you may enjoy:

Day hikes: Consider the Pattee Canyon or Rattlesnake National Recreation Area for family-friendly hikes with beautiful views.
Beer: Missoula is known for its breweries. You could visit Big Sky Brewing or KettleHouse Brewing for a laid-back afternoon.
Local charm: Don’t miss a stroll along the Clark Fork River or check out the carousel and downtown area with plenty of pet-friendly patios for lunch or drinks.

This is a good amount of time for Missoula, and you can explore nearby day trips like the Bitterroot Valley or even the Flathead Lake area if you’re feeling adventurous.

2. Whitefish (3 nights): Whitefish is a great option for a change of pace and still within reasonable driving distance from Missoula. It's more touristy but offers fantastic views and outdoor activities. Here are a few ideas:

Day hikes: The Whitefish Mountain Resort has access to some fantastic hiking trails, including the Danny On Trail and the Summit Trail.
Beer: Head to the Whitefish Brewing Company or the Great Northern Brewing Company for some local brews.
Family-friendly activities: You can also check out Whitefish Lake for a relaxing afternoon of swimming or paddleboarding with your toddler.

If you’re up for a longer drive, the nearby Glacier National Park is a must-see, though it might be a bit much with a toddler in tow (but if you do decide to go, consider the scenic Going-to-the-Sun Road, which is an incredible experience).

3. Fernie (5 nights): Fernie is a great choice, offering a slightly different vibe as it’s just across the Canadian border. It has an amazing mountain backdrop and tons of hiking and outdoor activities. Some suggestions for your time there:

Day hikes: Check out the Coal Creek Heritage Trail or the Fernie Ridge Trail for a moderate hike with stunning views.
Relaxation: Fernie has a great small-town feel, and it’s a perfect spot to unwind after several days of hiking and outdoor adventures.
Beer: Fernie Brewing Company is a local favorite, and it’s a great place to enjoy a beer in a relaxed environment.

Fernie also has a laid-back vibe, which might be perfect for your family to enjoy after a few busier days in Missoula and Whitefish.

4. Walla Walla or Wallowas (2 nights): Breaking up the drive home by stopping in Walla Walla or the Wallowas is a great idea. The drive from Fernie to Walla Walla will be scenic, and you can stretch your legs and explore another area. Both spots are charming in their own right:

Walla Walla: Famous for its wine country, Walla Walla has a great food scene and is very pet-friendly. You could take a scenic drive or visit the nearby Palouse Falls State Park for some outdoor time.
Wallowas: If you’re looking for a more rugged, nature-filled stop, the Wallowa Mountains offer fantastic hiking and beautiful views. The town of Joseph is a great place to stay, and you can explore the Wallowa Lake area with your family and dog.

This part of the trip offers a great way to ease back into the drive home, depending on whether you want to explore more wine country or go for some additional hiking in the mountains.

Overall, your itinerary is well-paced and provides a great mix of outdoor activities, relaxation, and family-friendly adventures. If you’re considering a Park City/Steamboat option instead, keep in mind that these areas will offer similar outdoor vibes but will be a bit more crowded in the summer. The benefit of the Missoula/Whitefish/Fernie loop is the variety of landscapes and less touristy, more relaxed spots.

Enjoy planning your trip, and have a wonderful summer vacation with your family!