Montana Early to Mid May

Question

We are headed to a wedding in Polson May 9th. We are trying to decide how many days we will stay in Montana after. What is there to do in early to mid May? We will be flying into Kalispell so we would want to work out way back to the airport. I

Answer

Early to mid-May is a wonderful time to visit Montana, especially if you enjoy less crowded outdoor activities and beautiful spring landscapes. While the weather can still be cool and unpredictable, it's also the time when the state begins to thaw and the tourist season starts to pick up. Here are some ideas for things to do during your stay in Montana:

1. Explore the Flathead Lake Area:

Since you're going to be in Polson for the wedding, you're already close to Flathead Lake, the largest freshwater lake in the western U.S. Early to mid-May is a peaceful time to explore the lake and the surrounding areas. Some activities you might enjoy include:

Scenic drives around the lake, particularly around Bigfork and the northern parts of the lake.
Kayaking or boating on Flathead Lake (weather permitting, though it can still be cool). Many rental companies open around May, but be sure to check availability in advance.
Hiking along the lake or in nearby areas like the Wild Horse Island State Park, which is accessible by boat.

2. Glacier National Park (if the weather permits):

If you have a few days and are up for some adventure, consider visiting Glacier National Park. However, be mindful that parts of the park may still be closed due to snow in early May, particularly the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road. That said, there are still some amazing trails and scenic areas to explore in the park:

Hike around the Apgar area and Lake McDonald, where you can enjoy quieter trails and great views.
Explore the Many Glacier area (though some roads may be closed, it’s still worth the drive if possible).
Scenic drives along the park’s accessible roads and exploring the visitor centers to learn about the park’s history and wildlife.

3. Visit Kalispell:

If you’re staying in Kalispell for a couple of days before or after the wedding, the town itself offers a few charming activities, including:

Walking around downtown Kalispell to visit local shops, restaurants, and breweries.
Exploring the Conrad Mansion Museum, which offers a glimpse into Kalispell’s early history and architecture.
Visiting the Hockaday Museum of Art, which showcases regional art and culture.

4. Wildlife Viewing and Birdwatching:

May is a fantastic time for wildlife viewing in Montana. As the weather warms, animals become more active. Some wildlife hotspots near Kalispell and Polson include:

The National Bison Range, just south of Polson, where you can see bison, elk, and other wildlife.
The Flathead River and surrounding wetlands, which are prime areas for birdwatching, especially as migratory birds return for the season.
Wildlife sightings along the roads in Glacier National Park, especially in the early mornings and evenings.

5. Enjoy Local Food and Breweries:

Montana is known for its local food scene, and you’ll find a variety of great restaurants and breweries around the Flathead Valley area. Be sure to try local favorites such as:

Fresh fish, particularly from Flathead Lake (trout is a popular choice).
Montana-raised beef, especially steaks and burgers at local diners and eateries.
Craft beers from local breweries, including those in Kalispell, Bigfork, and Whitefish.

6. Travel Logistics:

Since you’ll be flying into Kalispell, here’s how to make the most of your time:

For getting to Polson, it's about a 45-minute drive south on U.S. Highway 93. You can rent a car at Kalispell Airport or arrange for a shuttle or ride share if preferred.
If you're staying in Columbia Falls or other areas, the drive to Glacier National Park is approximately 30 minutes from Kalispell, making it easy to explore the park on a day trip.

Overall, early to mid-May offers a quieter, more relaxed experience in Montana with plenty of outdoor activities, scenic drives, and opportunities to explore local culture. Whether you're hiking, wildlife viewing, or just enjoying the beautiful surroundings, you'll find plenty to do during your stay.

Montana Early to Mid May

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