Group Tour Magazine - August 2024 - 117

Ranger workshop, Glacier National Park
Tour by Unseen Missoula
comfort for overnight guests. Groups can
cozy up in front of the massive fireplace
and arrange ranger-led evening programs.
The park's 730 miles of hiking trails offer
something for every fitness and experience
level. One of the most popular hikes is
the mile-long, ADA-accessible Trail of the
Cedars. If you prefer a guided hike, Glacier
Guides is the exclusive provider. The outfitter
offers a range of excursions, from day
hikes to backpacking and more.
South of Glacier National Park, another
scenic highlight is Flathead Lake, the largest
freshwater lake in the western United States.
" There's no better way to see this beautiful
lake and the surrounding view of the Mission
and Swan mountain ranges than by
boat, " says Debbie Picard, director of sales
for Western Montana's Glacier Country. Far
West Boat Tours showcases the lake's beauty
and the surrounding mountain ranges, plus
provides commentary about sites like Wild
Horse Island State Park. There are still a
few wild horses ashore, along with bighorn
sheep, mule deer, and bald eagles.
HONORING HERITAGE
On the Blackfeet Reservation just east of
Glacier National Park, try a tour with Sun
Tours to learn about the history of the park
from the Blackfeet perspective. Each guide
is an enrolled member of the Blackfeet
Nation Tribe. Tours begin by burning sweet
grass to bless the journey.
For another cultural immersion program,
join Iron Shield Creative on the Blackfeet
Reservation. As part of the program, tribal
members can lead groups on hikes and will
share stories tied to the land.
For a memorable meal, Picard recommends
teaming up with Mariah Gladstone
of the IndigiKitchen. " Mariah offers educational
sessions and serves traditional food
at Chewing Black Bones Campground, providing
groups with a unique culinary experience
rooted in Native American heritage. "
UNCOVER RICH HISTORY
Farther south in the town of Missoula,
Unseen Missoula offers entertaining guided
walking tours that bring the city's past to life.
" Enthusiastic tour guides walk you through
downtown and provide education on themes
including Missoula's history as a booming
railroad city, the development of Missoula's riverfront,
and the stories and legends from the
characters who lived here, " Picard explains.
Groups may choose from thematic tours like
" Basements and Back Alleys " or the " Hotels
and Hooligans " tour.
Just outside of Missoula, visit the Smokejumper
Visitor Center, the largest active
smokejumper base in the nation. A guided
tour offers the unique opportunity to learn
about this demanding and dramatic occupation.
Down the road, stop in at The Rocky
Mountain Elk Foundation Visitor Center.
Visitors will appreciate the interactive displays
and learn about the conservation of
public wild lands, working ranches, and
forests to the majestic elk herds.
ENJOY LOCAL FLAVORS
Missoula is a great spot for groups to make
their homebase. Visit award-winning breweries
like Bayern or Kettlehouse to sip some
celebrated craft beers. Then, catch a live
musical performance at an exciting, intimate
venue like the Wilma Theater or the riverside
Kettlehouse Amphitheater.
For the perfect authentic Montana souvenir,
arrange a visit The Hat Edit in Stevensville.
Designers will work with guests to
create a custom-made hat for travelers as a
special memento of their visit.
For a true Montana experience, take in a
rodeo or attend the North American Indian
Days gathering in Browning, which features
dancing, drumming, and cultural programs.
With stunning vistas and a richly diverse
heritage, Glacier Country offers endless
opportunities for groups to discover their
Montana moment!
grouptourmagazine.com 117
PHOTOS (FROM LEFT) GLACIER NATIONAL PARK SERVICE, ATHENA PHOTOGRAPHY
Group Tour Magazine - August 2024

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Group Tour Magazine - August 2024
