MT — Montana
Going-to-the-Sun Road Opens
Glacier NP's iconic 50-mile alpine highway fully opens for vehicles — one of the most spectacular drives in North America. Typically opens mid-June; exact date depends on snowpack.
MT Alpine Wildflower Peak
Glacier NP, Bob Marshall Wilderness, and Beartooth Plateau hit peak wildflower season — beargrass, Indian paintbrush, and glacier lilies in full bloom above 6,000 ft.
MT Elk Archery Season Opens
Montana archery elk season begins statewide. Early season access to river bottoms and burn areas while high country remains open.
MT General Elk Rifle Season Opens
Montana general elk rifle season opens statewide. High country access depends on early-season snowpack — check road conditions before heading to remote units.
GNFAC/WCMAC Avalanche Season Begins
Montana avalanche centers begin daily forecasts for all backcountry zones. Early season instability, weak layers from early cold snaps — check forecasts before every backcountry outing.
🌎 Mountain West (All States)
Mountain West Wildflower Season
High country wildflowers peak across the Mountain West — Glacier NP beargrass, Maroon Bells columbine, Sawtooth lupine, and Wasatch Indian paintbrush. Elevations 8,000–12,000 ft peak July 1–20.
Mountain West Fire Season Peak
Fire season peaks across the Mountain West (July–August). Smoke from large fires in ID, MT, WY, and CO regularly affects air quality across all 8 states. Check AQI before strenuous outdoor activities.
Mountain West Avalanche Season Opens
Avalanche centers across the Mountain West begin daily forecasts — CAIC (CO), UAC (UT), GNFAC/WCMAC (MT), BTAC (WY/MT), SAC (ID). Never travel in avalanche terrain without checking the local forecast.
Mountain West Ski Season Opens
Resorts across CO, UT, WY, ID, and MT open their first lifts — typically Arapahoe Basin, Loveland, Snowbird, and Jackson Hole lead. Snowpack varies by range; check base depths before booking trips.