Nicest/most interesting route from Banff to Bozeman.

Question

Will be driving from from Banff/Canmore to Bozeman in April with my partner and 8ry old son and was wondering which route people would recommend. We'll be overnighting somewhere on the way and was just wondering if there's anything to recommend coming via Whitefish over Great Falls or visa versa! Thanks for any help.

Answer

That sounds like an amazing road trip! Both routes—Whitefish via Kalispell and Great Falls—have their unique offerings, so it really depends on what kind of scenery and experiences you're looking for. Here’s a breakdown of each route with some suggestions to help you decide.

Option 1: Banff to Bozeman via Whitefish and Kalispell

This route is slightly more scenic and offers more opportunities for outdoor activities along the way. It’s also a bit longer than the Great Falls route but rewards you with stunning mountain views, charming small towns, and a bit more nature-focused experience.

Banff to Lake Louise – Start your journey by heading south on the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1). Lake Louise is a must-see, with its stunning turquoise waters framed by snow-capped mountains. Depending on the time of year, you may even catch some early-season skiing or snowshoeing opportunities.
Lake Louise to Whitefish – From Lake Louise, take Highway 93 South to the US border. This scenic stretch will take you through the Kootenai National Forest, a beautiful area to explore. Whitefish itself is a charming town located near the Flathead Lake and Glacier National Park. If you’re there during the ski season, Whitefish Mountain Resort offers great skiing and snowboarding options.
Whitefish to Kalispell – This is a short drive, but it's packed with beautiful scenery. Kalispell is the gateway to Glacier National Park, and while you won't have time to explore the park on this trip, it's worth a stop for some local dining or a quick detour to Flathead Lake for a view of one of Montana’s largest natural lakes.
Kalispell to Bozeman – After Kalispell, head south via US-93, driving through the picturesque Flathead Valley and into the heart of Montana. This drive will take you through the mountainous landscapes of the Rocky Mountains, offering some jaw-dropping views as you make your way toward Bozeman.

This route gives you a chance to enjoy the beauty of the Flathead Lake area, the potential to visit Glacier National Park (even if just for a drive through), and picturesque mountain views along the way. It’s perfect if you’re looking for scenic beauty and a relaxed pace with opportunities for exploration.

Option 2: Banff to Bozeman via Great Falls

This route is faster, though still scenic, and takes you through the more prairie and plains-style landscapes of Montana. It’s a good option if you’re looking to make the drive quicker but still see some of Montana’s natural beauty along the way.

Banff to Calgary – Start your journey by heading east from Banff to Calgary (about 1.5-2 hours). Calgary is an interesting stop if you want a quick city experience with plenty of places to eat, shop, or see local sights like the Calgary Tower. However, you could skip Calgary if you're just aiming for a more nature-focused trip.
Calgary to Great Falls – Take the Trans-Canada Highway to the US border, and then head south toward Great Falls, Montana via Interstate 15. This route takes you through wide-open landscapes and some beautiful farm and ranch country. Great Falls itself has a couple of historic sites, like the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Interpretive Center or Giant Springs State Park, which could make a nice stop before heading to Bozeman.
Great Falls to Bozeman – From Great Falls, continue south on Interstate 15, then take US-287 south to Bozeman. This stretch of road cuts through Montana’s rich agricultural lands and offers some nice rolling hills, ranches, and quiet small towns along the way.

The Great Falls route will likely be quicker but will also give you a different view of Montana's landscape—less mountainous and more focused on wide open plains, rivers, and ranch country. It’s ideal if you're looking to make good time while still experiencing a bit of Montana's history and rural charm.

Must-See Stops on Both Routes

Lake Louise – Don’t miss Lake Louise if you’re going through this area. The views are stunning, and the area is perfect for a quick stop for a walk or picnic.
Glacier National Park (if time allows) – Although you won't have time to fully explore, the scenic drive from Whitefish toward Kalispell offers some incredible views of Glacier National Park. If you have the time, consider stopping at Apgar Visitor Center for some information and to stretch your legs.
Great Falls – A quick detour into Great Falls could provide some interesting history, especially if you want to learn more about the Lewis and Clark expedition. It's also home to some lovely parks, like Giant Springs State Park, which would be nice for a picnic break.
Bozeman – Once you arrive in Bozeman, check out the town's vibrant downtown area. Museum of the Rockies is fantastic if you're interested in dinosaurs, and there are plenty of restaurants and cafes to enjoy.

Final Thoughts

If you're looking for a more scenic, relaxed drive with the option to visit a charming town like Whitefish, take the Whitefish and Kalispell route. It’s ideal for nature lovers, especially with the proximity to Glacier National Park. On the other hand, if you're interested in a faster route and don’t mind seeing the rolling plains of Montana, the Great Falls route will be a good option.

Ultimately, both routes offer unique experiences, and both can be quite beautiful. It just depends on how much time you want to spend driving and what kind of landscapes you’d like to enjoy along the way!