Mild but often dramatic, Glacier Country’s weather has made it Montana’s banana belt. Whichever way the breezes blow, we promise a summer with long, warm days, a winter with cool, starry nights, and a surprisingly temperate spring and autumn.
How to Dress / What to Pack
WinterRemember: It is winter, and if you are planning on being outdoors, dress to stay warm. If you have ski clothes, wear them. If you don't have any one article of clothing that is overly warm/heavy/thick, then layer your clothes to create a warmer shell. Another good thing to remember, is that if you are not going to be exerting yourself physically, then you'll get cold faster. Wear the warmest boots you have, as your feet will the be first to feel the cold. Hats and gloves, of course, are a must. Scarves are a good way to help keep your neck warm, and tucking in the shirt you are wearing under your coat will help to trap the heat.
SummerSummertime in Montana is very comfortable to just about anybody traveling through the area. It is, however, always a good idea to keep at least a light-weight sweatshirt around for the evening hours in case the temperature drops lower than your comfort level allows for your summer wear.
While the sun may not feel over-powering, sun burns do happen in Montana. Please pack the appropriate level of sun-screen to keep from burning under the afternoon sun. This is especially easy to do when spending the day at the lake or river where you never feel too hot. And on that note, always pack plenty of water wherever you go during your adventures. Dehydration is not fun.
Average & Current Weather
Driving in Winter
Montana keeps highways open throughout the winter, but travelers face tough conditions at times. Montana's snowplow drivers offer this advice:
VisibilitySee and be seen. Keep your headlights and taillights clean, especially in stormy weather. Keep windows clean and make sure defrosters work well. If snow has built up on your vehicle overnight or after a break from driving, clear it away so it doesn't blow off and obscure your windows.
Common SenseLeave plenty of room between your vehicle and those around you. Drive defensively. Don't assume the other vehicle can or will stop at intersections. Test the road. Don't wait until you have to stop to test your traction. Watch for a safe place and then test your brakes. If road conditions seem to have changed, look for a safe place and test braking again.
PatienceGive yourself extra time to travel in winter. Being in a hurry in a storm or on icy roads is sure to get you in trouble. Passing when you can't see ahead and driving too fast for road conditions cause serious accidents in Montana each year.
Finally, leave the cruise control off for winter driving. It can accelerate your vehicle just as you hit a patch of ice or a slippery bridge deck.
Always be prepared with road and weather information before you set out on your way. Call 800-226-ROAD (7623) from the U.S. or Canada for current Montana road and weather conditions.
