Great Drives: Bozeman to Yellowstone Park

Whether you’re waking up in Helena, Townsend, Three Forks, or even Bozeman, one thing is certain: the road ahead promises big skies and open roads.

Highway 287 is more than just a scenic drive – it’s a thread that ties Montana’s Capital City to its crown jewel, Yellowstone National Park. But between Helena and the Park’s west entrance lies a stretch of road that’s quiet, often overlooked, and full of the kind of magic that sneaks up on you.

Today, we’re slowing down to explore the backroads and byways between Three Forks and Ennis—stitched between golden fields, small towns, and views that make you pull over to soak it all in.

Morning Bites & Big Skies

Kick off your morning in Three Forks with a visit to Wheat Montana Bakery where the smell of fresh-baked bread greets you before you even open the door. This bakery and deli are more than just a quick bite, it’s a celebration of Montana-grown grain, milled and baked right on site. Whether you choose a cinnamon roll the size of your head, a flaky croissant, or a hearty breakfast sandwich layered on warm, house-baked bread, everything is crafted with care and meant to satisfy. It’s the kind of fuel that sets the tone for a day of exploring Montana’s wide-open roads and charming small towns.

Detour Worth Taking: Caverns, Cliffs & Country Roads

While Highway 287 is the main route south, some of the best views are just off the main drag. For those willing to wander, this scenic loop offers a front-row seat to some of Southwest Montana’s finest scenery.

Start by heading south on Highway 287 from Three Forks, cruising through wide-open country for about 11 miles. Then swing right onto Highway 2, where the road winds along the Jefferson River and through the towering limestone cliffs of Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park, a perfect detour if you’re up for a cave tour or a short hike. After a stop at the impressive limestone caverns, continue on to Cardwell, where you’ll find a charming general store and gas station.

From Cardwell, hop on Highway 359 and cruise toward Harrison. This stretch is pure Montana: rolling hills, distant peaks, and the Jefferson River still glinting in the valley below.

Refuel in Harrison with Comfort Food & Local Charm

By the time you roll into Harrison, you’ll be ready for a bite, and The Town Haul Diner delivers! This cozy roadside gem serves up classic comfort food with a side of small-town charm. Think burgers, fries, milkshakes, and homemade pie that tastes like it came straight from grandma’s kitchen.

Where the Road Leads to a Soak

After lunch, hop back on 287 and head south to Norris Hot Springs. Tucked into the hills, this rustic soaking spot is a local favorite—and it’s easy to see why. Dubbed “The Water of the Gods,” it’s fed by a geothermally heated spring and surrounded by peaceful gardens. If you time it right, you might even catch live music while you soak. With mineral-rich waters, farm-to-table food, and a laid-back vibe, this place feels like a hidden sanctuary. Even if you didn’t plan ahead, a quick soak in this peaceful valley is well worth the stop.

*note: Norris Hot Springs is open to the public Thursday – Monday

Golden Hour in Ennis: Madison River and Mountain Views

With the Madison River running right through town, Ennis, Montana, is a fly-fishing hub framed by snow-capped peaks, with a lively main street, and a brewery that punches well above its weight. 

Burnt Tree Brewing is the perfect place to toast the end of your drive. Sip a cold one brewed just feet from your table, and enjoy wood-fired pizza, seasonal bites, and views of the Madison Range. Bonus points if you catch the sunset, it’s a showstopper.

This route isn’t about getting from point A to point B. It’s about the in-between, the side roads, the small towns, the unexpected stops. So, take your time. Roll down the windows and let the road lead you to this special part of Montana.

PHOTO CREDITS:

Montana Highway 287 | Jim Ward

Lewis & Clark Caverns | Tempest Technologies

Ennis, Montana | Tempest Technologies

Story and photos courtesy Southwestmt.com