Best Stop Between Glacier and Yellowstone National Parks

Written by Mel, Yellowstone Guide & Travel Writer

My husband and I recently took a road trip to Helena, Montana, and we were reminded how much Helena had to offer. From our many visits over the years, we know it isn’t just the best stop between Glacier and Yellowstone, but every time we spend a few days there, we discover even more. 

From the breathtaking outdoor landscapes to the unique cultural experiences, Helena is a destination worth exploring in its own right. One of the highlights of our visit was the city’s vibrant patio culture. During the summer, it feels like everywhere you go has outdoor seating, perfect for enjoying food and drinks while soaking up the sunshine.

If you’re passing through or looking for a place to relax between national park adventures, here’s how we spent our time in Helena and why we think you should too.

bronze sculpture of a newsboy holding a paper over his head in Helena Montana

Contents

  • 1 ~ Itinerary for the Best Stop Between Glacier and Yellowstone
  • 2 ~ Day 1: Arrival and Exploration
    • 2.1 Gates of the Mountains Tour
    • 2.2 Picnic in Pioneer Park
    • 2.3 Ten Mile Creek Brewery
    • 2.4 Blackfoot River Brewing Company
  • 3 ~ Day 2: Nature and Relaxation in Helena
    • 3.1 Sunflower Bakery
    • 3.2 Hike in Scratch Gravel Hills
    • 3.3 Lakeside on Hauser Lake
    • 3.4 The Holter Museum of Art + Gentle Healing Yoga
    • 3.5 Mt Ascension Brewing
  • 4 ~ Day 3: History and Local Flavor
    • 4.1 Self-Guided Capitol Tour
    • 4.2 Take a Walk at Prickly Pear Park
    • 4.3 Missouri River Brewing Company
    • 4.4 Depart for Yellowstone
  • 5 ~ Where to Stay Between Yellowstone and Glacier
  • 6 ~ More To Do in Helena, Montana

Itinerary for the Best Stop Between Glacier and Yellowstone

Gates of the Mountains

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

one reason why Helena is the best stop between Glacier and Yellowstone is you can take a Gates of the Mountains Boat Tour

It’s about 3 hours and 40 minutes from West Glacier and 2 hours and 40 minutes from East Glacier to get to the Gates of the Mountains. Start early to have most of the day exploring Helena.

From Helena to either Gardiner (Yellowstone’s North Entrance) or West Yellowstone (Yellowstone’s West Entrance), it’s a little under a three-hour drive.

That puts Helena right in the middle, and that’s just one of the reasons we think Helena is the best stop between Glacier and Yellowstone National Parks.

Gates of the Mountains Tour

Cliff views from the boat on the Gates of the Mountains tour

Start your journey with a boat tour through the Gates of the Mountains. Departing from the marina, this 2-hour boat tour navigates the Missouri River’s stunning canyon, where towering limestone cliffs rise dramatically from the water, and the whispers of Lewis and Clark’s historic expedition seem to echo in the breeze. As the boat glides through the canyon, the light dances on the river’s surface, and the towering peaks create a sense of awe that’s hard to capture in words. Arrive 30 minutes early so you don’t miss the boat. There is a gift shop, snack bar, and portable toilets at the marina.

Picnic in Pioneer Park

Couple having a picnic in the park in Helena

After the tour, unwind with a picnic at Pioneer Park. This green space offers shaded spots, a playground for kids, and scenic views—a perfect respite before diving into more Helena delights. Pick up lunch at Hub Coffee, 1889 Coffee House, or a grocery store.

Ten Mile Creek Brewery

Two people at a bar with a Ten Mile Creek Brewery sign

For dinner, head to Last Chance Gulch, Helena’s vibrant walking mall. Ten Mile Creek has a laid-back atmosphere and house-made pizzas, ideal for refueling after a day of exploration. Sit outside to people watch or let your kids run around.

Blackfoot River Brewing Company

woman walking with beers in front of Blackfoot Brewing in Helena Montana

Located just a short walk from the walking mall, Blackfoot River Brewing offers a casual, welcoming atmosphere with a wide selection of locally brewed beers. While they don’t serve food on-site, you’re welcome to bring in takeout from one of the many nearby restaurants, allowing you to pair your favorite brew with a delicious meal. Whether enjoying a pint on the patio, surrounded by flowers, or relaxing inside by the bar, it’s the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring. 

Day 2: Nature and Relaxation in Helena

aerial view of two people standing on a peak in the Scratchgravels one of the hikinhg trails in Helena Montana

Sunflower Bakery

Bakery in Helena Montana with pastries and coffee

Kick off your day with a delicious breakfast and a freshly brewed cup of coffee at Sunflower Bakery. We had quiches and pastries, and they were delectable! Set in an unassuming strip mall, it’s known for its warm ambiance and delectable pastries; it’s a local favorite to start your morning right.

Hike in Scratch Gravel Hills

wildflowers in the foreground and a couple sitting in the background, blurred on one of the places to hike in Helena

Head Lane Trailhead is your starting point for a morning hike amidst delicate wildflower blooms and panoramic views of Helena Valley. There are several trail options. We chose a route to the highest peak in the Scratch Gravel Hills, a manageable two miles and 850 feet of elevation gain. There are mellower trails, too. Go early before it gets too hot.

Lakeside on Hauser Lake

standing on a pier at Lakeside on Hauser Lake Helena Montana

Enjoy great food, live music, and beautiful scenery at Lakeside on Hauser. Whether you’re paddleboarding, boating, or just relaxing on the beach, this spot is perfect for an afternoon of fun and relaxation. With outdoor seating available on both the deck and the beach, you can take in the stunning views while enjoying a casual meal or refreshing drink. It’s a wonderful place to unwind and soak in the Montana sunshine. (If you get there before they open, like we did, bide your time down the road at Clark’s Bay Recreation Area. It’s perfect for a swim or a paddle!)

The Holter Museum of Art + Gentle Healing Yoga

Dive into Helena’s cultural scene with a visit to the Holter Museum. Get there a bit before the museum closes to admire the art, then join a yoga class. Don’t miss the Gentle Healing Yoga session, a collaboration with the Holter, fostering art, healing, and community—a true testament to Helena’s local spirit.

Mt Ascension Brewing

two people sampling beers on the rooftop deck at Mount Ascension Brewery in Helena

For dinner and drinks to wrap up your second day, head to Mt Ascension Brewing. Located downtown, this brewery features a rooftop deck with incredible views of Helena and the surrounding mountains. It’s the perfect spot to relax with a craft beer in hand while soaking in the breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re enjoying one of their signature brews or sampling a seasonal selection, the combination of great drinks and unforgettable views makes for a perfect evening to cap off your day.

Day 3: History and Local Flavor

people sitting on a bench with mountains in the back at Prickly Pear Park in East Helena Montana

Self-Guided Capitol Tour

take a tour of the Montana Capitol on the best stop between Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks

Begin your day exploring Montana’s rich history with a self-guided tour of the State Capitol. As often as I’ve been to the Capitol, I am always impressed with the art and gorgeous rotunda. Self-guiding tour booklets and a scavenger hunt for kids led by Lewis and Clark’s intrepid Newfoundland, Seaman, are available at the first-floor information desk.  The Montana Heritage Center is set to open its doors at the end of 2025, promising to be a world-class destination, a gathering place, and a space to tell the stories of Montana and all our people.

Take a Walk at Prickly Pear Park

A couple walking through yellow flowers on a hike in Helena Montana

Venture to East Helena for a glimpse into conservation efforts at Prickly Pear Land Trust’s rehabilitation project. This area was remediated and restored after 100 years of smelting. Amble along a 2-mile loop through this recovery success story and enjoy the birdsong, rushing creek, and marsh habitat.

Missouri River Brewing Company

Missouri River Brewery in East Helena offers a sampler of beer

Conclude your Helena adventure with a relaxing lunch at Missouri River Brewing Company. Located near Prickly Pear Park in East Helena, this brewery offers lunch, craft beers, wine, and spirits (and various drinks, including sodas, for kids and the designated driver). Sit outside on the balcony for views of Prickly Pear Park, open fields, and the Elkhorn Mountains.

Depart for Yellowstone

As I mentioned above, it’s just under three hours to reach the North (Gardiner) or West (West Yellowstone) Entrances to Yellowstone National Park.

paddleboarding in Clark's Bay Recreation Area

As we drove away from Helena, heading toward Yellowstone, we couldn’t help but reflect on how much we had enjoyed our time there. It’s one of those places where the lively scene and outdoor beauty invite you to pause and take in the surroundings. 

Helena’s patios, balconies, and parks set the tone for the experience. There’s something about enjoying a meal or drink outside, surrounded by beautiful scenery, that makes everything feel even more special.

Whether hiking through scenic landscapes, savoring local cuisine, or immersing yourself in the cultural scene, Helena offers a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. 

I hope this itinerary inspires you to make the most of your stop in Montana’s capital—you might wish you had more time to explore!

Where to Stay Between Yellowstone and Glacier

Where to stay in Helena at the DoubleTree hotel on Last Chance Gulch

We’ve stayed in several places in Helena, Montana, and they are all great.

Book a stay in one of Helena’s outstanding hotels, where you’ll be surrounded by the Rocky Mountains’ breathtaking beauty and Helena’s rich cultural heritage