Why ROAM Beyond Glacier for pets?
20-acre property with open fields your pup will love to explore
Pet-friendly roaming cabins and other lodging options including larger Haven Camps or Adventure Basecamp Cabin
Dog-friendly staff (most of whom bring their pups to work!) who understand the needs and concerns of pet owners
Nearby resources including dog grooming, boarding, and doggy daycare
Protected outdoor areas to lounge, cook, and eat, so you don’t have to choose between fresh air for them and amenities for you
And yes, cats are allowed too!
Local Hikes & Trails
Our favorite spots to take our four-legged friends are the national forests around Glacier and Whitefish. They’re less crowded than the national park, and offer a great opportunity for you and your pup to explore Montana’s stunning backcountry. For the most part, dogs aren’t allowed in Glacier National Park. In the summer, you may bring your pooch on the Apgar Bike Trail, a 3.5-mile route between Apgar and West Glacier. With that in mind, here are a few of our favorite hikes where dogs are always allowed. Stay tuned as we update this list with the seasons!
All Seasons (Winter use ideal for snowshoers and cross-country skiing)
- Cedar Flats Trails / 3.7-mile, relatively flat loop trail that’s an excellent spot for spotting wildlife within the Flathead National Forest.
- Round Meadow Cross-Country Ski Area / An ideal spot for those who want to cross-country ski or snowshoe with their pups. Explore 12 miles of trails and 7 different loops.
- Whitefish Trail System / With multiple trailheads scattered around the hills and waterways surrounding Whitefish Lake, the Whitefish Trail System is a can’t-miss day trip with plenty of access points. Wander 42 miles of scenic viewpoints, quiet forests, and open fields that offer explorers a bit of everything Montana has to offer.
- Stanton Lake / An easy, 4-mile hike hike just outside the entrance to Glacier National Park. Enjoy National Park scenery without the crowds and let your four-legged friend come too. Keep in mind, dogs are required to be on a leash for this hike.
- Swan River Trail / This out-and-back trail is an easy jaunt along the Swan River. It’s an ideal spot to check out on a day trip to charming Bigfork. In the summer, stop by The Raven for dog-friendly outdoor dining with exceptional views of Flathead Lake.
- Whitefish Dog Park / For some off-leash fun with lots of socialization, check out the Hugh Rogers Whitefish Dog Park. This 5-acre park includes a pond, dog beach, dog wash station, agility course, small dogs area, and plenty of seating for owners. It’s also conveniently located right in downtown Whitefish.
Summer Only
- Columbia Mountain / Get a bird’s-eye view from the summit of Columbia Mountain (visible from ROAM Beyond’s Glacier location!). This intermediate-to-difficult hike has nearly 5,000 feet of elevation gain, but the push is worth it. Cool off in the waterfall two miles down the trail and enjoy photo opportunities at several overlooks along the way. From bottom to top, it’s just under 6 miles.
- Firefighter Mountain / About 4 miles each way, this intermediate hike rewards hikers with open meadows, wildflowers, and stunning views of Hungry Horse Reservoir from the active fire lookout at the trail’s end.
- Glacier View Mountain via Demer’s Ridge / This strenuous 4-mile hike is an excellent way to snag Glacier National Park views without actually going into the park. You’ll gain over 2,500 feet in elevation quickly, but the sweeping views will more than make up for the burning in your legs. Keep in mind, there’s no water along this trail, so go early and pack plenty of water to avoid dehydration and too much sun exposure.
BOarding, Grooming & Daycare Services
There’s no shortage of places to explore with your pup, whether it’s the trails of Flathead National Forest or ROAM Beyond’s 20-acre property at the foot of the Swan Range. But, sometimes your four-legged friends need a little extra pampering. Here are a few of our favorite local establishments that offer everything you and your pup need for some rest and relaxation in Montana.
- Glacier Bark Kennels / Offering overnight pet boarding, dog washing, and dog massage, Glacier Bark Kennel is the perfect place to let your pal unwind after a long day on the trail. We recommend calling ahead and making a reservation.
- A&A Dog Boarding / Want to check out trails in Glacier National Park where pets aren’t allowed? Let your buddy have their own day on the farm at this family-run doggy daycare provider in Columbia Falls. Located just down the street from our Glacier Location, A&A Dog Boarding offers day care, boarding, and grooming.
- Columbia Mountain Kennels / Doggy daycare, overnight boarding, and training classes are all covered by Columbia Mountain Kennels, just down the road from our Glacier location.
Bars and Restaurants
Traveling with pets can certainly feel like it limits your ability to get out in town, but it certainly keep you from enjoying Glacier Country’s best places to eat and drink. We love taking our dogs out to grab a beer or a bite to eat, whether it’s in charming Whitefish, historic Kalispell, or convenient Columbia Falls. Here are a few of our favorite spots to refuel before or after a long day of adventures. Have a suggestion? Let us know and we’ll add it!
Food
- The Desoto Grill / Killer BBQ with local flair (like elk sausage) and huge portions in downtown Kalispell. They’re open for lunch and dinner with seasonal outdoor dining that’s pet friendly.
- Brannigans Irish Pub / Traditional Irish tavern with classic fare, a full bar, and dog-friendly seating on their outdoor patio. Conveniently located in downtown Kalispell.
- Great Bear Cafe / Can’t-miss stop for deli sandwiches and grab-n-go items on your way into the park or to trails around Hungry Horse Reservoir. Outdoor seating is perfect for pets.
- The Wich Haus / This creative sandwich spot in Whitefish has tons of vegan and gluten-free options, all made from scratch. Covered outdoor seating offers plenty of room for you and your pup.
Drinks
- Sacred Waters Brewing / Innovative local brewery with plenty on tap to please everyone. For food, check out the rotating lineup of food trucks and pop-up kitchens inside. Lots of outdoor seating and beverage options, including hard cider from Rough Cut and wine from Glacier Sun Winery! Located between Columbia Falls and Kalispell. Pro tip: stop at the Apple Orchard for the freshest local produce.
- Montana Tap House / Casual pub in Whitefish with huge yard & outdoor seating. In the summer, meet up for live music to go along with their wide-ranging beer selection and tasty food.
Sweets
- Sweet Peaks Ice Cream / With locations in Whitefish in Kalispell, there’s no reason not to swing by this locally loved ice cream creator. Don’t forget to pick up some dog pops or dog-friendly treats while you’re there!