Are you planning your next escapade and want to discover Montana’s extraordinary natural beauty and rich history, but don’t want to hit the road alone? Don’t worry, Montana — the fourth largest state in the U.S. with an impressive road network leading to some of the world’s top destinations — has a surprise for you.
Get ready to set off on a picturesque road journey on the state’s best bus tours, making your travel as comfortable as it’s adventurous. The thrill and excitement of going on an exciting group adventure await you from the famous Glacier and Yellowstone National Parks.
Whether you’re planning an ordinary trip with friends or a week-long tour of the state’s rich history and natural scenery, these bus tours are here to supercharge your travel experience. You’ll travel in style, with expert storytelling by the tour guides, and be able to enjoy the view without having to focus on the road.
- Related article: Explore Montana With Tours
Are you ready to hop on board and dive deep into the scenic landscapes of Montana? This overview is just the starter; the main course is yet to come, a delicious feast of options ready to cater to your thirst for adventure, history, and fun.
7 Key Takeaways on Montana Bus Tours
- Explore Montana at your own pace using Total Transportation’s personalized services. Whether for large groups or corporate retreats, this reliable and affordable transport company offers an enriching and memorable experience.
- A trip through the 1930s vintage Red Buses offers an interpretive and intimate tour of Glacier National Park, rich in both natural splendor and human history.
- American West Tours takes you through the heart of Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks, offering up-close encounters with the region’s diverse animal kingdom. Multi-day tours also explore iconic locations like Jackson Hole.
- Big Sky Bus Tours offers an adventurous twist with stops at Coeur d’Alene Casino, creating a unique Montana experience that combines outdoor exploration with indoor gaming.
- Sun Tours provides a rich and educational experience that highlights the Blackfeet culture amid breathtaking Montana scenery. With knowledgeable guides and flexible tour options, it’s an excellent choice for cultural discovery.
- Anaconda Historic Bus Tours offer immersive experiences into Montana’s copper rush history. Tours are budget-friendly and cater to all ages, making it an ideal choice for history enthusiasts.
- Yellowstone Vacation Bus Tours provide educational and comfortable explorations of the park’s top sites, guided by experts. The tours cater to different schedules and group sizes, including private and custom options for a more personalized experience.
Best Bus Tours in Montana
Looking to see Montana in a different light from a very green one? Sometimes, it’s great to rest your weary road trip self and just let someone else do the driving.
Bus tours are an exciting way to explore Big Sky Country while learning fascinating nuggets about its history and culture. So hold onto your seat, I’ve rounded up some top choices for action-filled Montana bus tours. Your adventurer’s heart is going to be thrilled.
1. Total Transportation Bus Tours
Total Transportation is your go-to when you need reliable and affordable group transport services in Montana. They’ve got a variety of vehicles, from vans to charter buses, to seamlessly accommodate groups of any size.
Total Transportation’s Services include:
| Service | Description |
|---|---|
| Small, Medium, and Large Group Transport | Transportation for groups of various sizes. |
| Local, Montana, and Wyoming Destinations | Transport services to local, Montana, and Wyoming top destinations. |
| Large Group Airport Pickup and Drop-off | Airport transportation for large groups. |
| Group Recreational Trip Transport | Transport services for group recreational trips. |
| National Park and Historic Destinations | Transportation to National Parks and local historic sites. |
| Executive Bus, Van, or Sedan Service | Executive-level transportation options. |
| Local and Regional Trips in Style | Stylish and comfortable transport for local and regional trips. |
| Corporate Retreats and Large Group Destinations | Transport services for corporate events and large group destinations. |
From Billings to the Beartooth Mountains, and even the iconic Yellowstone or Glacier National Parks, Total Transportation offers top-notch, personalized tours. With an amazing tour guide at the helm, you’re bound to have an enriching and memorable experience.
So whether you’re planning a one-day outing or a week-long adventure in Montana, Total Transportation’s got you covered. Their tailored services don’t just take you places, they make your journey just as significant as your destination.
2. Glacier National Park Lodges Red Bus Tours
The Glacier National Park is a canvas of nature’s breathtaking artistry, one that could inspire even the most seasoned traveler. One of the most fun and educational ways to immerse oneself in the park’s beauty is by hopping aboard the famous Red Buses.
These 1930s vintage rides not only allow you to traverse the sprawling landscapes but also offer a window into the human history and heritage of Glacier National Park. After all, they are a part of its rich legacy.
The fleet of 33 iconic Red Buses in Glacier is considered the oldest touring fleet of vehicles globally. Montanans proudly call this the “Rolls Royce of America’s Park System.”
However, be warned that these historical buses weren’t exactly built for modern-day standards of comfort. The seats (4 across on bench seating) hold just 16 people, but the intimate setup only enhances the experience.
Here are the different tours you can expect from the Red Bus Tours in Glacier National Park:
| Tour | Side | Duration |
| Big Sky Circle Tour | East Side | 8 Hours |
| Eastern Alpine Tour | East Side | 2.5-3.5 Hours |
| East Side Many Glacier Crown of the Continent | East Side | 6-8 Hours |
| Old North Trail Tour | East Side | 6-8 Hours |
| Huckleberry Mountain Tour | West Side | 3.5 Hours |
| West Side Crown of the Continent Tour | West Side | 8-9.5 Hours |
| Western Alpine Tour | West Side | 3-4 Hours |
| Mountain Majesty Tour | West Side | 6-7.5 Hours |
Besides enjoying the sheer beauty, these narrated tours will give you a deeper understanding of the park’s history, ecosystems, and wildlife. It’s a memorable experience, especially for history buffs and nature enthusiasts.
3. American West Tours
American West Tours offers Guided Tours that don’t just skim the surface, they give you a front-row seat to the heart-racing, natural beauty of Grand Teton National Park, Yellowstone National Park, and Jackson Hole in Wyoming.
If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, you’re in for a treat. On these tours, you’ll likely cross paths with everything from Moose and Bison to Grizzly Bears and Bald Eagles, offering an up-close experience of America’s diverse animal kingdom.
Now, if one day isn’t enough to soak it all in, their Multi-Day Bus Tours take it a notch further where you could be exploring these destinations:
| Destination | Description |
|---|---|
| Yellowstone National Park | Immerse yourself in the wonders of Yellowstone, home to geysers, wildlife, and stunning landscapes. Experience the park’s unique geothermal features and diverse ecosystems. |
| Grand Teton National Park | Explore the majestic Grand Teton National Park, known for its towering peaks, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife. Witness breathtaking scenery and enjoy outdoor adventures. |
| Glacier National Park | Discover the beauty of Glacier National Park, renowned for its glacier-carved peaks, alpine meadows, and crystal-clear lakes. Experience the park’s diverse flora and fauna. |
| Jackson Hole | Experience the charm of Jackson Hole, a vibrant town surrounded by mountains and outdoor recreation opportunities. Enjoy shopping, dining, and the lively atmosphere of this Western gem. |
| Salt Lake City | Explore the cultural and historical attractions of Salt Lake City, nestled against the backdrop of the stunning Wasatch Mountains. Discover the city’s rich heritage and vibrant urban scene. |
Their Multi-Day Bus Tours cover additional destinations, providing a comprehensive and enriching travel experience. Each stop offers unique attractions and landscapes to enhance your journey.
If you yearn to immerse yourself in natural beauty and an array of the West’s most famed locations, American West Tours could be your ticket to an unforgettable adventure.
4. Big Sky Bus Tours
The Big Sky Bus Tours are your ticket to adventure, casino-style! Starting from Helena with stops in Butte and Missoula, you’ll join the tableau of passengers in various towns like Boulder, Deer Lodge, Drummond, Superior, and St. Regis.
What’s unique about Big Sky Bus Tours is that it’s a one-of-a-kind Montana adventure that adds a touch of exhilaration with a stop at Coeur d’Alene Casino. A weekend getaway that lets you roll the dice and take a spin, without traveling far.
The Big Sky Bus Tours aren’t just about admiring the state’s natural beauty – they aim to spice things up with a surprise stop. Perfect for those who enjoy variety and a touch of spontaneity in their travels, this tour will have you remembering Montana for more than its mountains.
With a range of weekend travel packages available, you can mix and match your leisure and excitement to suit your taste and pocket. Here are Big Sky Bus Tours’ trip packages and their prices:
| Trip Packages | Price |
| Single Occupancy | $269 |
| Double Occupancy | $209 |
| Triple Occupancy | $189 |
| Quadruple Occupancy | $159 |
Whether you’re into the slots, poker, catching a show, or simply relishing a fine dining experience – the Big Sky Bus Tours promises to take you away to a distinctive, intriguing kind of adventure.
5. Sun Tours
Sun Tours crafts an outstanding adventure by melding knowledge with breathtaking scenery. Their interpretive tours on air-conditioned, 25-passenger window coaches emphasize the rich Blackfeet culture. You can hop on from hotspots like West Glacier, East Glacier, St. Mary, and Browning during peak season.
With daily Blackfeet interpretive tours welcoming you to step into the captivating narrative of Glacier National Park and Blackfeet Country, here’s a quick look at what Sun Tours has in store for you:
| Tour Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Half-Day Tours | From each side of the Continental Divide, these bite-sized adventures whisk you through the iconic Going-to-the-Sun-Road. |
| Full-Day Tours | A journey of a lifetime awaits from the East Side of Glacier National Park. Prepare to begin in the immersive setting of the Blackfeet Reservation. |
| Custom Tours | Whether you’re after group outings or private forays, Sun Tours offers tailored experiences. You can even request a swanky 13-passenger Limo Bus. |
What makes Sun Tours stand out, however, is its guides. These individuals are more than just historians; they’re story weavers. Sun Tours’ guides are Blackfeet Indian Reservation residents who effortlessly intertwine historical facts with captivating tales. Their extensive knowledge spans Tribal History, culture, and the traditional lifestyle.
So, suppose you’re looking for a more intimate acquaintance with the Blackfeet heritage while enjoying the panoramic beauty of the Going-to-the-Sun Road. In that case, Sun Tours is your go-to.
6. Anaconda Historic Bus Tours
If your spirit thrives on unraveling history, Anaconda Historic Bus Tours got you covered. Step into their vintage 1936 bus at the Discover Anaconda Visitor Center, and you’re whisked back to a time when the town was taking its first breaths amid Montana’s copper rush.
Here’s the scoop with Anaconda Historic Bus Tours:
- Tour Days – Monday to Saturday
- Duration – 1.5 to 2 hours
The tours are like a living scrapbook, showcasing iconic sites and buildings. You’ll be pleasantly surprised at detailed storytelling that appeals to all ages.
Whether you’re quoting the rich history to your 12-year-old or simply indulging the history buff within, the ticket prices are an amicable investment toward a worthwhile experience. Here’s a breakdown:
| Age | Price |
| Under 5 Years Old | Free |
| 5-12 years Old | $7 |
| Adult | $20 |
| Senior 65+ years Old | $15 |
| Veteran/Military | $15 |
So chin up and step aboard. Being part of a shared experience, traversing the streets of Anaconda with a storyteller at the helm, is like clutching a fragment of time and inspecting it thoroughly. Seeing this much of local life in one immersive, budget-friendly trip? It’s a rare steal.
7. Yellowstone Vacation Bus Tours
Yellowstone Vacations offers the best of both worlds: an educational journey combined with the pleasure of Yellowstone Park in complete comfort. Their professional certified guides know their way around like the back of their hands, effortlessly blending must-see sights with mind-blowing trivia.
Yellowstone Vacation Bus Tours:
| Tour | Tour Schedule | Tour Highlights |
| Yellowstone Lower Loop Tour | Daily from April 19 to October 31, 2024 | Old Faithful Geyser, Craig Pass |
| Yellowstone Upper Loop Tour | Daily from May 3 to October 30, 2024 | Norris Geyser Basin, Lamar Valley |
| Private and Custom Tours | Available daily for up to 13 people | Tailored schedules and group sizes according to choice |
Breaking down the Tours:
- When to Go – The tours cater to the busy summer season, running from as early as April 19th to as late as October 31st, 2024.
- Perfect for Everyone – Both the Lower and Upper Loop Tours are ideal for all ages and interests.
- Going Bespoke – The Private and Custom Tours are for those who have specific areas in mind or just want a more personalized experience.
If Yellowstone calls to your soul, these bus tours are an efficient and educational way to answer. They truly ensure that you’ll get a well-rounded understanding of the wonder that is Yellowstone.
8. Butte Trolley Tours
Step back in time as you go on a two-hour history-rich journey through the streets of Butte, Montana with the Butte Trolley Tours. Hosted by the venerable Butte-Silver Bow Chamber of Commerce, these are not your average city tours.
Get a chance to frolic back to the heyday of copper mining, the true heartbeat of Butte, alongside local experts who know their stuff. Your trolley ticket is your golden key to unlocking Butte’s historical treasure trove.
Chugging along in an open-air trolley, you will zig and zag through the National Historic Landmark District, including coveted spots such as the Copper King Mansion, World Museum of Mining, Dumas Brothel, Clark Chateau, the eerie Berkeley Pit Viewing Stand, and some more historical places.
Butte Trolley Tours offers a variety of ticket prices that cater to different age groups and statuses. Here’s a quick peek at their trolley prices:
| Age | Price |
| Child (5 and Under) | Free |
| Child (6-11) | $8 |
| Students (12-18) | $15 |
| Adults | $25 |
| Seniors (65+) | $20 |
| Military/Veterans | $20 |
Now, I’ll say only this: even if you’re not exactly a history buff, seeing Butte unfurl in all its former glory is an experience you don’t want to miss out on. So, tell me, are you ready to buckle up and discover Butte, the Montana way?
9. Montana Trolley Company
Riding the trolley in Montana Trolley Company is like stepping into history — in a really fun way! Imagine yourself climbing aboard a trolley, elegantly replicated to match the charm of the past, but with all the modern bells and whistles.
Montana Trolley Company prides itself as Montana’s sole authorized replica trolley service, catering to different counties including:
| County | Description |
|---|---|
| Flathead County | Explore the charm of Flathead County, a delightful and unique way to experience the area. |
| Lincoln County | Discover the beauty of Lincoln County, a scenic and enjoyable tour through this picturesque region. |
| Lake County | Cruise through the scenic landscapes of Lake County, a relaxed and comfortable travel experience. |
| Glacier County | Immerse yourself in the wonders of Glacier County to showcase the breathtaking sights of the region. |
What makes Montana Trolley Company unique, besides whisking you around in beautifully replicated trolleys, is the dedication to creating those classic family memories. They’re not just a transportation service; they’re your ticket to safe and memorable adventures.
You know what else? The person behind the nostalgic magic is a local. Born and raised in NW Montana, it’s no wonder they’re so passionate about sharing the beauty of nature in their corner of the world with everyone who hops aboard.
So whether you’re planning a scenic journey or need a reliable ride to that big family bash, Montana Trolley Company offers an unforgettable travel experience. It’s like a trip back in time but with the wonderful advantage of Wi-Fi.
10. Great Falls Trolley
On a quick visit to Great Falls? The Great Falls Trolley is your ultimate orientation. With a two-hour narrated tour that takes you through the heart of the city and introduces you to its defining past, I was compelled to jump onto this moving history lesson and was left longing for more!
The Great Falls Trolley tours are the equivalent of an engaging Great Falls 101. The guides offer not just historical nuggets but also provide recommendations for places you might want to explore further.
Just remember to save time and enjoy learning. These narrated trips offer a delightful balance of information and relaxed sightseeing.
I also uncovered the option of custom historic tours. Tailored experiences are available by reservation year-round for various special occasions:
| Tour | Description |
|---|---|
| Family or Class Reunion Tour | Create lasting memories with a custom historic tour perfect for bringing families or classes together. |
| Birthday Celebration Tour | Make your birthday special by exploring history and landmarks on a personalized historic tour. |
| Educational Field Trip Tour | Enhance learning experiences with a custom historic tour designed for educational field trips. |
| Business Appreciation Excursion Tour | Show appreciation to your team or clients with a unique historic tour tailored to your business preferences. |
| Church or Fraternal Group Tour | Strengthen bonds within your church or fraternal group by going on a custom historic tour. |
| Scouts Adventure Tour | Foster a sense of adventure and camaraderie with a custom historic tour for scout groups. |
| 4-H Exploration Tour | Combine education and fun with a custom historic tour suitable for 4-H groups, promoting learning and growth. |
| Wedding Day Excursion Tour | Make your wedding day memorable with a custom historic tour, adding a touch of uniqueness to your celebration. |
| Anniversary Getaway Tour | Celebrate years of love and companionship with a custom historic tour tailored for your special anniversary. |
| Convention Discovery Tour | Enhance your convention experience with a custom historic tour, offering a break from routine and exploration. |
The flexibility of their custom historic tours ensures they are adaptable to various special occasions. Perfect for those looking to celebrate an event or dive deeper into a specific area of interest. Just remember, these need to be reserved in advance!
11. Tours4fun Bus Tours
Tours4fun is a top dog when it comes to online travel booking. They’ve got more tours and activities than you can shake a stick at.
One of their star products is the Best Bus Tour Running Through Montana, Idaho, Oregon, California, Nevada, Utah, Wyoming, and Back Home. It’s a real mouthful, but trust me, it lives up to the name.
If you’re a nature nut and want to check off a bunch of your bucket list items in one swing, Tours4fun has your back. They offer a bunch of Yellowstone tours that are as good as it gets:
| Bus Tour | Duration |
| Yellowstone, Grand Canyon East, and South Rim Bus Tour | 10-Day |
| Yellowstone National Park Tour | 8-Day |
| Yellowstone and West Coast National Park Bus Tour | 7-Day |
As a nature junkie myself, I can’t help but recommend their enchanting Yellowstone tour. It’s like stepping into a postcard; you’ve got geysers hissing, bison roaming, and maybe even a bear sighting if you’re lucky.
And don’t worry if you’re a lone wolf — these tours are perfect for solo travelers, couples, families — you name it. Tour4fun gives you an in-depth experience without the headache of planning every step. Just sit back, let someone else handle the driving, and soak in the beauty.
So whether you’re hitting the road with friends or flying solo, these expeditions are bound to give you some serious bragging rights.
Montana Bus Tours Final Thoughts
For a thoroughly enriching exploration of Montana, one might do no better than jumping into one of the state’s excellent bus tours. Whether it’s the wildlife-filled adventure with American West Tours or a move through history with Anaconda Historic Bus Tours, there’s something to captivate every traveler’s heart.
The interpretive and intimate journeys curated by these bus tour operators provide an exclusive lens into Montana’s rich landscape, offering knowledgeable and budget-friendly experiences that don’t just focus on the destination, but on the journey itself.
As you traverse through Montana’s picturesque destinations, incorporating cultural escapades, wildlife encounters, and maybe a bit of casino thrill on the way, the state reveals itself as a multi-faceted gem, ready to be discovered, one bus tour at a time.
It’s more than just a ride; it’s an odyssey that awakens the soul, brings history to life, and sparks exhilarating memories that are bound to last a lifetime. Are you ready to let these exploratory journeys paint a vivid picture of Montana in your mind?
Read more about Pocket Montana’s Customized Tours to experience a one-of-a-kind outing.
Montana Bus Tours FAQs
1. How Long Is the Red Bus Tour in Glacier?
The Red Bus Tours in Glacier National Park offer various routes in different parts of the park, and the duration can vary based on the specific tour chosen.
Tours typically range from 3 to 9.5 hours, providing a diverse range of experiences for visitors to explore the stunning landscapes and natural wonders of Glacier National Park.
2. Are There Tours for Glacier National Park?
Glacier National Park offers a variety of tours for visitors, including guided tours and bus tours. These tours provide opportunities for visitors to explore the park’s stunning landscapes, learn about its unique ecosystems, and discover its rich cultural and natural history.
3. What Are the Red Buses in Glacier National Park Called?
The iconic red buses in Glacier National Park are called “Red Jammers.” These vintage vehicles, specifically the White Motor Company/Bender Body Company Model 706 buses, have been used in the park since 1936 to transport visitors.
4. How Much Does It Cost to Ride the Red Bus Tour in Glacier National Park?
The cost of riding the Red Bus Tour in Glacier National Park varies depending on the specific tour location and whether it’s for adults or children. Generally, prices can range from around $20 to $100 per person.
5. What Is the Best Month to Visit Glacier National Park?
The best time to visit Glacier National Park for optimal weather, excellent hiking conditions, and remarkable wildlife sightings is typically between July and September. During these months, the park experiences milder temperatures, with July and August being the warmest.
For more thought-provoking articles about Montana, explore these reads:
- Montana Boat Tours
- Chocolate Tours in Montana
- Dirt Bike Tours in Montana
- Helicopter Tours in Montana
- Top Montana Bird Tours
- https://www.nps.gov/glac/planyourvisit/bus-tours.htm
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