If you’re into history and ghosts towns, add Virginia City to your bucket list when road tripping through Montana.
Virginia City – Montana’s Living Ghost Town
Virginia City, Montana, is a National Historic Landmark District and a living ghost town. A piece of the old west frozen in time. After gold was discovered in Alder Gulch in 1863, the stampede to this area was on. Many cities popped up during this time but Virginia City is the only sole surviver. As I stood on the wooden sidewalk and looked around, it’s amazing how well-preserved the town is and there is so much to take in. You can imagine, visualize, and feel the history.
After reading and learning about Virginia City, we decided to add it to our route traveling from Butte to Ennis. We stopped for breakfast at the Virginia City Cafe and had the delicious Miner’s Breakfast. The food, atmosphere, and service was great. People also recommended a stop at Cousins Candy Shop. We stopped in for dessert and a haul for the road. It was fun watching them making the home-made treats and taffy in the front window.
The gentleman at the Indian Trading Post was so nice, patient, and helpful. A great story teller.
We didn’t stay long due to time constraints but from what I hear, there is always something going on in town if you stick around.
The oldest courthouse in the state built in 1863 and still used for its original purpose. Can you imagine the stories this building could tell?!
This was such a beautiful route, and don’t forget to stop in Whitehall and check out their murals on your way.
The historic Sportsman’s Lodge, built in 1945, is surrounded by 18 rustic log cabins and 11 mountain view rooms. This one-stop destination offers everything you need after a long day on the road or while exploring Yellowstone Country; not only the cozy rustic log cabins but also a family-friendly restaurant, sports bar, and a casino. The atmosphere is relaxed and comfortable, a place where everyone shares their fishing and adventure stories. The lodge is located 0.8 miles from Ennis State Park/Fishing Access Area, 1.5 miles from Madison Meadows Golf Course, 17 miles from Montana’s living ghost town, Virginia City, and 72 miles from Yellowstone National Park.
The history from Sportsman’s Lodge website:
The town of Ennis is full of rich history, dating back to 1805, when Lewis and Clark entered the Madison Valley. The Madison County was later settled in 1863, following the discovery of gold in Alder Gulch. William Ennis , whom the town is named after, is credited with homesteading the area. Originally the town was a draw for its water access, farming potential, and wild game. As a result, the settlement continued to spread and provided a draw for ranching, which is still predominant in the area today. The town of Ennis today is just as majestic and beautiful as when it was discovered all those years ago. Visit www.sportsmanslodgemt.com to read more.
Sportsman’s Lodge Cabins
The charming cabins have western decor and are no-fuss, simple, and clean; perfect for a good night’s rest after a big day of fishing or exploring. Each cabin has a little deck area with seating to enjoy the fresh mountain air and big sky views.
In addition, not far (walking distance) from the Sportsman’s Lodge, they also offer more rooms at the Silvertip Lodge.
Our goal is to visit all of the United States national parks in our lifetime and we recently checked Glacier National Park off our travel list! Included in that list was capturing this photo. The fishing boat was a bonus. When I saw the boat leaving the dock, I was so excited because I knew it would add perspective to the rugged glacier mountains. I wasn’t sure if I would have the opportunity to see this iconic view of Lake McDonald due to the new ticketed entry system. But, we found a way, and I share our entry hack below. I also share our favorite things about Glacier National Park and this trip, like the ever-changing colorful rocks, the refreshing scent of pine, and West Glacier KOA.
Glacier National Park, also referred to as the Crown of the Continent, was established in 1910, making it the 10th National Park in the United States. It is also part of the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park along with Waterton National Park in Canada. This designation makes it the first international peace park in the world. The park offers grand rocky mountains, over 700 lakes (only 131 are named), tall pine-filled forests, and beautiful meadows. There are endless things to do and see with so many lakes, trails (700 miles), and the scenic Going-To-The-Sun-Road. This road is specifically what you will need an extra ticket for when entering the park.
West Glacier KOA
During our visit, we lodged at the West Glacier KOA. I have to say, our stay was an unexpected, delightful surprise. I’ve always enjoyed our KOA experiences, but the West Glacier KOA goes above and beyond. The staff at the front desk was so helpful at check-in and when asked any questions during our visit. After the first night, we decided to extend our stay. We had to move cabins to extend, and the KOA team made it so easy. The layout of the campground gives ample space, so it doesn’t feel overcrowded.
There are so many amenities beyond the regular KOA standards, including ice cream served every night at Scoops (of course, I list the priorities first), espresso bar, hot breakfast and dinner, a children’s pool and separate adult pool, dog-friendly cabins and two dog parks, a walking trail, basketball court, and live entertainment plus other planned activities. I suggest the huckleberry ice cream! In fact, check out the Huckleberry Patch store filled with everything huckleberry when you enter Glacier National Park at the west entrance. I couldn’t get enough. 🙂 Speaking of the west entrance, it is only a short 3.9-mile drive from the KOA.
The deluxe cabins include linens, have a fire ring and propane grill, full bath and shower, partial kitchen, lofts, and are pet-friendly.
The grounds are impeccable with beautiful views in every direction.
Glacier National Park’s New Ticketed Entry SystemAnd More
From what I’ve read online, it seems many people are frustrated with the Glacier National Park new ticketed entry ticket reservation system. Your best bet for getting a ticket to Going-To-The-Sun-Road is planning ahead. Tickets go on sale 60 days before your date of arrival. They also sell a small number of tickets 2 days ahead, but it’s hard to snag one of those. The other option, which is our hack, is arriving before 6 am or after 5 pm. We loved going during these times because the park is less crowded and the sunrise/sunset is fantastic!
The rocky beaches are amazing! The rocks change based on the time of day. The sun, shadows, and water dance together creating so many different colors. We also enjoyed the fresh cool mountain air during the morning and evening especially after leaving the Minnesota heat.
Going-To-The-Sun-Road was actually closed while we were there in June due to snow, so it’s good to stay flexible and have a backup plan. There are so many other things to see and do in the area, including at West Glacier KOA. We could have stayed at the campground all day and been just as happy. Whitefish, Montana is an easy 20-minute drive, and Bigfork, Montana is 45 minutes. This whole area of northwestern Montana offers tons of adventuring, wildlife, delicious restaurants, unique shopping, live theater, breweries, and so much history. We were there for two weeks and barely scratched the surface.
Cheers KOA! We appreciate the awesome service and can’t wait to visit again.
Learn more about one of our other favorite parks, Grand Teton National Park by clicking HERE.
Life is short, never stop searching for what stirs your soul. ❤️
Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park in Southern Utah is a natural, 3,730 acre, beautiful “sandbox” that opened in 1963. The dunes were created by the erosion of the nearby Navajo sandstone cliffs. As a result, the sand is a unique bright orangish pink color that pops against the blue skies.
There is something fun to do for everyone at Coral Pink Sand Dunes, including dogs. We explore, hike, take pictures of the ever-changing landscapes, and love watching our footprints disappear in the wind moments after leaving them. The elevation is 6000 feet, and the sand is deep. As a result, we tire quicker than we expect, especially being flatlanders. 😉
Things to do at Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park
Rent a sand sled, ATV, or Dune Buggie for some adrenaline-pumping fun, or schedule a repelling tour in the park. Have a picnic, walk and read all the signage to learn more about the native plants and animals, or relax at the overlook, taking in all the sights. Dogs are welcome if kept on a 6-foot leash. Our dog had a blast running, playing, and watching all the ATVs driving up and down the dunes.
Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park is open 7 days a week during daylight hours. The entrance fee is $8.00 and camping is $20 a night.
Look how small the people look! It gives you perspective on the size of the dunes. Don’t forget your backpack with water and snacks.
Hi, I’m Tracy, the face behind What Stirs Your Soul Media.
The question, “What stirs my soul?” kept popping in my head after a chronic illness diagnosis due to a brain injury. I felt an urgency to find my happiness. For the first time, I realized doctors can’t fix everything that is broken and it reminded me how quickly life can change.
Have you ever asked yourself, what stirs your soul?
My “short” answer is photography, writing, nature, and traveling, especially with my dog. It took time to figure that out and I still work on it. Because of that, I want to inspire and help others to live life on their own terms.
I started my first blog in 2010. That blog opened up a new world when Guthrie Theater accepted me into their blogging program to review and write about the shows. Since then, I’ve continued working on my writing and photography skills. In 2011, I quit my corporate job and started a photography business. Over time my business changed as social media continued to grow and become such a big part of our lives.
Now, I’m a content creator. I bring a human voice to digital media by creating moments, sparking emotion, and showcasing the people and community behind the business. Freelancing has allowed me to fulfill my dream of traveling alongside my freelancing husband and our rescue dog. We share our experiences here, offering inspiration for life and travel.
Now, back to the chronic illness. I’ve had a hard time over the years articulating what it’s like living with chronic pain. The way it affects my daily life, my plans, and my dreams. I’m in a better place and hope to start writing more about it…sharing my journey and tips.
We are also very passionate about helping animals. I am a volunteer for Best Friends Animal Society, writing stories and helping wherever needed when visiting the sanctuary. We commit to give back 5% of our blog’s earnings to Best Friends Animal Society.
Follow along with us from our backyard in Minnesota to road tripping the U.S.! ✌️
It truly is the most pet-friendly hotel! Our dog, Allen, gives it 5 stars. He loved sleeping on the pullout bed. He also was impressed with the small touches like his personalized nameplate, welcome treats from the staff, and his very own drinking fountain. His favorite is the fenced pet park for running, playing ball, and meeting new friends. All of this and the pets stay free.
Look at that smile at the Best Friends Roadhouse pet park.
The pet park is spacious with plenty of running room and has a splash zone for hot summer days. There is also a small run area. Other pet amenities include a pet washing station, pet walking service, or pet visits from the staff. There is a fee for the walking service and visits.
This is the walk back to the pet park area. The mural is so beautiful and there’s a great spot to sit and enjoy a bonfire.
Allen enjoyed shopping at the mercantile and visiting with the staff.
Best Friends Roadhouse has a stage for upcoming community events and entertainment.
We were also super impressed with the technology. The internet worked great and these iPads were so nice with all the information about the Roadhouse and surrounding area.
Another added benefit is that you can walk to restaurants from Best Friends Roadhouse. You can read about our Top 5 Restaurants in Kanab by clicking HERE. This time we checked out Jakey Leigh’s Coffee Shop and the fresh-baked bagels lived up to the hype.
Our February 2020 stay was unexpected. Our dog, Utah, passed away while we were traveling in Arizona. We brought her back to Best Friends Animal Sanctuary to lay her to rest at Angels Rest within the sanctuary.
The staff at the Roadhouse went above and beyond to help us through this hard time. I can’t say enough about their warmth and hospitality. We are incredibly thankful for them and everyone at Best Friends Animal Sanctuary.
Sunset view from our room…
Please message me with any questions about Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, Roadhouse, or Kanab. It’s a magical place!
