Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chula Vista, California and West Glacier, Montana

Driving from Chula Vista, California to West Glacier, Montana is not only an amazing journey but also an opportunity to explore the beautiful landscapes and attractions along the route. Taking the Interstate 15 North and US-20 West highway, this road trip covers around 1,300 miles and can be a 20 to 24-hour drive. With so many miles on the road, it's important to break up the drive with some scenic and interesting stops. Here are five unexpected places to stop on a drive from Chula Vista, California to West Glacier, Montana.

American Fork, UT (Halfway Point)

Being halfway through your journey from Chula Vista to West Glacier is an excellent way to take a break and stretch your legs. American Fork, Utah, is an ideal place to make that stop. The city of American Fork offers sights such as the American Fork Canyon, which is incredibly scenic with canyons, pine trees, and mountain ranges all around. Additionally, American Fork boasts a rich heritage and history, with landmarks such as the American Fork City Hall, the Robinson House, and the American Fork Museum. With plenty of accommodation options, this Utah town offers a great way to rejuvenate halfway through your journey.

1. Twin Falls, ID

Located in Idaho, Twin Falls is a city full of surprising attractions that will make for an excellent stop on your trip. One of the primary attractions is the Shoshone Falls, which is a magnificent waterfall that is often referred to as the "Niagara of the West." Visitors can take a walk to the base of the waterfalls, hike through the parks, enjoy camping or simply relax and soak up the view. Other amazing sightseeing activities include visiting the Perrine Bridge across Snake River Canyon, which is an engineering marvel at over 1500ft long. The locals recommend trying an Idaho potato dish while in Twin Falls, with the Twin Falls Sandwich being their specialty.

2. Great Falls, MT

Nestled in Montana, Great Falls is a city that offers something for everyone. The beauty of the Missouri River makes it one of the most prominent places to visit, particularly the Giant Spring State Park, which houses the world's largest freshwater spring. If history is what you're after, the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center offers a glimpse into the past of Montana's first explorers, the Lewis and Clark expedition. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the Paris Gibson Museum of Art, which features plenty of collections and exhibitions, while foodies will love trying the smoky beef brisket that is a specialty dish of Great Falls.

3. Butte, MT

Butte is a city primarily known for its rich copper mining history, and it is recognized as one of Montana's most iconic towns. The city has a lot to offer, such as the World Museum of Mining, which takes visitors through Montana's extensive mining history. The Our Lady of the Rockies, a 90-foot statue of Mary, is one of Butte's prominent landmarks and is perfect for those that seek good photography spots. The locals suggest trying a German sausage dish while visiting Butte, Montana.

4. Kootenai National Forest, MT

Nestled in the Rocky Mountains of Montana, Kootenai National Forest offers visitors a chance to bask in the beauty and scenery of the great outdoors. The forest has plenty of campsites for visitors, among other amenities such as fishing spots, hiking trails, and natural hot springs. Kootenai National Forest covers over 2.2 million acres, meaning visitors can explore it all year round, with enough activities to keep them busy for weeks. Foodies can enjoy huckleberry pie, which is a pie filled with Montana's tastiest fruit.

5. Glacier National Park, MT

The final stop before you reach West Glacier, Montana, is the breathtaking Glacier National Park. This park offers a picturesque view that will stay with you forever. From the high peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the crystal clear lakes, the park has plenty to offer, and visitors can discover new adventures at every turn. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and camping in some of the park's most scenic areas. The locals recommend trying Montana-style huckleberry jam while in the park.

In conclusion, a road trip from Chula Vista, California to West Glacier, Montana, is an adventure that offers unique experiences to visitors. Along the long drive, there are many places to stop and explore that significantly break up the driving. These five unexpected places offer everything from the natural beauty of the landscape to the history that uniquely characterizes the towns. With fun activities, amazing sites, and tasty foods, visitors won't be disappointed with the unexpected destinations on this route. Visitors can be assured of a journey full of memories that will last a lifetime.