Commentary

Highway 93 is the most expeditious route from Missoula to the Flathead Valley   Everyone knows that -  so they takes this road.  Remember that 60,000 people live in the valley (give or take) and each person buys a lot of stuff that get's trucked in.  Sure, in our post-NAFTA society, much of that stuff can be brought in from Canada.  For some reason that doesn't seem to reduce the traffic - but I digress.

The route out of Missoula up to Ravalli is a pleasant climb through green canyons on a favorable road.  From Ravalli into Polson is not quite as nice.  There are some great views of the Missions to the East, but the traffic is usually dense and the near-visible scenery is, well, how can I say this, not as nice.  This is definitly a case where the grass (or mountains) are greener over there (waaaay over there...) However, as I said, it's a direct route and is still better much better than a sharp stick in the eye. 

If you think of it, you can stop by the National bison preserve just a bit SW of Polson. Rumor has it those are real bison, not just tiny cardboard cut-outs dotting the horizon. There is a beautiful loop to drive, and hey, you might even see a Bison. If you do, count yourself lucky and buy a lottery ticket on the way home as it is surely your lucky day!

If getting there by the shortest route is not necessary, consider taking Hwy 200 up to Hwy 89 through Seeley Lake and up to Bigfork.  It's about 25 minutes from Bigfork into Kalispell, or 40 minutes into Whitefish.  It a very scenic route through the next valley to the east.  Lots of curves, pine trees and solitude. The town of Seeley Lake is cute. You can get gas, snacks (of course) or a shiny new Victory. (Go figure, but that's where the dealer is.)

Alternatively, if you're "commuting" into Kalispell, consider taking Hwy 35 from Polson around the east side of Flathead Lake (honk when you go through Bigfork!).  It's prettier and about 20 minutes shorter than highway 93 on the west side of the lake. 

If you have even more time on your hands (seat?) at Ravali on 93 North, take the left onto Highway 200 West and head towards St. Regis. The road along the St. Regis River is stunning. Really. Stop in at the Hot Springs on Highway 135 to sooth that aching posterior if you wish, or just to have a snack - there's always time for a snack. To get back tot he valley, back track a tad to and catch Highway 28 North and head back towards Highway 93 and back into Kalispell.

From Missoula

- Follow Hwy 93 North,  it's that simple.

(mind the traffic though...)