Mystery trips are a growing trend. The destination is kept secret until just before or even during the trip. Mystery travel can eliminate the stress of planning and encourage travelers to embrace the unknown.
I recently traveled on a mystery trip with 79 other wanderlusts. We were told the length of the trip, the average day and night temperatures, and suggested packing tips. I traveled with the travel coordinators and several of the travelers to France last November, therefore, I trusted them to make this trip memorable. They didn’t disappoint.
Our energetic group met at the airport at the designated time in the wee hours of the morning. After a few hiccups with boarding passes, we were told we would be flying into Missoula, Montana. I’ve never heard of Missoula but I had never been to Montana so I was excited. Little did I know, there were more adventures planned.
Luckily, I had a window seat on the flight to Missoula and was able to take pictures of the snowcapped mountains. Missoula is known for its stunning natural beauty and abundant outdoor activities. After a nearly 4 hour direct flight, our aircraft landed at the small Missoula Montana Airport. We had a temporary wait because a plane before us had to unload its passengers. After unloading, we were greeted by a big stuffed Grizzly Bear and airport employee who told us interesting wildlife stories.
We had two motor coaches waiting . Our group of 40 people loaded on a motor coach with a Calgary logo. That should have been a clue! The talkative motor coach driver was quite a character. He wore a wide brimmed and his face showed little emotions. He had an accent that sounded different from the airport employees. During his introduction, his dry sense of humor was evident. He shared he was from Calgary. It was evident he was not familiar with Missoula. At this point, we were pretty sure Calgary would be one of the destinations.
We arrived at the quaint Grouse Mountain Lodge for a two night stay. After a delicious meal and a restful night, we were given a clue to dress warmly! Rain gear and head covering were suggested. We boarded the motor coach for a surprise visit to stunning Glacier National Park. We traveled along Flathead Lake on the way and passed by the Native Americans reservation. We learned the Blackfoot Nation is the largest tribe in Montana.
We enjoyed the view as we traveled down winding roads. The sun in big sky country seemed to follow us all the way! The first elevation stop was approximately 3,190 feet. After spending time exploring in the area and shopping in the gift shops, the red bus drivers were waiting to take us higher in the mountains. We rode sixteen to a bus. Our energetic bus driver was another character. He wore shorts, necktie, and a cap. His leg tattoo was symbolic of the area. His handlebar mustache looked like handlebars on a bicycle.
There’s nothing like taking a deep breath of crisp mountain air! We were driving into the unknown. Our driver pointed out hikers along the way. He stopped at designated pull outs for photo opportunities. The mountain landscape conjured up images of power and strength. It was an awesome way to connect with nature. We traveled until we were over 10,000 feet in elevation. The views were breathtaking!
Unfortunately, many of the world’s glaciers are projected to disappear by the end of the century due to climate change. Our driver said Montana did not receive as much snow as in previous years. These changes are evident.
We ended our mountain journey by stopping in the world’s first International Peace Park! According to the monument, it was established in 1932 by combining Waterton Lakes National Park in Albert, Canada and Glacier National Park in Montana, USA. The park symbolizes the peaceful relationship between Canada and the United States and serves as a testament to international cooperation.
After the tour, we had many pictures to share and adventures to discuss. At dinner, I had Huckleberry ice cream for the first time. It was delicious!
Stay tuned for part two of our mystery trip adventure!
Francie Mae. July 19, 2025