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Helena, MT, USA to Missoula, MT, USA from $20: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Helena, United States of America
to
Missoula, United States of America

How to Get from Helena to Missoula: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$20 - OtherBest price
183 kmDistance
1h 49m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Helena to Missoula with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
4h  5m
Estimated price
$53-146
Recommended
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
1h  49m
Estimated price
$20-30
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 183 km
Duration: 1h 49m

See more options

Company
Salt Lake Express
Bus
Average Duration
1h  15m
Estimated price
$24-80
Company
Jefferson Lines
Bus
Average Duration
1h  15m
Estimated price
$24-80

Traveling From Helena to Missoula

The journey from Helena to Missoula offers you a shift from Helena's historic charm to Missoula's vibrant cultural scene, creating rich, contrasting experiences in just a few hours.

Best Neighbourhoods in Missoula

Missoula boasts a variety of neighborhoods, each with its own charm.

Downtown Missoula
• Lively arts scene with galleries and theaters.
• Wide selection of local restaurants and shops.
University District
• Home to the University of Montana and vibrant student life.
• Beautiful historic homes and close-knit community feel.
North Side
• Scenic views along the river and parks.
• Popular for outdoor activities and local breweries.

Best Times To Visit Missoula's Attractions

Timing your visit to Missoula's attractions can greatly enhance your experience.

Missoula Art Museum
Visit during weekday mornings for a quieter, more intimate experience.
Caras Park
Enjoy weekends in spring or fall for family-friendly events and activities.
Rattlesnake National Recreation Area
Go early in the morning during weekdays for peaceful hiking trails.

Missoula Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Missoula experiences a varied climate with warm summers and cold winters, making it essential to plan your trip based on the season. Spring and fall often provide the best weather for outdoor adventures, while winter offers unique activities for those who embrace the cold.

Dining Recommendation in Missoula

Try the bison burger at the Plonk Wine bar, where the eclectic atmosphere and local, organic ingredients elevate your dining experience beyond typical fare found in Helena. The bold flavors and inventive menus in Missoula reflect the city’s culinary creativity, showcasing a vibrant food scene that stands out.

Helena - Missoula operators

Explore transport companies operating between Helena and Missoula, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 208-656-8824
Website
saltlakeexpress.com

Bus from Helena, MT to Butte, MT

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
$24-80

Bus from Butte, MT to Missoula, MT

Average Duration
1h 50m
Estimated price
$29-66
Contact phone
+1-858-800-8898
Website
jeffersonlines.com

Bus from Butte, MT to Missoula, MT

Average Duration
1h 50m
Estimated price
$29-66

Helena to Missoula: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Helena and Missoula offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Experience the scenic drive from Helena to Missoula, spanning 114 miles of picturesque landscapes and charming small towns. 💰 Enjoy the budget-friendly journey, with car rental prices ranging from $20 to $30 for a smooth and comfortable ride. 📍 Arrive in Missoula after approximately 1 hour and 49 minutes of travel time, ready to explore this vibrant city nestled in the heart of Montana's stunning natural beauty.
Average price
$20 - $30
🚌 Although there is no direct bus from Helena to Missoula, travelers can still reach their destination with a transfer in Butte. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 4 hours and 5 minutes. 💰 Prices for a bus ticket between Missoula and Helena can vary between $53 to $146. This convenient bus option offers a cost-effective and efficient way to travel between these two Montana cities.
Departure Point
Helena, MT station
Arrival Point
Missoula, MT station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Helena to Missoula.

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The distance between Helena and Missoula is approximately 95 miles by road. The road distance is slightly longer, at 113.6 miles. If you are traveling by car, it typically takes about 1 hour and 49 minutes to reach Helena from Missoula. On the other hand, if you prefer to take the bus, the travel time is generally around 4 hours and 5 minutes from Missoula to Helena.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Helena to Missoula is by driving. It takes approximately 1 hour and 49 minutes to cover the distance of 95 miles, and the cost ranges from $20 to $30 for fuel and any tolls, offering both affordability and convenience. Other modes of transportation, such as taking a bus, may take considerably longer, around 4 hours and 5 minutes, and may not provide the same level of flexibility in terms of scheduling. Therefore, driving is the recommended choice for this journey.
The prices for a bus ticket between Missoula and Helena can range from $53 to $146. This variation in price could be due to factors such as the time of travel, the bus company, and the availability of seats. It is recommended to check with different bus operators and compare prices to find the best deal for your journey.
To travel from Helena to Missoula without using public transportation, you can drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 114 miles, and it takes about 1 hour and 49 minutes to drive from Helena to Missoula. The cost to travel by car varies, with prices ranging from $20 to $30 depending on factors such as gas prices and vehicle efficiency.
The best option to travel from Helena to Missoula without a car is by bus. The bus journey takes approximately 4 hours and 5 minutes. The cost for a bus ticket can range from $50 to $150 depending on the type of bus and any discounts available.
Yes, there is a bus route between Helena and Missoula but it is not a direct link. The bus services, operated by Salt Lake Express and Jefferson Lines, require a transfer in Butte. The journey, including the transfer, takes approximately 4 hours and 5 minutes. Passengers can catch the bus at the Helena station and arrive at the Missoula station.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Missoula. There are at least 57 hotels to choose from, which provides a range of choices for different budgets and preferences. Hotel prices start at $49 per night, offering affordable options for travelers. Whether you are looking for luxury hotels, budget-friendly options, or something in between, Missoula has a variety of accommodations to suit your needs.

Trips to Missoula