Take a lovely scenic drive through the Philipsburg Valley, starting in Anaconda and moving through the evergreen-covered mountains and sage hills to Drummond. Much better than the route over Interstate 90 for scenery and catching glimpses of the wildlife living in the wilderness in Montana.

Named the Pintler Scenic Byway, you will travel a 53-mile route that takes you by Georgetown Lake, over 6,000 feet above sea level, and passes Granite ghost town, where you will have to stop and look around. Two other ghost towns are along this highway.

Coming up to Georgetown Lake, you will need to pull off to appreciate this 3,000-acre lake, and even try your hand at catching the Kokanee salmon so popular here. There are dirt roads around the lake for a little side trip, or you can put your boat in and float to the other side.

Visit a real sapphire mine. Philipsburg is a must-see and you can enjoy some time fishing Flint Creek that flows through the valley. With deep pools and undercut banks you will find excellent fishing waters.

Make sure you include Philipsburg Valley in your travel plans for a great summer drive.