You can wander from coast to coast, and you’ll never find another place quite like Montana. Wild and beautiful, the state is home to epic mountain ranges, sweeping plains, and rugged badlands just waiting to be explored. It is a destination where the history dates back for millennia, yet still holds meaning today. But most of all, Montana is a place defined by its communities and the people that call them home, welcoming visitors with a healthy dose of Western hospitality and an undeniable charm.
There is no question that a good-old-fashioned road trip is the best way to experience Montana. The legendary Beartooth Highway is probably the best-known road in the state, but there are plenty of others to discover. Like the 400-mile Montana Scenic Loop, which circumnavigates the Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex, and passes through 15 amazing towns and cities en route. Or the Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway, a 49-mile drive that follows in the footsteps of the first explorers, trappers, and traders that made their way west. Like those early adventurers, you’ll gaze in wonder at the snowcapped peaks, mountain meadows, and expansive willow bottoms, while topping out above 7,800 feet along the way.
Photo Credit: Montana Department of Commerce
Montana’s historic and enchanting small towns make an excellent base camp for all of your adventures. Places like Red Lodge, where the mountain scenery isn’t the only thing that will stick with, so will the the welcoming spirit you’ll get from the locals. Or Emigrant, where the movie A River Runs Through It was filmed. Want to ski, hike, or mountain bike? Point your vehicle towards Phillipsburg. And when you’re ready to relax and unwind, soak in the hot springs in Norris or grab a burger at the Pony Bar.
All of these experiences and so much more are waiting for you in Montana. To get a taste of this beautiful, unforgettable, and wild place, check out the video above. It will have you planning your own Montana getaway, where you’ll have enough adventures and make enough memories to last a lifetime.
Montana has always been a favorite destination for travelers. Home to both Yellowstone and Glacier national parks, the state’s sweeping landscapes are wild and majestic. Here outdoor enthusiasts will find endless miles of trails to hike and bike, and anglers will discover beautiful rivers to test their skills. This is a place where the wildlife is abundant, the highways and byways are breathtakingly scenic, and the call of adventure is undeniable.
All of that said, the state’s cities and towns are also some of the most welcoming and accommodating that you’ll ever find. These communities offer an array of attractions of their own, including rich and diverse culinary experiences, wonderful museums, art galleries, shops, and more. And as it turns out, there are also a number of historic motor lodges located throughout Montana, too, each offering charming accommodations along with a glimpse of travel from a bygone era.
Want to book a stay in one of these unique motels? Here’s a sampling of some of the best.
The Yodeler Motel (Red Lodge)
This Bavarian-style motel has been a stalwart in Red Lodge for more than a century, earning it a place on the National Register of Historic Places. Updated with modern amenities, the Yodeler still exudes nostalgic vibes, making it a great place to stay when traveling to and from Yellowstone or driving the famed Beartooth Highway.
Photo Credit: Montana Department of Commerce
Lewis and Clark Motel (Three Forks)
The historic Lewis and Clark Motel is centrally located in Three Forks, providing easy access to the nearby downtown area. Its proximity to the confluence of the Jefferson, Madison, and Gallatin rivers makes it especially attractive to visiting anglers. It is also an excellent launching pad for visits to Yellowstone and the greater Paradise Valley region.
Darmont Hotel (Darby)
After spending all day adventuring in the stunningly beautiful Bitterroot Valley, you’ll love coming home to the Darmont Hotel. Deftly blending modern features with nostalgic charm, the rooms are comfortable, cozy, and convenient. Amenities include fully equipped kitchens, gas fire pits, high-speed internet, and complimentary bikes for exploring Darby.
The Maltana Motel (Malta)
Old school in all of the best possible ways, the Maltana Motel has undergone extensive remodeling in recent years to ensure travelers get the best possible experience. Amenities include high-speed internet, comfy queen-size beds, and in-room refrigerators and microwaves. All of this makes it an ideal place to lay your head after exploring the Montana Dinosaur Trail or the Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge.
Photo Credit: Montana Department of Commerce
Copperhead Lodge (Anaconda)
Although it was fully remodeled in 2023, the Copperhead Lodge still feels like a boutique motor lodge from generations past. Modern amenities like contactless self-check-in, a sauna, and a well-equipped gym make this a great base camp for day trips to nearby Discovery Ski Area or fly fishing on the famous Big Hole River.
Lariat Motel (Hardin)
Outdoor adventures abound just outside of Hardin, and when in the area, the Lariat Motel is the place to stay. This vintage motor lodge is owned and operated by a local family and is situated within walking distance of local restaurants and shops. Venture further afield, and you’ll discover Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument (check hours of operation before you visit) and the ruggedly beautiful Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area.
For more information about Montana and everything the state has to offer, stop by the Visit Montana website.
As overlanding destinations go, it’s tough to top Montana. America’s fourth-largest state is home to thousands of miles of off-road trail, covering some of the most epic and diverse landscapes on the planet. That makes it a must-visit, bucket-list destination for any overlander looking to escape civilization for a while and put their skills to the test in a truly remote setting.
With so many amazing off-road routes to choose from, it’s hard to decide which ones to explore first. But we have the intel on some of the best options that Montana has to offer, giving you a starting point for your Big Sky adventure.
Note: Overlanding and off-roading on public lands in Montana is restricted to designated trails. Be sure to remain on the proper routes while driving in the backcountry and avoid driving on private property without permission from the owner.
Photo Credit: Montana Department of Commerce
Hungry Horse Reservoir (Glacier Country)
Located a short drive from Glacier National Park, this 112-mile loop trail takes overlanders into the heart of Flathead National Forest. The route passes through steep mountain terrain and thickly wooded forest while circling around Hungry Horse Reservoir itself. Dispersed camping is free and allowed throughout the area, providing travelers plenty of solitude and seclusion.
Pryor Mountains (Southeast Montana)
Head south out of Billings and make your way to the Pryor Mountains, one of the most rugged and unique landscapes Montana has to offer. The Pryors rise dramatically above the surrounding plains, beckoning to overlanders and outdoor adventurers on the horizon. Here, you’ll find a number of off-road trails, with options for beginner and veteran drivers alike. Dispersed camping is free on Forest Service and BLM land.
Remote, wild, and oh-so beautiful, this 80-mile route takes off-roaders deep into the Montana backcountry, closely following the Missouri River en route. A 4×4 is required to navigate this challenging course through a wilderness area first visited by Lewis and Clark on their historic journey west. Camping is allowed along the byway, and cooling off with a float in the river is highly encouraged.
Fort Peck Lake (Missouri River Country)
Montana’s largest lake is best known for its outstanding fishing and boating opportunities, but the more than 1,520 miles of shoreline also feature excellent off-road routes, too. Those 4×4 trails grant access to scenic dispersed campsites along the shores of this massive body of water. Be sure to pack your rod and reel, as there are more than 50 species of fish swimming beneath the surface.
This 49-mile seasonal route takes overlanders into the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, following along the length of the Pioneer Mountains Range. Here, towering granite peaks meet lush pine and willow forests, with mountain-fed rivers and streams flowing freely. Highlights include a visit to the ghost town of Coolidge, exploring the abandoned Elkhorn silver mine, and trying your luck at trout fishing on the Big Hole River.
Looking for more detailed intel on these or any other overlanding routes in Montana and beyond? Download the onX app to your smartphone, tablet, or laptop to help guide you on your off-road journey.
For more information about these routes, regions, and other attractions in the state, check out the Visit Montana website.
They don’t call it Big Sky Country for nothing. In Montana, the name fits and then some. Think wide-open spaces, snow-capped peaks, golden fields and rivers that twist and tumble through wild valleys.
Montana’s scenic drives aren’t just a way to get somewhere, they are the adventure. Whether you’ve got a fly rod in the back, hiking boots in the trunk or just a craving for wide-open nothingness, these scenic drives in Montana deliver some of the most unreal scenery you’ll find anywhere in the U.S.
Note before you go: Some of Montana’s most scenic drives are seasonal. Snow can stick around well into spring, so your sweet spot is late May through early fall.
Picture this: a two-lane ribbon of road slicing through pine forests, with snow-capped peaks rising like giants on either side…
No service. No crowds. Just you, the breeze through cracked windows and a landscape so wide it feels like it might swallow you whole.
This stretch between Wise River and Polaris is pure Montana magic, granite peaks in the distance, trout flicking through cool streams and campsites so quiet you’ll wonder if anyone else even knows this road exists.
The Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway opens in mid-May (snow plows permitting).
Must-dos:
Toss a fly in the creek — you’ll swear it’s untouched.
Camp out deep in the woods and disappear for a bit.
Pull over. Often. The silence and sights are the main attractions.
Local tip: Soak off the dust at Elkhorn Hot Springs. It’s funky, low-key and 100% worth it.
Photo 1: Greg Towns Via Getty Images, Photo 2: peeterv Via Getty Images
The Beartooth Highway was cut into the mountain peaks in the 1930s as part of the Depression-era Works Progress Administration (WPA) projects. Few roads should make us prouder as a nation than this spectacular stretch of mountainous majesty. Start in Red Lodge with a thermos of coffee and a full tank, then point your rig toward the clouds. Within minutes, you’re switchbacking through alpine wilderness like you’ve been dropped into a National Geographic cover.
Snowfields cling to jagged cliffs even in mid-summer. Lakes appear out of nowhere. Marmots own the road.
As you crest 10,000 feet, the world goes quiet. Air thins. Views stretch all the way to Wyoming. This isn’t just a drive—it’s a ride across the spine of the earth.
Must-dos:
Pull over at the top and just breathe it in
Ski in June—because how many people can say they have?
Snap that photo at Vista Point. Thank us later.
Local tip: Red Lodge isn’t just a starting point—it’s a vibe. Take some time to soak it in with a stroll down its wild-west style downtown, delicious pastries and friendly residents.
This is Glacier’s crown jewel. A road carved into cliff faces, hanging impossibly above valleys that look like they were airbrushed. Waterfalls spill down rock walls beside you. Peaks explode out of the earth.
Even with summer crowds, this place delivers. Every overlook, every bend—it’s one big breath-stealing moment after another.
Must-dos:
Bike it in spring before it opens to cars. No traffic. No noise. Just awe.
Get out at Logan Pass and hike up to Hidden Lake
Pull over at Wild Goose Island. Take the postcard shot. Then just stare
Local tip: Summer means vehicle entry permits at Glacier. Get one.
Or go early and skip the crowds. Trust us, sunrise here might ruin all other mornings.
Photo 1: Carl Anderson Via Getty Images, Photo 2: Edb3_16 Via Getty Images
When Do Montana Scenic Roads Open?
Montana doesn’t rush into summer, especially in the mountains. Most scenic roads stay snowed in through spring and don’t fully open until late May or even June, depending on conditions.
Before you hit the road, always double-check closures, plowing updates and live conditions.
Pro tip: Consider hitting Montana’s scenic drives during the post-summer shoulder season (generally running from Labor Day to early October). You’ll experience fewer crowds, more wildlife and more crisp mornings.
Here’s a quick cheat sheet to Montana’s scenic road open dates:
Layers, layers, layers Weather in the mountains can flip fast. Pack for sun, wind, rain and even snow.
Water, snacks and a full tank Some stretches are remote with zero services. Fuel up and bring enough to keep you going for hours.
Binoculars Keep them handy—bears, moose and mountain goats don’t usually pose right next to the road.
Adventure gear Fly rods, hiking boots, bikes or even skis. These scenic drives in Montana pass by trailheads, rivers and late-season snowfields.
Paper map Cell service can hit-or-miss. Don’t count on your GPS for all the twists and turns.
Bear spray It’s not optional. You’re in wild country—carry it, know how to use it and keep it accessible.
SED Photography Via Getty Images
Final Tips for a Montana Road Adventure
The best time to hit Montana’s scenic drives is late May through September, but no matter when you go, come ready for the unexpected.
Be flexible. Mountain weather has a mind of its own. A sunny morning can turn into a snow flurry by lunch, especially at higher elevations.
Check before you roll. Road conditions, trail closures, and park updates can change daily. Always check Montana DOT and National Park Service alerts before you head out.
Build in bonus stops. These drives pair perfectly with cozy campgrounds, quiet hot springs and Montana’s small-town gems.
Montana doesn’t do halfway. In Big Sky Country, the roads are wild, the views are massive and adventure is always just one bend away. Pack up and roll out to Montana’s most scenic drives.
When looking for the perfect family summer road trip in the United States, Route 66 or Highway 1 might be the first things that come to mind. But what if there was an even better family trip — one not well-known outside the US and not well-traveled even by Americans — but still a route packed with amazing sites, a route that covers some of the most beautiful places in America? And it’s family-friendly, offering lots of experiences you and your children can enjoy together.
In 1803, Thomas Jefferson signed the Louisiana Purchase agreement with France and acquired a huge oval swath of land extending from Montana in the north to the mouth of the Mississippi River in New Orleans in the south. The new territory encompassed parts of the West, Midwest, and South, nearly doubling the size of the United States.
A Lewis and Clark exhibit at Pompey’s Pillar National Monument in Billings, Montana. Photo: MyPublicLands
Then Jefferson decided that the new land needed to be explored, and an American presence needed to be established in the territory inhabited by numerous Native American tribes and French settlers and trappers. He was also determined to find a water route to the Pacific Ocean.
Jefferson selected a young, adventurous, family acquaintance and military veteran, Captain Meriwether Lewis, to lead the expedition. Lewis — like Jefferson —was well-educated and full of insatiable curiosity. He took quick lessons in field medicine, botany, biology, geology, and navigation by the stars. Lewis soon picked William Clark, another former soldier, to be his partner in the expedition.
Lewis’s trip had its beginnings in Pittsburgh, where he ordered his keelboat made. After overseeing the building of boats, provisioning, gathering munitions and ammunition, buying trade items and gifts for Native American leaders, and selecting their men, they were ready. The group came to be called the Corps of Discovery.
A model of the Lewis and Clark portages at the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center Museum in Great Falls, Montana. Photo: Olekinderhook
Trail of Discovery
The National Lewis and Clark Historical Trail starts in Pittsburgh, but many consider the departure from St Charles, Missouri, to be the real starting point. It was from there, at a spot called Camp Dubois near St. Louis, that the group began its Westward journey into the unknown on May 14, 1804. They would not see St Louis again until Sept. 23, 1806, after the Corps of Discovery reached the Pacific Ocean at the mouth of the Columbia River in Oregon, traversing nearly 5,000 miles.
During their travels, primarily navigating the Missouri and Columbia rivers, the group interacted with more than 60 native tribes, recorded hundreds of new plant and animal species, and opened the West for exploration and settlement. They did not find the coveted water route to the Pacific. Only one man died during the trip, apparently from peritonitis caused by a ruptured appendix.
Replicas of Native American dwellings in the Lewis and Clark Sacajawea Center in Salmon, Idaho. Photo: BLMIdaho
Follow in Their Footsteps
One of your best guides for the trip is the National Park Service’s Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail website. This rich resource has a suggested driving route marked with points of historical significance and visitor centers. It also offers a state-by-state guide as to what to see in any given area of the journey. There are also numerous books on things to see and do along the way. Children can journal, collect and press wildflowers, participate in activities at the many interpretive centers, and become Junior Rangers.
And for places to stay along your route, be sure to visit goodsam.com. Find your perfect campgrounds and think about reserving ahead. Parks can fill up in the summer months, especially. Download the Good Sam app for on-the-road planning and information.
Close to the Kentucky segment of the trail, Thousand Trails Natchez Trace in Hohenwald, Tennessee, welcomes campers.
A statue of Lewis and Clark in Seaside, Oregon. Photo: Honey Knut
If you plan to visit the explorers’ west coast adventures, stay at Thousand Trails Seaside in the coastal community of Seaside, Oregon. The resort sits just a short drive from the mouth of the Columbia River, where the intrepid explorers first caught sight of the great Pacific Ocean.
The thing about Montana is that any trip there has epic potential. It’s Big Sky Country, and you can’t really have an epic view without a big, beautiful sky. This road trip is full of once-in-a-lifetime sights and experiences, from dinosaur bones to remote ghost towns. Stop along the way to enjoy natural hot springs, catch a few fish and play a round of golf in the mountains.
Click on the numbered stops to explore Bg Sky country.
In the picturesque Bitterroot Valley along the banks of the Bitterroot River, Black Rabbit RV Park in Hamilton, Montana, serves up a serene retreat in Big Sky Country. Just a few miles from the Idaho border, the park is situated in an area known as the “dry fly angler’s paradise,” and it’s easy for guests to access the river directly from their RV or tent sites.
Photo courtesy of Black Rabbit RV Park.
Comfort, Tranquility, and ‘Yellowstone’
The park provides full-hookup RV sites equipped with water, sewer, and 50-amp service, as well as rustic tent sites for those seeking a more traditional camping experience. Amenities like laundry facilities, Wi-Fi, and dump stations ensure a comfortable stay for all guests.
Flyfishing on the Bitterroot River. Photo courtesy of Black Rabbit RV Park.
Beyond the tranquil confines of the park, the surrounding area boasts a wealth of attractions catering to a variety of interests. History buffs can explore the Daly Mansion Preservation Trust, a historic site that offers a glimpse into the opulent past of one of Montana’s most influential figures: Montana Copper King Marcus Daly.
Black Rabbit RV Park is located 25 minutes from Chief Joseph Ranch, where the TV show Yellowstone was filmed. Although the popular series ended its six-year run in 2024, the property still thrives as a guest ranch and family-owned working ranch.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Lake Como is a must-visit destination. This expansive body of water provides lots of opportunities for boating, paddleboarding, canoeing, and kayaking. The surrounding trails are perfect for hiking and biking, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the region. Explorers may spot wildlife ranging from moose to eagles.
Wildlife in the Bitterroot Valley. Photo courtesy of Black Rabbit RV Park.
Bring Your Clubs
Golfers can tee off at the Hamilton Golf Club, established in 1924 on land once owned by Daly. Situated between the Bitterroot and Sapphire Mountains, the 18-hole course offers spectacular views and challenges suitable for golfers of all abilities.
The Hamilton Farmers Market Co-op is another local gem, offering a vibrant selection of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and handcrafted items. It’s an excellent place to experience the community spirit and local flavors of Hamilton.
For those interested in cultural experiences, the Ravalli County Museum & Historical Society provides insights into the region’s rich history and heritage. The museum’s exhibits offer a fascinating look into the area’s past, making it a worthwhile stop for visitors.
Wide-open spaces in the Bitterroot Valley. Photo: Stephanie Davison
Great Outdoors
Adventure seekers can explore the numerous hiking and biking trails that crisscross the Bitterroot Valley. The Bitterroot National Forest alone comprises 1.6 million acres, offering trails that cater to all levels of experience. ATV riding is also popular in the area, and Bitterroot Adventures, south of the park, leads riders on tours of the area’s beautiful Sapphire Mountains.
In the winter months, the nearby Lost Trail Ski Area offers skiing and snowboarding opportunities for all skill levels. The area’s consistent snowfall and well-maintained trails make it a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts.
Downtown Fun
For a more relaxed outing, visitors can explore the charming downtown area of Hamilton. The well-manicured streets feature historic buildings, unique shops, and a variety of restaurants, providing a delightful experience for those looking to immerse themselves in the local culture.
St. Mary’s Lake in Glacier National Park. Photo: Ryan Stone.
Black Rabbit RV Park’s prime location also allows for convenient day trips to some of Montana’s most renowned natural attractions. Glacier National Park is approximately 3.5 hours north, offering breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife. Yellowstone National Park lies about 5 hours east, providing visitors with the chance to witness geysers, hot springs, and an array of wildlife in their natural habitats.
Black Rabbit RV Park serves as an excellent base for exploring the myriad attractions of the Bitterroot Valley and beyond. Whether you’re an angler, history enthusiast, outdoor adventurer, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, this region of Montana offers something for everyone.
In the heart of northwestern Montana’s Flathead Valley, Rocky Mountain Hi RV Park and Campground offers an idyllic retreat for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure. Just outside the charming town of Kalispell, this well-appointed RV park serves as an ideal home base for exploring the nearby attractions, from spectacular Glacier National Park to sprawling Flathead Lake.
Rocky Mountain Hi’s Spring Creek. Photo courtesy of Rocky Mountain Hi RV Park & Campground.
Tranquil Getaway
Located away from highway noise and surrounded by Montana fir trees, Rocky Mountain Hi treats guests to a relaxing, family-friendly environment. Youngsters will enjoy the kid-friendly frontier town and playground, while grownups will relish the complete laundry facilities, showers, and the small convenience store.
Photo courtesy of Rocky Mountain Hi RV Park & Campground. Photo courtesy of Rocky Mountain Hi RV Park & Campground.
All guests will appreciate the spring-fed Spring Creek and floating dock for swimming, crawdad capture and release, fishing, and canoeing. Wi-Fi is available for the 78 spaces, which have a max length of 80 feet. Guests enjoy full hookups with 30- and 50-amp power. Folks without RVs can stay in one of the Glacier Cabins, which has a stove, microwave, and full-size refrigerator, along with ample sleeping accommodations. Guests also can take advantage of the self-service RV wash, dog park, and on-site RV service.
Hiking and ATV trails are nearby.
A dock in Glacier National Park. Photo: Zetong Li
Gateway to Glacier National Park
Perhaps the biggest draw for visitors staying at Rocky Mountain Hi RV Park is its proximity to Glacier National Park, one of America’s most stunning natural treasures. Located just about 30 miles north along U.S. Highway 2, the park is a must-visit for its dramatic mountain peaks, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife. Traveling the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road leads travelers to breathtaking panoramic views, while numerous hiking trails lead to jaw-dropping destinations like Hidden Lake, Avalanche Lake, and Grinnell Glacier. Wildlife enthusiasts may spot mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and even grizzly bears along the way.
Flathead Lake: A Water Lover’s Paradise
Flathead Lake, the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi, is just a short drive south of Kalispell. The lake’s crystal-clear waters provide ample opportunities for boating, kayaking, fishing, and swimming. Several public access points and state parks, such as the Wayfarers unit and the Big Arm unit of Flathead Lake State Park, make it easy to enjoy a day on the water. Cherry orchards dot the eastern shoreline, giving visitors a chance to sample some of the region’s famed Flathead cherries during the summer months.
Going for a swim in Flathead Lake. Photo: Anna Hill
Charming Kalispell and Whitefish
Kalispell, the largest city in the Flathead Valley, embodies a mix of Old West charm and modern conveniences. Visitors can explore the Conrad Mansion Museum, a beautifully preserved historic home that provides a glimpse into northwestern Montana’s past, or browse the boutiques and galleries downtown. Just north of Kalispell, the town of Whitefish boasts a lively arts and culinary scene, along with year-round outdoor adventures. Whitefish Mountain Resort is a major winter skiing destination, while in the summer, its slopes transform into a hub for hiking and mountain biking.
Bigfork: An Artsy Riverside Escape
For those seeking a touch of culture, the quaint town of Bigfork, located along the northern shores of Flathead Lake, is a must-visit. Known for its vibrant arts scene, Bigfork is home to the Bigfork Summer Playhouse, which hosts Broadway-caliber performances during the warmer months. The town’s picturesque streets are lined with art galleries, boutique shops, and cozy cafés, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon stroll.
Whitewater rafting on Flathead River in Flathead National Forest. Photo: U.S. Forest Service
Outdoor Adventures in the Flathead National Forest
Surrounding Kalispell and stretching across much of northwest Montana, Flathead National Forest is an outdoor playground with endless recreational opportunities. Miles of trails wind through alpine meadows, dense forests, and alongside pristine rivers, making it a prime location for hiking, horseback riding, and off-roading. The Hungry Horse Reservoir, just east of Kalispell, serves up incredible fishing and boating opportunities, while the Jewel Basin Hiking Area is renowned for its stunning high-elevation trails and panoramic views. The Flathead River churns with ample whitewater rafting opportunities.
Wildlife Encounters at the National Bison Range
A bit farther afield, about an hour and a half south of Rocky Mountain Hi RV Park, lies the CSKT Bison Range. This northwestern Montana wildlife refuge is home to herds of bison, elk, deer, and other native species. A scenic drive through the range hosts fantastic wildlife viewing opportunities, with several pull-off spots for photography and short hikes. It’s a great way to experience Montana’s wild beauty up close.