For me, one of the most enjoyable things about traveling can be the food. I say "can be", because sometimes it's also the most challenging depending on your trip.

I remember spending a week covering a big story in India back in the 1990s, and not being a real fan of curry, each day was a little TOO challenging. Let's just say an airport sandwich in Great Britain was devoured with unusual enthusiasm on the way home.

But if you stay stateside, sampling local treats is often the best discovery. Even if the Food Network's new list of iconic foods in every state includes a Montana treat that might be a better summer choice.

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A list of very unique, location-specific favorites

This month's article, "The Most-Iconic Food in 50-States" is one of the better rundowns I've ever seen of the not-so-obvious main meals, sides, and treats. For example, I'd never heard of Alabama's Chicken and White Barbecue Sauce, the White Clam Pizza from Connecticut, or tucking into some Cheese Buttons while transiting North Dakota.

Others were more obvious, while still iconic, like Maine Lobster Roll, Frito Pie from New Mexico, and Iowa Sweet Corn.

What's Montana's most iconic food?

I had a feeling we'd go in this direction when Michigan got credit for the pasty. Food Network says Montana's most iconic food is… huckleberry ice cream. and specifically Wilcoxson's Ice Cream from Livingston. They credit places like the Pickle Barrel in Bozeman and Livingston for serving it up, but I'd add Valley Drug right here in Stevensville, where you can plop down at the old-fashioned soda fountain and dig into all that berry goodness.

For that "take it home" approach, the writers also note the company's huckleberry ice cream bars.

And while Wilcoxson's gets the nod here, don't overlook other vendors too, especially The Big Dipper, whose huckleberry screams Montana Summer with every lick.

READ MORE: Montana's Best "Cult Favorite" Restaurant is in Billings

Westside Drive-in photo
Westside Drive-in photo
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It's still winter so maybe we should try this favorite

If you're looking for something slightly less seasonal, maybe you want to try Food Network's pick for Idaho's iconic food, the Ice Cream Potato. Boise's Westside Drive-in serves these babies up. But don't be fooled, the "potato" is crafted from vanilla ice cream to look like a spud with lots of toppings.

Sneaky.

The Most Popular Pie in Montana and States Nearby

Wisevoter.com looked at America's favorite fall desserts and pie was the winner. Here are the pies that are popular in Montana and the surrounding states.

Gallery Credit: Ashley

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