Montana, Idaho, Wyoming and Colorado are known as the Mountain states because they encompass the Rock Mountains. Vast, wide open spaces, pristine lakes, glaciers, unique wildlife and endless mountains are what make up this region of the United States.
The Mountain west is simultaneously made up of wilderness but also large, urban cities. This region is one that is often overlooked by international travellers, but it is truly a unique place to visit and offers visitors a look into the American way of life.
Go on an unforgettable journey to explore America's West. While the iconic 'Wild West' is known for its breathtaking wilderness, it is not often the first place that international travellers think to visit. But the Mountain West has provided seemingly endless outdoor recreational activities, even before the first national park, Yellowstone, was founded. For both nature lovers and those looking for an authentic cultural experience, this region should absolutely be on your list!
Rocky Mountain National Park, is a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers. One of the most popular activities in the park is hiking. With more than 350 kilometres of trails, ranging from easy hikes to challenging treks, there is something for every level and interest. Marvel at the majestic Longs Peak, one of the most famous mountains in Colorado, or explore scenic Bear Lake with its crystal-clear waters and panoramic views.
Enjoy relaxation or adventure
You can also enjoy scenic drives, such as the scenic Trail Ridge Road, which takes you to an altitude of more than 3,600 metres and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Photographers will love the abundance of panoramic views and wildlife you may encounter along the way, such as moose, deer and even the American bald eagle. For those looking for adventure, the park also offers opportunities for rock climbing, fishing, camping and wildlife spotting.
Colorado is the perfect base for adventurous excursions in nature. Visitors will enjoy breathtaking hiking trails, world-class ski resorts and beautiful mountain landscapes. Whether you want to hike the vast Rocky Mountains in summer or ski the snow-covered slopes in winter, this mountain state offers endless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.
Denver, Colorado
Denver, Colorado, is a dynamic city located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. Known as the "Mile High City" because of its location at an altitude of 1, 6 kilometres above sea level, Denver offers a unique combination of city and nature. Explore historic Larimer Square, where you can enjoy boutiques, restaurants and live music. Don't forget to visit the city's famous craft beers.
Boulder, Colorado
The city of Boulder sits right at the base of the Rocky Mountains and sports amazing views of the famous Flatirons rock formation, has endless local breweries and dining options, and offers easy access to world-class hiking and biking trails.
For those adventurous travellers looking to visit top national parks, Wyoming is a great home base. Admire the geysers, sweeping canyons and forests in Yellowstone National Park, which spans across Wyoming, Montana and Idaho. And Grand Teton National Park, also in Wyoming, is known among mountaineers for the Jackson Hole valley and Grand Teton peak, which is an incredible 4,000 metres.
Cody, Wyoming
The small town of Cody in Wyoming is the rodeo capital of the world. It is an unusual western town established for the tourists visiting Yellowstone National Park. Do you like museums? Then the Buffalo Bill Center of the West is a sight you won't want to skip. It houses five museums, all under one roof. Here you will learn about Native American culture and Western culture, and admire timeless Western art. Go back in time and experience what it is like to be a real cowboy in Old Trail Town. No matter where you are in Cody, you will always learn a new piece of history
Jackson Hole, Wyoming
The best way to visit Grand Teton National Park is from Jackson Hole. The centre of Jackson Hole consists of a cosy town square, surrounded by many different art galleries, souvenir shops, restaurants and bars. For example, go for a drink at the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar, a unique experience! At the Silver Dollar Bar in the Wort Hotel, you can get your feet off the floor during an evening of country dancing. At the National Museum of Wildlife Art, you can admire art about wildlife and nature. Hop on the cable car to the top of the mountain and hike back down, or zipline down the mountain.
Gardiner, Montana
Gardiner in Montana is an ideal base for your visit to Yellowstone National Park. If you stay in Gardiner, you can easily enter the national park via the northern entrance. This is the only entrance open all year round. Apart from visiting Yellowstone National Park, you can also do great rafting and wildlife spotting near Gardiner. One of the attractions of Yellowstone National Park is Mammoth Hot Springs, just 10 minutes away from Gardiner. Here you can walk along a boardwalk past 50 hot springs. In Gardiner itself, you might just bump into a bison as they roam the town's streets.
Discover the state's diversity
Montana offers much in the way of vast and pristine nature. Nature and adventure lovers can truly appreciate the area, with an abundance of breathtaking national parks. A visit to Glacier National Park which is located in northern Montana, bordering Canada, is an absolute must while in Montana. The park is famous for its towering mountains, shimmering lakes, and ancient glaciers, which have shaped its landscapes.
Explore the isolated protected area of Badger-Two Medicine by horseback as you ride deep into Montana's wilderness. This region is highly valued in the Indigenous culture, since it is fundamental to their rich spiritual and cultural legacy. A native guide will explain the traditions, backgrounds, and legends of the Indigenous nations. This is the ideal way to appreciate the area, which is filled with a variety of wildflowers, and breathtaking alpine lakes, panoramas, and peaks. Ride in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, close to the southern border of Glacier National Park. Enjoy a picnic in a tipi or extend your stay with an overnight camping trip. Pack your camera for the many photo opportunities and the possibility of seeing grizzly bears and moose.
Wyoming offers numerous excellent hiking opportunities. Choose from a variety of treks in Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park. Visit famous sites such as the Continental Divide, Old Faithful, Fountain Paint Pots, the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, Hayden Valley and Mud Volcano. Your guide will help you look for wildlife such as bison, elk, deer, coyotes, bears, American bald eagles and possibly wolves. Spend the day in nature and learn more about your natural surroundings.
Yellowstone National Park, United States
Take a private tour through the best of Yellowstone National Park with an experienced guide and spot geysers, wolves and endless other nature.
Grand Teton National Park, United States
Take a wildlife safari in Yellowstone or Grand Teton National Park, perfect for the photography fanatic.
Every season has unique characteristics. Autumn is a sweep of orange and yellow foliage, winter provides opportunities for skiing and snowboarding, and summer is peak hiking season. However, the best time to visit the Mountain West is typically the height of summer, between June and August.
Of course, the best travel time also depends on your wishes. If you would like to travel outside the height of tourism season in the Mountain states, consider the "shoulder seasons". Visiting a bit later, in September or October, means that you will catch the spectacular autumn colours in Rocky Mountain National Park. And a bit earlier, in May, you can beat the crowds and still enjoy nicer weather while canoeing on a pristine lake in Glacier National Park.
Make your trip extra special by experiencing a unique stay from our extensive collection of hand-selected accommodations in Mountain West, USA, and beyond. Whether you prefer a crisp and contemporary flat by the beach or camping in a World Heritage Listed National Park, we have found it. Our accommodations are as unique as you are. Your travel specialist will match you with accommodation that suits your wants and needs. A journey where your accommodation is an experience in itself.
Glacier National Park, United States
Explore the wild landscape of Montana at an authentic and deluxe lodge.
Cody, United States
Full of character, this unique ranch accommodation in the Wild West is the ideal base to explore Yellowstone National Park.
You probably already have ideas for your holiday to the United States and Canada. Nature tours through the Rocky Mountains, spotting orcas near the San Juan Islands, or exploring the streets of San Francisco on the iconic cable car?
For the best local tips and advice, visit one of our online presentations. Meet our travel specialists and have all of your questions answered.
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