Montana Overview

Overview

Montana, in the northwest of the USA, occupies a position to the south of the Canadian border, to the north of Wyoming and parts of Idaho. The Rocky Mountains form a large part of the western half of the state, the Continental Divide forming part of the border with Idaho. To the east, canyons and mountain meadows give way to the Great Plains, where huge herds of bison once roamed.

The crown of Montana's tourist attractions has to be Glacier National Park, with 50 glaciers and around 200 lakes. This park lies on the northern border of the state in one of the most spectacular parts of the Rocky Mountains. The park is only open for a limited time in summer and the 'Going To The Sun Road' across the park may not be open until June. The 83 km. road is among the most scenic in the USA and crosses the Logan Pass at well over 2000 metres. It is possible for all the jagged peaks to be enveloped in cloud, but if they are, try again at another time, the views are worth it. Watch out for wildlife, bighorn sheep and mountain goats, even grizzlies inhabit the region. By August there should be also be fantastic displays of wildflowers. The historic lodges and the fleet of brilliant red vintage buses, which take visitors along the scenic highway, make for an exciting stay, but book early!

A small area of Yellowstone National park is in Montana and the town of West Yellowstone is the western entrance to the park. Yellowstone is mostly in Wyoming, but should not be missed by any visitor to the area.

With 10 National Forests, Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area and large areas of designated wilderness there is an abundance of outdoor recreational activities, white-water rafting, boating, hiking and camping in the summer and snow sports for the winter.