Often called Big Sky Country and The Treasure State, Montana is one of the most impressive and beautiful places in the United States. It is the fourth largest state in the country, but the eighth least populated, with huge stretches of uninterrupted natural terrain and remote deserts.
From towering mountain ranges to rolling plains and rocky gorges, Montana’s geography is as varied as it is stunning. If you’re a fan of the outdoors and spending time in nature, this northern state could be your ideal destination. You can spend six months in Montana and still not see everything, but, if you are going there for the weekend to sample what the state has to offer, we have the perfect guide to help you. Read on to check it out.
Be Safe in the Great Outdoors
For outdoor fans, Montana is undoubtedly the best place in the United States. It has everything from exhilarating mountain treks to open country walks. Whatever activity you decide to take part in, staying safe should be your absolute priority. The outdoors can be dangerous, with unpredictable weather conditions and treacherous terrain. Additionally, Montana is home to several dangerous animals including bears, mountain lions, and snakes.
Getting hurt or sick while abroad can be fraught with complications, and you could end up facing substantial medical bills. To avoid this, be sure to get travel insurance before the trip. This offers you cover for any medical expenses you may be charged with if you need to seek treatment.
Plan Your Route
If you’re planning to go hiking in the Rocky Mountains or across the Montana prairies, it’s essential to plan your route carefully ahead of time. The state is vast and largely unexplored, getting lost is a real risk and you may find yourself stranded in a remote wilderness.
Your best bet is to stick to well-traveled routes and hiking trails. These have been carefully curated by experts to provide the safest route through the often dangerous countryside and are often populated with other explorers who can help you if you run into trouble.
Think about your and your party’s experience and skill level. If you are an inexperienced hiker, you may want to avoid those difficult mountain treks, as you may find yourself out of your depth.
Choose The Best Time To Go
It depends entirely on what you want to do and where you want to go. For example, if you are going to Montana for the fantastic skiing spots, it would be better not to book to go in the middle of July. Similarly, if you want to go on a wildlife tourism trip, winter can be better avoided as many animals will be in hibernation.
For outdoor activities like hiking and the hills, aim for late summer or early fall. This will ensure you get the most out of the late summer nights and will help you avoid the scorching heat of the early and mid summer months.
Pack Everything Yoand Need
Even if you’re just going for the weekend, packing everything you need for your Montana trip is incredibly important. If you are going outdoors, your clothing is essential and works to keep you safe and comfortable. You need sturdy hiking boots and thick, comfortable socks to avoid blisters. Remember to bring waterproofs too, rain can come without warning in the mountains, leaving you with a wet journey home.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for an adventure-filled vacation where you can soak in the majesty of nature, Montana could be the perfect destination for you. Follow this guide and make the most of your weekend in The Treasure State.