Rocky Mountains
The Rockies are a vast wilderness encompassing 250,000 acres of land. It stretches over 3,000 miles and is believed to be formed around 55 to 80 million years ago when glacial erosion and tectonic activity began to form the dramatic valleys and rugged peaks.
It has been an excellent source for mining with traces of silver, zinc, tungsten, gold, copper and lead all being found in the range.
It offers a variety of sports and adventurous activities such as skiing, mountain biking, fishing, mountaineering, camping, hiking, kayaking, snowboarding and hunting.
The climate can vary greatly form tundra to desert and temperatures can change drastically throughout one day.
The scenery is breath-taking; thus many national parks reside in this region of the United States.
Here you will find information and pictures from the following locations:
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COLORADO
Born and raised in Colorado Springs, this location will always have a special place in my heart.
I'd like to think that if Alaska and Arizona had a baby, Colorado would be it.
You can go from mountains to desert in a day trip and weather can fluctuate from scorching heat to an instant blizzard overnight.
It is home to many storms, incredible sunsets and "Coloradical" weather.
Photos below range from Colorado Springs to Aspen to Black Canyon of the Gunnison and everything in between.
GETTING THERE:
The most common airport to fly into will be Denver (DIA) or Colorado Springs (COS).
They are approximately 1.5 hours apart.
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PLACES TO STAY:
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Traveling on a budget? Hostels provide a unique experience with extraordinary savings.
GETTING AROUND:
The best way to get around Colorado will be via rental car.
There is also public transit available within the larger cities.
THINGS TO DO:
Get Your Guide or explore more options with Trip Advisor
If traveling from outside the U.S., don't forget to look into travel insurance. This will cover any unexpected medical issues or injuries.
WYOMING
The least populated state in the U.S. yet it contains one of the most visited National Parks in America.
Every year, millions of tourists flock to awe at the volcanic wonder that is Yellowstone.
Geysers, hot springs, waterfalls and wildlife encompass 3 states and make up this territory of 3,400 total miles.
With a neighboring park of Grand Tetons, this destination is somewhere you can easily spend multiple days.
GETTING THERE:
The most common airport in Wyoming is Jackson Hole Airport (JAC), however if your intent is to visit Yellowstone then there are multiple entry points depending on where you intend to start your travels.
The closest option would be to fly directly into West Yellowstone Airport (WYS), which is only about 10 minutes away from the park and allows you to see aerial views as you approach.
Other entrances include Bozeman, Montana (BZM) from the north - approximately 1.5 hours away, Jackson Hole (JAC) from the south - approximately 1.25 hours away, and Cody Regional Airport (COD) from the east - approximately 1.5 hours away.
Search the best rates on flights here.
PLACES TO STAY:
Find great deals on hotels here.
Traveling on a budget? Hostels provide a unique experience with extraordinary savings.
GETTING AROUND:
The best way to get around Wyoming and Yellowstone National Park will be via rental car or by booking one of the tours found below.
THINGS TO DO:
Get Your Guide or explore more options with Trip Advisor
If traveling from outside the U.S., don't forget to look into travel insurance. This will cover any unexpected medical issues or injuries.
MONTANA
This state in particular is one I had not experienced until my journey to Alaska.
Below you will see photos all taken in and around Glacier National Park, which offers incredible scenery and wildlife viewing.
GETTING THERE:
The most common airport when traveling to Glacier National Park would be Glacier Park International Airport (FCA), which is located approximately one hour outside the park.
The most common city to search for accommodations would be Whitefish or Kalispell.
Search the best rates on flights here.
PLACES TO STAY:
Find great deals on hotels here.
GETTING AROUND:
The best way to get around Montana and Glacier National Park will be via rental car or using one of the tour options found below.
THINGS TO DO: