With its epic expanse and diversity of landscapes, it seems like it should be easy to find some solitude in the USA.

But that’s not always the case, with some of the country’s beauty spots getting clogged with visitors, particularly during the summer high season. That’s why we asked our expert writers and staff to share some of their favorite places in the country to find some space.

Here are 9 of the best places in the US to escape the crowds. 

1. Capitol Reef National Park, Utah 

Recommended by Deepa Lakshmin

The thing about hiking at popular national parks is that you will inevitably get stuck in a bottleneck waiting to scramble over a rock or shuffle through a narrow path. That can kill the mood, so I was pleasantly surprised by how quiet Capitol Reef – one of Utah’s Mighty 5 national parks – was.

I hiked two trails, Sulfur Creek and Cohab Canyon, that were gloriously empty. Following Sulfur Creek through slot canyons and over waterfalls was my favorite, because the 5.8-mile trek feels completely untouched by humans. No trail markers, no signs, no bathrooms, no trash cans: just you in the wild. (And preferably a guide who knows where to go. I’m a newbie hiker and wouldn’t do this solo, especially because the water level can rise as high as your chest depending on conditions.)

Stay in Torrey, UT for easy access to the park; I checked out the new Skyview Hotel on a trip last year, which is ideal for glamping under the stars. There aren’t a ton of accommodation or dining options in such a small town, but that also means there’s really no wrong choice. Wild Rabbit Cafe is a must for breakfast, and have a nice sit-down dinner at Hunt & Gather. Fun extras are a cider tasting at Etta Place and a massage at Red Sands’ spa. Your muscles will thank you after all that trekking.

2. Montana Badlands

Recommended by Bailey Freeman

Montana’s mountains may attract most of the state’s attention, but its eastern badlands are perfect for those looking to truly escape it all. Characterized by striking landscapes, dinosaur fossils, dark skies, and a perplexing lack of tourists, this well-kept secret will illuminate Earth’s staggering history – with hardly another visitor in sight. 

Hike through the pyramid-like mounds that punctuate the prairie in the Terry Badlands, or camp on top of the banded cliffs that make the whole area look like a painting. Just down the road, you can also wander the otherworldly hoodoos and cliffsides of Makoshika State Park, one of Montana’s hot spots for dinosaur fossils; both Triceratops and Tyrannosaurus Rex fossils have been found here, and scientists are discovering more specimens all the time. At night, the sky opens up to a flood of stars that overlook the ancient terrain; bring a telescope or a camera and scope out the wonders of the heavens.

3. Coldfoot, Alaska

Recommended by Erin Kirkland

Unpretentious and built for function in Alaska’s far north, the tiny community of Coldfoot delivers for people wanting to experience Alaska’s remote spaces and adventurous activities. Essential as a truck stop for drivers transiting the Dalton Highway across the Arctic Circle, visitors arrive via auto (note that most rental agencies will not allow travel along this mostly gravel road) along the highway, or by air, thanks to several small carriers out of Fairbanks, 253 miles south. 

Coldfoot sits at the base of the stunning Brooks Range and provides access to year-round recreation. From June 1 to mid-September, stop at the Arctic Interagency Visitor Center for information, maps, ranger-led presentations, and interpretive displays showing the region’s history. Coldfoot Camp can assist travelers wanting to hike or raft deeper into the Brooks Range and Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve or Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, with gear and guides provided. In the fall and winter months, Coldfoot becomes a top place to view the sweeping and colorful northern lights. Nightly tours departing from Coldfoot Camp with options to add snowshoeing or fat biking to the adventure.

4. Hovenweep National Monument, Four Corners, USA

Recommended by Liz Prado

Surrounded by high desert and stunning red rock canyons, Hovenweep National Monument is a little-visited archaeological zone in the Four Corners region, where  Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado and Utah meet. It’s a place to escape the throngs at nearby national parks and imagine what life was like long ago. The one-time home of the Ancestral Puebloans, Hovenweep is a cluster of six ancient villages built between 1200 and 1300 CE and peppered across Colorado, Utah and the Navajo Nation. Wide expanses of dirt roads and trails connect the sites, a treasure trove of teetering towers and sacred kivas perched on canyon rims. 

The largest and easiest to access is the Square Tower Group, a clutch of well-preserved structures along a 2-mile trail near the visitor center in Utah. There’s a first-come-first-served campground as well as ranger-led programming. The other archaeological sites are between 4 and 9 miles away; before heading out, ask about trail and road conditions and grab a map as GPS is unreliable and cell service almost nil. Wherever you explore, stay for the stargazing – Hovenweep is also one of the world’s rare gold-tier International Dark Sky Parks, where up to 15,000 stars can be seen on cloudless nights.

5. Superstition Mountains, Arizona

Recommended by Melissa Yeager

Eager hikers visiting Phoenix swarm iconic Camelback Mountain in Scottsdale to get a photo from the humpback-shaped mountain for their Instagram. The resulting crowds along the less-hiking, more-bouldering route make it one of my least favorite hiking experiences in Arizona. Break free of the crowd, and take the drive east on Hwy 60 to the Superstition Mountains. The desert dazzles in this area, with stunning saguaro cacti and views for days. 

Hieroglyphic Trail will give you a less intense hike with the payoff of seeing petroglyphs near a waterfall. More intermediate hikers will find  Fremont Saddle a delightful route. (Bring a lunch to enjoy at the top as you rest and admire sweeping views of Weavers Needles.)  Experienced hikers looking for a rugged challenge can hike and climb the boulders for a spectacular view of the region from the top of Flat Iron. The Superstitions are gorgeous but wild. Cell service in the area is scarce, and in some places you’ll need a car that can navigate unpaved roads.  Make sure to bring enough water for your trip as trailheads may not have public water dispensers. 

6. The Shenandoah Valley, Virginia

Recommended by Ann Douglas Lott

Surrounded by Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains and West Virginia’s Alleghany Mountains, with the Shenandoah River flowing its entire length, this 140-mile stretch of paradise is often overshadowed by the majestic mountain ranges of the western US. But this place practically begs to be your next scenic road trip. Drive the curving roads of the Blue Ridge Parkway or Skyline Drive, or meander along wide open back roads (or follow I-81 if you’re short on time), stopping into charming, historic small towns like Staunton, Harrisonburg and Lexington for antiquing and brewery-hopping. Chill out at sprawling vineyards, pick up fresh bread from a local farm or relax under curtains of fragrant lavender at a lavender farm. Then get outside and trek a section of the Appalachian Trail found inside the state’s big and beautiful beast: Shenandoah National Park. The slogan “Virginia is for lovers” rings true in the Shenandoah Valley. Life moves enchantingly slowly, and the romance of the rolling Blue Ridge Mountains is undeniable. Oh, and once you’ve experienced your first Shenandoah sunset, you’re hooked. 

7. Bellingham, Washington 

Recommended by Chamidae Ford 

In western Washington, trees and waterfront collide for unmatched beauty. If you’re looking for a town that truly encapsulates the PNW spirit but lacks the crowds, Bellingham is for you. Nestled 30 minutes from the Canadian border, Bellingham is a quaint and idyllic oasis bursting with outdoor activities. Opt for a slight detour along Chuckunut Drive rather than I-5 to fully experience the region’s beauty. Chuckanut provides excellent views of Sammish and Bellingham Bay, with tons of hikes (Oyster Dome is a favorite) and viewpoint stop-offs. 

In town, grab lunch at Mambo Italiano — the sandwiches made with in-house focaccia are unforgettable. Browse the indie bookstore, Village Books, for your next great read, and in the summer, head to their lawn on Mondays for an outdoor movie. Ride your bike along the bay or enjoy a sunset picnic along the water at Boulevard Park. You can’t visit the PNW without stopping by one of the numerous breweries in the area; it’s a classic local hang. Otherlands Beer is a stellar option for top-notch brews and good vibes. And when you need a late-night snack, stop by the beloved college haunt, AB Crepes.

8. Channel Islands National Park, California 

Recommended by Brekke Fletcher

If you’re looking to get off the grid and are willing to hop on a boat, then the Channel Islands National Park is for you. Located off the coast of Southern California, between Santa Barbara and Los Angeles, this wildly wonderful archipelago carries the distinction of being one of California’s least-visited national parks. To get there, you’ll need to take a tour with an outfit like Island Packers, which provides two points of departure from Ventura and Oxnard. 

Five islands make up the park: San Miguel, Santa Rosa, Santa Cruz, Anacapa and tiny, southern Santa Barbara, which is much further south. Visiting any one of them allows you to see and experience a place that is mostly as it was for tens of thousands of years. From land and sea, behold stunning, rugged landscapes and look out for some of the 150 plant species and a few animals that are unique to the islands. If you wish to lengthen your time on the islands there are several campgrounds for overnight stays you can reserve in advance. And if you plan to visit between June and November, you can add whale-watching to your excursion.

9. Jayuya, Puerto Rico

Recommended by John Garry

Just a domestic flight from the mainland US, travelers heading to Puerto Rico and searching for solitude should head to Jayuya, nestled in the Central Mountains. Here, crowds of a different kind dominate – like choirs of coqui frogs and gangs of roving roosters. Legend says native Taíno populations escaped Spanish persecution by hiding in the Central Mountains until the mid-19th century, and now, Jayuya serves as the island’s Indigenous epicenter, with museums celebrating local heritage and ancient petroglyphs aplenty.

It’s easy to see how Jayuya held on to its traditions. Imposing mountain peaks protect the town – including the 4398ft Cerro de Punta – and even today, the only way to get here is along razor-thin roads that twist and tumble like a roller coaster. Those who brave the journey reap major rewards: barely-trafficked hikes around Toro Negro State Forest, tiny group tours at working coffee farms like Hacienda San Pedro and jungle pools fed by waterfalls like Cascada Las Delicias. After a dip in Jayuya’s chilly waters, head to La Destileria Craft Spirits for a taste of pitorro, a locally-made moonshine rum that will warm your soul.

Montenegro may be famed for the beauty of its Adriatic coastline dotted with stunning beaches and coves, but even more treasures await you inland. Five national parks with distinctly different landscapes preserve the impeccable unspoiled scenery and create a wonderland of outdoor adventures amidst deep river gorges and rugged mountains.

Pack up your beach towel and tear yourself away from the coast – it’s time to immerse yourself in Montenegro’s wild side. Here’s everything you need to know about its national parks.

1. Hike the mountain trails of Lovcen National Park

If you visit just one Montenegrin national park, make it this one. Looming above the Bay of Kotor, Lovcen is the black mountain that gave Montenegro its name and this national park sprawls over its slopes. For centuries, this karst massif was the very crucible of Montenegrin culture – a rocky redoubt of resistance to the Ottomans, populated by fearsome warriors, clerics and poets – and it remains the nation’s spiritual hub. The old royal capital, Cetinje, is nestled on its slopes and it makes a perfect base for exploring, though the park also can be easily accessed from the coastal hotspots of Kotor and Budva.

Allow time to investigate Cetinje’s palaces and museums before heading into the national park proper. There’s a visitor center in the hamlet of Ivanova Korita where you can gather information on Lovcen’s numerous hiking and mountain-biking tracks before you continue to the park’s most famous feature, the striking Njegoš Mausoleum, containing the tomb of the philosopher-poet Petar II Petrović-Njegoš, sitting at the top of its second-highest peak at 1657m (5436ft). Gargantuan statues by acclaimed Yugoslav-era sculptor Ivan Mestrovic compete for attention with the extraordinary views, as the craggy landscape dissolves into the distance.

Planning tip: As you loop back to your start point, be sure to stop for a snack at the village of Njegusi. As well as being the ancestral home of Montenegro’s Petrovic dynasty, this small settlement is famed throughout the region for its prosciutto, cheese and honey.

2. Spot myriad bird species in Lake Skadar National Park

Split between Montenegro and Albania, Lake Skadar is the largest lake in the Balkans and one of the most important habitats for wetland birds in all of Europe. The entire Montenegrin side of the lake has been protected as a national park since 1983, and birdwatchers come from around the world to spot the 270 species that shelter here, including the endangered Dalmatian pelican and a globally significant population of pygmy cormorants.

Boats and kayaks can be rented from the lake’s main settlement, Virpazar, and from the national park visitor center across the causeway near Vranjina, for exploring at surface level. Birdwatching expeditions can be combined with visits to the cluster of tiny islands on the lake, which are home to medieval monasteries. Also here is the Ottoman-built prison fortress, Grmozur, once known as the Montenegrin Alcatraz.

Alternatively, paddle up the sinuous Crnojevic River to the historic village of Rijeka Crnojevica, or hire a bike to explore the tiny wine-making villages and ruined fortresses hidden in the lush hinterland around the lake. It’s also fun to take a plunge into the river from the terrace of the floating restaurant in the village of Dodosi or join the local daredevils diving off the bridge.

Planning tip: Remote Murici, on the lake’s southwestern shore, is one of Montenegro’s best beaches. It’s a 40-minute drive to Murici from Virpazar and there’s a campground for overnight stays.

3. Hike the trails of Durmitor National Park

The jewel in the crown of Montenegro’s national parks is the mountainous Durmitor in the country’s untamed north. This highly dramatic reserve boasts around 50 peaks higher than 2000m (6562ft) and 18 glacial lakes known as gorske oci, meaning “mountain eyes.” The park also embraces the Tara Canyon, a cleft in the limestone cut by the Tara River over many millennia. The gorge’s forested walls reach 1300m (4265ft) at their highest point.

Rafting is by far the best way to see the canyon, and numerous operators offer trips along the last 18km (11 miles) of the gorge, where you will find most of the rapids. However, you’ll have to book the classic two-day overnight journey to visit the deepest part of the canyon.

In winter, Durmitor is a major ski destination, offering the country’s most reliable snow cover and two ski centers. Javorovaca is best for beginners while Savin Kuk caters to more advanced skiers. In summer, the focus shifts to hiking and mountaineering. Around 150km (93 miles) of marked trails meander through the mountains, ranging from the easy stroll around the picturesque Black Lake to major alpine expeditions where a local guide is strongly recommended.

Planning tip: Just south of the national park, near Šavnik, the remarkable Nevidio Canyon is a favorite spot for canyoning (canyoneering to Americans). Cut by the Komarnica River, the gorge is only meters wide at points, and guided expeditions only run during the dry months of July and August.

4. Hike the forests of Biogradska Gora National Park

Located within the Bjelasica mountain range, Biogradska Gora National Park protects an exceptionally lovely area of virgin forest. From the park entrance, you can take a 3.5km (2.2-mile) trip on a tourist train to the vividly green waters of tree-lined Lake Biograd. Here you will find the main park infrastructure, including a campsite, cabins, rowboat and kayak rental and a restaurant serving traditional Montenegrin mountain fare.

Take an easy 3.4km (2.1-mile) amble around the lake, then inquire at the visitor center about more challenging hiking and mountain-biking tracks through the surrounding mountains, including overnight trips through remote sections of the reserve. There are also glacial lakes to explore and several peaks above 2000m (6561ft), including 2139m (7018ft) Crna Glava, the “Black Head.”

Planning tip: In summer, it is possible to take multi-day hikes through Biogradska Gora National Park staying overnight in katuns, the traditional wooden huts used by the region’s semi-nomadic shepherds; contact the park visitor center for information.

5. Trek the wilds of Prokletije National Park

For true wilderness, you can’t beat Montenegro’s newest national park, dedicated in 2009 to protect a 161-sq-km (62-sq-mile) expanse of the Prokletije Mountains bordering Albania and Kosovo. The southernmost and highest section of the Dinaric Alps is surely one of Europe’s least-explored corners. Prokletije translates to “accursed,” which says all you need to know about the treacherous and unforgiving nature of the terrain.

If you want to push your limits in extraordinarily beautiful, off-the-beaten-track wilderness, this is the place to come. But despite the menacing name, a visit to Prokletije does not have to be a major expedition. Start at the gateway town of Gusinje with a visit to the 17th-century Vizier’s Mosque and then take a half-hour walk to the beautiful Ali Pasha Springs, which bubble up from the karst rocks at the foot of the mountains.

Planning tip: On your way into Prokletije National Park, stop at the park visitor center, where you can gather information on more advanced hiking and climbing routes and make connections with local guides.

Massive Montana encompasses a wild terrain of Rocky Mountain adventures and bucket-list places to visit.

Amid the mountains, national forests and wild rivers teeming with trout, several historical and current railroad depots punctuate the state – now forming Montana’s best cities – showcasing its independent yet inviting culture.

Interstate 90 and 15 cross in the mountainous western half of the state, supplemented by a network of state highways lending access to several notable Big Sky destinations. While some top spots get a wave of traffic throughout summer, getting around Montana typically involves wide-open roadways. Montana’s cities are small enough to explore car-free, but a personal vehicle offers much more freedom to go beyond them.

Here’s our guide to the very best places to see on your trip to Montana, the Last Best Place in the American West.

1. Glacier National Park

Best place to hit a hiking trail

The Crown of the Continent in northwest Montana, Glacier National Park, is a true choose-your-own-adventure for jaw-dropping hiking trails. Over 700 miles of well-worn paths navigate its terrain of startling mountain peaks and wildlife-strewn valleys. Several trails challenge the legs, although a general rule of thumb is the higher the climb, the better the view. 

For those just getting introduced to Montana hiking trails, head for the Hidden Lake Trail departing from the Logan Pass Visitor Center. Clements Mountain provides a scenic guidepost along this approximately 5-mile round-trip hike, visible above the wildflower meadows of Hanging Gardens lining the route. For those ready for a bigger challenge, the park’s signature hiking trail, the Highline Trail, also departs from Logan Pass.

Planning tip: Finding parking can be the most challenging aspect of visiting the famous Logan Pass – the highest point along the Going-to-the-Sun Road. The park’s free summer shuttle system ensures you’ll never be turned away because of parking capacity.

2. Butte

Best place for Western history

Wild West history is on full display in Butte, Montana, near the western slopes of the Continental Divide. This mining town experienced its boom in the late 1800s with vast copper lodes contributing to its moniker: “the Richest Hill on Earth.” 

Mining operations have ceased in Butte, leaving behind the infamous Berkeley Pit and over 6000 historic properties now part of the Butte-Anaconda Historic District, one of the largest in the country. This landmark status plunges visitors into the history that once made Butte the largest city between San Francisco and Chicago.

Copper King mansions, underground mines and sealed-away speakeasies are a few guided tour opportunities diving deeper into Butte’s history. The Pekin Noodle Parlor is also a current attraction of historical interest as one of the oldest family-run Chinese restaurants in the country.

3. Bozeman

Best basecamp for skiing and snowboarding

The university city of Bozeman draws an adventurous crowd throughout its long, powdery winter season. And between late November and April, residents and visitors flock toward the cold smoke of two of Montana’s best ski and snowboard destinations, Bridger Bowl Ski Area and Big Sky Resort.  

Bridger Bowl is at the backdoor of Bozeman, accessible with a 30-minute drive or a free shuttle ride. Its 2000 skiable acres attract a moderate crowd of students, community members, and tourists, though it only gets busy by Montana standards, with rarely more than a 20-minute chairlift wait. Lift tickets are cheaper if you buy online through Bridger Bowl’s website. 

Big Sky Resort, located a scenic hour’s drive south, is the pinnacle of Montana skiing. A growing collection of over 30 lifts, including North America’s first 8-person lift (heated seats included), access its staggering 6000 acres flowing down from Lone Peak. Intrepid downhill visitors can ride the Lone Peak Tram to the summit for a memorable black-diamond ride.

4. West Yellowstone

Best place for spotting wildlife

West Yellowstone is a gateway community for Yellowstone National Park, with the park’s entrance less than a mile from the center of this small tourist town. Wildlife abounds in the nation’s first national park, alongside hot springs, fumaroles, and geysers, with frequent sightings of American bison along the roadside. 

Head to the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center in West Yellowstone for guaranteed sightings of Greater Yellowstone wildlife. This non-profit, AZA-accredited wildlife park maintains a stimulating habitat for animals unfit to live in the wild.

Planning tip: Budget extra time to hang out in the Naturalist Cabin, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the resident wolf packs.

5. Missoula

Best place to fly-fish blue-ribbon waterways

Missoula is a fly-fishing paradise at the junction of great trout rivers in western Montana. Local author Norman Maclean captured this ethos in his iconic 1976 collection of stories, A River Runs Through It, and Brad Pitt and Robert Redford revamped enthusiasm with the 1992 blockbuster movie.

The Clark Fork, Bitterroot, and Blackfoot are world-class rivers within bicycling distance of Missoula, including tributaries like Rock Creek. Outfitters, such as Missoulian Angler, offer guided fly-fishing trips for first-timers and experienced anglers alike. Fishing spots and hatch dates are often discussed at local fly stores like Grizzly Hackle Fly Shop.

Planning tip: A valid fishing license is required to cast a line in a Montana waterway. Many guiding companies require you to purchase your fishing license before a trip, which can be done online.

6. Flathead Lake

Best place for summer traditions

Flathead Lake is hard to miss when visiting northwest Montana. It’s the largest freshwater lake west of the Mississippi River in the contiguous United States, requiring at least a 40-mile drive from end to end. And with state parks, campgrounds, boat ramps, and small towns lining the route, it’s often a central base for summer road trip traditions.

Looking for an adventure? Rent a kayak or book a charter to Wild Horse Island near the lake’s western shore, and keep your eyes peeled for the feral residents.

Planning tip: Flathead cherries are one summer tradition not to miss. Cherry season is short and sweet in the Flathead Valley, with farm stands popping up near the shoreline in July through early August. Plan a visit to coincide with the Flathead Cherry Festival, typically the last weekend of July, for the full taste of these regional treats.

7. Red Lodge

Best spot for a scenic drive

The Beartooth and Absaroka Mountains set the tone for the tourist-friendly town of Red Lodge in southern Montana, near the Wyoming border. These picturesque peaks, some of the tallest in the state, have unlimited outdoor recreation opportunities. And the seasonal 68-mile Beartooth Highway offers parking lot access to all the wild terrain spanning from Red Lodge to Yellowstone National Park.

The Beartooth Highway is one of Montana’s best road trips between late May and October 15. This All-American road tops out at nearly 11,000ft with prominent views of the glacier-caked Beartooth Mountains and tree-lined valleys. Hiking trails, viewpoints and summer skiing opportunities line the route, eventually connecting to the hydrothermal wonders of Yellowstone National Park via Cooke City.

8. Phillipsburg

Best place to uncover gems of the Treasure State

Phillipsburg is a picturesque mountain town on the Pintler Veterans’ Memorial Scenic Byway, approximately halfway between Glacier and Yellowstone National Parks. Silver and other underground resources built this early Montana town in the 1860s, and that era still resonates down Broadway St with antique storefronts housing modern shops and restaurants.

Montana Sapphires are still mined for in Phillipsburg, and visitors sift for their own at places like Gem Mountain and Montana Gems of Phillipsburg. Here, buy a bag of gravel sourced from nearby sapphire mines and head to the washing station to uncover personal treasures. Shops will cut and polish anything you find, though nothing is guaranteed in sapphire mining.

You can also find a sweeter type of treasure in Phillipsburg within hundreds of glass jars lining the walls of the Sweet Palace. This nostalgic candy store sells homemade confections like fudge and saltwater taffy – you’ll get a sugar high from the aroma alone. 

Bozeman offers an embarrassment of scenic splendor just a short drive from downtown. Heading south will take you through glorious mountain and river scenery towards mighty Yellowstone National Park, one of America’s top adventures. 

Head west, and you’ll be traveling in the footprints of fur trappers, mountain men and Lewis and Clark. Drive east, and you’ll reach the Old West town of Livingston and the Paradise Valley, offering a glorious back route to Yellowstone. And all sorts of short walks and hikes are possible along the way.

With enough activities to satisfy young families, history buffs and hardcore outdoor adventurers alike, a day trip from Bozeman will give you a taste of the very best that central Montana has to offer. Even on a short trip, we encourage you to stay an extra day to make time for one of the following fun-filled day trips.

Livingston

Why go: Wander historic Western buildings, museums and art galleries

Historic Livingston is well worth a visit for its authentic and understated Western charm. Old-timers will tell you this is what Bozeman was like before the Californians arrived. The former railway town and one-time home of Calamity Jane also has some serious literary credentials, as the former home of writers Thomas McGuane, Jim Harrison and Tim Cahill.

The historic Murray Hotel still has lots of original Western touches, and you can stay in the suite where movie director Sam Peckinpah lived for a year. The town’s two local history museums and many art galleries are also worth a stroll.

How to get to Livingston:
Take I-90 east for 25 miles (40km) over the Bozeman Pass to the Livingston turnoff.

Chico Hot Springs

Why go: Unwind in historic hot springs & a honky-tonk saloon

For more than 120 years, visitors have been drawn through the beautiful Paradise Valley to historic Chico Hot Springs for three excellent reasons: stunning natural beauty, a soak in the region’s best hot springs and a slap-up dinner in the resort’s historic dining room.

Most day-trippers are happy with a soak and a poolside Chico Amber Ale, but the more ambitious can sign up for horseback rides and private mountain biking trails. Winter is particularly magical here, with dogsled rides and cross-country ski trips on offer. You might even spot the odd celebrity propping up the saloon bar, especially on Friday and Saturday nights when live music gets the cowboy boots tapping.

How to get to Chico Hot Springs:
Take I-90 east for 25 miles (40km) towards Livingston, then turn south on US-89 through the Paradise Valley. Chico is just south of Pray, a total of 50 miles (80km) from Bozeman.

Big Sky

Why go: For the outdoor activities – hiking, biking and horse riding

Montana’s premier winter ski resort is also a prime destination in summer, especially if you like getting active. Enjoy 360-degree mountain views if you take the tram up to the summit of 11,116ft (3388m) Lone Peak, or hike up if you’re super fit. Other options include the rewarding hike to Beehive Basin, or some epic, lift-served downhill mountain biking.

Families are well catered for, and walkers of all ages will enjoy the short 1.6-mile (2.6km) return hike to Ouzel Falls, a canoe paddle around Lake Levinsky or a mosey down the trail on a horse riding trip from a local ranch. And there’s whitewater rafting and zip lining, too, so teenagers won’t feel left out.

After all that calorie burning, refuel over a green Thai curry at Lotus Pad, or grab a craft beer and burger at Lone Peak Brewery.
 
How to get to Big Sky:
The turnoff to Big Sky is in the Gallatin Valley, 40 miles (64km) southwest of Bozeman, along a very scenic stretch of road. Big Sky Resort is a further 9 miles (14.5km) up a side valley.

Yellowstone National Park Loop

Why go: Buckle up for a whistlestop tour to see hot springs, bison and mud pots

If you only have one day to see Yellowstone National Park and are happy to spend much of that day in the car, two of Yellowstone’s entrances are easily accessible from Bozeman. Taking advantage of the northern entrance at Gardiner and the western entrance at West Yellowstone, you can make a grand loop that takes in the highlights of northwestern Yellowstone.

Entering the park at Gardiner, visit the naturally sculpted hot spring terraces at Mammoth before continuing past waterfalls to view the elk and bison herds grazing Madison Junction. If you have time, it’s worth detouring south to Old Faithful to view Yellowstone’s most spectacular collection of crowd-pleasing geysers and belching mud pots.

This is a long day trip, so break this itinerary into two days if possible. Otherwise, leave Bozeman at dawn!

How to get to Yellowstone National Park:
From Bozeman, head through the Paradise Valley to Gardiner, enter Yellowstone National Park and drive to Mammoth, Madison Junction and Old Faithful. Exit the park at West Yellowstone, from where it’s 90 miles (145km) back to Bozeman through the Gallatin Valley. Be warned: this is an epic 240-mile (386km) loop.

Yellowstone’s Northwest Corner

Why go: Hike, ride horses or fly fish in Yellowstone’s most peaceful corner

Everyone thinks they know Yellowstone National Park, but few people visit the park’s secret far northwestern corner, accessible from the Gallatin Valley and an ideal spot for multi-day backpacking trips or horse treks. Experienced hikers can tackle the Gallatin Sky Rim Trail – a long day (or even better, overnight) walk that offers amazing views from its rugged volcanic ridgelines. Several outfitters run excellent day-long horse rides or multi-day pack trips in this part of the park.

The good news is that no park entry fees are required to see this area of Yellowstone. The bad news? There are more grizzlies than humans here, so bring bear spray and keep your eyes open.

How to get to Yellowstone’s Northwest Corner:
Head southwest from Bozeman on US-191 through the Gallatin Valley, pass the turnoff to Big Sky and continue south towards West Yellowstone. Trailheads line the road, starting 59 miles (95km) from Bozeman.

Headwaters of the Missouri

Why go: Learn about mountain men and Indigenous heritage

Fans of Western history should zip West of Bozeman for 40 minutes to reach Missouri Headwaters State Park, where the Jefferson, Madison and Gallatin rivers merge to form the mighty Missouri, North America’s longest river. Lewis and Clark camped here for a week in July 1805, and interpretive panels detail their voyage, as well as the stories of the fur trappers and mountain men who hunted and traded here. There are also family-friendly hiking and biking trails.

Also worth a visit is nearby Madison Buffalo Jump State Park, where for 2000 years, Indigenous hunters stampeded herds of bison over the deadly pishkun (cliffs). Hike up to the cliffs to take in the views and contemplate this undeniably efficient hunting method.

How to get to Headwaters of the Missouri State Park:
Head northwest on I-90 for 26 miles (42km) to Logan; from here, it’s 7 miles (11km) south to Madison Buffalo Jump or 5 miles (8km) northwest to the Missouri Headwaters State Park.

Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park

Why go: Head underground to explore stalactites and rock formations

To complete the day trip trio of state parks, continue 20 miles (32km) west of the Missouri headwaters to the Lewis & Clark Caverns, Montana’s first state park and the biggest cave system in the US Northwest. A two-hour guided tour (available May to September) will take you through the dripping, twisting cave complex, at one point descending a natural rock slide. It’s great family fun, and there’s also a shorter accessible tour for visitors with mobility issues. Simple but shady dog kennels (free) are available for your pup while you tour the caves.

How to get to Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park:
The caverns are 50 miles (80km) from Bozeman. Take I-90 northwest to Jct 274 near Three Forks, then follow US-287 for another 16 miles (26km).

Sprawling landscapes, winding rivers, swathes of desert, towering mountain ranges and incredible national parks – the great state of Wyoming is truly a gift to hikers. Trails covering thousands of miles and every kind of natural landscape mean there’s a perfect hike for every ability.

Whether you’re searching for family fun or want to go off the grid in the backcountry, look no further. There are wilderness areas across the Equality State, and you’ll most likely have the whole trail to yourself. Here are the best hikes in Wyoming.

1. Teton Crest Trail 

Most challenging hike
40 miles; 4–7 days one way; difficult to strenuous

A meandering 40-mile trek across the lofty spine of the Tetons, this trail isn’t for the faint of heart, climbing 3775ft to reach a high point of 10,645ft, and with jaw-dropping views of alpine lakes and at least three ecological zones.

The dangers are many – grizzly bears, altitude sickness and exposure to thunder and lightning, to name a few – so planning for your safety is paramount. Ensure you have all the appropriate gear, including proper documentation and permits for Grand Teton National Park and a bear bag or canister. Once everything’s in place, the trail offers views of the Tetons many don’t see: a remote and wild place only your feet can take you to.

2. Red Beds Trail 

Best hike for all ages
2.8 miles; 2–4 hours roundtrip (loop); easy

A trip to Wyoming isn’t complete without a visit to Devil’s Tower, the dramatic geologic uplift that became the country’s first national monument in 1906 and continues to draw visitors from around the world.

Paths like the Red Beds Trail offer a chance to get away from the crowds and view the tower – just be sure to keep one eye on your footing. With sections of flat and gravel for kids as well as steep climbs with rocky steps for experienced hikers, the sometimes hot and usually windy trail is a good mix. Starting off at the visitor center and looping back to the parking lot, the hike should take no more than half a day.

Planning tip: the views from the south side are the best, so start your trip in a counterclockwise direction to get there first. 

4. Medicine Bow Peak via Lakes Trail Loop

Best high-altitude hike
6.7 miles; 3–6 hours roundtrip (loop); difficult to strenuous

Situated in the Snowy Range of southeastern Wyoming, the Lakes Trail Loop offers alpine vistas and technical hiking around granite boulders, en route to Medicine Bow Peak at 12,018ft. Whether you want to tackle the summit in a day or backpack to one of the meadow-filled sites beneath the summit to camp for the night, the trail is worthy of both endeavors.

As it’s a loop, the preferred method of travel is clockwise, for better views of the landscape on the way down from the peak. Though not required, trekking or hiking poles are recommended – the return is steep, and many of the boulders are quite large and difficult to hike over (not to worry, the breathtaking views are worth it).

5. Lost Twin Lakes 

Most rewarding hike
13.4 miles; 7–12 hours roundtrip (out and back); difficult to strenuous

In an inviting wilderness setting, with flower-filled meadows and lakeside areas perfect for camping, the Lost Twin Lakes are an incredible sight to behold, nestled in a granite cirque (an amphitheater formed by erosion) – but they’ll make you work to get there. 

The hike from the car is nothing short of strenuous, thanks to long elevation gains on a steep, technical trail, plus mixed foot placements, downed trees and switchbacks. Though the trek will put your skills and willpower to the test, the pika squeaking in the meadows along the trail are there to cheer you on.

Backpack in for the night, or wake up early to tackle it as a day hike. The deep blue tint of the lower lake will entice you to explore the cascading creek to the upper lake, reflecting the alpine glow of the surrounding peaks.

6. Shoshone Lake via DeLacy Creek Trail 

Best hike for a relaxing experience
6.1 miles; 2–5 hours roundtrip (out and back); easy to moderate

With more than a thousand miles of trails to choose from within Yellowstone National Park, deciding which to hike can be overwhelming, but DeLacy Creek Trail leading to Shoshone Lake is one to circle on the map. Shoshone is the largest backcountry lake in North America, meaning this wild swath of Wyoming landscape will be yours for exploring – and an easy, solitary hike on this 6.1-mile out-and-back trail will make you forget you’re barely a stone’s throw from the crowds at Old Faithful.  

DeLacy is entirely in the tree line, so warm summer days are a great time to hike to this high-altitude lake, as the all-day shade makes it pleasant and easy – even uphill back to the car. The trail is also a good jumping-off point to connect to other trails, including the 3100-mile-long Continental Divide Trail.

7. Bunsen Peak

Best hike for viewing wildlife
4.6 miles; 1–3 hours roundtrip (out and back); moderate

While the southern portion of Yellowstone National Park reigns supreme as the hub for most park visitors, the northern section of the park has been dubbed the Serengeti of North America, and up here it’s relatively quiet. Patient hikers will find a dose of solitude and more opportunities for spotting wildlife, like bison, elk and maybe even the occasional wolf.

Bunsen Peak is an exceptionally rewarding hike, right in the heart of the “Serengeti.” The trek can be strenuous, with 1300ft of elevation gain in two miles, but the views of the vastness of Yellowstone are worth every foot climbed. From the car to the summit, you can see bison and elk foraging in the meadows below; keep an eye to the skies for the occasional sandhill crane, and if you’re lucky, you might spot a bear rummaging for food. 

Daytime temperatures spike into the 80°F and 90°F range in summer, so hiking in the early morning or late afternoon is paramount. Bring water, as none is available on the trek, and always carry bear spray. 

8.Dubois Badlands Trail 

Best hike for quiet surroundings
3.8 miles; 2–5 hours roundtrip (loop); easy to moderate

In a quiet corner of Wyoming overseen by the Bureau of Land Management, the Dubois Badlands remain as socially distanced as anyone could wish, and its deep canyons and wild temperature swings make it a unique hiking destination, considered by many to rival the canyonland scenery of Utah.

A dry and barren landscape, the Dubois Badlands Trail features red-colored canyons with glimpses of snowcapped mountains in the background. It’s best hiked in spring, fall or very early morning, as summertime brings oven-like temperatures. Bring water and sun protection, as the heat is relentless – but the coyote tracks and the chance at spotting a bighorn sheep make it worth each drop of sweat.

9. Crow Creek Trail to Hidden Falls 

Best family hike
3.6 miles; 1-3 hours roundtrip (out and back); easy

In the dry, hot depths of southern Wyoming, the Crow Creek Trail of Curt Gowdy State Park is a welcoming sign to stretch the legs and cool the soul.  Straightforward and well-marked, it’s an epic place to beat the summer heat – a shady trail that ends in a small canyon, with waterfalls cascading down the granite walls.

Bring the dog and family and enjoy the refreshing waters of Middle Crow Creek. There’s plenty to take your breath away on this hike: the relatively high altitude of 7214ft, the bracingly cold water after a plunge, and the views of rolling hills and granite canyons. The trail should only take a fraction of the day, so it’s a great place to spend an afternoon fishing or setting up camp.