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Montana hot springs are a popular year round attraction found in the western portion of the state. The hot springs are formed when the heated water deep in the earth’s crust rises to the top. Many consider this to be therapeutic because of the minerals that remain in the water. Many popular resorts have been built around the hot springs. If resorts are not to your liking, there are also many hot springs that have remained in their natural settings.

Skiing is a popular winter pastime in Montana. There are an abundance of popular ski resorts, such as Big Sky, that offer visitors plenty of downhill and cross-country skiing. Additional activities found at ski resorts may include snowmobiling, snowshoeing and dog sledding.

Dude Ranches offer fun-filled cowboy excitement for the whole family. Most activities resolve around horseback riding yet there are many other activities such as fly-fishing, children’s programs and campfires. Dude Ranches offer guests an activity-filled day, accommodations in lodges or cabins and meals, which are usually served in a main lodge.

Sight-seeing is one way in which many tourists take in the state of Montana and exploring the Lewis & Clark trail is one exceptional way to do this. There are numerous guided tours available throughout the state to help you plan your journey. Many popular landmarks, such as Pompey’s Pillar and Beaverhead Rock, can be seen as one hikes the trail.

With its 77 mountain ranges, Montana offers visitors plenty of hiking and backpacking opportunities. Popular hiking spots include the Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area and Glacier National Park. Many areas offer guided hikes for one-day hiking, multi-day trips and custom adventures. The Beartooth Mountains and the Absaroka Mountains, known as the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness Area, have an extensive list of trails, numerous campgrounds and excellent fishing opportunities.The information party rocks on: Sweetgrass