Rocky Mountain Region
of the US which includes Colorado, Idaho, Wyoming, and Montana.
This region is named after the Rocky Mountain range that spans up beyond the US border through Canada and technically into New Mexico. Sometimes Utah is considered in this region as well, but between Utah and New Mexico, most think of them as part of the Southwest Region so that is where you'll find them here.
Welcome to the
We are so often reminded of Colorado or Montana when this region is mentioned. Yes the region is reflective of the rocky and forested mountain range and is a justifiable reason to adventure the area. There are also incredible environments beyond.
These states also feature high desert environments, The Great Sand Dunes, cliffs that look like they belong in Jurassic Park, turquoise alpine lakes and naturally forming hot springs.
Depending how deep into the areas you go, you can experience MANY diverse environments and ecosystems that will all leave you in awe.
Regional Features
Seasons & Activities
Spring
In the Spring, you can expect to still experience snow or rain but the sun and warming temperatures will make it worth it if blasting heat isn’t your favorite time to be outside. If it was a snowy winter, the waterfalls and rivers would be ABUNDANT. Wildflowers will begin blooming as the days become longer.
The higher the elevation, the cooler and wetter you may find it. You may get some mud, but this is a great time to hike the normally popular, overrun in the summer trails.
Activities great for this season and region:
Horseback riding, hiking, mountain biking, river rafting, kayaking, wildlife watching, photography, fishing, camping, skiing/ snowboarding
Autumn
Autumns are often drenched in beautiful yellows and oranges as the leaves change before falling but that window is often only 2 months give or take. Imagine chilly mornings but baking heat by mid day. Layers are fantastic during the fall.
Activities great for this season and region:
Scenic drives and train rides in the fall are a brilliant way to witness nature. Taking a long drive to a mountain town for lunch or the weekend is rarely a bad idea. Other than water activities, fall reflects spring in activities.
If you hunt or are curious about it, this is hunting season.You can find hunting guides or tours to join.
Summer
Locals will let you know how unseasonably hot the summers have been. With the many lakes and mountains, it is easy to find places to adventure in the depths of a perfect, mountainous summer.
Activities great for this season and region: it's a great time for water based adventuring like rafting, fishing, kayaking, and swimming because it's wildly hot out but the water in the many lakes will keep you cool. This is also when you’ll want to camp, rock climb, or do some sunrise hiking.
Adventure’s don’t have to be sweat inducing. It can also be scenic drives to where the wildflowers are blooming and mountain towns, stargazing in the middle of nowhere where there is no light pollution, and farmer’s markets.
Winter
If you want a snowy, winter adventure, this is such a great region to visit. This season offers a unique and picturesque outdoor experience. The snow gets DEEP and the views are stunning.
Activities great for this season and region:
The winter activities are abundant.
Skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, cross country skiing, dog sledding, snowmobiling, ice skating, hot springs, sledding, ice fishing, and so much more.