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Accommodations in renovated wagons at Capitol Reef Resort in Torrey, Utah
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Travel Spotlights: West Region

The West is a land of contrasts, with tough, hardworking cowboys as well as Las Vegas’ bright lights, all set among majestic mountains.

Yellowstone Falls in Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
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Wyoming

Winter in Yellowstone National Park

Revel in the serene silence of deserted hot springs and snowy mountains when you visit Yellowstone National Park in winter. See bison grazing and steaming geysers, or spend a day snowshoeing and explore the snow-covered boardwalks.

Fossil Butte National Monument

Nicknamed “The Stone Aquarium,” Fossil Butte National Monument is a 50-million-year-old lakebed that’s rich in preserved fossils of fish, plants, reptiles, birds and small mammals. Many of these can be seen and even touched in the Visitor Center.

Oregon Trail Ruts State Historic Site

At Deep Rut Hill in Guernsey, Wyoming, this historic site is home to some of the last remaining wagon tracks from travelers along the Oregon Trail. Etched deep into the soft sandstone, these ruts dating to the 1800s are some of the few remnants of the long cross-country journey.

Register Cliff Historic Site

Considered a navigational guidepost for travelers on the Oregon Trail, this limestone cliff towers above the North Platte River valley. Hike along the cliff base and see where emigrants carved their names into the cliffside before continuing toward the West.

Legend Rock Petroglyph Historic Site

Located near Thermopolis, Legend Rock State Petroglyph Site has been sacred to the area’s Indigenous American peoples for thousands of years. See hundreds of prehistoric engravings, hike the interpretative trails and explore the visitor center to learn more.

Bighorn Medicine Wheel

Take a scenic hike through the Bighorn National Forest to the Medicine Wheel, another site that’s sacred to local Indigenous peoples. This National Historic Landmark is crafted from limestone rocks on the northwestern ridge of Medicine Mountain.

Cheyenne Frontier Days

Journey to the past and experience the Wild West at Cheyenne Frontier Days, the world’s largest outdoor rodeo and Western celebration in July. Feel the thrill of watching professional bull riders and bucking broncos, or enjoy a concert featuring popular country music artists.

Pitchfork Fondue Western Cookout

In Pinedale, Wyoming, experience a unique outdoor dining experience with views of the Wind River Mountains. Dine on mouthwatering steaks and chicken cooked over an open flame on pitchforks after being dipped in hot oil fondue-style.

Historic Sheridan Inn

Book a stay at one of Sheridan’s original hotels that was partially owned by the iconic “Buffalo Bill” Cody. A unique slice of the USA’s Wild West, the hotel’s 21 rooms are all designed after iconic Western figures such as Annie Oakley, Broncho Billy and Sitting Bull.

Rock Climbing Experiences

An hour east of Gillette and Wright, Wyoming, Devils Tower beckons to rock climbing enthusiasts with its towering butte and parallel cracks. In Lander, feel the thrill of climbing Gannett Peak, Wyoming’s highest mountain, or take a trip to Vedauwoo Recreation Area, a climber's paradise in southeast Wyoming.

Astoria Hot Springs

Experience a morning meditation soak in the steaming hot springs at Astoria Hot Springs and Park in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Relax in man-made pools filled with natural thermal waters and take in the views of Astoria Park and the Snake River.

Rafting Adventures

Feel the rush of adrenaline on a guided whitewater rafting adventure in Wyoming. Challenge the Big Kahuna on the Snake River in Jackson, experience the exhilarating rapids on the Shoshone River in Cody, or paddle the rapids of the scenic Wind River Canyon.

Meeteetse Chocolatier

Indulge your sweet tooth at Meeteetse Chocolatier in charming Meeteetse, Wyoming. Known for its unique artisan chocolates, this local establishment serves up delicious custom truffles with flavors such as huckleberry, jalapeno and Wyoming whiskey.

Skijoring

Wyoming plays host to this unique winter sport at a variety of festivals, events and winter rodeos throughout the state. Watch as skiers glide over the snow as they’re pulled by galloping horses; some establishments even let you try it yourself with a trained professional.

King’s Saddlery and Museum

Shop like a cowboy or cowgirl at this iconic Western store in Sheridan where you can purchase saddles, bridles, ropes, reins and slickers. Be sure to explore the on-site museum featuring Western memorabilia from around the world.

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Indigenous American dancers performing at Frontier Days in Cheyenne, Wyoming
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Cheyenne, Wyoming

In Wyoming’s capital city, the Wild West meets modern delights, from ranch and railroad history to exciting cuisine and entertainment. Explore the High Plains, experience Indigenous American cultures or in July, attend Cheyenne Frontier Days – the world’s largest outdoor rodeo and Western celebration. Learn more

Photo: Judy Myers

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Relaxing in the warm waters of Saratoga’s Hobo Hot Springs in Carbon County, Wyoming.
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Carbon County, Wyoming

Experience outdoor adventures and Wild West culture in Carbon County, Wyoming. Dip your toes in the warm waters of Saratoga’s Hobo Hot Springs, watch a cattle round-up at a dude ranch or learn about the region’s diverse history at museums such as The Grand Encampment Museum. Learn more

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View of historic downtown Laramie, Wyoming
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Laramie, Wyoming

Nestled below the Medicine Bow National Forest in southeast Wyoming, Laramie is a college town known for its railroad roots and Western culture. Tour the Wyoming Territorial Prison, explore historic downtown and discover a wealth of hiking trails surrounding the city. Learn more

Photo: BHP Imaging

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Breathtaking views of the Bighorn Mountains in Sheridan, Wyoming
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Sheridan, Wyoming

Against the breathtaking backdrop of the Bighorn National Forest, Sheridan draws in visitors with its vivid mountainscapes, frontier history and contemporary Western vibe. Fish for trout at Sibley Lake, hike the rocky spine of Steamboat Point or sip a craft beer at Black Tooth Brewing Company. Learn more

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Clarks Fork Trail in Sunlight Basin near Cody Yellowstone, Wyoming
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Cody Yellowstone, Wyoming

Venture into the untamed beauty of Park County, Wyoming, and explore thousands of kilometers of lakes, streams and trails. Discover Wild West history in the town of Cody or explore the natural wonders of Yellowstone National Park. Learn more

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Man taking a selfie with bison in Campbell County, Wyoming
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Campbell County, Wyoming

Campbell County, Wyoming, is home to abundant wildlife, rugged scenery and Western history. Tour one of the world’s largest holistic bison ranches, see the USA’s first national monument, Devil’s Tower, or explore a coal mine in the Powder River Basin. Learn more

Montana

A channel boat tour at the Gates of the Mountains in Montana

Gates of the Mountains

Answer the call to adventure in Montana, home to sparkling lakes, snowcapped mountain peaks and the Gates of the Mountains Wilderness. Near Helena, this spot was encountered by adventurers Lewis and Clark and sits halfway between Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks.

A Tyrannosaurus rex display at Museum of The Rockies in Bozeman, Montana

Montana Dinosaur Trail

Among this trail’s 14 paleontology museums, discover the state’s rich geological history at the Museum of the Rockies in Bozeman, which displays the largest Tyrannosaurus rex skull ever found. In Choteau, tour the Old Trail Museum, where you can touch a dinosaur bone.

Entrance to the World Museum of Mining in Butte, Montana

World Museum of Mining

At this popular museum in Butte, experience Montana’s mining history by going 20 meters underground, climbing into a mining cage and exploring 66 exhibits at the Orphan Girl mine yard. Visit the mineral and rock room and re-created mining town.

Flathead Lake in northwest Montana

Flathead Lake

Located in the northwestern Montana, Flathead Lake – the largest freshwater lake in the Western USA – is a beautiful spot for sailing, swimming and fishing. Take a boat tour to Wild Horse Island to see wild horses, bighorn sheep, deer and bald eagles.

Visitors taking a tour of the Lewis and Clark Caverns in Jefferson County, Montana

Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park

Marvel at stalactites and stalagmites on a guided tour of these dramatic limestone caverns in Whitehall. You may see Western big-eared bats sleeping in dark crevices. Aboveground, enjoy hiking, biking, a nature tour of the park or camping under the stars.

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Bison pass through Roosevelt Arch at Yellowstone National Park’s north entrance
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Yellowstone Country Montana

Montana’s Yellowstone Country is a gateway to Yellowstone National Park and home to world-class winter recreation. Hit the slopes at three of Montana’s largest ski resorts, hop on trails for cross-country skiing and snowmobiling, and keep an eye out for wildlife such as bison, moose and wolves. Learn more

Photo: Mark Perry

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Blackfeet dancer wearing traditional regalia in East Glacier Park
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Western Montana’s Glacier Country

Home to verdant, glacial-carved terrain and Indigenous American history, Western Montana’s Glacier Country provides adventures on and off the beaten path. Trek peaks, valleys and backcountry trails with views of mountains, lakes and meadows; take a horseback ride through pristine country; and snowshoe in the winter. Learn more

Photo: Andy Austin

Experience a Red-rock Wonderland

Snow-capped red rocks in Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
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Utah’s Bryce Canyon Country

Considered the gateway to Bryce Canyon National Park, Bryce Canyon Country offers adventures for all seasons. Hike or horseback ride through red-rock vistas, see the striking hoodoos at sunset, experience unmatched stargazing, and in the winter, cross-country ski on snow-covered trails. Learn more
Car driving along Scenic Byway 12 in Bryce Canyon Country, Utah
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Utah’s Bryce Canyon Country

On a road trip through Bryce Canyon Country, drive through striking canyons and plateaus, visit state parks and national forests, make a pit stop at the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, or spend an afternoon fishing for rainbow trout at Panguitch Lake. Learn more

Natural Beauty and Hollywood History

East Zion National Park observation point at sunset in Kanab, Utah
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Kanab, Utah

Kanab is a historic, high-desert community known for its red-tinged mountains, clear skies and access to myriad national parks and monuments. See gorgeous views of distant mesas, hike and horseback ride through expansive backcountry, or take a guided off-road tour into the untamed wilderness. Learn more
Movie shoot at the Parry Lodge in Kanab, Utah
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Kanab, Utah

Since the 1930s, the beautiful backdrops of Kanab have lured Hollywood’s television and film industry with its dynamic and diverse landscapes. Visit the Little Hollywood Museum and explore the backlot where many original buildings and sets from Western films are on display. Learn more

Photo: Courtesy KCOT

Ancient History Meets Starry Skies

Viewing ancestral dwellings at Bears Ears National Monument in Utah
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Utah’s Canyon Country

Encompassing Canyonlands National Park and San Juan County, Utah’s Canyon Country is home to red rock landscapes and culture. See Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings and twin buttes at Bears Ears National Monument or experience spectacular stargazing at four International Dark Sky Parks. Learn more

Photo: Emily Sierra

North Dakota

The rugged and majestic landscape of Theodore Roosevelt National Park in North Dakota

Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Explore North Dakota’s expansive vistas in Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Join a ranger-led hike through the scenic badlands, home to multicolored rock formations, dramatic canyons and sweeping plains where bison, elk and prairie dogs roam.

A family viewing the colorful gardens at the International Peace Garden in North Dakota

International Peace Garden

The International Peace Garden in Dunseith is a celebration of peace, cooperation and friendship. Tour the Sunken Gardens, listen to the Carillon Bell Tower’s Westminster chimes or visit the Floral Clock – every year, it’s redesigned using up to 5,000 plants.

Outside the MHA Nation Interpretive Center in New Town, North Dakota

MHA Nation Interpretive Center

Learn about North Dakota’s Indigenous Mandan, Hidatsa and Arikara people at this multipurpose lakeside facility in New Town. Explore the museum and interactive kiosks that detail the living history of these tribes and stop by the gift shop for a souvenir.

Touring the Earthlodges at the On-A-Slant Indian Village in North Dakota
Jim Gallop

Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park

Unlock a gateway to the past at the oldest state park in Mandan, North Dakota. Hike, bike or horseback ride scenic trails with views of the Heart and Missouri River bottoms, explore reconstructed Earthlodges at the On-A-Slant Indian Village or tour Fort Abraham Lincoln.

Spending the evening at Roberts Alley in Downtown Fargo, North Dakota

Downtown Fargo

Featuring a growing culinary culture and thriving arts scene, North Dakota’s largest city offers visitors numerous attractions and activities in its bustling downtown. Sip a latte at Atomic Coffee, shop at unique boutiques, dine on authentic Mexican street food, tour a museum or explore an art gallery.

South Dakota

The rugged rocky landscape of South Dakota’s Badlands National Park

Badlands National Park

The otherworldly beauty of Badlands National Park attracts adventurers with its twisted peaks, winding canyons and sharp buttes. Hike the Notch Trail or drive the scenic Badlands Loop Road and spot bighorn sheep and other wildlife along the way.

Sailing on the reservoir at the Lewis & Clark Recreation Area in South Dakota

Lewis & Clark Trail

Follow in the footsteps of explorers Lewis and Clark as you journey across South Dakota. Check out historic sites such as the Native American Scenic Byway and Fort Randall Dam, or spend a day swimming, fishing and sailing in the reservoir at the Lewis & Clark Recreation Area.

Horse-drawn carriage tour in Historic Deadwood, South Dakota

Historic Deadwood

Visit the land of outlaws and heroes like Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane in Historic Deadwood. Nestled in the Black Hills, this gold rush mountain town transports visitors to the Wild West. See historic sites, tour museums and take a wagon ride through town.

The Crazy Horse Memorial in the Black Hills of South Dakota

Crazy Horse Memorial®

Crafted to honor Lakota leader Crazy Horse, this granite memorial is the largest in-progress sculpture in the world. Watch live crews as they sculpt the mountain, and explore the Avenue of the Chiefs to discover museums, a viewing veranda and a theater.

Wind Cave National Park in South Dakota

Wind Cave National Park

In the southern Black Hills of South Dakota, you’ll find Wind Cave National Park. Take a guided tour into the depths of one of the longest underground caves in the world as you listen for the whistling of escaping air. Above ground, keep a lookout for bison, elk and prairie dogs.

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North American Bison grazing at Custer State Park in South Dakota
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Custer State Park, South Dakota

A nature lover’s dream, South Dakota’s Custer State Park is home to more than 1,400 North American Bison. See these majestic animals grazing on the plains, paddle or kayak on Sylvan Lake, take a drive along the Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway or spend an afternoon rock climbing towering granite spires. Learn more

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Visitors at Mount Rushmore National Memorial in Black Hills, South Dakota
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Black Hills & Badlands, South Dakota

South Dakota’s Black Hills and Badlands are home to five national parks and monuments, including the iconic Mount Rushmore National Memorial and Badlands National Park. Drive along scenic byways, explore Old West towns and experience a wealth of Indigenous American culture. Learn more

Colorado

Pikes Peak Cog Railway in Colorado Springs, Colorado

Colorado Springs

Take a road trip through scenic Colorado, home to towering mountains, vibrant towns and breathtaking national parks. Fly into the gateway city of Denver and drive to Colorado Springs. Ascend to the top of Pikes Peak on the Pikes Peak Cog Railway and marvel at sandstone formations at Garden of the Gods Park.

Gondolas cross the Arkansas River near The Royal Gorge Bridge in Colorado
Eve Nagode

Royal Gorge Bridge & Park

Just outside of Colorado Springs, the Royal Gorge Bridge is the highest suspension bridge in the USA, nearly 300 meters above the Arkansas River. For incredible panoramic views, stroll across the bridge or take a thrilling gondola ride. Stop by the visitor’s center to enjoy the café and gift shop.

Snow-capped mountain peaks in Great Sand Dunes National Park
Steve Weaver

Great Sand Dunes National Park

Travel from Colorado Springs to Alamosa, home to the tallest sand dunes in the USA at Great Sand Dunes National Park. Rent specially made equipment outside of the park for a thrilling day of sandboarding or sand sledding before hitting the road to the small town of Pagosa Springs.

Scenic view of Pagosa Springs in Colorado

Pagosa Springs

Soak in the relaxing, warm waters of Colorado’s Pagosa Springs. Used by ancient Puebloan tribes for centuries, the mineral-rich waters offer replenishing benefits to soothe the body and soul. Check in at The Springs Resort & Spa, home to 23 spring pools on the banks of the San Juan River.

Cliff Palace in Colorado’s Mesa Verde National Park
Dan & Dora Avila

Mesa Verde National Park

After you’ve rejuvenated in the hot springs, drive to Mesa Verde National Park, where history is carved in stone at the incredible Cliff Palace. This Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwelling features over 150 rooms. Drive the Mesa Top Loop Road or hike trails to see ancient rock carvings.

Denver, Colorado

Street view of 16th Street Mall in Denver, Colorado
Rebecca Todd

Downtown Denver

Discover downtown Denver’s walkable thoroughfares, vast performing arts complex and world-class museums. Browse boutiques tucked into Victorian buildings in Larimer Square and dine at chef-driven restaurants or sidewalk cafés.

The Love this City mural in Denver, Colorado
So-Gnar Creative Division

Unique Neighborhoods

From the galleries and museums in the Golden Triangle Creative District to the craft breweries and street art of RiNo Art District, Denver is a celebration of the diverse cultures that create the fabric of the city.

A crowd gathers outside at the plaza in McGregor Square in Denver, Colorado

McGregor Square

Experience the latest in entertainment at Denver’s dynamic new outdoor plaza, McGregor Square. Encompassing an entire block of Lower Downtown Denver, this exciting complex features a boutique hotel and a diverse selection of restaurants and retail outlets.

Sunset over the Denver Art Museum in Colorado
Jeff Wells

Denver Art Museum

A magnet for art lovers, the recently renovated Denver Art Museum entices guests with reimagined galleries, dining options and outdoor spaces. Explore nine collections including Latin, Asian, Western and Indigenous art featuring more than 70,000 works from around the world.

A packed concert at Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre in Denver, Colorado

Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre

Hear artists from all musical genres like you’ve never heard them before. This legendary venue has near-perfect acoustics due to its natural design among towering red rock formations. Beyond concerts, explore the Performers Hall of Fame, try Yoga on the Rocks, hike nearby trails or grab a bite at Ship Rock Grille.

Idaho

Hiking in Idaho’s Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve
Chad Chase

Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve

Known for its wilderness areas, national forests, and state and local parks, Idaho is a magnet for outdoor enthusiasts. At Craters of the Moon, hike trails or take a scenic drive on the loop road to explore a dramatic landscape of ancient lava flows.

River flowing through Idaho’s Hells Canyon National Recreation Area

Hells Canyon National Recreation Area

Venture into North America’s deepest river gorge, where Old West history meets rugged beauty. Hike or horseback ride through the scenic wilderness, experience whitewater rafting or jet boat tours on the Snake River, and keep an eye out for grazing bighorn sheep.

A spectacular starry sky at Redfish Lake in Idaho

International Dark Sky Designations

Idaho is h