BY Sarmind SafiOct 26, 2023

Montana is home to some of the most stunning natural beauty in the US. This western state has incredible, dramatic terrain. From the Rocky Mountain range to cold lakes, alpine forests, and vast swaths of wilderness, Montana is a state of diverse terrain and unique culture. With a population estimated at only 1.1 million in 2022, Montana is among the least-populated states in the U.S.! At an elevation of 12,807 feet, Granite Peak is the highest point in the Beartooth Mountains, the highest point in Montana, and the tenth-highest point in the United States. Montana leads the country in the production of organic wheat, flax, lentils, and dry peas.  In 1971, the Transportation Department made a video called “Montana, Land of the Big Sky.” This led to its unofficial nickname, “Big Sky State.” There are eight (8) National Parks in Montana that generate $618.9 million in tourism each year from about 3.6 million visitors. Its two most popular National Parks are Glacier National Park and Yellowstone National Park. In Montana, two-fifths of the state is in the Rocky Mountain region. It also covers states including Colorado, Idaho, Nevada, Utah, and Wyoming. The name “Montana” comes from a Spanish word. The Spanish “montaña,” roughly translates to “mountainous.” Montana’s official state flower, Lewisia redivivia, also known as bitterroot, is a perennial plant that grows at elevations from 2,500 to 10,000 feet. These plants produce pink, rose, and even white-colored flowers, which reach about 2 inches across. Montana’s state tree is the Ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa). The Ponderosa pine can live for hundreds of years, growing tall into the sky as large and beautiful evergreen trees. The Roe River in Great Falls, Montana, has the notable distinction of being the world’s shortest river. This super-short river flows only 200 feet, reaching between Giant Springs and the Missouri River. Gemstone mining in Montana has long had an important place in the state’s economy. Montana’s two state gemstones are agate and sapphire. Since 1969, these two gemstones have shared the unique recognition of being the official state gemstones. Read Also: Maldives And Bora Bora Among Top 10 Tourists Spots In The World Siam Paragon Mass Shooting Propels Thailand’s Proposed 300 Baht Tourism Fee To Get Fast-Tracked A Newly Launched Tool ‘Skyscanner’ Inspires Travelers To Book Travel Destinations With Ease And Confidence