The world is a big place. Every corner, every region offers something different for visitors and residents alike. The only problem is just how big the world is. The sheer size of the U.S. alone means there are hundreds of different places to visit. How does one pick just one place to visit?
The decision making process, when it comes to travel, can be daunting. There are so many variables, and it can get a little overwhelming. The good news is there is one place that should top any travel list. And it’s a small town out west.
If you have a free week, and you’re ready for a little adventure and wide open spaces, then head to Gardiner. Gardiner is a small town in Montana. It’s main draw? It’s the north entrance to Yellowstone National Park, and it has an enormous elk population.
But that’s not all. This small town has many great gems to offer visitors. On top of those attractions, there are a few travel tips to help you prepare for that first visit out to Gardiner, Montana – including the Montana auto insurance you should consider.
Gardiner, Montana
Gardiner is a small unincorporated community in Montana just north of the Wyoming border. This small town is absolutely surrounded by the best nature has to offer. There are national forests, national parks, and the soaring peaks of the Rocky Mountains.
Gardiner is also a four season spot. This means there are activities available during every season of the year. If you visit Gardiner in the summer, you’re only experiencing a small percentage of what this amazing place has to offer.
Attractions and Hot Spots
Gardiner is a place bursting with adventure and fun, so what attractions and spots should you consider first?
#1 – Yellowstone National Park
The biggest attraction is, of course, Yellowstone National Park. This park, being one of the largest national parks in the United States, has multiple entrances. And each entrance is home to different natural formations and views.
The north entrance is not different. This entrance, located in the heart of Gardiner, is almost iconic. To get into the park, you drive through the Roosevelt Arch, a beautiful piece of architectural work with a cornerstone laid by Theodore Roosevelt himself.
Just inside the park, you’ll find Mammoth Hot Springs. This elaborate formation of hot springs can only be found here at the north entrance of the park in Gardiner. Even a few minutes into the park and the choice to start in Gardiner is already paying off.
Yellowstone National Park tops the list of the most amazing national parks in America and for good reason. But if you’re making the trip to experience the park, then start the trip off right. Enter the park at the most well-known and, arguably, most beautiful entrance right inside Gardiner, Montana.
#2 – Wildlife
All national parks offer the opportunity to see wildlife up close and in their natural habitat. But Gardiner is a unique wildlife experience unto itself. And you don’t even have to get into the park to see those furry creatures.
Gardiner has an enormous elk population. In fact, these large antlered creatures wander freely around town. Just stopping at the gas station for a fill up before a day in the park, you’ll see a handful of elk marching down the street.
#3 – The Gardiner River
The Gardiner River, a tributary of the Yellowstone River, runs right through the middle of Gardiner. This amazing river not only offers amazing views, but it’s a huge draw for wildlife and outdoor activities.
If you’re a fisherman, or want to give it a try in a gorgeous area, then the Gardiner River is the perfect place. Another big plus? If you get hungry while fishing, you can walk a few blocks to local eateries and hop back to the river without missing too much fishing.
#4 – Small Town Vibes
Gardiner, Montana is, at its heart, a small town. This means the pace is slow and the businesses are small and locally owned. You can and do get the one-of-a-kind experience at every turn. If you’re looking for that small town vibe, then Gardiner is the place to be.
#5 – Outdoor Activities
Another great draw for Gardiner is the sheer number of outdoor activities. Of course, the outdoors is an important piece of the Gardiner experience, with Yellowstone National Park so close. But there are dozens of other outdoor activities for just about any level of adventurer.
In and around the Gardiner area, you can find activities that include zip lining, horseback riding, hiking, fishing, even white water rafting. Yes, a lot of these activities are best enjoyed in the warmer months, but if you’re looking for a summer road trip, then why wouldn’t you consider Gardiner, Montana?
Travel Tips
The activities and entertainment options are only a small piece of the travel puzzle. If you’re wanting to plan a trip to Gardiner, Montana, then it’s important to consider these travel tips.
Check the Weather
Perhaps the most important piece of travel advice is to check the weather. And check it often. Weather can change at a moment’s notice in higher elevations, so you’ll want to be well prepared.
Not only will weather play a huge part in what you’re packing, it will also play a big part in your day to day decisions. So check the weather as you’re packing, and check it each day before setting out to experience everything Gardiner has to offer.
Call Ahead for Activities
Gardiner is a well-known spot for people visiting Yellowstone, so activities can fill up quickly. If you’re hoping to do something specific with your time in Gardiner, then make sure you plan ahead. Make a call or reserve a spot online.
Prepare for Contact with Wildlife
Not only is wildlife contact possible while exploring the park, it’s also possible while walking around in town. Because of this, you’ll want to make sure you’re prepared to interact safely and appropriately with wildlife.
No, it’s never a good idea to seek out close encounters with wildlife but preparing for such interactions is the best way to stay safe and out of trouble.
Car Insurance and Driving
Even if you aren’t road tripping all the way to Gardiner, Montana, driving will still be a big part of your time there. So you’ll want to be as prepared as possible – including being up-to-date on your car insurance coverage.
Before you start your trip, or arrive in Gardiner, take the time to explore your car insurance coverage. Don’t forget to find out what’s required while driving in Montana, too.
Gardiner, Montana is a very unique place. You can experience the slow and connected pace of a small town while experiencing the adventures and beauty of a wild, natural place. So, as you start planning your next trip, make sure to add Gardiner, Montana to your list.
