Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
side, and potable water is not always available. When you make your reservation,
you'll get a list of what to bring as well as detailed directions.
Some of the more interesting rentals are historic fire lookouts, perched high atop
a mountain with commanding views of the surrounding peaks. Sitting inside these
lookouts, one can imagine backcountry rangers gazing out over the land trying to
spot forest fires. These lookouts are especially beautiful at night, when you're out
among the stars feeling like you're on top of the world. It's a must-do experience for
those who want to get off the beaten path—and one you'll remember for a lifetime.
Much of the public land in Montana and Wyoming's mountainous areas is administered by
the U.S. Forest Service (
www.fs.fed.us
), including 17 million acres in Montana and 9.2 mil-
lion acres in Wyoming. The Forest Service is a branch of the United States Department of
Agriculture (USDA) and manages much of the nation's forest and rangelands. All national
forests contain developed hiking and biking trails, and in the winter the roads and trails can
often be used for cross-country skiing. Forest Service ranger stations are good places to ob-
tain information on camping and recreation, while most sporting goods stores sell excellent
maps that pertain to specific areas.
Beartooth Publishing
(
www.beartoothpublishing.com
)
offers a popular series of waterproof maps that highlight national forest roads, trails, camp-
grounds, picnic areas, and fishing access sites for specific regions in Montana and Wyom-
ing. For reference, Montana is located in Region 1 (Northern Region) and Wyoming is loc-
ated in Region 2 (Rocky Mountain Region) and Region 4 (Intermountain Region). You'll
notice signs along the highways that indicate when you enter and leave a particular national
forest.
Forest Service campgrounds are widespread in Montana and Wyoming and offer some
of the finest camping available. Fees range free-$16, depending on the type of site and the
amenities offered. Most average $14. Free sites are often very remote and offer limited ser-
vices. The Forest Service also rents some rustic cabins and lookouts for $20-50 per night.
These can be a great way to enjoy the outdoors, as most are in prime locations. These
cabins, as well as most campgrounds, can be reserved in advance (with additional fees) at
