Rocky Mountains Holidays

Rocky Mountains

The backbone of America, the Rocky Mountains form the Continental Divide, separating the western states from the East Coast.

A heartland of Native American culture, the rugged landscapes of the Rockies and wide open prairies attracted trappers, adventurers and explorers. Today Denver, cosmopolitan capital of Colorado, is the hub for the region and the base for exploring the high Rocky Mountain peaks and alpine towns. From the ‘Mile High City’ head north through the bison herds of the Great Plains to the wilds of under-populated Wyoming and Montana. These two states offer some of the finest wilderness experiences in North America. Look for grizzly bears in Glacier National Park, marvel at the jagged peaks of scenic Grand Teton or experience the extraordinary geology and wildlife of Yellowstone National Park. Unsurprisingly, this is cowboy country and visitors can also experience true Rocky Mountain outdoor life with a stay in one of the region’s many excellent ranches.

Holiday Ideas for the Rocky Mountains

Geyser in Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

17 DAYS

Yellowstone and National Parks of Western USA

from £3350 - £4050
per person

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When to visit the Rocky Mountains

The best time to visit the Rockies is generally between June and September. Due to the region’s high altitude, this time of year is often best time to travel to the Rockies as most of the winter snow has disappeared and the temperatures start to gently rise. As spring finishes and summer starts, wildflowers bloom, wildlife starts to emerge from hibernation, and hiking trails start to open. June through to August often sees long sunny days and minimal rain, perfect for outdoor pursuits, whereas September sees the turn of season and the mountains and forests become decorated in fiery orange and red foliage. Colorado is home to some world-class ski resorts such as Aspen and Vail. Generally, the best time for skiing in the Rocky Mountains is between December and February when the base depth of the snow it at its deepest and there is still plenty of powder pouring in.

JAN

FEB

MAR

APR

MAY

JUN

JUL

AUG

SEP

OCT

NOV

DEC

BEST TIME

GOOD TIME

LOW SEASON

OFF SEASON

This is a general overview suggesting when to travel in the country. Please note that this may not directly apply to any specific itinerary or region.

What to do in the Rocky Mountains

Soaring mountains, bison-grazed grasslands, sapphire lakes and cowboy culture; the Rockies region conjures up the perfect image of how America was centuries ago. It is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and thrill seekers; hike through the alpine scenery of Glacier National Park, ski the snowy slopes of Aspen, horse ride through mountain-framed meadows or go fly-fishing in untouched rivers. The Rocky Mountains in the US are home to some of the country’s most iconic national parks including Yellowstone, America’s oldest park that boasts erupting geysers and rainbow pools; Grand Teton which offers excellent wildlife viewing including bison, moose and elk; and Rocky Mountain National Park which is home to alpine tundra, crystal-clear rivers and breathtaking mountainous scenery. Most of the region’s national parks offer hiking and biking trails as well as fishing, canyoning and rafting. The Rockies is also a fabulous place for a ranch holiday – saddle up and experience quintessential cowboy life as you enjoy horseback riding and evenings sat around the campfire. Styles of ranch vary from luxurious countryside retreats to more down-to-earth working ranches. A Ranch holiday can also be taken as a one-off trip or incorporated into a longer Rocky Mountain tour.

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