When you visit the Mountain West you will find vast, unspoiled wilderness areas intermixed with cities and small towns. Actually, you will likely see more wildlife than people during your travels.

Both large and diverse, the Mountain West is the only USA area with no coast. However, high mountains and wide-open plains along with endless outdoor activities make the west an extraordinary place to explore.

This region is rich in cultural heritage. In addition to the ranches with real-life cowboys, you will find mining ghost towns, Indian cliff dwellings, and historic pioneer settlements. Visit the Mountain West and enjoy the diversity.

AREA:  517,416 sq. miles / 0 coastal miles       POPULATION: 12,399,296

TERRAIN: The Continental Divide runs through the region. Soaring mountain peaks, often snow-capped, are bounded to the east by low mountains and prairies. Included in the area are forests, wilderness, and notable national parks.

CLIMATE: Plan for cold winters and hot summers when you visit the Mountain West. However, low humidity helps make temperature extremes more enjoyable during outdoor activities. Higher regions receive much more snowfall than lower elevations. Both have little to no rainfall.