The northern entrance to Yellowstone National Park is only three hours southeast of Helena, so you'll probably want to visit this stunning park on your trip. Nowhere on earth contains more geysers and hot springs than Yellowstone’s nearly 3,500 square miles of gorgeous terrain. Old Faithful, the Queen's Laundry, Grand Prismatic Spring, and more await at the world's first national park. Nearly 1,000 miles of trails will take you everywhere from the most popular sights of Yellowstone to some of its remotest backcountry areas. If you visit during the winter, you'll have the opportunity to snowshoe, ski, snowmobile, and more.
In order to get to Grand Teton National Park from Yellowstone, all you have to do is get on John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway and drive 10 minutes south. Grand Teton is less famous than its northern counterpart, but it still contains its fair share of gorgeous wonders. This 310,000-acre stretch of the Teton Range and its valleys is home to Jackson Hole, part of the Snake River, and Grand Teton itself, which is 13,755 feet high. Hiking, biking, and driving are all popular here. Other common pastimes at this Wyoming national park include fishing, mountaineering, boating, and mountain climbing.
If you travel about three and a half hours northwest of Helena almost to the Canadian border, then you'll reach Glacier National Park. This wild, rugged park is, of course, home to plenty of glaciers. Some of the easier glaciers to view are Jackson Glacier, Salamander Glacier, and Sperry Glacier. Glaciers requiring more challenging treks include Grinnell Glacier, Sexton Glacier, and Piegan Glacier. This park contains more than glaciers, however. It is also home to plenty of excellent places to boat, fish, camp, and hike. Be sure to check out the fantastic Going-to-the-Sun Road, which is a two-hour drive through some of Glacier's stunning alpine terrain.
Missouri Headwaters State Park is just an hour and 15 minutes southeast of Helena. This park is situated near the merging of the Jefferson, Madison, and Gallatin rivers into the Missouri River, so there are numerous locations that are perfect for fishing, boating, kayaking, and canoeing. Four miles of trails provide ample places to hike, bike, and ride. One section of this Montana state park also provides an area to hunt deer, waterfowl, moose, and more. If you visit during the summer, you might be able to take in a program led by rangers or special guests.
Salmon Lake State Park is approximately an hour and a half northwest of Helena. People come to this park to spend time at Salmon Lake, which is full of trout, bass, pike, and other types of tasty freshwater fish. Swimming, canoeing, water skiing, and boating are also popular lake activities. The camping here is outstanding thanks to the park's gorgeous scenery and its ability to accommodate RVs as long as 45 feet. Bird watching and wildlife photography are also common here due to the diverse array of fauna that calls this park home. Hiking opportunities are limited here, but multiple paths provide convenient access to park amenities as well as nice places to stroll.
The small but fascinating ghost town of Bannack lives on in the form of Bannack State Park, which is two and a half hours southwest of Helena. In 1862, gold was discovered in the area, causing thousands of people to flock to the town in hopes of striking it rich. Panning and dredging in Grasshopper Creek were popular until World War II, which led to the closure of the mine and the eventual abandonment of the town. The modern result is a well-preserved ghost town featuring 60 buildings from days gone by. If you visit at the right time, you’ll be able to pan for gold, take a ghost walk, or experience a historical reenactment of life in a Wild West mining town.
Are there any additional fees or charges associated with renting a pet-friendly RV in Helena, MT, and what kind of pet policies do I need to be aware of it?
The fees and charges associated with renting a pet-friendly RV vary by individual listings and are determined by the RV owner. Be sure to check the specific listing for details on any additional fees or deposits required for pets. Additionally, the pet policies for each rental will also vary and are at the discretion of the RV owner. Be sure to review the listing description or ask the owner for more information on their pet policies before booking.
How do I properly prepare my pet for traveling in an RV rental, and what kind of equipment or supplies do I need to bring for them?
To properly prepare your pet for RV travel, bring along their favorite bed, food and water bowls, food, and any medications they may need. Additionally, bring your pet's leash, waste bags, and any toys or treats they may enjoy. It's also a good idea to acclimate your pet to the RV before your trip by introducing them to the space gradually if possible.
Can I bring multiple pets in a pet-friendly RV rental, and are there any size or weight restrictions for my pets?
The number and type of pets allowed will vary depending on the RV owner's policies. Be sure to check the listing details for any restrictions on pet size or weight, as well as the number of pets allowed per rental.
Are any specific RV parks or campgrounds in Helena, MT particularly well-suited for pets, and what amenities do they offer?
Some RV parks and campgrounds are more pet-friendly than others, so be sure to research your destination beforehand. Look for parks that offer amenities such as pet-friendly trails or dog parks. Additionally, some parks may have specific pet policies or restrictions, so be sure to check before making a reservation.
How do I properly clean and sanitize a pet-friendly RV rental before and after my rental period, particularly regarding pet hair and odors?
Renters should vacuum and sweep thoroughly and wipe down all surfaces with pet-safe cleaning products. Additionally, be sure to dispose of any pet waste in designated trash areas.
What safety considerations must I be aware of when traveling with pets in an RV rental, particularly regarding hot or cold weather conditions?
Pet owners should be aware of hot and cold weather conditions when traveling in an RV with pets. Keep pets hydrated and ensure the RV is properly ventilated and climate-controlled. Additionally, never leave pets alone in a hot or cold RV and be sure to monitor their behavior for signs of distress.
Can I bring my pet supplies and equipment to use with a pet-friendly RV rental, such as a portable pet fence or outdoor playpen?
Yes, renters can bring their own pet supplies and equipment to use with a pet-friendly RV rental, such as a portable pet fence or outdoor playpen. However, be sure to check with the RV owner before bringing any large or bulky items to ensure they can be accommodated.
How do I properly secure and restrain my pet during travel in a pet-friendly RV rental, and what kind of safety equipment or devices do I need to use?
Pets should always be properly secured and restrained during travel in an RV rental. This can include using a pet carrier, seat belt harness, or pet barrier. Ensure that all safety equipment or devices are properly installed and used according to manufacturer instructions.
Can I leave my pet unattended in a pet-friendly RV rental, and if so, are there any specific guidelines or restrictions I need to follow?
Pets should not be left unattended in an RV rental, as it can be dangerous for them and may result in damage to the rental. If it is necessary to leave your pet briefly, ensure that they are properly secured and that the RV is climate-controlled and ventilated.
Can I bring my pet to any activities or attractions in Helena, MT during my RV rental trip, and what kind of pet policies or restrictions may be in place for these locations?
Pet policies and restrictions for activities and attractions in Helena, MT will vary by location, so be sure to research beforehand. Some locations may not allow pets at all, while others may have specific areas or guidelines for pet access. Always check with the location beforehand to ensure pets are allowed and to understand any restrictions or guidelines in place.