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.
If I want to rent a travel trailer RV in Helena, MT, how can I tell if my vehicle can tow the trailer?
To determine if your vehicle can tow a travel trailer RV, you will need to check its towing capacity. This information can usually be found in the owner's manual or by contacting the vehicle manufacturer. It's essential to ensure that your vehicle's towing capacity meets or exceeds the weight of the travel trailer you intend to rent.
Are there any special driving considerations or techniques I should know when towing a travel trailer RV rental in Helena, MT?
When towing a travel trailer RV rental, it's crucial to be aware of its increased length and weight. Take wider turns, allow for extra braking distance, and maintain a safe and steady speed. Be cautious when changing lanes, as the trailer may affect your vehicle's stability. Familiarize yourself with local traffic laws and any specific regulations regarding towing trailers in your area.
What kind of amenities can I expect in a travel trailer RV rental, and how do they compare to other towable RV rentals in Helena, MT?
Travel trailer RV rentals typically offer a variety of amenities to ensure a comfortable experience. These can include a fully equipped kitchen with a refrigerator, stove, microwave, and sink. Bathroom facilities such as a toilet and shower are also common. Other amenities may include air conditioning, heating, cozy sleeping areas, dining spaces, and entertainment options. Comparatively, travel trailers often provide ample space and amenities when compared to other towable RV rentals.
Do I bring my bedding and linens to use in the travel trailer RV rental, and what kind of storage options are available for these items?
Be sure to check the RV listing to find if bedding is included with the rental. Not all owners provide these items, so it's advisable to check with them beforehand. As for storage options, travel trailers offer various compartments and cabinets where you can neatly store your belongings throughout your rental period.
What kind of maintenance or upkeep do I need to perform on the exterior and interior of a travel trailer RV rental during my rental period?
During your rental period, you are not expected to perform maintenance. You should however keep the RV clean and tidy up after use. Keep the exterior free from dirt and debris and clean up spills or messes promptly.
Are there any limitations on where I can park or store a travel trailer RV rental in Helena, MT, such as zoning laws or homeowners' association regulations?
Parking or storing a travel trailer RV rental may be subject to local regulations, such as zoning laws or homeowners' association rules. It's important to research and understand any limitations or restrictions that may apply in your specific area. This will help you find suitable parking or storage options for the duration of your rental.
Can I use a generator to power the travel trailer RV's electrical systems, or must I connect to a power source at a campground or RV park?
Travel trailer RV rentals generally have electrical systems that can be powered by either a generator or by connecting to a power source at a campground or RV park. Some rentals may include a generator, while others may require you to provide your own. It's important to discuss this with the RVshare owner to determine the specifics for your rental.
How do I properly level and stabilize a travel trailer RV rental at my campsite or RV park, and what equipment or tools do I need?
Discuss any leveling and stabilizing needs with the owner ahead of your trip. Sharing the details of where you plan to camp will allow them to provide the best guidance.
Are any unique features or amenities available in travel trailer RV rentals that may not be found in other RVs in Helena, MT?
Travel trailer RV rentals often come with a range of unique features and amenities. Some trailers may offer slide-out sections that expand the living space when parked. You can expect amenities such as outdoor awnings, entertainment systems, outdoor kitchens, and additional storage compartments. These features enhance the overall comfort and convenience of your travel trailer rental experience.