Because of the popularity of the Kevin Costner miniseries “Yellowstone,” the state of Montana is seeing an economic boom, both in tourism and real estate, as people flock to explore the natural beauty of the state. But with Montana’s increasing popularity, traveling there may not be ideal, especially if you want to avoid crowds. Here are some other destinations that offer similar sights and activities! GET OUT AND EXPLORE 3 VACATION DESTINATIONS SIMILAR TO MONTANA
In 1904, the year of America’s first Olympics, the men’s marathon was a bizarre spectacle to behold. In fact, it was likely the most jaw-dropping event ever in the history of the Olympic Games. On that hot, sweltering summer day in St. Louis, MO, only 14 of the 32 Olympic competitors crossed the finish line on what was deemed the most difficult course anyone was ever asked to undertake. Thomas Hicks, the American who actually came in first, received the slowest time of all of the Olympic marathons since 1896. But why was this one so tough? With temperatures of roughly 104 degrees F and 90% humidity, a rigorous 24.85-mile course with seven hills was a bit much for competitors. Not to mention, support cars were churning up dust, leaving it behind for the runners to inhale, and they only had two water stations available before the halfway mark — and none in the second half! Even seasoned runners were not up to this crazy course! Three hours and 13 minutes after the marathon began, Fred Lorz, who had ridden a third of the course in a car, crossed the finish line. He was about to be adorned with a floral wreath when he confessed he had gotten so tired that he accepted a ride from one of the cars along the way, so he was disqualified. Thomas Hicks, the true winner, was struggling with just 7 more miles to go. His fans on the sidelines provided him with a secret energy booster mix — a concoction containing strychnine (rat poison), brandy, and egg whites. By the time he crossed the finish line, he was hallucinating. And the fourth-place winner from Cuba wore dress pants and shoes for the entire race (because he lost his money gambling in New Orleans on his way to St. Louis and arrived after hitchhiking with nothing but the clothes on his back!). This 1904 Olympic marathon went down in history as the most bizarre and wildly entertaining race. Luckily, but surprisingly, nobody died! It’s Unbelievably True! THE CRAZIEST OLYMPIC MARATHON OF 1904
Stanley, Idaho If the mountains are calling your name, then Stanley, Idaho, is the place to go! About three hours northeast of Boise, this gem has three different mountain ranges:
the Sawtooth, Lost River, and White Cloud. This trifecta is home to whitewater rafting, hiking, sightseeing, rock climbing, mountain biking, and exploring. While there’s tons to see and experience during the day, the beauty doesn’t stop at night. As Stanley is situated in the Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve, you’re able to see so much more in the night sky, such as the Milky Way, meteors, and even planets! Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming In Grand Teton National Park, you’ll find many sights and wildlife similar to those seen on screen in “Yellowstone.” The towering craggy peaks and luscious landscape do not disappoint, and sometimes there is no sign of human development for miles. It’s a truly remote and beautiful place to visit and explore. You are sure to encounter some amazing wildlife while hiking or camping — the park is home to more than 60 species of mammals and 300 species of birds. Bighorn National Forest, Wyoming Specifically known for being remote, Bighorn National Forest is located in north-central Wyoming and offers over 192,000 acres of open wilderness and 1,200 miles of hiking trails to venture out on. The forest contains many meadows and grasslands surrounded by large, dancing mountains and rolling hills. The best part is that there are many different ways to explore Bighorn National Forest. Fishing, camping, mountain biking, rock climbing, camping, hunting, and horseback riding are just a few of the many ways to experience Wyoming’s beauty. Are you ready to get out and explore these different areas of our nation’s beauty? Check some of these great destinations off your bucket list!
2
CapitalAdvisoryGrp.com
Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator