Montana: Big Sky Country

Montana, the fourth-largest state, is known as "Big Sky Country" for expansive vistas, mountains, and wide-open spaces. The state features Rocky Mountains in the west and Great Plains in the east, with abundant wildlife and outdoor recreation.

Glacier National Park showcases dramatic mountain scenery with glacial lakes and alpine meadows. Yellowstone National Park's north entrance is in Montana. The state has more cattle than people. Helena is the capital. Butte has mining heritage with Berkeley Pit (massive former copper mine). Little Bighorn Battlefield marks Custer's defeat. Montana has vast wilderness and working ranches.

Montana's economy includes agriculture (wheat, cattle), mining, tourism, and energy. The state values independence and gun rights ("Montana Freemen" epitomized antigovernment sentiment). Montana attracts wealthy outsiders buying ranches, creating tensions with working communities. Despite development pressures, Montana maintains frontier character. Fly fishing (Norman Maclean's "A River Runs Through It") is legendary. The state's natural beauty and space attract those seeking escape.