Discover the Ultimate Mountain West Summer Activities

Grand Teton National Park | Mick Kirchman

The Mountain West offers numerous enjoyable activities. Discover these ultimate Mountain West summer activities for an unforgettable experience. 

Tube Along the Provo River

The Provo River begins in the Uinta Mountains and flows downward to the city of Provo. Nestled amid picturesque landscapes, many Utah residents visit this river for a quintessential activity: tubing. Reclining in a tube and riding down this spectacular river is a one-of-a-kind experience and a great way to beat the Utah summer heat. Several local tour companies offer tube rentals and guides to maximize your enjoyment. It is best to go in the late summer, when the water is warmest. 

Provo River | Nicole Linnarz

Explore Montana’s National Parks

Montana is home to some of the country’s most picturesque national parks. Glacier National Park is a highlight, with more than 700 miles of hiking trails, deep blue lakes, and incredible wildlife. 

Glacier National Park | Mick Kirchman

Visit Jackson Hole

Nestled amid Wyoming’s renowned mountain ranges, Jackson Hole is a captivating valley widely regarded as one of the nation’s premier destinations for outdoor recreation. Although this area may be busiest in the winter as a skiing hotspot, during the summer, it is a can’t-miss location for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and an abundance of summer adventures. Seasoned outdoor enthusiasts can trek to the peak of one of the mountains in the Teton Range. For an adrenaline-inducing experience, venture to the area’s rushing rivers and embrace the thrill of whitewater rafting. 

Grand Teton National Park | Toan Chu

Experience Coeur d’Alene in the Summer

Coeur d’Alene is a popular summer destination in Idaho, attributed to the allure of its namesake lake. Coeur d’Alene Lake is a hub for various water sports, including wakeboarding, waterskiing, jet skiing, fishing, and much more. For those who prefer to stay out of the water, the surrounding Coeur d’Alene National Forest is a spectacular area for hiking and biking. 

Coeur d’Alene Lake | Hudson Brown

Enjoy the Mountain West’s Summer Events

The Mountain West beckons with many engaging activities for visitors throughout the summer. Whether you’re drawn to art, music, food, or entertainment, the region hosts an array of vibrant festivals, fairs, and special events that cater to your interests all summer long. Below is a sample of some of the Mountain West’s numerous summer events: 

Woodchoppers Jamboree & Rodeo: A can’t-miss occasion in Wyoming with competitions, music, and a rodeo

Big Sky Country State Fair: This iconic summer experience in Montana has amusement park rides, fair food, and live performers. 

Melaleuca Freedom Celebration: This Independence Day celebration features the largest fireworks display west of the Mississippi River. 

UVAA Summer Opera Festival: An excellent showcase of Utah’s incredible performers