USA: Say howdy, Montana

Fly-fishing in a river in Montana. Photo / Thinkstock

Five great outdoor adventures to try in this northern US state.

Go fish

Montana is a fantastic area for fly-fishing. And if you enjoyed those sensational landscape scenes in the film A River Runs Through It, you really should think about heading to the areas around Missoula, which have the state's best angling streams. The best year-round spot is Rock Creek, about 32km east of Missoula and designated a blue-ribbon trout stream.

Cycle the great outdoors

This is the land of plenty for those who like to be outside and moving. And in Montana the two-wheel facilities are wonderful. You can choose from cycle ways catering for day and half-day bike trips for riders of all levels and family-friendly, single track mountain bike tracks with amazing scenery, or cross-country bike tours.

Pitch a tent

The camping sites in the national forests and state parks are well serviced with conveniences such as picnic tables, bathrooms and water pumps. You can plan ahead or just decide on the day to enjoy the big outdoors. If you plan on staying in Yellowstone or Glacier National Park, you need to stay in a designated site or obtain a back country permit from a ranger station.

Howdy cowboy

Don your Stetson and swagger up to one of Montana's working ranches or dude ranches, some of which allow you to experience life as a cowboy - think cattle drives, camp fires, round-ups and ranch work. Or you can opt for a ranch holiday, which is more upmarket but still lets you get dirt on your jeans.

Rocks of all ages

Not satisfied with looking at all those mountains from a distance? For the more adventurous there are year-round guided options to climb rocks and waterfalls. If you prefer to have a look at the scenery from the ground, this Big Sky Country has much to offer walkers and hikers.

Further information: See visitmt.com and DiscoverAmerica.com for more on visiting Montana.