While we wait for winter’s full effects to appear throughout Montana, it’s a perfect time to slow down and share our thanks to all our clients who trusted our real estate advice over the years. For that, we are forever grateful.
We are also thankful for the endless benefits that come with living a full life in the Treasure State. During this seasonal transition, it also provides the ideal time to share the things we are thankful for in Montana.
From our home to yours, the Hollinger family welcomes every opportunity to help you enjoy all the treasures that we have enjoyed while raising generations of our own family under the Big Sky.
May you find your own treasures to add to this list.
Wide Open Spaces
Only three states, California, Texas and Alaska, are larger than Montana with only two of those claiming a lower population density than ours. With barely one million people sharing our expansive state, it’s never hard to find your own space no matter where you roam within our 147,404 square miles.
The contrast of our geographical features is unlike any other in America. Two-fifths of the western side fall with the Rocky Mountains – a land of steep mountains, lush valleys and healthy green forests; the balance of the state lies within the Great Plains – offering classic views of expansive rangelands and grain fields overflowing with thousands of herds of cattle.
A bit of Montana trivia notes … when you do the math, there are more cattle in Montana than residents!
Wildlife
Along with the cattle, Montana is a wildlife lover’s dream. Montana has the largest variety of wild mammals found in North America, including the largest population of Grizzly bears (the state animal) in the lower 48.
Thanks to those wide-open spaces, our crystal-clear lakes and rugged terrain provide ideal settings for our abundant list of wildlife. As such, Montana is a paradise for outdoor adventurers who love to hunt, fish and follow the phenomenon of our spring and fall avian activity.
National Parks
Throughout Big Sky Country we are honored to be the home of many national parks in Montana that await you and yours to discover. With their jaw-dropping views, geothermal geysers, and brilliantly colored glacier lakes and streams, it’s no wonder why our great state is referred to as “The Last Best Place!”
If your plans include a trip this year, now is the time to secure your reservation as many of the parks limit the number of vehicles to ensure your experience is one that you will treasure for the rest of your life.
No matter where your travels may take you, we encourage you to unplug and plug into the wonders of Montana.
Cowboy Culture
Although the population centers of Montana are among the fastest growing in the country, much of the state remains filled with ranches and farmland. Cowboys embody the values of the “Old West”: they are self-sufficient, masculine, and happiest under the stars by a campfire. Today, there are still cowboys working on ranches, as well as those who participate in rodeos. Make your plans now to attend one or more of the annual rodeos in Montana, which serve as a cultural touchstone of the state.
Berries and Cherries
If you have yet to experience the blossoms of Montana’s cherry orchards in the spring, put this on your bucket list. Along the shoreline of Flathead Lake in Northwest Montana is one of the largest collections of cherry orchards in the United States. Thanks to particular weather patterns found nowhere else in the state, cherries grow well on the shores of the lake.
They blossom in perfect time for summertime treats, as do our famous Huckleberries that Montana is known for throughout the world. These small and oh-so-potent purple delicacies are native to the mountainous regions of Montana and ripen in mid-summer. They are a bit pricey due to the amount it takes to bake a mouth-watering pie, and sometimes quite a challenge to pick, i.e. be aware of the bears when picking a bushel to take home. If you choose not to compete with the bears, the berries are worth every penny!
Native American Heritage and Traditions
It’s important to acknowledge the rich Native American history and vibrant traditions in our region. Throughout the year, the tribes contribute significantly to our arts and culture, enhancing the tapestry of our land, which is characterized by rugged beauty and a deep historical legacy. Over time, Montana has witnessed the lives and cultures of numerous tribes, each with their own unique stories and traditions that continue to enrich our communities.
Family-Friendly Adventure
Lucky for locals and visitors alike, Montana is a family-filled playground, year-round. So much so that we have dedicated many of our Blogs to the lifestyle that awaits you and yours throughout our colorful seasons. Here are highlights of the adventures that we’re thankful for … every year!
Charming Small-town Ski Resorts
Wet and Wild Whitewater Adventures
And our Home-made Brews and Root Beer, too!
In closing, we hope you enjoyed our top list of things to be thankful for in Montana. As you can see, Montana is a gem of the West, full of adventure, culture, history, and endless adventure and natural beauty. When the time comes to make your move to Montana, our Hollinger Real Estate team is ready to find your own wide-open space on a lakefront estate, in a charming mountain community or home on the range.
Have a safe and memorable Thanksgiving ~ from the Hollinger family.
