Hi, everyone! I'm new to this world and super excited to learn more about it. My experience in camping and hiking has been mostly on campgrounds with a car parked by the tent or just a short walk away. I had went on one, somewhat remote, backpacking trip and learned how to wash cooking utensils using pine needles, which was cool haha. In the past few years my boyfriend and I have went camping every summer and stayed on the east coast (USA), but this summer we are heading out to Montana, Wyoming, and Idaho and we are SOOOO excited for it! I have a feeling the preparation and experience of a lighter pack will leave us wanting to experience a much more backcountry style of camping in the near future.

Anyway, in Montana we are staying in Devils Creek campground (Essex) and will be making day trips up to Glacier, Whitefish, and hopefully Kootenai. In Wyoming we're staying at Teton Canyon and in Idaho we'll be staying at City of Rocks. Does anyone have any good recommendations of other places or things to do/explore in those areas? Hiking trails, kayaking, fishing, etc. are all welcomed suggestions. Looking forward to "meeting" you all and hearing what you have to say!

Welcome! Sounds like you’re going to have a great summer - we’ve got some folks who will probably respond with good information about the places you plan to hike.

And yes, you probably will become a gear head (as you said in your profile - thanks for filling that out.)

I’ve only hiked and camped in the eastern U.S., so I can only envy your planned trip. Have a great time.

Welcome!

The only area you mention with which I'm familiar is the Tetons, and that was a long time ago. My favorite hike was Death Canyon (which, despite its name, is absolutely beautiful). However, I note that you'll be on the Idaho side, with which I'm not familiar. It should be less crowded than the national park, which can be a zoo, especially around Jenny and Jackson Lakes.

The reputation of City of Rocks is as a rock climbing venue rather than hiking. That area of Idaho is in the Snake River Plain, which can be really, really hot. I've driven through (on I-84) when daytime temps were 115*. On the other hand, the last time I drove through Idaho (on my way home from Wyoming), in mid-August, it was so cool that I didn't have to use the AC in my car! That is very unusual, though. If it gets too hot, head for Stanley and the Sawtooth Range instead.

Welcome! I am in the NE as well. Spend most of my time in the Adirondacks. Been to quite a few different areas along my journeys including out west. You will have a great time. A lot is different, but a lot is the same too as far as the basics.

Look forward to reading about your adventures. See you on the trail.

-dT

Welcome to the forum.