Beginning one mile east of Bozeman is East Gallatin River, a renowned fly-fishing and angling destination for several species of trout and mountain whitefish. Fun fact: Barack Obama went fishing in this river in 2009. The entire Gallatin River flows for 12 miles before joining the Jefferson and Madison rivers. © Taseret | Dreamstime.com

See the largest collection of North American dinosaur fossils in the United States at Museum of the Rockies, also a Smithsonian Institute. The museum delves into the history of the Rocky Mountains and even boasts the largest Tyrannosaurus skull ever discovered, as is part of the Dinosaur Trail. Don’t forget to experience one of many symposiums, where Indigenous tribes who have called the area home for centuries share oral histories with visitors. © Hktelleria | Dreamstime.com

You’ll find one of the largest elk populations in the country in Montana, and Bozeman is especially a popular stomping ground for elk during winter migrations. Nearby Gallatin Wildlife Management Area protects winter habitats for both elk and moose. © Sherry Young | Dreamstime.com

Spanning parts of Montana and Wyoming, Custer Gallatin National Forest covers more than one million acres of forests, mountains, tributaries and wilderness areas. The forest is home to a wide range of wildlife, including a rare species of falcon, bighorn sheep, deer, wolf, grizzly bears, moose, bobcats, bison, elk and more. © Donald Chen | Dreamstime.com

Less than two hours from Bozeman is Yellowstone National Park, one of the most popular national parks in the country and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The park draws visitors year-round for its geothermal structures, like Old Faithful geyser, as well as its wildlife, mountains and Yellowstone caldera. You can easily spend several days exploring the park. © Granitepeaker | Dreamstime.com

Within Custer Gallatin National Park is Pallisades Falls, an 80-foot waterfall accessible by a mostly paved, accessible path. The falls lie 15 miles from Bozeman, where water pours down basalt cliffs in a photo-worthy view. © Sherry Young | Dreamstime.com