There is a popular slogan for Montana calling it “The Last Best Place.” I wasn’t entirely sure what this meant until I visited it for myself. The population density of the state is six people per square mile and the elk, deer and antelope populations outnumber the humans. It is the fourth largest state, but 44^th in population. The majority of the economy is primarily ranching, though it also includes large actives such as oil, gas, coal, and of course tourism. The largest population of grizzly bears in the lower 48 call Montana home, and no state has as many species of mammals as The Last Best Place.  It is the only state with a triple water divide, allowing water to flow into the Pacific, Atlantic, and Hudson Bay beginning at Triple Divide Peak in Glacier National Park. To me, it is called the Last Best Place because it largely feels as though not much has changed from the times of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. The simplistic and untouched beauty largely remains, and not many places in the states feel so untouched from modern day commercialism. The name Montana comes from the Spanish word for mountain, and there are over 100 named mountain ranges in Montana, though all belong to the greater Rocky Mountains. While the state boosts some massive peaks with breathtaking views, the vast majority of it is actually prairie land belonging to the Northern Great Plains. About 60% of the state is prairie, the most of which is in the eastern part of Montana. Paradise Valley is the perfect combination of where prairie meets peaks.

To me, it is the Last Best Place because one feels an authentic connection to the land and the people. The remoteness is ingrained in the culture and becomes a positive aspect of the slower pace of life. Having spent a great deal of time in and around cities growing up, I have never felt more relaxed than when living in Montana. I much prefer an hour ride to the grocery store in Montana over a ten minute ride around the city. I enjoy those car rides because I never feel rushed or impatient. There is a calmness that overcomes you when living in the Montana.

This collection of photo’s are of things I felt depict the culture of the Last Best Place, and are me trying my hand (or hat..cowboy specifically) at immersing myself in it. There is an Aaron Watson country tune about Montana and the cowboy lifestyle:

“That’s why God loves cowboys
He knew they’d need room to breathe and freedom
So He gave em’ Texas and those big Montana skies”

Now I may never be a cowboy, but the Last Best Place quickly became my home.