Back to adventure.

It's time to zoom out, north of the park. Yellowstone Country is the perfect place to come out of hibernation mode. Hit the refresh button in the great outdoors. Fish, float and frolic in famous rivers and unwind in valleys that go on forever. Hike and bike in the great wild open. Stargaze the clearest night sky you'll ever see. Drive the spellbinding switchbacks of one of the most scenic roadways in the country—the dramatic Beartooth Highway—and be inspired in Paradise Valley.

The region's captivating basecamp communities are bursting with personality, local vibes and honest-to-goodness hospitality. Downtown streets are lined with cafés, coffee shops, food trucks, breweries and distilleries, plus museums and galleries, theaters and live music.

The connection is better over here in Montana's gateway to Yellowstone National Park. Just remember to travel and recreate responsibly. Plan ahead, know before you go, be flexible, and play it safe.