{"id":11840,"date":"2023-11-23T03:05:25","date_gmt":"2023-11-23T02:05:25","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.aboutriver.com\/?p=11840"},"modified":"2023-11-23T03:05:25","modified_gmt":"2023-11-23T02:05:25","slug":"what-is-the-largest-state-west-of-the-mississippi-river","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.aboutriver.com\/what-is-the-largest-state-west-of-the-mississippi-river\/","title":{"rendered":"What Is The Largest State West Of The Mississippi River"},"content":{"rendered":"
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The largest state west of the Mississippi River is Montana, covering an area of some 147,042 square miles and home to nearly 1.08 million people.<\/em><\/p>\n

Montana is a land of extremes, from the soaring mountains and vast snow-capped plains, to rolling prairies and deep, lush valleys. It is home to the Badlands and an array of wildlife. In the mid-1800s when the first settlers arrived, the area was like an untamed garden. As settlers moved in and towns popped up, the Garden of Eden quickly diminished, although the spirit of the early settlers remains in the culture and beauty of the state.<\/p>\n

Those who visit Montana often return for seconds, with the national parks and other outdoor activities drawing tourists all year round. Glacier National Park, in particular, is renowned for its glaciers, alpine meadows, lakes, and abundant wildlife – making it a perfect destination for those seeking adventure. <\/p>\n

The state is home to some of the oldest and most rugged mountain ranges, including the Rocky Mountains and the Bitterroot range. The Bitterroot Valley and surrounding areas boast incredible hiking trails and stunning vistas, attracting outdoors enthusiasts of all ages. <\/p>\n