The eastern flank of Montana’s Rocky Mountains lies to the west of US 287 and US 89. This area is one of the US’s most biologically diverse and is home to a diverse range of wildlife. The Rocky Mountains and surrounding prairie were first explored by Lewis and Clark, and bison once roamed the region. Now, bison do not roam the region, but the area is still home to numerous species.
The Front is home to the largest native population of bighorn sheep in the state. These sheep did not come to the region from any other part of the world. There are also approximately 5,500 elk that winter in the Front area. The Front is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including grizzly bears, moose, and pronghorn. All three species require vast ranges to survive and thrive.
The region has a diverse range of climates. Livingston has the highest average annual wind speed, followed by the Front. The Front has the second-highest average monthly wind speeds in the state. Wind speeds are typically higher than average during the months of November and December, according to David Bernhardt, a meteorologist at the National Weather Service in Great Falls. If you are considering a trip to Montana, check out the weather data for this region.
A successful conservation strategy relies on partnerships. Mountainous portions of the region are mostly public land, while grasslands are mostly owned by ranchers. Local landowners are dedicated to responsible stewardship, co-existing with wildlife, and resisting development. Aside from local landowners, public agencies and nonprofit organizations provide funding and expertise to help preserve the landscape. With the right partnership, the Rocky Mountain Eastern Front can grow and prosper as it has for generations.
The eastern part of Montana is often overshadowed by the mountains, but the area itself is breathtaking. The rolling prairies and high mountain peaks offer spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. Despite its high altitude, it is a quaint community where many local residents know each other by name. However, this pace picks up during the June rodeo. When the sun hits the eastern horizon, you may feel like you’re in a dream.
The landscape on the western portion of the Rocky Mountain Eastern Front is characterized by a fold and thrust belt system. Thrust faults are identified by sawteeths on the upper block. These faults generally extend northwest-southeast, with a southwest dip. They propagate the formations eastward, and are a major part of the Rocky Mountain ecosystem. If you’re looking for rugged hiking and backpacking, this area of the Rocky Mountain region is an excellent place to explore.
A trip to the Rocky Mountain Eastern Front in Montana is not complete without a visit to one of the two historic gates on the South Fork Teton Trail. This gravel road winds through the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness, offering views of the mountains as you drive. Once at the gate, the trail leads to the northwestern ridge, where you’ll find scenic overlooks of the surrounding landscape. The East Rosebud trail connects Red Lodge to Cooke City and offers stunning views of the region’s wildflowers, fishing lakes, and rugged peaks.