Montana Vacations

I could really get used to waking up by the ocean (not really practical living in Montana).

We left at dawn to shuttle south to Walvis Bay where we met up with Jeannie our kayak guide. On the water early to beat any potential mid day winds was fine with us.

As we drove to our launch site, we just knew we were on track for a great day.  The sun was making what we understand to be a rare appearance along the coast.  We passed lots of birds (all of which Jeannie would tell is all about and the occasional jackal.

As we got closer to our "put in" we started seeing huge seal colonies.  Jeannie assured us, no need to stop for pictures now as we would get right in the middle of them by water.  Since they have no known predators in these parts approaching be sea, it was easy to understand the logic of being able to get close.

What we didn't realize as we paddled up was that to the hundreds of young seal pups, we were a great source of curiosity and amusement.   We quickly found ourselves surround by thousands of playful seals.  They acted like any "pup" and would follow us and "chew" on anything placed in the water.  Including my hand and Andy's GO-Pro camera (Andy should have some great shots)

We literally paddled and played with the seals for hours.  When paddling hard they would take it as a challenge and race the kayak.  When you stopped, they would surround the kayak and bark for attention.  Occasionally one would get comfortable enough for a "belly rub". Yes, they sure reminded us of canine pups, just in mass quantity.

Reluctantly we paddled back to the jeep and headed back to town.

Another "treat" for a Montanan is a beach side grill, today was just going to be a dang good day!!

This PM was again free (something we are not used too) and we took advantage of the time to clean camera gear and just "chill" on the beach.

Today was a good day, experiencing this with my son has made it one of my favorite family adventure vacations I have done so far.

Dan Austin

        

Now, I may be biased, because and I was born and raised in Montana, but I truly believe it is the last best place.  Every time I travel I am so happy to know that I get to come home to Montana!

If you are not lucky enough call Montana home, then you should consider it for one of your next Family Adventure Vacations!  Not only do you get to explore the areas in Montana, but also Yellowstone Park!  We hike, bike, horseback ride, and raft our way through the World’s first National Park and the surround areas!  Watch as Old Faithful Geyser shoots thermal waters sky high, examine the bacteria mats that make Grand Prismatic so beautiful, and wake up early to see wildlife exploring for food.  Nothing says Montana like bears and bison in the morning mist.

Yellowstone tours are not the only draw to this area.  On the Montana program you will also get to explore Big Sky, a glacial carved valley, and Paradise Valley, a river carved valley, pair those with the volcano caldera that is Yellowstone National Park and you will find yourself examining each geological area and experiencing firsthand how Mother Nature can create such varied terrains.  

I sincerely hope that Montana Vacations make your list of ‘must see’ destinations!  Contact your trusted Adventure Travel Companies to find out the offerings in the area, they truly are endless!

Your Friendly Travel Expert,

Something we really pride ourselves on here at Austin-Lehman is working as a team. Whether it's in the office or in the field, working as a team is essential to our success. In the spirit of this we decided to make an adventure team for some upcoming adventure races here in Montana. Our team consisted of Kasey Austin, Ryan Morrissey and myself. First we took on the Grizzy Peak adventure race, a 2 mile ski, 6 mile bike and a 2.5 mile run. We were all in the top 10 in our divisions and it was a great race. As you can see below we got a little dirty on the biking section.

Race #2 and to help celebrate Earth Day this past weekend we competed in the Peaks to Prairie triathlon. The race consisted of a 9 mile run which Kasey did, a 50 mile bike ride by Ryan and a 23 mile Kayak by myself. 

There's always that point during a race when you are pushing as hard as you can, you don't think there is an end, you're tired, dehydrated and sometimes you think "what am I doing?" But then when you cross the finish line and you see your teammates there with big smiles on your face you can't help to think how worth it was! Also it's not too bad when you see the results and your team gets 3rd place in your division. 

Like most great things in life, you need to work for it. A saying I've heard that I really like is "conquerors of the useless", it really doesn't matter how many hiking vacations or cycling tours you do, its what you take from them that matters. 

That's why I love working with this amazing team here at Austin-Lehman, in the office, in the field or in a race. I know we all working together to to help share these amazing opportunities to be "conquerors of the useless" and help make memories that will last a life time.

What will you conqueror? Leave a comment at let us know what you get from adventure vacations!

Jonathan

Night skies filled with stars, towering trees, majestic wildlife and clean, brisk air are closer than you think. Yellowstone National Park vacation packages can prove it.

Montana vacations provide an impeccable way to explore a beautiful place untouched by nature with majestic wildlife roaming freely in their beloved home. Explorers who appreciate the water can experience fishing, kayaking or rafting in the spectacular white water of the Yellowstone River. Animal lovers will love looking out for elk, bison, bears and eagles.

Kids will enjoy snacking on delicious fruit kebabs on the lovely shore of a glacial stream in Beehive Basin, where they can dip their feet in an alpine lake surrounded by wildflower studded hillsides. If you dare, raft the Yellowstone River, the longest free-flowing river in North America. To unleash your inner cowboy, saddle up for a gentle horseback ride up Pine Creek to the Absaroka Mountains and enjoy awe inspiring scenery unlike anything else in the world.  

Austin Lehman adventures are the perfect choice for families looking to create lasting memories with each other. Plan your family’s trip to Yellowstone Park this year by visiting our online catalog to learn more about all of the activities available in our vacation travel itineraries. Get ready for the vacation of a lifetime.
 

Yellowstone Park is one of those destinations that every family must visit at least once in their lifetime. Imagine a big blue sky, soaring mountain peaks and acres of lush backcountry seemingly untouched by the outside world. Then multiple that by at least 5, and you begin to understand the enormity and magnificence of this stunning national park.

With so many activities and sights to see, it can be a challenge to get everything in, but our Yellowstone tours offer all the enough excitement and fun to deliver a full and exceptional family adventure that won’t ever be forgotten. Here are the top 3 adventure activities every family will enjoy while on an Austin Lehman tour of the park.

Hiking
Spring vacations in Yellowstone offer guests such a natural setting for hiking that they might not ever want to stop. The fresh air and exercise as families venture out on the trail is only the tip of the iceberg. Hiking as a family really brings everyone together in such an awe inspiring and peaceful place.

Whitewater Rafting
No experience is needed to participate in this cool (and wet) river rafting experience. The Yellowstone River is the longest free flowing river of its kind in the U.S. (lower 48 states) with inspiring scenic views.

Horseback Rides
A gentle walking horseback ride takes everyone up Pine Creek as they venture on their four legged friends into the Mountains of Absaroka. The incredible views of the mountain top lookouts as the family ventures out with 4th generation Montana cowboys will create long lasting memories sure to be spoken of for years to come.

Don’t wait to experience this family trip of a lifetime. Visit us online to find out how to book your vacation today.
 

Austin Lehman’s Montana vacations are the best! Our whole family loved the sights, food and guides. Everything was outstanding. The guides were very professional and informative. Katie, in particular, had such a high energy level that my boys just went crazy for her! It was so much fun that my sons did not want to leave at all. Thank you for giving us such a perfect family vacation. We can’t wait to journey with you again!

Name: Tina Dykes
City: Cliffside Park
State: New Jersey
Country: USA

Our family vacation to Montana and Yellowstone Park was our first experience with Austin-Lehman, and we definitely plan to be back! The guides were great. The itinerary was perfect. We ate very well. As a matter of fact, we were treated like VIPs and loved every minute of it. I noticed from the very beginning that you guys treat your customers like family, and it shows throughout the entire trip. And talk about great food! It was diverse and tasty. The Chico Hot Springs Resort was our favorite, and I think our dinner with them was the best! The guides were very friendly and professional. Keep doing what you are doing. Don’t ever change a thing – it was perfect!

Name: Sam Shaw
City: Hillsdale
State: New Jersey
Country: USA

There’s no better time to see Yellowstone National Park than well…just about any time. Yellowstone Park is one of those destinations that offer an incredible adventure vacation any time of year. Each season in the park provides a unique experience for travelers.

As you might imagine, the busy time of the year is in the summer between June and September with the busiest months being July and August. Of course, our adventure vacation packages bring our guests to backcountry locations where crowds are few so that the magnificence of the landscapes and unique natural features can be fully appreciated.

An abundance of wildflowers greet visitors in June and July, and June, in particular, brings plenty of wildlife for travelers to see and snap photos. In September the fall flowers are in bloom and the elk come calling their mates. The winter brings an abundance of snow along with opportunities to snowshoe and glide through the trail on snowmobile.

Our Montana vacations offer summer travel times to Yellowstone to experience all the nature and wildlife that this season brings. We also have a five day wintertime journey in February for those ready to hit the scenic slopes with cross country skiing and snowshoeing, and of course, no winter adventure is complete without ice skates and snow mobiles too!

Call today or visit our website to learn more about visiting Montana and Yellowstone this year.
 

If you missed our Big Sky Winter Getaway this month then it is time to definitely start planning now for next year’s Montana vacations in the winter season. Our wintertime family excursion to southwest Montana lasts 6 days and gives families all the soft power, ski slopes and stunning scenery that you could ever need for good winter fun.

This hiking vacation offers a little something for everyone. Ski or snowboard lessons from the Big Sky Resort will have your skills in tip top shape so you can make a run on the slopes or cross country in Yellowstone Park. Some in the group may want to try their luck on a snowmobile touring the picturesque winter vista of the park or snowshoe in the backcountry of Moonlight Basin.

The whole family will want to try their hand on the dogsled as it speeds through Moonlight Basin as well, and photography buffs will want to have the camera at the ready to snap shots of the indescribable big sky country that is Montana. Spending time with the family on vacation has never been so fun, and really, where else can families dine in a dinner yurt?

Learn more about winter family adventure vacations to Montana and other destinations by visiting our online travel site or giving us a call to request a catalog.
 

My family and I dreamed about visiting Yellowstone Park so I was thrilled when my husband surprised us by booking our trip last summer. We had never been on a guided tour before, and I have to say everything about the trip was excellent. The travel plans were executed perfectly from start to finish including the yummy snacks. Thanks again to the professional folks at Austin Lehman for a wonderful Montana adventure!

Name: Bridget
City: Cincinnati
State: Ohio
Country: USA

Lifelong Austin Lehman traveler here – you guys are 5 for 5 on another outstanding adventure trip! We had such a great time at Montana’s Glacier National Park, and I can confidently say we have another set of lifetime experiences all created in just one week away! I loved the view at the hotel, and the Lake McDonald Lodge had great cabins with unbelievable views. And as with every other adventure vacation, your guides made great connections with the guests. I think it is the personalization of services that make them so great. They truly make everyone feel as if they are the only guest on the trip, and that means a lot these days! I will definitely only use Austin Lehman for all my vacation planning and highly recommend their services.

Name: Henry Lacosta
City: Maui
State: Hawaii
Country: USA

I’ve never shared a story online before, but with the outstanding Montana vacations that Austin Lehman arranges, I just had to tell others about my family’s experience. I have to say that the trip was outstanding in every way. I could never have planned such a trip for my family. They were right on the mark in their planning from start to finish. Our three guides were very patient with my teenagers and the younger kids on the trip, and you couldn’t ask for more kind and responsive guides for all the families attending. I was personally impressed with the lunches that the guides prepared for everyone – in a word, excellent. There was no reason for concern the whole week because every detail was taken care of. So, if anyone out there is considering an Austin Lehman adventure trip, I’m here to tell you to go for it! You will be so happy you did.

Name: Frank Hendrickson
City: Sacramento
State: CA
Country: USA

After my son-in-law passed away two years ago, my grandson has really had a rough time dealing with the loss of his father. My daughter and I thought a little one on one time with grandpa would be a great way for us to connect. One of her coworkers told her about adventure trips from Austin Lehman so after looking through your catalog we thought a Montana family vacation would be just right.

I really have to commend your company on a trip well done. As a matter of fact, my grandson didn’t want to go home at the end, and his time spent white water rafting really brought a smile to his face. With horseback riding, rafting and time at the pool while at Chico Hot Springs, it was really hard to pull him away. I was just glad to see him full of excitement and joy of living again. Our guides really made the trip fun for everyone, and I couldn’t be more pleased at how the entire trip turned out. Thank you so much for bringing such joy to me and my family.

Name: Bill Sherman
City: Rochester,
State: NY
Country: USA

Montana vacations are just marvelous for those looking to experience natural beauty at its finest. The pleasant scent of pine trees, crisp, clean air, majestic mountains just waiting to be hiked and wildlife galore, Montana offers beauty and excitement for everyone in the family.

Family adventure vacations to Montana truly offer something for everyone. Whether you want to explore by horseback through nature trails or if you’re more comfortable staying on the ground and enjoying a calm day filled with fishing, Montana never sees a shortage of fun activities. Rafters will enjoy a journey down the Yellowstone River. Register the kids as Junior Rangers and explore the beautiful Yellowstone Park.  During the winter, hit the slopes and spend the day skiing or snowmobiling or just relax and take in the winter wonderland view with a nice, hot mug of hot chocolate by a crackling fireplace.  

When you return home, share pictures with your family of the erupting geyser that you had been waiting to see in person, the splendid wildlife that you were so excited to get a glance of and the beautiful scenery of Montana that will now be a memory for you to keep forever.

Call today to schedule unforgettable memories with Austin-Lehman Adventures – (800) 575-1540.
 

Take your family on an adventure trip with Austin-Lehman and explore the wonders of Yellowstone National Park with your kids. Family adventure vacations are customized tours to satisfy the diverse interests of everyone in a family. With 38 years of experience, it has become a specialty of Austin-Lehman to make sure that each trip is fulfilling and worthwhile. Montana vacations featuring activities like hiking, cycling, horseback riding, camping and rafting are a complete family destination. Discover Yellowstone National Park, Big Sky and Paradise Valley all on a single adventure trip with Austin-Lehman.

Talking about the beauty of landscapes in Yellowstone just can’t be enough. You have to be there to experience the soul of this place. Serene lakes, cascading waterfalls and rafting in the Yellowstone River is a heart pumping experience. Hike along the vibrant flower beds in the backcountry of Yellowstone and admire the mystic beauty. Visit the Old Faithful and numerous other geysers in the region.

Ski the biggest resort of America in Big Sky, and indulge in cross country skiing and snowboarding. Pedal on your own pace along the picture perfect landscapes in the Gallatin Valley. Rest in between and munch on fruit kebabs, and as you reach the Beehive Basin, soak your feet in the alpine lake while relaxing under the clear blue sky.

Visit our online travel destination catalog to learn more about Montana, Yellowstone and other adventurous vacations planned just for you.
 

Austin-Lehman offers the most exciting adventure vacation packages for adventure lovers. Go wild on Montana vacations and explore the Yellowstone National Park, Glacier National Park, Big Sky and Paradise valley; all on one trip. Explore the picturesque backcountry of Yellowstone hiking through the stream side trails and along side vibrant flora and fauna of the park. Watch grizzly bear playing around with its cubs in the forest and catch a glimpse of many other wild animals like wolves, bison, elk, bald eagle etc. Marvel at nature’s wonders as you come across numerous mud pots, geysers, hot springs, cascading waterfalls and snow- capped mountains. Raft in the white waters of Flatbed River and its various branches around Glacier National park and explore the spectacular scenery of the park and its nearby villages. A large part of the river is quite mellower for the beginner rafters though that does not make it any less exciting.

Visit the cowboy ranch with herds of buffalos and horses roaming around and relax on a hammock or go fishing in any nearby river. Big Sky is a huge attraction for skiing lovers. Go for snowboarding and cross country skiing in snow capped mountain range spread over acres of land. Experience the mystic nature of awe- inspiring valleys like Paradise valley, Gallatin Valley and Flathead valley. Stroll through the dense forests and look for many exotic species of birds on the trees.
 

The best time of the year is when you get to spend quality time with your family. Family adventure vacations with Austin-Lehman are a great way to share the bond and indulge in wild, heart pumping fun. Where else can you explore the wonders of Yellowstone Park and enjoy the view of mud pots, geysers and hot springs spread across a vast region of the park?

There’s nothing like climbing through the back of a waterfall. Once behind the sheet of falling water, it’s as simple as holding your breath and jumping into the lake below. You’ll be swept to safety by the natural whirlpools created by mineral rich water.

No visit to Yellowstone is complete without a stop by Old Faithful to watch the eruptions right in front of you shooting steaming water to a height of approximately 160 feet. Evenings are filled with the experience and fun of camping while spending a night under the clear, big sky counting stars.

Kids love the Anaconda Railroad and Mining museum, and learn the interesting historical facts about the railroad systems along with viewing the marvelous model railroad. Be sure to also stop by the gift shop where kids will have a hard time choosing between taking home one of the amazing engines or car models.

The enchanting beauty of forests and landscape is something to see on horseback while galloping through the Glacier National Park. And when near the Smith River, a visit to White Sulphur Springs Village is a pleasant stop before spending the day fishing and rafting. Before leaving the village, make sure to tour the historical White Sulphur Springs castle.

To truly experience Montana vacations, book your trip with Austin Lehman today. Visit our online travel catalog or give us a call to learn more.
 

Thundering waterfalls, soaring trees and majestic wildlife surround you at Montana’s spectacular Yellowstone National Park. If you’re ready to unleash your wild side, take advantage of Austin Lehman’s Yellowstone National Park Vacation Packages and rediscover nature at its finest.

From elks, eagles and bison to enchanting waterfalls and erupting geysers, Yellowstone Park is a photographer’s and adventurer’s dream. Whether you’re looking for camping, hiking, star gazing or the delightful package of all three, adventure trips with Austin Lehman have you covered.

Montana vacations will not disappoint if you’re looking for an assortment of enjoyable outdoor activities. Go rafting down the glorious Yellowstone River for the adrenaline rush of a lifetime. Then, take a simple moment to just inhale the delicious aroma of clean, fresh air and pine and delight in the grandiose nature and tranquility that surrounds you.

When it’s time to relax, enjoy a soothing dip in a natural hot spring and search the starry sky for the constellations you learned about as a kid, before enjoying a scrumptious dinner at your comfortable accommodation. Call today to schedule your well-deserved adventure with Austin Lehman Adventures. A trip to Montana is sure to satisfy even the pickiest adventurer.  
 

Plan your family adventure vacations with Austin Lehman and explore the Big Sky country with a winter getaway. Spend time with your loved ones and dig into oodles of fun and entertainment.

Montana Vacations offer snow boarding, skiing and hiking through snow capped mountains. Big Sky skiing is very popular for its fresh powder and for being the biggest skiing country in America.

Yellowstone Park is only an hour away from Big Sky, and you can spend a day on snowmobiles cruising through the marvels of Yellowstone while learning the history and interesting facts about the place. Take a tram and admire the breath-taking view of majestic mountains covered with snow. Moonlight Basin offers world class skiing terrain for all types of skiers from beginners to professionals.

Your family will also want to take a ride on the famous Yellowstone snow coach and visit the Old Faithful geyser as it becomes even more beautiful with snow all around it. Your adventure travel won’t be complete without dog sledding.  Dog sleds venture to rarely visited spots and unexplored back country landscapes. The calmness and serenity of this natural wonder is over powering and absolutely unmatched. After a freezing cold day of playing in snow, everyone will be ready for some heavy duty relaxing by soaking in the historical Chico Hot Springs. You’ll all have a blast leaving Yeti size prints from snowshoes as you walk around the Upper Geyser Basin Trail.

Find out about this winter getaway and other exciting destinations by visiting us online today.
 

Montana provides the perfect spot for family adventure vacations. With its mountains, wildlife and world-famous national parks, there is an abundance of activities to experience and endless natural beauty to see.

Montana vacations are magnificent if you’re looking for something for everyone in the family. Fishing, horseback riding and camping provide fun, bonding experiences for everyone. Tackle a rapid if you’re daring enough to go rafting down the Yellowstone River. Have an unforgettable picnic outside with a green and brown mountain view and be reminded that everything tastes better when you eat outside, as you inhale the delightful aroma of pine trees and fresh air. If you decide to travel during the winter, skiing and snowmobiling are exciting ways to enjoy the fresh powder that looks like a blanket covering the beautiful hills, then relax in your luxurious hotel room with a mug of hot chocolate.

Register the kids as Junior Rangers before exploring Yellowstone Park. Watch Old Faithful erupt under a sea of shimmering stars. Take a dip in a natural hot spring and talk with your family about the fantastic wildlife, including elk, eagles and bison, you saw during the day and share pictures of the spectacular views that can only been seen in Montana.

Schedule your adventure with us by visiting our online catalog or giving us a call at (800) 575-1540.