The Rocky Mountains: North America's Backbone from New Mexico to Alaska¶

The Rocky Mountains form the spine of North America, stretching from New Mexico to northern British Columbia. This guide covers the major sections — the Colorado 14ers, Wyoming's Grand Teton, Montana's Glacier Country, and the Canadian Rockies — along with national parks, wildlife, and the outdoor culture that defines the American West.

Introduction¶

The Backbone of a Continent¶

Southern Rockies¶

Colorado 14ers — The Highest 58¶

New Mexico — Sangre de Cristo Range¶

Central Rockies¶

Wyoming — Grand Teton and Wind River Range¶

Montana — Glacier National Park¶

Idaho — Sawtooth Range¶

Northern Rockies and Canadian Rockies¶

Banff, Jasper, and Lake Louise¶

Mount Robson — The Monarch¶

Icefields Parkway¶

Wildlife and Ecology¶

Bears, Elk, and Mountain Lions¶

Alpine Ecosystems¶

Classic Hikes¶

Continental Divide Trail¶

Teton Crest Trail¶

Glacier Highline Trail¶

Practical Planning¶

Permit Systems¶

Bear Country Protocol¶

Best Months and Conditions¶

Key Statistics Table¶