Montana, often called "Big Sky Country," is a state in the Western United States. It boasts expansive landscapes of rugged mountain ranges, large forests, wide-open plains, and numerous rivers and lakes. The state is the 4th largest in terms of area, covering about 147,040 square miles, but it ranks only 44th in population. As of 2021, the population is estimated to be just over 1 million people.
Montana has significant natural resources including coal, oil, natural gas, and gold. Agriculture also plays a major role in the state’s economy, with primary outputs being beef, wheat, barley, sugar beets, and hay.
It is also known for its diverse wildlife, including grizzly and black bears, elk, deer, and wolves, making it a popular destination for hunting and fishing. Additionally, tourists are drawn to the state's impressive national parks, such as Glacier National Park and parts of Yellowstone National Park.
The state capital is Helena, though the largest city is Billings. Montana's cultural heritage is rich with Native American history, cowboy traditions, and a vibrant arts scene. Its name comes from the Spanish word "montaña," meaning mountain. Despite its size, Montana is known for its close-knit communities and friendly residents.
