I was born and raised in Montana. These are the 10 most common mistakes I see tourists make when visiting the Big Sky state.

Jordan Parker ErbSep 11, 2022, 16:42 IST

The author, a native Montanan, shares mistakes tourists often make when visiting the state.Jordan Erb/Insider

As a Montana native, I've spent much of my life exploring the state.
I've found that tourists often make the same mistakes when visiting, like only visiting Yellowstone.

I was born in Helena, the capital of Montana. In my 18 years living in the state, and in my subsequent visits back home every year, I've seen tourists make a number of common mistakes while visiting.

The author and her dog.Jordan Erb/Insider

I was born in Helena, the capital of Montana. In my 18 years living in the state, and in my subsequent visits back home every year, I've seen tourists make a number of common mistakes while visiting.

I often meet travelers who opt to only visit Yellowstone National Park and miss out on some of the best places Montana has to offer.

The author and her dog digging for crystals in Crystal Park, MontanaJordan Erb/Insider

I notice that too many people fail to plan ahead when visiting national parks.

The author in West Yellowstone, a small town just outside Yellowstone National Park.Jordan Erb/Insider

I think many tourists make the wrong transportation decisions.

When driving in Montana, particularly on back roads, make sure to have four-wheel drive.Jordan Erb/Insider

I see visitors underestimate how often they'll need to fill up or charge their car.

Most of Montana’s gas stations don’t offer EV charging, especially in rural parts of the state.Jordan Erb/Insider

Inevitably, some tourists mess with the wildlife — and pay dearly

A grizzly bear at Yellowstone National Park.Joe McDonald/ Getty Images

Montana is beautiful, but you'll miss out if you don't disconnect from devices.

Much of Montana's wilderness doesn't have cell service — embrace it.Jordan Erb/Insider

I've observed too many tourists not being friendly on the trails.

Two hikers on a trail in MontanaJordan Erb/Insider

Many tourists don't anticipate extreme weather and pack the wrong clothes for the season.

The author on a snowmobile in West YellowstoneJordan Erb/Insider

I think tourists are often unaware of the ways they need to prepare for hiking and camping trips in Montana.

The author hiking in Montana.Jordan Erb/Insider

Finally, I hope all visitors to Montana refrain from making a mess and leave the state better than they found it.

The sun setting over a mountain near Bozeman, Montana.Jordan Erb/Insider

I visited Balmoral, where Queen Elizabeth spent her final days, after her death. I can see why she cherished this castle as a 'royal escape.'

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I was born and raised in Montana. These are the 10 most common mistakes I see tourists make when visiting the Big Sky state.

I was born in Helena, the capital of Montana. In my 18 years living in the state, and in my subsequent visits back home every year, I've seen tourists make a number of common mistakes while visiting.

I often meet travelers who opt to only visit Yellowstone National Park and miss out on some of the best places Montana has to offer.

I notice that too many people fail to plan ahead when visiting national parks.

I think many tourists make the wrong transportation decisions.

I see visitors underestimate how often they'll need to fill up or charge their car.

Inevitably, some tourists mess with the wildlife — and pay dearly

Montana is beautiful, but you'll miss out if you don't disconnect from devices.

I've observed too many tourists not being friendly on the trails.

Many tourists don't anticipate extreme weather and pack the wrong clothes for the season.

I think tourists are often unaware of the ways they need to prepare for hiking and camping trips in Montana.

Finally, I hope all visitors to Montana refrain from making a mess and leave the state better than they found it.