IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Australian passport holders require a visa to enter the United States of America (ESTA).
America (ESTA)
Applications for the United States of America can be done online at http://www.cbp.gov/travel/international-visitors/esta
The sheer size of the US prevents any kind of all encompassing statement about the typical American experience. From the state-of-the-art skyscrapers of New York City to the scenic country lanes of New England, the United States of America is a place of astonishing beauty and extraordinary diversity. Nothing can remotely prepare you for your first glimpse of the glorious Golden Gate bridge, the glistening Empire State building, the neon lights of Las Vegas or the iconic Statue of Liberty. Not to mention the natural treasures on offer - the country’s beautiful national parks are home to some of the world’s most treasured wildlife and landscapes; the west and east coasts are strewn with spectacular beaches, and the Rockies provide endless opportunities for outdoor adventures. In fact, it is a country of such epic proportions that you could easily spend a lifetime in the US and still feel like you have barely scratched the surface.
The laid-back, Wyoming town of Jackson serves as an excellent base for travellers looking to take advantage of the numerous outdoor recreational opportunities on offer in the remarkable surrounding wilderness of Jackson Hole Valley. As the town is situated close to the south end of the impressive Grand Teton National Park, it is known as a gateway to two of America’s most renowned national parks, Grand Teton itself and Yellowstone. While wintertime skiing is the name of the game with plenty of facilities available in the nearby ski resorts, in summer the town transforms into a mecca for travellers looking to admire and participate in boundless summer beauty and activities. Don't miss: the famed Elk Horn Gates that lead into the town's lovely, tree-shaded town square where locals come to relax. Jackson’s combination of beautiful mountain scenery, Old West heritage, tourist amenities and celebrity residents give this small town a unique atmosphere which is simultaneously cosmopolitan and frontier.
A visit to the much treasured Yellowstone National Park is likely to leave you spellbound. Situated largely in Wyoming, with parts stretching into Idaho and Montana, the park features dramatic canyons, alpine rivers, waterfalls, lush forests, and gushing geysers. The most famous of the latter is the ‘Old Faithful’, which shoots eruptions of boiling water over 50 metres into the air in a dazzling (and adrenaline-inducing) display. Yellowstone also boasts one of the world’s largest petrified forests. Along the Grand Loop Road, soak up the scenic grandeur and top attractions at your leisure, and make use of multiple lookout points for photography. Wildlife abounds here – with bison, moose, elk, bear, and wolves, and around 300 species of birds making the park their home. Nine visitors’ centres and 12 camping grounds help you along your journey and provide a fascinating insight into the area.
Big Sky, a well-known winter skiing destination, is located amidst the world-renowned Rocky Mountains in southern Montana. It serves as an excellent base from which to explore the breathtaking beautiful Yellowstone National Park featuring unbeatable rugged landscapes, steaming hot springs, rocketing geysers and an abundance of wildlife. Big Sky is a favourite winter spot as well as a worthy summer destination featuring countless activities offering everything from relaxation to thrilling adventures. Visitors can look forward to a horse-drawn sleigh ride through a sparkling winter wonderland, enjoy a picnic at the nearby Ousel Falls Park and explore the rugged Gallatin Canyon. Other popular activities include ziplining, mountain biking, golfing, snowshoeing, dog sledding, Nordic skiing, and hiking.
Situated in Montana’s Silver Bow County, the city of Butte is the state’s fifth-largest city. Once an old mining town, this enchanting city boasts a colourful history, beautifully preserved Victorian architecture, and excellent restaurants and cafes. Visitors can look forward to an array of activities, including jumping on a city tour on the Butte Trolley to view a range of historical sites, visiting a local ranch in the scenic surrounds for an authentic countryside experience of Montana, and visiting the local hot springs for a relaxing day. Other popular activities include hiking, boating, golfing, fishing, cross-country skiing, horseriding, and snowmobiling.
Whitefish is a stunningly beautiful town wedged between spectacular mountains and a sparkling blue lake in Flathead County, Montana. Encompassing a popular ski resort on Big Mountain, while offering numerous other opportunities for outdoor sports throughout the year, the town attracts active types and nature lovers. In winter, visitors can enjoy excellent slopes and a diversity of trails suited to both beginner and advanced skiers. The summer provides a plethora of outdoor pursuits including swimming, fishing, river-rafting, golfing, hiking, horse riding, and a phenomenal zip-lining course among the dense woodlands. The area is also particularly known for its mountain biking routes. Several snug restaurants, coffee shops, bars and shops look out over the breathtaking panoramas. From here, travellers can explore a collection of surrounding lakes.
