GET YOUR GOAT – Don’t leave Montana without seeing the nimble mountain goat, one of the state’s iconic mammals. One low-key area to look for these shaggy climbers is Rattlesnake Creek National Recreation Area near Missoula. You may spot bighorn sheep and black bears while you’re at it. Find more information at www. montanabirdingtrail.org.
HOME TO HEROES – At Missoula, visit the Smokejumper Center, the largest training facility in the country for firefighters who parachute into forest fires. Check out the 1930s-era lookout tower and the “Loft,” the smokejumpers’ home base when they’re not fighting fires. Get more information at smokejumpers.com.
There are no quick fixes when it comes to paying down debt. The key is to budget wisely, reduce your expenses and commit yourself to achieving long-term goals.