AAA Encourages Montanans to Explore Big Sky Country

Rejuvenate with an Affordable Mini-Getaway in Montana

Helena, Mont. 1/25/2010 – From the Missouri River to the rugged Glacier National Park, Montana is a rich land blessed with beautiful landscapes and a deep history. This year, AAA is encouraging Montanans to explore their state by offering mini-getaways. The group trips offer backyard access to cities, national parks and events that may have been otherwise overlooked.

“People love adventures close to home and supporting local communities,” said Denice Harris, AAA Spokeswoman. “Tourism dollars spent in Montana have a multiplying effect on our economy. The money is reinvested to stimulate jobs, preserve the environment and heritage, and improve transportation services.”

AAA’s mini-getaways typically run during the weekend, and range from day trips to vacations for several days. The first excursion is a customizable winter escape in West Yellowstone over the Valentine’s Day weekend. Interested participants should contact their local AAA Travel Agent to reserve a spot. Other group tours scheduled include: a ski retreat at the Grouse Mountain Lodge in Whitefish, celebrating St Patrick’s Day in Butte with an exclusive tour of their underground city, a night out at the Bigfork Summer Playhouse, a Microbrew review and more! For a complete list of upcoming trips visit www.AAA.com.

Want to create your own adventure? AAA has several travel planning tools available online at AAA.com. AAA branches also have free TourBook travel guides, maps, brochures and coupons available for members.

“Vacations improve your health and refresh your soul. AAA’s group tours are the perfect opportunity to get out and enjoy a much-needed break,” said Harris

AAA MountainWest is dedicated to providing its over 170,000 members in Alaska, Montana and Wyoming with travel, insurance, financial and auto-related services. A fully tax-paying, not-for-profit corporation, AAA MountainWest, Inc. works for the improvement of motoring and traveling conditions and is a leader for travel, civic and safety issues. In 2008, AAA was voted the #1 socially responsible business brand in America by Landor’s BrandAsset® Valuator. AAA can be visited on the Internet at www.AAA.com. To have up-to-date news and safety information from AAA delivered right to your desktop, sign-up for the new RSS Feed at http://mtw.aaashare.com/index.php#rss.

###