Virginia City, Montana

One of my favorite places to go when you just have a few hours to spend but want to go somewhere off the beaten path is Virginia City, Montana -- and I went there for a second time in June 2012. Originally a mining town, it's now a preserved ghost town with historic homes, well-worn buildings and quiet little shops. Some of these photos are also taken in nearby Nevada City, another ghost town, which you can also visit while you're there.

Don't miss: 

• Boot Hill Cemetery: Located on a hill overlooking Virginia City, this little cemetery marks the graves of several outlaws who were hanged there in the 1800s.
• Virginia City Creamery: Get homemade ice cream to cool off while you're walking around the town. I recommend the huckleberry.

Getting here: 
From Idaho, take Highway 20 north all the way to ID-87 N and turn left (toward Ennis). Turn left onto U.S. 287 N and then a make a slight left on MT 287 N.