Cities & Towns

Nestled in the Northeast corner of the spectacular Flathead Valley lies a community which boasts Montana hospitality and family fun like no other, Columbia Falls. With a central location just minutes from Glacier National Park, Flathead Lake, numerous golf courses, and the Whitefish Mountain Ski Resort, you’ll find year round attractions, accommodations, and dining with honest Montana flavor and value.

This full-service community in the foothills of the Beartooths boasts the most scenic route to Yellowstone National Park via the Beartooth Pass. Located at the confluence of the Stillwater and Yellowstone rivers, Columbus offers plenty of outdoor recreation. Visit the Museum of the Beartooths for an understanding of area history, including artifacts of the Rosebud River Crow Indians, Northern Pacific Railroad memorabilia and World War II history.

Condon is along the Swan River in northwest Montana, between the Swan Mountain Range and the Mission Mountains, with many summits rising over 9,000 feet. The area around Condon is surrounded by the Bob Marshall and Mission Mountains Wilderness Areas and dotted with beautiful alpine lakes. Holland Lake is just nine miles southeast of Condon in the Flathead National Forest.

Conner is 25 miles south of Hamilton along the West Fork of the Bitterroot River in western Montana. Conner is near Painted Rocks State Park offering boating, camping and fishing in a scenic, western pine forest setting. Also just a short drive away, the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness contains sheer walls, cliffs, tumbling waterfalls, hanging valleys and subalpine lake basins with many mountaineering opportunities.

Conrad has been the site of a number of industries but farming, ranching, oil production and tourism provide the main stays of its economy. The nearby Bob Marshall Wilderness, deep in the Rockies, is one of the last primitive areas for hiking, backpacking and horseback riding. Bird watching and hunting are excellent near Conrad. Lakes and grain fields draw numerous species of song and game birds.

Cooke City is one of the entrances to Yellowstone National Park. It is perhaps most famous for the road that connects Cooke City with Red Lodge. Called "the most scenic drive in America", the Beartooth Pass on U.S. Highway 212 has dramatic switchbacks traversing the spectacular Beartooth Range. Surrounded by national forest, wilderness and Yellowstone National Park, the area is an outdoor recreationist's dream.

Coram, south of West Glacier, is the perfect place for a getaway. Camping, RV parks, beautiful lodging and sprawling guest ranches are all located in Coram, just minutes away from the heart of Glacier National Park.

Corvallis is located in the "heart of the valley" between magnificent Bitterroot Mountains and the Sapphire Range south of Missoula. Nearby, Teller Wildlife Refuge sprawls out along over 4 miles of the Bitterroot River, comprising of farmland and river bottom dedicated to the conservation of western Montana's finest native riparian habitat.

In 1909, Dr. F.E. Corwin, a physician formerly employed by Chico Hot Springs and then the Electric Hot Springs Company, built a new 86-room Mission-style hotel and spa, piping 154°F water from nearby La Duke Springs. A bridge across the Yellowstone River made the springs accessible to Northern Pacific Railway passengers headed for Yellowstone National Park. In 1916, fire destroyed the hotel and spa, but the pool and bath house were rebuilt in the 1920s. In the 1960s Malcolm Forbes purchased the Eagle's Nest Ranch, adjacent to Corwin Springs. The Church Universal and Triumphant purchased the property in the 1980s.(Copyright 2009, Montana Historical Society: Montana Place Names from Alzada to Zortman, Montana Historical Society Research Center Staff) The North Entrance to Yellowstone National Park through Gardiner is just a few miles further south. The North Entrance is the only access in the winter to Yellowstone by automobile. In early days, trains carried visitors to Yellowstone where, at Gardiner, fashionable tourists boarded stagecoaches for holidays at great park hotels. Yellowstone National Park contains more than 2.2 million acres of steaming geysers, thundering waterfalls, crystalline lakes, and panoramic vistas. It has the world's most extensive area of geyser activity, harboring more than 10,000 thermal features. Yellowstone is the also greatest wildlife sanctuary in the United States, encompassing 3,472 square miles of wondrous beauty.

This area is all about fishing! Craig is located in southwest Montana on the Missouri River, one of the world's premier trout streams. Here you will find fishing guides, fishing lodges, fishing shops and fishing access sites. Located in the area is the Craig Fishing Access Site, offers camping with restrooms and drinking water.

Crane is ten miles south of Sidney and is located along the Yellowstone River, with many recreational opportunities. The Yellowstone is the longest undammed river in the lower 48 states. Gravel along the river from Custer to Sidney often yields Montana agates. To fishermen, its blue ribbon waters are renowned for its trout.

This fertile farming area is near Kalispell and just north of Flathead Lake. The outdoor facilities at Creston Fish and Wildlife Center are open to visitors during daylight hours seven days a week, year-round. Fingerlings and older fish live in the outdoor raceways. You can also walk along Mill Creek, which flows next to the hatchery raceways or enjoy a picnic on the banks of Jessup Mill Pond where you may see an osprey or kingfisher returning to its nest.

Crow Agency is the headquarters of the Crow Indian Reservation and is close to the Bighorn Recreation Area and Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument. The battlefield includes visitor center, museum, Custer National Cemetery, 7th Cavalry Memorial and Reno-Benteen Battlefield. The battle is reenacted each June. Crow Agency becomes the 'teepee capital of the world' in mid-August during the Crow Fair celebration.

Culberston's economic mainstays of grain and cattle have been augmented with oil production. About 25 miles north is Medicine Lake National Wildlife Refuge. More than 100,000 migrating waterfowl make their summer home here. Great blue herons, white pelicans, sandhill cranes, grebes and ten different species of ducks share this ecosystem.

Custer is a friendly town along the Yellowstone River, where visitors can enjoy agate hunting. Floating the river allows recreationists to search the many sand and gravel bars along the shore as well as those exposed in midstream. Fishing is another popular pastime with opportunities on both the Bighorn and Yellowstone rivers.

The cultural diversity and richness that makes Cut Bank a special place to visit is highlighted by the proximity of the Blackfeet Indian Reservation. The Blackfeet Tribe is arguably one of America's most culturally intact native populations. The area is also home to five active Hutterite colonies. Steeped in centuries-old Germanic tradition, a visit to any one of these colonies is a step back in time. The Glacier County Museum preserves and educates visitors about the area's people and history.

Dagmar is near the North Dakota line and the Canadian border. Dagmar is near Brush Lake State Park. Brush Lake is a deep, clear lake with white, sandy beaches surrounded by grass fields and stands of spring wheat. The Medicine Lake National Wildlife Refuge is also nearby. Thousands of migrating waterfowl make their summer home at Medicine Lake National Wildlife Refuge. Great blue herons, white pelicans, sandhill cranes, grebes and 12 different species of ducks share the prairie lake ecosystem.

Darby lies in the heart of the Bitterroot Valley and offers endless recreational opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. This prime recreation area claims Painted Rocks State Park and Alta Ranger Station, the first USDA Forest Service ranger station.

Dayton is located on the west shore of Flathead Lake. The consistent winds of Dayton Bay make it the perfect location for a day of sailing. Nearby is Mission Mountain Winery, Montana's first bonded winery. In the tasting room you can sample the products of this small winery in northwest Montana, which are among the finest in the world.

De Borgia was a station on the Northern Pacific twenty miles from Lookout Pass, which separates Montana and Idaho. The town derives its name from the St. Regis de Borgia River.

Decker offers access to two state parks. Rosebud Battlefield State Park is the undeveloped site of the 1876 battle between Sioux Indians and General George Crook's infantry. One of U.S. history's largest Indian battles, it set the stage for an Indian victory eight days later at the Battle of Little Bighorn. The Tongue River Reservoir State Park offers scenic boating, camping and great fishing for bass, crappie, walleye and northern pike.

Deer Lodge Valley is a meadowland surrounded on the east and the west by mountain ranges. More museums and historical collections can be found here than in any other town in the Northwest. Deer Lodge's 1,500-acre Grant-Kohrs Ranch National Historic Site illustrates the development of the northern plains cattle industry from the 1850s to recent times. This was the headquarters of one of the largest and best known 19th-century range ranches in the country.

Dell is located near Red Rock River, nestled between the Blacktail and Tendoy Mountains. Just south of Dell, Big Sheep Creek - Medicine Lodge Backcountry Byway begins. It is a scenic drive through the backcountry of southwestern Montana. The Byway is just over 50 miles long with side trips that provide opportunities for solitude and exploration.

Found in the heartland of Judith Basin near Dry Wolf Creek, it is now one of the top dryland farm production and cattle production communities in the state. Denton is the turnaround point for the Charlie Russell Chew Choo, which is central Montana's dinner train. The Charlie Russell Chew Choo is a unique, scenic train ride aboard 1950s vintage cars. Take in views of dramatic valleys and wide-open spaces while enjoying fine dining during this 3 1/2 hour train ride.

Dillon is situated in a sweeping valley into which the Ruby, Big Hole and Beaverhead rivers drain. Beaverhead River is a blue-ribbon trout stream that's a favorite for expert fly fishermen. There are several museums in Dillon devoted to preserving local history. Bannack State Park is located just southwest of Dillon. It is a registered historic landmark and the site of Montana's first major gold discovery on July 28, 1862. Over 50 buildings line Main Street recalling Montana's formative years.

Divide gets its name because it is near the Continental Divide. The Big Hole River Recreation Area extends approximately 35 miles upstream and 38 miles downstream from Divide, Montana. The Big Hole River, a blue ribbon trout stream, provides excellent fishing and floating opportunities with a number of access points being available from State Highway 43 and Interstate Highway 15.

Dixon is located along the Flathead River on the Flathead Indian Reservation. Dixon is just southeast of the National Bison Range, accessible through Moiese. A large portion of the 18,500-acre range consists of native Palouse Prairie. Forests, wetlands and streams are also found here providing a wide range of habitats for wildlife. Elk, deer, pronghorn, black bear, coyote and ground squirrels are just some of the mammals that share the area with 350 to 450 bison and 200 species of birds.

Dodson is near Fort Belknap Indian Reservation, located between the Milk River and Little Rocky Mountains. It is home to the Gros Ventre and Assiniboine tribes. From the reservation, guided tours are available to Snake Butte, Mission Canyon, Bear Gulch and St. Paul's Mission.

Drummond is a working agricultural area located adjacent to I-90. The traveler is permitted a glimpse of unadorned and unstaged life in a ranching region. The World Famous Bullshippers here are honest, hard working and friendly. A typical excursion down Front Street could include ranchers discussing the weather, hay crops or calving. You might even see cattle being driven to market, or there may be no traffic at all.

Dupuyer is one of the oldest towns along the Rocky Mountain Front. Just west of town, the William Jones Memorial Park offers picnic and camping areas. Also west of town is Swift Dam with public campgrounds and picnic areas. Dupuyer is bordered by the spectacular Great Bear Wilderness Area and Bob Marshall Wilderness Area to the southeast.

Dutton remains firmly grounded as an agricultural community surrounded by some of the best wheat-growing ground in the state.

East Glacier Park is the perfect point to start, headquarter or end your visit to Glacier National Park. There are over a thousand miles of hiking trails with views of glaciers, brilliant wildflowers, snowcapped peaks and clear mountain streams. Varied wildlife inhabit Glacier National Park, including bighorn sheep, mountain goats, ptarmigan, and both black and grizzly bears. East Glacier Park will provide you with the largest variety of facilities and supplies available in the area.

East Helena was named for its location in relation to Helena. In 1888, a large lead smelter was built and operated until 2001. East Helena grew up around that enterprise. For over a century, the smelter processed 70,000 tons of lead bullion a year, and provided a livelihood for thousands of families. Nearby East Helena abounds with recreation opportunities on Holter, Hauser, and Canyon Ferry Lakes, which were all created by dams on the Missouri River.

Edgar is located near the Crow Indian Reservation and near Pryor, the home and gravesite of the well-known Crow chief, Plenty Coups. There is a display of Crow artifacts and history, and a scenic picnic area.

Ekalaka is a small western town nestled in the Russell Creek Valley of picturesque Carter County. Ekalaka is the home to Carter County Museum, housing some of the finest paleontological discoveries in the United States as well as numerous artifacts depicting the lives of Native Americans and the early settlers of Carter County. Nearby Medicine Rocks State park feature soft sandstone rock formations with a Swiss cheese look.

Elliston is near the Continental Divide and twenty-five miles west of Helena along the Little Blackfoot River in the heart of fishing and hunting country. The area has popular trails for the outdoor enthusiasts as well as snowmobile access during the winter. The Rimini-Elliston-Basin Snowmobile Loop begins at Moose Creek on the Rimini Road and offers 161 miles of marked, ungroomed and groomed trails.

Elmo is on the Big Arm of Flathead Lake in western Montana. Flathead is the largest natural freshwater lake in the western United States and is renowned for its fishing. Elmo lies in the Flathead Indian Reservation home to the Confederated Salish and Kootenai tribes.

Emigrant located along the Yellowstone River is named for the nearby mountain, Emigrant Peak, which rises to an altitude of 10,960 feet. The area offers plenty of fishing opportunities as well as camping and boating. Close by, Chico Hot Springs, is a year-round destination resort offering lodging, fine dining, and a natural hot springs pool. Yellowstone National Park, just south of Emigrant, is the world's first National Park and contains more than 2.2 million acres of steaming geysers, thundering waterfalls, crystalline lakes and panoramic vistas.

Ennis is surrounded by three beautiful mountain ranges: the Madison Range, the Gravelly Range, and the Tobacco Root Mountains. In addition to its majestic mountain view, Ennis also offers access to some of the finest river locations in the state by way of the picturesque Madison River. Ennis is a good-time western town and is full of cowboys, anglers and outdoor recreationists. It is the center for activities on the Madison River, which is renowned for its first-rate trout fishing.

Essex is a popular year-round stop for visitors, especially railroad buffs and cross-country skiers. It is halfway between East and West Glacier and is situated at the southernmost area of Glacier National Park just twenty-five miles south of the West Glacier entrance to the Park.

Ethridge is located between Shelby and Cut Bank. Ethridge existed primarily as a grain storage and shipping point on the Hi-Line.The term "Hi-Line" comes from the way Montanans described the Great Northern Railway's route, which is east of the Continental Divide and north of the Missouri River. This term came to include the areas and communities surrounding the railroad as well. The Hi-Line is now known for its rolling prairies and farmland.

Eureka was known as the Tobacco Plains and was originally home to the Kootenai Indians. The area offers scenic treasures tucked away in Montana's northwest corner. Tobacco River Campground is located adjacent to the Tobacco River in a natural forested area. It is also in the vicinity of 90-mile-long Lake Koocanusa and The Hoodoos, a limestone formation found in an adjoining bay off the lake. Ten Lakes Scenic Area treats visitors to mountain drives, pristine lakes and abundant fishing.

Evaro is located 4 miles north of Missoula on the southern tip of the Flathead Indian Reservation. Evaro Hill on Highway 93 is a stretch of road that steadily climbs from the Missoula valley to Evaro and serves as a local landmark. The Flathead Indian Reservation is home to three tribes, the Bitterroot Salish, Upper Pend d'Oreille, and the Kootenai. "Confederated Salish" refers to both the Salish and Pend d'Oreille tribes and extends between Missoula and Kalispell, with fertile valleys and towering mountain peaks surrounding 1.2 million acre reservation.

Fairfield is the Malting Barley Capital of the World, a trade center for the farming community. It offers a scenic 9-hole golf course at Harvest Hills Golf Course, with the Rocky Mountain Front and spectacular sunsets as a backdrop. Nearby Freezeout Lake is Montana's primary snow goose staging area, a place where as many as 300,000 snow geese and 10,000 tundra swans gather in the spring and rest before flying onward.

Nestled in the heart of the valley at the confluence of the Yellowstone and Missouri Rivers, lies the friendly town of Fairview. Fairview is the sugar beet capital of both Montana and North Dakota, and a large part of its irrigated farmland is devoted to growing sugar beets. As Montana's eastern-most town it has the unique feature of two states meeting on Interstate Avenue, more commonly known to residents as State Street. Part of the town lies in North Dakota, while the majority is in Montana.

Fallon is located between Miles City and Glendive along the Yellowstone river. The area is on the edge of the scenic badlands and home to the moss agate. Nearby Prairie County Museum and Evelyn Cameron Gallery in Terry offers the visitor a glimpse of the pioneer life, the way it was lived, how it was endured and flourished in eastern Montana.

Fishtail is in the foothills of the dramatic Beartooth Mountains. This area offers opportunities for camping, hiking, fishing and a variety of other outdoor activities. Rosebud Isle is a state fishing access site on Fishtail Creek.

Flaxville is located in the northeast corner of the state, just south of the Canadian border. Nearby attractions include the Daniels County Museum and Pioneer Town in Scobey and fishing at Whitetail Reservoir. To the south is the Fort Peck Indian Reservation, home to Sioux and Assinniboine.

Nine miles east of Florence is Threemile Wildlife Management area, which encompasses 6,059 acres. The area is great for hunting, wildlife viewing, birdwatching and mountain biking during the summer. Here you are most likely to observe songbirds and raptors commonly found in upland grasslands and ponderosa pine forests, but visitors sometimes spot elk here as well.

Floweree is a small community between Great Falls and Fort Benton. Nearby is the Carter Ferry on the Missouri River where using an engine and cable system a ferry is pulled across the Missouri. Another attraction is the Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge. The refuge supports a great variety of water birds with both nesting and migration habitat. A 9-mile auto tour route is open to the public for wildlife observation.

Forestgrove named for the stand of trees in this fertile valley at the foothills of the beautiful Little Snowy Mountains. An interesting attraction in the area is Beargulch Pictographs an incredibly well-preserved pictograph and petroglyph site with 2,000 pictographs (paintings) and petroglyphs (etchings). You'll see figures of warriors holding shields and clubs, and ochre red elk and bison, along with other designs drawn by Native Americans depicting scenes from their lives.

Forsyth is nestled below a rim of rough badlands along the banks of the Yellowstone River. Enthusiastic agate hunters visit the Yellowstone River banks each year in search of Montana agates. The Yellowstone River is also popular for boating and fishing.

This is the agency headquarters for the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation. The Gros Ventre and the Assiniboine, who were former enemies, have lived together on the reservation since it was set aside for them in 1887. It has great cultural significance to the tribes, and petroglyphs and tipi rings can be found there. Every summer the Milk River Indian Days powwow is held in Fort Belknap.

Fort Benton is recognized as a National Historic Landmark, because of the importance it played as the head of navigation on the Missouri River and the opening of the northwest and western Canada. Walk along the steamboat levee and the part of the town once known as the bloodiest block in the West. View the ruins of Historic Fort Benton, which is currently under archaeological study and in the process of being reconstructed.

Fort Harrison, located three miles west of Helena, is officially known as Fort William Henry Harrison. Established in May 1892, it was originally named Fort Benjamin Harrison for the 23rd President of United States Benjamin Harrison since the establishment of the fort coincided with his term of office. However, it was discovered that a fort by that name already existed in Indiana, so in 1906 the name of the Montana post was changed to Fort William Henry Harrison. The latter Harrison was born in Virginia in 1773, joined the Army in 1791, served as the first territorial congressional delegate from the Northwest Territory in 1799 and was made governor of the Indiana Territory and later served as a U.S. representative and senator from Ohio. He became the 9th president of United States in 1840, taking the oath of office on March 4, 1841 delivering the longest inaugural address in American history in cold wet weather. He died one month after taking the office from complications from a cold. (from Cheney's Names on the Face of Montana, Mountain Press Publishing Company) The fort is now home to the Montana National Guard, US Army Reserve and US Navy Reserve. The Veterans Administration Hospital, Montana Military Museum and Service Club are also located at the fort. The Montana Military Museum is open to the public 9:00am - 4:00pm every Thursday, no admission charge.

Located in the northwest corner of Montana near Fortine is the Ten Lake Scenic Area of the Kootenai National Forest. It offers more than 89 miles of remote trails with backpacking and hiking opportunities through rugged terrain with spectacular mountain views. Many high mountain lakes offer fishing and scenic views. Mountains rise to elevations of more than 7,800 feet. High alpine mountains, clear mountain lakes, peaceful meandering trails, all combine to make this area a backpacker's dream.

Fort Peck was planned and developed by government engineers as the headquarters for construction and operation of the huge Fort Peck Dam in 1933. This small town offers big recreation and entertainment opportunities. A scenic overlook just east of the dam on Montana Highway 24, offers views of Fort Peck Lake and interpretation of Lewis and Clark's journey through northeast Montana. Fort Peck Lake is a Montana treasure for its size and outdoor opportunities.

Fort Shaw, on the Sun River, is twenty-four miles west of Great Falls. Built in 1867, it was first named Camp Reynolds then changed to honor Colonel Robert Shaw, a Civil War soldier. It was established as a military post to protect travelers on the Mull Road and early settlers from raiding Blackfeet. Fort Shaw was abandoned as a military post in 1890 but later served as an Indian school.

Fort C.F. Smith was established on August 12, 1866, to protect immigrants traveling on the Bozeman Trail from attacks by the Sioux Indians. The Bozeman Trail crossed the Bighorn River 400 yards from the fort. Located near the present town of Fort Smith, all that remains of the site are low mounds and interesting stories. The nearby Bighorn Lake extends approximately 60 miles through Wyoming and Montana, 55 miles of which are held within spectacular Bighorn Canyon.

Four Buttes, received its name from the four unusual buttes that tower above the prairie west of town. These buttes were known as "Whiskey Buttes" because it was a rendezvous point for whiskey traders and Indians. Just east of Four Buttes visitors can find the Daniels County Museum & Pioneer Town out of Scobey which features 35 buildings that have been constructed or restored to depict turn-of-the-century town.

Frazer is located between Glasgow and Wolf Point along the Missouri River on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation. The reservation is home to Sioux and Assinniboine, and it encompasses more than 2 million acres. Red Bottom Celebration is an annual powwow that takes place in Frazer. It is a celebration of native culture and traditions through dancing, food and crafts.

About 16 miles northwest of Missoula is Frenchtown, a community founded years ago by French Canadian settlers. Situated along the Clark Fork River in a valley called qua elth-meaning state of tranquility-by American Indians, Frenchtown is home to Frenchtown State Park, a five-acre spring-fed lake that's home to a variety of fish. The park is local favorite for water recreation.

Froid is near Medicine Lake National Wildlife Refuge, which is located on the plains of northeastern Montana, between the Missouri River and the Canadian border. Thousands of migrating waterfowl make their summer home at the refuge. Great blue herons, white pelicans, sandhill cranes, grebes and 12 different species of ducks share the prairie lake ecosystem.

Fromberg is located 36 miles south of Billings along the Clarks Fork Yellowstone River. Fromberg's Clarks Fork Valley Museum is hosted in one of the last class four, small, rural area railroad depots in the country. The depot, which is listed on the National Register, was 100 years old in 1999. Exhibits include a one-room doctor's office and a traditional homesteader's cabin.

Near Galata, residents and visitors can enjoy one of the most versatile recreational areas in Montana, Tiber Dam-Lake Elwell. The lake provides excellent year-round angling for walleye, northern and sauger pike, native trout, ling, perch and others. For boaters and swimmers the area boasts over 50 miles of shoreline, a marina and four well-maintained boat ramps located strategically around the lake.

Gallatin Gateway is twelve miles southwest of Bozeman on the Gallatin River. It is located at the mouth of the canyon on the road leading to Yellowstone National Park. Located in the Custer Gallatin National Forest near Gallatin Gateway, visitors can enjoy Spire Rock Campground and Spanish Creek Picnic Area. From the Spanish Creek parking area there are many options for ski routes into the Lee Metcalf Wilderness. Kirk Wildlife Refuge provides fishing access along the Gallatin River.

Gardiner sits in the breathtaking Paradise Valley, with the Yellowstone River running right through town. Enjoy outdoor adventures on the river and in the nearby Custer Gallatin National Forest. Discover the Absaroka and Beartooth Mountains. Spot wildlife on the outskirts, and visit local shops and eateries in the historic downtown.

Garneill is located on US Highway 191 between Lewistown and Harlowtown. To the east of Garneill is the picturesque Crystal Lake, which is situated in the Snowy Mountains of Lewis and Clark National Forest. The area offers camping, hiking, fishing, canoeing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling.

Garrison is located about 48 miles west of Helena at the junction of Highway 12 and Interstate 90. Garrison is not far from the 1,500-acre Grant-Kohrs Ranch National Historic Site in Deer Lodge. This was the headquarters for one of the largest and best known 19th-century range ranches in the country. Today the ranch house, bunkhouse and outbuildings are much as they were during ranch operations from the 1860s through the 1960s.

Garryowen is on the Little Bighorn River a few miles south of the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument and is within the boundaries of the Crow Indian Reservation. The Custer Battlefield Museum is located on the former site of Sitting Bull's camp, on the famous Garryowen bend of the Little Bighorn River, a traditional summer hunting campsite for many Plains Indian tribes. As the Seventh Cavalry approached in late June of 1876, this was the site of one of the largest Indian gatherings ever recorded in North America.

Shaped by the Yellowstone River and sheltered by the Rims, Billings is a regional hub for commerce. Whether you're looking for bronco busting rodeo action or the relaxation of fishing or hunting, you'll be in good company around Billings. Watch Montana's wildlife by grabbing your binoculars and heading to the plains or hiking in the mountains that surround Billings. Use Billings as a central point to the best western attractions, events, hospitality, shopping and cuisine.

Known as the "Garden City" for its dense trees and lush green landscape, Missoula is nestled in the heart of the northern Rockies where five valleys converge. Missoula is a center for education, medicine, retail and the arts. Located at the base of Mount Sentinel and the banks of the Clark Fork River is The University of Montana. The 200-acre campus is one of the most beautiful in the nation and is home to 12,000 students. Fly fishermen, rafters, kayakers and canoers thrive on the nearby waters.

Great Falls straddles the Missouri River and is known as the "Electric City" because of its numerous dams and power plants. Great Falls is a community with grand traditions, rich history and superb recreational and cultural amenities for the entire family. When you visit, take a moment and remember to reflect on the fact that you're walking in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark, the Blackfeet Indians, the buffalo and the grizzly bear.

Bozeman is called “the most livable place” for good reason. Enjoy world-renowned fly fishing, dramatic mountains for hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, skiing, hunting, and backcountry exploring, Yellowstone National Park, and impressive wildlife. When you are ready for a more city experience, dive into Bozeman’s thriving arts and culture communities, ranging from main street festivals, farmers markets, cultural centers and museums to symphonies, theaters, and art galleries.

One and a half centuries ago, Helena became the "Queen City of the Rockies" with the boom brought on by the 1864 gold strike. Helena grew along Last Chance Gulch and in 1875 became the Montana territorial capital. Today the state capital’s grand architecture, numerous museums and historic sites offer a real glimpse into the rich and deep history of the city. Helena also boasts a vibrant cultural center with a busy event calendar, eclectic shopping, art galleries, terrific local bands, great restaurants, local microbreweries, and an epic trail system. For more information, visit our Helena website at www.helenamt.com.

The Butte Hill and its huge copper deposits was once known as "the richest hill on earth." Today Butte's colorful history can be seen in its preserved Victorian uptown business district and stately mansions. The Butte Trolley tours historic sites in the summer. Activities and guided services for this area include ranch vacations, natural hot springs, hiking, boating, resort cabins, river floats, hunting, fishing, horseback rides, golf, cross-country and downhill skiing, and snowmobiling.

Kalispell and the Flathead Valley are home to Glacier National Park, Flathead Lake, championship golf courses, two ski resorts, unlimited trails for hiking and lakes and streams for fishing, outstanding arts and culture, charming small towns and warm western hospitality. To plan your next Kalispell vacation visit www.discoverkalispell.com.

Belgrade has established itself as an independent community with excellent services and the unbeatable experience of a small town. Located in the center of the Gallatin Valley, Belgrade is just minutes away from many of Montana's major attractions including Bridger Bowl, Big Sky Resort, Yellowstone National Park, and many more!

Havre is a rural agricultural community located on Highway 2 in North Central Montana. This area of mountains and plains offers a year-round retreat for nature lovers, recreation enthusiasts and history buffs. Besides recreation, Havre is also rich in cultural attractions ranging from concerts, live theater, museums, shops, galleries, numerous sporting activities and events.

Livingston is the historic train town from the late 1880's that will keep you coming back. Livingston was the “Original Gateway City to Yellowstone National Park” now it’s where adventure, beautiful scenery and authentic friendly folk await you at the edge of the Yellowstone River. The town is surrounded by four beautiful wild mountain ranges that offer an abundance of outdoor activities year round. Whether it’s fly fishing, dogsledding or cross-country skiing, horseback riding, river rafting or just taking it easy at our many museums, art galleries and restaurants we have it here in Livingston.

Named one of the "Top 25 Ski Towns in the World" by National Geographic, Whitefish is located on the shores of Whitefish Lake and at the base of Big Mountain-home to Whitefish Mountain Resort. A short jaunt to Glacier National Park, Whitefish is a year-round destination with plentiful attractions and a mixed array of shops, coffee houses, restaurants, accommodations. Visitors can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, hiking, biking, boating and live professional theater, as well as stellar dining. Amtrak's Empire Builder stops daily in Whitefish, while Glacier Park International Airport is only 15 minutes away.

Steeped in Western history, Miles City remains a true Western town. Vast stretches of plains and badlands branch out in all directions. The Yellowstone and Tongue rivers flow unblemished in long sections. Once the horse trading and livestock center of the country, Miles City still has weekly livestock auctions and, once a year, puts on the Bucking Horse Sale for rodeo stock buyers and breeders.

Located on the famous Yellowstone River and only a short drive to blue-ribbon trout fishing, skiing, hunting, camping, horseback riding and national forest access, Laurel is the perfect starting point for outdoor recreation enthusiasts. There is a rich history that lends itself to Laurel. Riverside Park located south of the Yellowstone River bridge was the site of the German Prisoner of War Camp during World War II and the town is rich with railroad history.

Situated on the Yellowstone River, Sidney is the center of trade for the area. Oil and agriculture are the main industries, and crops include grains, sugar beets, corn, beans and hay. The Sidney area offers excellent fishing for many warm-water species, including the huge prehistoric paddlefish. You can also hunt for agates along the Yellowstone, or hunt big game, waterfowl and upland birds. Straddling the North Dakota-Montana border nearby is the Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site.

Humbled by the towering Pintlers, nestled in a mile high valley in the Deer Lodge National Forest, Anaconda presents unsurpassed recreational opportunity just outside town, in any direction. The town sprang up when the giant Anaconda Copper Mining Company of Butte needed a smelter for its vast amounts of copper ore. Smelting operations were suspended in 1980, but "The Stack" remains an important landmark and state park.

Lewistown is an agricultural community located at the geographic center of Montana in the vast Judith Basin. The town features many well-preserved historic businesses and homes. Although mostly rolling prairie, farms and ranches, the Lewistown area features five beautiful mountain ranges, the Snowies, the Judiths, the Moccasins, the Belts, and the Highwoods from which grand 100-mile vistas stretch out below. Picturesque landscapes, mountain terrain, and small quiet towns typify the area.

Nestled in the Northeast corner of the spectacular Flathead Valley lies a community which boasts Montana hospitality and family fun like no other, Columbia Falls. With a central location just minutes from Glacier National Park, Flathead Lake, numerous golf courses, and the Whitefish Mountain Ski Resort, you’ll find year round attractions, accommodations, and dining with honest Montana flavor and value.

Polson is located on the Flathead Indian Reservation at the south end of Flathead Lake. This charming lakeside community is the center for one of Montana's most fertile farming areas and prime cherry growing region. The Flathead River that flows from Polson features whitewater rafting and Kerr Dam.

Bigfork has been distinctly honored with designations in the following publications: The 50 Great Towns in the West, 100 Best Small Art Towns, The Great Towns of America and National Geographic Guide to Small Towns Escapes. Bigfork is an exceptionally lovely, upscale, year-round resort village that is brimming with art galleries, fine restaurants, golf, high-end boutiques and live theater.

The town of Hamilton is the central trade area for hundreds of small farms, ranches and orchards that fill the valley. Hamilton is home to the Daly Mansion built in the late 1800s for Marcus Daly, one of Montana's colorful "Copper Kings." Ravalli County Museum is located in the original Ravalli County Courthouse built in 1900. Saved from the wrecker's ball in 1979, it is now listed in the National Register of Historic Buildings and considered one of the finest museums for a town of this size.

Glendive is tucked between the badlands and the Yellowstone River, and is considered the hub city of the rich inland agricultural area of eastern Montana and western North Dakota. Makoshika State Park, one of the most impressive badlands areas in America, borders the southern edge of Glendive. It is not only attractive with its highly unusual rock formations, but is a virtual warehouse of prehistoric fossils, mineral specimens and dinosaur bones.

Lolo is near the Montana-Idaho border and Lolo Pass. Located at a historic and contemporary crossroads, Travelers' Rest State Park is a place where visitors can say with certainty that they are walking in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark. The nearby creek was originally called Travelers' Rest Creek because men using the trail found it an ideal spot to stop, rest, hunt and repair their gear before tackling the trip over the pass. The natural hot water springs also helped make it a favorite stop.

Dillon is situated in a sweeping valley into which the Ruby, Big Hole and Beaverhead rivers drain. Beaverhead River is a blue-ribbon trout stream that's a favorite for expert fly fishermen. There are several museums in Dillon devoted to preserving local history. Bannack State Park is located just southwest of Dillon. It is a registered historic landmark and the site of Montana's first major gold discovery on July 28, 1862. Over 50 buildings line Main Street recalling Montana's formative years.

Hardin is situated on the banks of the Bighorn River and the edge of the Crow Indian Reservation. The Bighorn Canyon and Dam allow a majestic view of the water below. The reservation offers two mountain ranges, the rugged Pryor and Bighorn Mountains, with rolling hills and semi-arid plains surrounding the peaks. The town is surrounded by productive ranches and farms, including the largest wheat farm in the world. Coal mining has also contributed greatly to the local economy.

Glasgow was established in the late 1800s as a railroad town. While in Glasgow, visit the Valley County Pioneer Museum showcasing fossils, Indian artifacts, railroad, early business, aviation and wildlife collections. The Glasgow area is full of scenic rolling plains and open farmland. Many roads lead to Fort Peck Lake through the Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge. Bugling elk, herds of mule deer, red fox and coyotes call this place home.

Shelby, once a cattle town, is now home to oil and agriculture. Located on I-15 and U.S. Hwy 2, this town hosted the World Heavyweight Championship fight between Dempsey and Gibbons in 1923. Today, the local museum features area history, homesteading items and a dinosaur collection. Nearby, the Sweet Grass Hills offer hiking and wildlife viewing of deer, antelope, elk, foxes, golden eagles and grouse. North of town, Lake Shel-oole offers camping and outdoor recreation. Be sure to stop at the Carousel Rest Area Shelby. Featuring a restored 1936 merry-go-round with 900 lights and hand-painted animals, the carousel is a labor of love completed by the Shelby community in 2018.

The cultural diversity and richness that makes Cut Bank a special place to visit is highlighted by the proximity of the Blackfeet Indian Reservation. The Blackfeet Tribe is arguably one of America's most culturally intact native populations. The area is also home to five active Hutterite colonies. Steeped in centuries-old Germanic tradition, a visit to any one of these colonies is a step back in time. The Glacier County Museum preserves and educates visitors about the area's people and history.

Deer Lodge Valley is a meadowland surrounded on the east and the west by mountain ranges. More museums and historical collections can be found here than in any other town in the Northwest. Deer Lodge's 1,500-acre Grant-Kohrs Ranch National Historic Site illustrates the development of the northern plains cattle industry from the 1850s to recent times. This was the headquarters of one of the largest and best known 19th-century range ranches in the country.

Libby lies in the northwest corner of Montana in a valley carved by the Kootenai River on the flank of the majestic Cabinet Mountain Range. Libby is surrounded by lakes, trails, campsites, fishing areas and scenic drives. For outdoor enthusiasts fishing the blue-ribbon Kootenai River or boating on Lake Koocanusa are always great pastimes. The Kootenai National Forest offers over two million acres of forest for hiking, camping and backpacking, miles of streams and trails, and numerous lakes.

Montana City located five miles south of Helena was once a thriving gold camp located along Great Northern railroad. The lure of the discovery of gold in Helena at Last Chance Gulch was the same that attracted miners and prospectors to settle in Montana City. As hopes for fortune declined the once bustling placer mining camp dwindled. Montana City began to redevelop and today is a outlying suburban community of Helena.

This area is famous for entertaining tourists who come to visit the Flathead area and Glacier National Park. The Lakeside-Somers communities line the shores of Flathead Lake for a span of 15 miles along U.S. Highway 93, some two hours north of Missoula and 15 minutes south of the regional shopping area of Kalispell.

Wolf Point is a county seat in the northeastern part of the state where Wolf Creek flows into the Missouri River and is part of the Fort Peck Indian Reservation. The Fort Peck reservation is home to the Dakota-Lakota-Nakota (Sioux) and Dakota (Assiniboine) nations. Today, Wolf Point is a trade point for local farmers and ranchers and a center for the Sioux and Assiniboine. Montana's oldest pro-rodeo, the Wild Horse Stampede, is held every 2nd weekend in July. Wadopana Pow-wow is the oldest traditional pow-wow in Montana. The celebration is always the first weekend of August.

Conrad has been the site of a number of industries but farming, ranching, oil production and tourism provide the main stays of its economy. The nearby Bob Marshall Wilderness, deep in the Rockies, is one of the last primitive areas for hiking, backpacking and horseback riding. Bird watching and hunting are excellent near Conrad. Lakes and grain fields draw numerous species of song and game birds.

Nestled in Montana’s magnificent Beartooth Mountains and surrounded by Custer Gallatin National Forest, Red Lodge delivers access to world-class outdoor recreation and adventure. Throughout the historic downtown, enjoy locally owned shops,exceptional farm-to-table dining experiences and plenty of accommodations, events and entertainment.

The scenic community of Big Sky nestles high in mountain meadows, surrounded by timberland, the Spanish Peaks Primitive Area and the Gallatin National Forest. Majestic 11,166-foot Lone Mountain towers over the paradise, where in 1969, Chet Huntley, the late newscaster, and a group of corporate investors purchased some ranchland which was later developed into Big Sky Resort. This lively village is a year-round playground for outdoor recreationists.

The friendly community of Townsend anchors the southern end of Canyon Ferry Reservoir in the heart of great hunting and fishing country. Self-guided tours through historic mining and scenic areas in the Elkhorn and Big Belt mountains invites one to explore this agricultural community that teems with recreation opportunities.

Flanked by the Bitterroot and Sapphire mountains, the small, historic town of Stevensville in the Bitterroot Valley offers beautiful views and outdoor recreation. For an overview of area history, visit the Stevensville Museum or tour St. Mary's Mission, "where Montana began." For wildlife and photographic opportunities, take the interpretive trails of the Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge, where osprey, Canada geese, bald eagles, coyotes, marmots, muskrats, minks and whitetail deer live.

Colstrip is known as the "energy capital of Montana" and was born in 1924 when the Northern Pacific Railroad started mining coal nearby to fuel their steam locomotives. Today, Colstrip is a quiet, closely knit community with over 2,000 citizens and 22 parks. The Schoolhouse History and Art Center, the town's original schoolhouse built in 1924, now serves as the visitor center, an art gallery and also provides tours of the coal mine from May to October.

Years ago families from the Netherlands moved in to grow barley for malters near the new little town of Manhattan, named by a group of New York City investors who operated the Manhattan Malting Company. They settled together in a tightly knit society that flourishes today. Today Manhattan's most productive industries are seed potatoes, dairy and wheat farms, commercial beef, registered cattle, and some unique cottage businesses such as food specialties, woodcarving, artisans and antiques.

Crow Agency is the headquarters of the Crow Indian Reservation and is close to the Bighorn Recreation Area and Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument. The battlefield includes visitor center, museum, Custer National Cemetery, 7th Cavalry Memorial and Reno-Benteen Battlefield. The battle is reenacted each June. Crow Agency becomes the 'teepee capital of the world' in mid-August during the Crow Fair celebration.

Situated just off I-90, this small town offers big outdoor recreation opportunities. Nearby Missouri Headwaters State Park preservers the historic place where Lewis and Clark discovered the confluence of the Jefferson, Madison and Gallatin rivers creating the headwaters of the 2,300 Missouri River. Campground, hiking trails, fishing and floating are here. Other area state parks that offer further exploration include the Madison Buffalo Jump and the Lewis and Clark Caverns.

Eureka was known as the Tobacco Plains and was originally home to the Kootenai Indians. The area offers scenic treasures tucked away in Montana's northwest corner. Tobacco River Campground is located adjacent to the Tobacco River in a natural forested area. It is also in the vicinity of 90-mile-long Lake Koocanusa and The Hoodoos, a limestone formation found in an adjoining bay off the lake. Ten Lakes Scenic Area treats visitors to mountain drives, pristine lakes and abundant fishing.

Roundup is nestled in the valley near the Musselshell River near the Bull Mountains. It has long been renowned for its natural geographic design for rounding up livestock. One of the town's highlights is the annual Roundup Cattle Drive. The drive is the western adventure of a lifetime. Besides being fun, you learn what farming and ranching operations are all about.

Ronan offers a wealth of resources and enjoyment with the beauty of the Mission Mountain and various sources of fishing and wildlife habitat. Ronan's Mission Mountain County Visitor's Center is a community project serving summer visitors to the Mission Valley. Hiking in the Mission Mountain Wilderness Area by permit, touring the National Bison Range, picnicking in the city park, enjoying the Garden of the Rockies Museum and sightseeing along the Flathead River are among the many attractions.

Lame Deer is between Broadus and Hardin on Deer Creek and the Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation. Lame Deer is the tribal and government agency headquarters for the Reservation. The St. Labre Mission and Cheyenne Indian Museum feature Plains Indian artifacts and a documentary film on the Saint Labre school. The premier event of the Northern Cheyenne is the annual Fourth of July Celebration in Lame Deer, the largest pow-wow held on the reservation.

This full-service community in the foothills of the Beartooths boasts the most scenic route to Yellowstone National Park via the Beartooth Pass. Located at the confluence of the Stillwater and Yellowstone rivers, Columbus offers plenty of outdoor recreation. Visit the Museum of the Beartooths for an understanding of area history, including artifacts of the Rosebud River Crow Indians, Northern Pacific Railroad memorabilia and World War II history.

Famous for our wide-open spaces and diversity in landscape, we offer a variety of wildlife and cultural history. This area is much the way Lewis and Clark found it in 1805. Malta hosts the CM Russell National Wildlife Refuge (including the western portion of Fort Peck Lake) and Bowdoin Bird Refuge, which offer opportunities for deer, antelope, elk and upland game bird viewing and hunting. Malta is one of the notable stops on the Montana Dinosaur Trail with two excellent facilities on the trail.

East Helena was named for its location in relation to Helena. In 1888, a large lead smelter was built and operated until 2001. East Helena grew up around that enterprise. For over a century, the smelter processed 70,000 tons of lead bullion a year, and provided a livelihood for thousands of families. Nearby East Helena abounds with recreation opportunities on Holter, Hauser, and Canyon Ferry Lakes, which were all created by dams on the Missouri River.

Pablo was named for Michel Pablo, a Flathead Chief, rancher and stockman who, by raising bison, is one of the individuals responsible for saving the bison from extinction. Pablo is the headquarters for the Flathead Indian Reservation and lies at the base of the Mission Mountains south of Flathead Lake. Of special interest is the People's Center which tells the native story of traditions and culture of the tribes which has been passed down orally from generation to generation.

The area was a famous silver camp in the late nineteenth century and the ore from the Clancy district was so rich that even after it was hauled by bull team to Fort Benton and shipped by river and ocean to Swansea, Wales, for smelting, it still netted profit. While in town visit the Jefferson County Museum which holds two large galleries; one focusing on area history while the other holds traveling exhibits.

Millions of years ago the area around Choteau was used by dinosaurs as a breeding ground. Paleontologists have put together pieces from excavated eggs and bones. Egg Mountain is 12 miles to the west of Choteau. It is the site that has yielded more information about dinosaur biology during the Cretaceous period than any other paleontology dig in the world. Area opportunities include: camping, swimming, hiking, skiing, wildlife viewing, fishing, hunting, shopping, golf, and dinosaur digging.

Forsyth is nestled below a rim of rough badlands along the banks of the Yellowstone River. Enthusiastic agate hunters visit the Yellowstone River banks each year in search of Montana agates. The Yellowstone River is also popular for boating and fishing.

Plentywood is located in the Northeast corner of the state and has served as a trading post for the people living in that part of the state. At the site of present-day Plentywood, Sitting Bull and his Sioux people surrendered to the U. S. Army after living in Canada for five years. The Outlaw Trail crossed into Canada north of Plentywood. Rustlers moved their stolen cattle and horses along this passage across the border. Butch Cassidy named the trail and established a rest station in the Big Muddy Valley, west of Plentywood. This area was 'the Old West' legend.

About 16 miles northwest of Missoula is Frenchtown, a community founded years ago by French Canadian settlers. Situated along the Clark Fork River in a valley called qua elth-meaning state of tranquility-by American Indians, Frenchtown is home to Frenchtown State Park, a five-acre spring-fed lake that's home to a variety of fish. The park is local favorite for water recreation.

Thompson Falls is a friendly town nestled in a quiet valley along the beautiful Clark Fork River. Millions of acres of national forest offer recreational possibilities including hiking, mountain biking, fishing, camping and hunting. Winter provides backcountry skiing and snowmobiling. Sightseeing adventures include old growth timber, wildflowers, waterfalls, mountain lakes, creeks, rivers and wildlife such as deer, elk, moose, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, bears and many varieties of birds.

Baker offers a variety of year round activities including: fishing at Baker Lake; hunting for deer, antelope, pheasants, wild turkeys and rabbits; snowmobiling and cross-country skiing.

Big Timber is a successful agricultural area, with strong community bonds. The beautiful Crazy Mountains provide a perfect backdrop for all types of outdoor recreation, photography and scenic drives. Big Timber is the gateway to the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness and has some of the best blue-ribbon trout fishing in the state.

Fort Benton is recognized as a National Historic Landmark, because of the importance it played as the head of navigation on the Missouri River and the opening of the northwest and western Canada. Walk along the steamboat levee and the part of the town once known as the bloodiest block in the West. View the ruins of Historic Fort Benton, which is currently under archaeological study and in the process of being reconstructed.

The town's name comes from an Indian word meaning "warm wind," and it's this wind, melting the snow in January and February, that makes it possible for cattle to reach the rich bunchgrass and survive. While in town visit the Blaine County Museum featuring area history and artifacts. The Bear Paw Battlefield is the site of the last major Indian battle in the U.S. and is located just 16 miles south of Chinook. It is one of Montana's three units of the Nez Perce Historic Park.

This small, fun-filled town is a mecca for year-round outdoor recreation enthusiasts. Summer finds visitors fly fishing, river rafting, mountain biking, trail rides and hiking while those in the winter come to enjoy cross-country skiing, snowmobiling and touring snowcoaches. Wildlife watching is a year-round activity, while great shopping can be found along the boardwalks.

Corvallis is located in the "heart of the valley" between magnificent Bitterroot Mountains and the Sapphire Range south of Missoula. Nearby, Teller Wildlife Refuge sprawls out along over 4 miles of the Bitterroot River, comprising of farmland and river bottom dedicated to the conservation of western Montana's finest native riparian habitat.

Seeley Lake, flanked by the Mission and Swan mountain ranges, is situated on one of Montana most scenic drives, Hwy 83. During spring, summer and autumn, enjoy birding, wildlife viewing, fishing, camping, canoeing, boating, hiking and golfing. Mountain bikers can explore hundreds of miles of roads and trails, which become a world-class cross-country ski trail system in winter. Snowmobilers can explore over 350 miles of groomed trails. Enjoy the serenity and beauty of this wonderland year-round.

Boulder was named for the massive stones strewn about the valley. Visit nearby Elkhorn State Park for excellent examples of frontier architecture. This ghost town stands as a reminder of Montana's 1880s silver boom. Enjoy hiking and picnicking in this area. Boulder Hot Springs, located three miles south of Boulder, began in 1883 as a 52-room resort and spa for the wealthy families in Helena and Butte. Renovated and redesigned, the hot springs offers geothermal pools for soaking and swimming.

Located on the north shore of Flathead Lake, Somers is a gateway to recreation on and around the lake including sailing, boating, waterskiing, swimming, fishing, picnicking and camping. In the mountains nearby, downhill skiing at Blacktail Mountain Ski Area is affordable and family friendly, while cross-country skiing on Blacktail Mountain offers spectacular views of Flathead Lake and Valley and four mountain ranges.

Whitehall sits in the heart of the Deerlodge National Forest. Nearby recreation includes hiking, backpacking, hunting, biking, boating and swimming. There are numerous snowmobile trails for winter riding and summer trail rides. Fish the Jefferson or Boulder River, stop at the city park for swimming and playground or take an underground tour at Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park.

Marion is southwest of Kalispell on Little Bitterroot Lake. When Lewis Kelsey moved his sawmill from Somers to Marion in the early 1900s, timber became an important part of the local economy. Today, visitors can enjoy the recreational opportunities found on Little Bitterroot Lake or at Lost Trail National Wildlife Refuge. The habitat diversity of the refuge supports a wide variety of wildlife species. At least 14 species of migratory and breeding waterfowl utilize the wetland areas.

Full of western flavor and small town appeal, this town welcomes visitors with mineralized hot springs, for which the town was named. It is the gateway to fishing on the Smith River (by permit only), home to "the Castle" mansion and the weathered homes and outbuildings of the ghost town of Castle. This community sits in the heart of excellent hunting country and is an anchor community for the Kings Hill Scenic Byway, a 71-mile picturesque drive.

Gallatin Gateway is twelve miles southwest of Bozeman on the Gallatin River. It is located at the mouth of the canyon on the road leading to Yellowstone National Park. Located in the Custer Gallatin National Forest near Gallatin Gateway, visitors can enjoy Spire Rock Campground and Spanish Creek Picnic Area. From the Spanish Creek parking area there are many options for ski routes into the Lee Metcalf Wilderness. Kirk Wildlife Refuge provides fishing access along the Gallatin River.

The Plains-Paradise area is a beautiful area to visit. Explore over 2,500 miles of trails in the Lolo National Forest. Koo-Koo-Sint Bighorn Sheep Viewing Site offers visitors an excellent opportunity to view bighorn sheep grazing in a meadow. The peak viewing months are November and December but there's also a chance of seeing them October through May. At the viewing site, six interpretive signs describe the natural history of bighorn sheep, their habitat and the geology of this valley.

Harlowton is the home of Montana's largest wind farm which is, at times, the highest producing facility in the U.S. The Judith Gap Wind Energy Center is located midway between Harlowton and Judith Gap. Constructed by Invenergy Services in 2005, the 90-tower wind farm has annual output around 450,000 megawatts. A turnout with informative kiosks on Highway 191 is under construction.

Pray is located along the Yellowstone River in the heart of Paradise Valley. Pray offers picturesque views of the Absaroka Mountain Range in the Custer Gallatin National Forest. The area offers recreational opportunities such as river fishing, camping, rental cabins, hiking and much more. Pray is just a short drive from one of Montana's biggest attraction's Yellowstone National Park.

The 1890s mining town has been renovated into National Historic Business District. Quaint shops, walking or auto tours and guides into the ghost towns are available. Georgetown Lake is 10 miles from Philipsburg and offers a beautiful mountain setting, fishing, boating and camping. Try some prospecting at the Sapphire Gallery or visit the Granite County Museum and Mine Exhibit, home of the Ghost Town Hall of Fame. Located nearby is Discovery Ski Area with beautiful views and uncrowded slopes.

Absarokee is a scenic, small community serving as a gateway to fishing, hiking, camping and outdoor exploration along the Stillwater and Yellowstone rivers and the nearby Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness.

The small town of Superior offers a break from I-90 travel and an introduction to area history at the local museum. The St. Regis-Paradise Scenic Byway is also an alternate route for travelers on I-90. This scenic route travels past spacious, rolling flats to steep canyon walls winding through nearby mountains and serves as a route to the National Bison Range. Spectacular scenery, plentiful wildlife and many recreational opportunities in the area make it a destination itself.

Nine miles east of Florence is Threemile Wildlife Management area, which encompasses 6,059 acres. The area is great for hunting, wildlife viewing, birdwatching and mountain biking during the summer. Here you are most likely to observe songbirds and raptors commonly found in upland grasslands and ponderosa pine forests, but visitors sometimes spot elk here as well.

Browning is the headquarters for the 1.5 million-acre Blackfeet Indian Reservation. Blackfeet Indians are Montana's largest Indian tribe. The main attraction is the Museum of the Plains Indian, near the intersection of US Highways 2 and 89. A comprehensive collection of cultural artifacts and exhibits is displayed at the museum. Another attraction, The Blackfeet Heritage Center & Art Gallery, offers a wide variety of arts, crafts and jewelry. Browning is located near the eastern edge of Glacier National Park.

Vaughn, located on Highway 89 and I-15, just north of Great Falls, provides access to many public fishing and floating areas. It is also near Freezout Lake Wildlife Refuge and Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge which supports a great variety of water birds both nesting and migration habitat. In the spring and fall, as many as 300,000 snow geese and 10,000 tundra swans gather and rest before flying onward for the season.

Hays located on the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation on the edge of the Little Rocky Mountains. The Hays Pow Wow is one of the area's finest outdoor celebrations. It features a whole weekend full of dancing and singing by natives from throughout the United States and Canada.

Ashland is division headquarters for the Custer Gallatin National Forest, and its possible the name comes from the abundance of ash trees. A historical buffalo jump, burial sites of Indian chiefs, Custer's last camp before the Battle of the Little Bighorn, the Cheyenne Indian Museum, Ten Bears Gallery, Saint Labre Indian School and the Ashland Powwow are of special interest in the Ashland area.

Named for a Flathead Indian chief and nestled in the beautiful Bitterroot Valley, Victor offers endless recreational opportunities. Two mountain ranges, 1.6 million acres of National Forest and miles of fishing on the famous Bitterroot River invite you to explore the outdoors. Nearby, explore local history in museums, tour a mansion, see Native American exhibits and watch birds and wildlife at nearby public and private refuges.

Park City is located along the Yellowstone River, which offers great fishing opportunities. Park City is also near Canyon Creek Battlefield Monument. The monumnet is located at the site of the battle between the Nez Perce led by Chief Joseph and the U.S. Calvary led by Col. Samuel Sturgis. This battle took place on September 13, 1877. Here 125 warriors held off the cavalry enabling the rest of the band of 800 Nez Perce to continued their flight from Oregon to asylum in Canada.

Nestled in the heart of the valley at the confluence of the Yellowstone and Missouri Rivers, lies the friendly town of Fairview. Fairview is the sugar beet capital of both Montana and North Dakota, and a large part of its irrigated farmland is devoted to growing sugar beets. As Montana's eastern-most town it has the unique feature of two states meeting on Interstate Avenue, more commonly known to residents as State Street. Part of the town lies in North Dakota, while the majority is in Montana.

Troy, the lowest point in Montana at 1,892 feet above sea level, is located on the banks of the Kootenai River, at the base of the Cabinet and Purcell Mountains. Take the easy to walk nature trail at Ross Creek Scenic Area, home to a grove of giant, ancient western red cedars, 500 years old and up to 12 feet in diameter. Nearby the lakes and rivers are full of salmon, bass and trout, the forests teem with elk, moose and bighorn sheep and bald eagles and osprey soar overhead.

Clinton is an old mining and lumber town. Near Clinton, Beavertail Hill State Park has one-half mile of Clark Fork frontage that provides fishing and floating opportunities. Camping, picnicking, and wildlife viewing are also popular here.

Harlem is located just north of the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation between Havre and Malta. Fort Belknap Indian Reservation is home to the Gros Ventre and Assiniboine tribes. Guided tours are available to Snake Butte, Mission Canyon, Bear Gulch and St. Paul's Mission. Annual events include Milk River Indian Days and Hays' Powwow and Fair, both in July featuring dancing, singing, and hand drum contests by natives from throughout the United States and Canada.

Ulm, southwest of Great Falls, off of I-15, is a small community that is host to what is believed to be one of the largest buffalo kill sites in the United States. First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park (formerly known as Ulm Pishkun)includes interpretive trails and a visitor center. Ulm also provides fishing and floating access to the Missouri and Smith Rivers and is near the Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge which supports a variety of water birds with both nesting and migration habitat.

Wildlife, dramatic scenery and year-round recreation await you in Lincoln. It's the gateway to the wilderness and a place where the wildlife come right into town. The Continental Divide bisects this region and gives you the best on both sides: the Sun River Canyon on the east slope and the beautiful Blackfoot Valley on the west. Lincoln is a paradise for snowmobilers, with trails starting right in town.

Trego, a small community between Eureka and Whitefish is located right in between the Tobacco River and Dickey Lake. The lake has camping and day use areas, a boat launch, fishing and excellent opportunities for waterfowl and wildlife viewing. Dickey Lake-Mt. Marston Trail offers a day hike to Mt. Marston that is fairly gradual and winds over forested ridges. In the fall, big game hunting is popular, while snowmobiling the Grave Creek Trail and Ten Lakes Scenic Area is a winter adventure.

Pinesdale is nestled between the Bitterroot River and the Bitterroot Mountain Range. St. Mary's Mission and Fort Owen are two of Montana's earliest settlements, to the north. The Bitterroot Mountains form a rugged, glacier-carved border between Idaho and Montana. On both sides of this border is the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness. This 1.3-million-acre wilderness has peaks that rise up to 10,157 feet and over 1,490 miles of trails creating a haven for backpackers, hikers, stock users and outdoor adventurers alike.

Big Sandy is a small farming community near the beautiful Bear Paw Mountains off US Highway 87. While there, visit the Big Sandy Historical Museum, which is located in the old Great Northern Railroad depot and see the largest collection of early pioneer photographs in Chouteau County. Be sure to visit the old jailhouse and tourist center as well. Lonesome Lake northwest of town offers great wildlife viewing opportunities.

Located in the heart of grain and cattle country, Scobey is the home of the Daniels County Museum and Pioneer Town. It is also home to animals and birds of all sizes. Big game and bird hunters from all over the world flock to eastern Montana seeking the whitetail and mule deer, antelope, pheasants, grouse, ducks and geese. Whether you're hunting, fishing or sightseeing, enjoy the wide open spaces in Daniels County's rolling prairies and farmland.

Gardiner sits in the breathtaking Paradise Valley, with the Yellowstone River running right through town. Enjoy outdoor adventures on the river and in the nearby Custer Gallatin National Forest. Discover the Absaroka and Beartooth Mountains. Spot wildlife on the outskirts, and visit local shops and eateries in the historic downtown.

Sheridan is located in the fertile Ruby Valley near the Ruby River and is near the Tobacco Root Mountains. The area surrounding Sheridan offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing in nearby blue ribbon trout streams, hunting and many other great outdoor activities. Nearby, explore Virginia and Nevada City, authentic Old West towns featuring over 150 buildings from the gold rush of the 1860's.

Fairfield is the Malting Barley Capital of the World, a trade center for the farming community. It offers a scenic 9-hole golf course at Harvest Hills Golf Course, with the Rocky Mountain Front and spectacular sunsets as a backdrop. Nearby Freezeout Lake is Montana's primary snow goose staging area, a place where as many as 300,000 snow geese and 10,000 tundra swans gather in the spring and rest before flying onward.

Chester offers plenty of recreation in this northern town with an elevation of 3,283 feet. Lake Elwell and Tiber Dam, located on the Marias River, offer camping, boating and fishing opportunities. While in town explore the Liberty County Museum and Liberty Village Arts Center and Gallery for area history and culture. If recreation is on your mind, camping, boating and fishing can be found at nearby Lake Elwell.

Wibaux, located in eastern Montana on I-94, serves as a gateway to Montana due to its friendly, western heritage with a colorful history and a charming commercial historic district. Its unique blend of badlands and rolling hills offers fine photography and hunting for mule deer, whitetail deer and antelope, while upland game birds are also plentiful.

Hungry Horse is at the edge of the lake formed by Hungry Horse Dam. It is a stone's throw away from Glacier National Park's west entrance. Completed in 1953, Hungry Horse Dam is Montana's highest dam at 564 feet and the eleventh largest concrete dam in the U.S. The visitor center is located at the dam where guided tours begin. The dam and reservoir are surrounded by spectacular mountains, offering excellent fishing and hiking in the immediate area.

Walkerville, a historic district adjacent to Butte, was named for the Walker Brothers of Salt Lake City, Utah, who owned and operated the Alice Mine at Walkerville. Walkerville was home to some of the earliest mining sites in the area. Copper and silver were most commonly mined. Present day Old Lexington Stamp Mill and Gardens marks the site of Butte's first smelter. The major features remaining at the Lexington include the steel headframe over the shaft, the hoist house, and a steel idler tower.

Poplar is located on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation, and offers plenty of Indian culture. The reservation is home to the Assiniboine and Sioux tribes. The Poplar Museum and Tribal Museum feature tribal history and artifacts.

This small community offers many public fishing access places along the Missouri River. It is also a popular place to start floating trips down the river. Camping, hunting and hiking are nearby as well. Crown Butte Preserve is located about halfway between Cascade and Simms on a county road. You can take a day trip to the flat-topped buttes and hike up to the natural grasslands ecosystem on top of the butte about 1,000 feet above the surrounding northern great plains.