SOUTHWEST MONTANA - 2013 TRAVEL PLANNER
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southwestmt.com
VISITOR’S GUIDE to the best of Montana
800.879.1159
southwest MONTANA
Virginia City, Montana
1913-2013: Celebrating 100 Years 2013 TRAVEL PLANNER
Virginia City Performance (Chuck Haney) Big Hole Battlefield (Chuck Haney) Carnival (Lisa Wareham)
Cattle Drive, Augusta (Donnie Sexton)
Ice cream at the Great Northern Carousel (Lisa Wareham)
the montana you have in mind
is the one we
have in store.
When you think of Montana, do you picture skyscraping ranges of snowcapped rock? Historic,
cultural centers that tell of a proud, self-determined West? A cowboy tipping his hat to you as
he passes by on a boardwalk? Herds of elk under a sky so wide it seems to swallow you up?
Then you’re picturing Southwest Montana, a region we humbly claim holds the best of what
Montana is about. Here, you’ll meet a diverse mix of friendly people — hoteliers, restaurateurs,
shopkeepers, historians, ranchers, miners, fly anglers, cowboys (and cowgirls) and more. You’ll have
opportunities to glimpse elk, black bears, mule deer, moose, golden eagles and perhaps even a
gray wolf. And you’ll find a treasure trove of places to rest your head — campgrounds along crystal
streams, cabins in the woods, lavish Western resorts, dude ranches and comfortable hotels.
Welcome to Southwest Montana. We’re glad to have you.
Contents: Augusta
287
o
D e ar b rn R.
The Areas Ovando Craig
Helena ...................................... 2 B l ac
k
Wolf
200 Lincoln
fo o
tR
Creek
Butte......................................... 8
. 279
Canyon Creek York
141
Virginia City/Ennis ................... 12 C l a r k For
k Drummond
90
Hauser
Lake
HELENA
R.
Elliston 12
Dillon/Beaverhead................... 16 1
DEER
LODGE Montana City
287
Canyon
Ferry
Anaconda/Philipsburg............. 20 Philipsburg Jefferson City Clancy
Lake
Basin 12
Deer Lodge............................. 24 Georgetown Lake
Boulder Townsend
15
ANACONDA
BUTTE
Bo
uld
569
e r R.
Pursuits R. Wise River
43 90
41
Whitehall
69
Planning
le
o
Ghost Towns........................... 30 Divide Harrison
H
g
43 .
nR
Bi
Wisdom Melrose fer
so
Big Hole
Birding .................................... 33 Scenic Routes......................... 48
Je f
Battlefield
278 Twin Bridges Sheridan Norris
Native American Sites ............. 34 Accommodations.................... 52 Jackson ub 287
R
41 yR
Polaris
.
Alder Ennis
Rockhounding......................... 36 Guided Recreational Services.... 54 Bannack
DILLON
Nevada/
.
dR
a
rh e
Virginia
Hot Springs............................. 38 Activity Resource..................... 56
Ruby River
Grant
ve
a
Be
City Cameron
324 Reservoir
Madison R
Clark Canyon
Hiking/Biking........................... 40 Visitor Information.................... 57
Reservoir
15
.
287
Outfitting & Dude Ranching..... 44 Calendar of Events.................. 58 Lima Lower
Red rock Upper
Winter Activities....................... 46
Reservoir
Index....................................... 60 Lake Red rock
Lima Lake
Monida Lakeview
Follow us on
Cover photo: Virginia City, Chuck Haney www.southwestmt.com 1
2
www.southwestmt.com
Last Chance Gulch (Lisa Wareham)
Last Chance Tour Train (Lisa Wareham) View of Helena (Lisa Wareham)
HELENA AREA
Helena is Montana’s state capital and was the center of wealth during the state’s mining heyday. The famed
1864 discovery was the nation’s fourth richest gold strike. Legend has it that Helena once boasted more
millionaires per capita than any other city in the U.S. Here you’ll find our most handsome and grandest
architecture alongside remnants of the gold rush upon which the modern community rests. As our state capital,
Helena is also a vibrant cultural center with a busy event calendar, terrific local bands, great restaurants,
fine museums and an epic “urban” trail system. Nearby, you can fish the Missouri, explore the Gates of the
Mountains, cross-country ski, and cycle a lifetime’s worth of mountain bike trails.
History Montana Historical Society
Founded in 1865, the society houses art,
Last Chance Tour Train artifacts, archives and photographs.
Step aboard and experience Helena The museum features the work of cowboy
on this one-hour, narrated train ride artist C. M. Russell, and American Indian
through Helena’s history. You’ll view the and Montana history exhibits. Discover your
original Governor’s Mansion, the current roots at the Research Center and find a
executive residence, the State Capitol, Montana treasure at the gift store.
the historic Guardian of the Gulch, and 406-444-2694 •
State Capitol (Lisa Wareham)
much more. It’s the best way to see it all. www.montanahistoricalsociety.org
406-442-1023 • www.lctours.com
Original Governor’s Mansion
Last Chance Gulch Take a guided tour of the 1888 Queen
Prospectors took “one last chance” that Anne-style mansion that served as the
paid off in 1864. Helena grew along the official home of Montana’s governors
gulch that today is the most historic mile from 1913 to 1959.
in Montana. Victorian-era buildings now line the site where 406-444-4789 •
diggings produced millions in gold. Enjoy great shopping, www.montanahistoricalsociety.org
dining, art galleries and history.
406-447-1535 • www.downtownhelena.com Reeder’s Alley
This quaint alley was home to miners and is Helena’s
State Capitol Building most intact territorial-period neighborhood. Listed on
Montana’s stunning neoclassical-style capitol reflects the the National Register, visitors can take a self-guided tour.
American Renaissance of the late 19th century. The building, The Montana Heritage Commission, managing entity
fully restored to its 1902 appearance, features a dome of for Nevada and Virginia cities, maintains this historic
Montana copper. Tours emphasize the blending of fine state-owned property.
Western art and classical architecture that make Montana’s 406-843-5247 •
capitol unique. www.montanaheritagecommission.mt.gov/default.mcpx
406-444-2694 • www.montanahistoricalsociety.org
Montana Military Museum
Cathedral of St. Helena Montana’s official military repository offers a rich collection
Patterned after the renowned Votive Cathedral of the of memorabilia, artifacts and archives, ranging from Lewis
Sacred Heart in Vienna, Austria, St. Helena’s 230-foot and Clark’s Corps of Discovery through modern time.
spires dominate the Helena skyline. The impressive interior Located at the Fort Harrison complex in Helena.
features 59 spectacular “Munich style” stained glass panels 406-324-3550 • www.montanaguard.com/museum
crafted in Germany by renowned artist F.X. Zettler.
406-442-5825 • www.sthelenas.org
www.southwestmt.com 3
Blackfoot Valley Historical
Society Museums
This museum collection of displays and Lincoln Gulch Gold
Mine artifacts preserves the local history and character of
Lincoln, the Blackfoot Valley and its residents. Located in
Alive @ Five (Lisa Wareham)
Lincoln behind the Hi-Country Trading Post, the museum
features logging, mining, agricultural equipment and local
historic buildings.
406-362-4949 • www.lincolnmontana.com
Kleffner Ranch
A mile south of East Helena, this 1885 ranch is listed on the
National Register and includes a massive fieldstone barn
Grandstreet Theatre
available for community functions, weddings and reunions,
Offering up to 10 productions each year, this is one of Montana’s
and an unusual octagonal ranch house.
best theater experiences. Located in a restored century-old
406-495-9090 • www.kleffnerranch.com
church, modern comfort blends with historic ambience.
406-442-4270 • www.grandstreet.net
St. Joseph’s Catholic Mission Church
A Colonial-style church dating to 1875, it reflects the roots of
Montana Shakespeare Company
many local settlers who came here from Canton, New York. The
Founded in 1997, the Montana Shakespeare Company is a
church was moved to its present location on Highway 284 east
nonprofit arts organization bringing a company of actors from
of Townsend in 1952 when Canyon Ferry Reservoir was filled.
across the nation. It is the Treasure State’s resident, professional
406-266-3710
Shakespeare Company performing full-length summer
productions of the Bard’s great works in the capital city.
JEFFERSON COUNTY HERITAGE CENTER 406-431-1154 • www.montanashakespeare.org
Located in an 1888 bank building on Boulder’s Main Street,
the center preserves the rich history and culture of
Alive @ Five
Jefferson County. The center houses museum, library
Every Wednesday throughout the summer months, a different
and genealogy collections.
downtown block hosts this event featuring food, drinks, live
406-422-9879 • www.theheritagecenter.yolasite.com
music and other entertainment. The event is free and for all ages.
406-447-1535 • www.downtownhelena.com
THE BROADWATER COUNTY MUSEUM
The museum preserves local Native American, Lewis and
Great Northern Carousel
Clark, and Broadwater County history through its exhibits and
Thirty-eight hand-sculpted animals and century-old stained
collected artifacts. The facility features an extensive library that
glass from the famed Broadwater Hotel promise a memorable
features copies of most of the early local newspapers.
ride. Enjoy the enclosed carousel year-round.
406-266-5252 • www.broadwatercountymuseum.com
406-457-5353 • www.gncarousel.com
Exploration Works
Culture A hands-on museum of science and culture for children
and adults, its 3,500 square feet offer hands-on fun and
Archie Bray Foundation science education. For those who like to play, create,
Established in 1951 on the site of a brick factory, the Bray discover and explore, Exploration Works is the place to be!
attracts artists from around the world. Tour the studios and 406-457-1800 • www.explorationworks.org
grounds of this unique endeavor in the ceramic arts.
406-443-3502 • www.archiebray.org Last Chance Ranch Wagon-ride Dinners
Our horse-drawn wagons take you back in time through high
Holter Museum of Art mountain timber to the lodge at Moose Meadow. Enjoy a home-
Features the best in regional fine arts and crafts, with new made meal of prime rib, gourmet sides, huckleberry cheesecake
shows opening every six weeks. The Holter hosts both and cowboy coffee. Montana’s own Bruce Anfinson concludes
nationally known and local artists. the evening with Western music and cowboy poetry.
406-442-6400 • www.holtermuseum.org 800-505-2884 • www.LastChanceRanch.biz
Myrna Loy Center Helena Cultural Opportunities
Offers new performance and art experiences with a link to The Helena area is home to various cultural productions
the vaudeville touring companies that frequented Helena and performances throughout the year. For more
between the 1880s and 1920s. information contact the Helena Chamber.
406-443-0287 • www.myrnaloycenter.com 406-447-1530 • www.gohelena.com/culture.html
4 www.southwestmt.com
Scenic Beauty Recreation
Gates of the Mountains Mount Helena City Park
Meriwether Lewis named this spectacular canyon north Acres of hiking and biking trails in the South Hills and
of Helena. Steep limestone cliffs flanking the Missouri River on National Register-listed Mount Helena offer great
create the illusion of a gate that seems to open as you panoramic vistas and diverse landscapes in all seasons.
travel toward these cliffs. Enjoy a leisurely, narrated boat The city trail system rivals biking destinations like Moab,
tour during the summer months. Utah, and includes butter-smooth singletrack to
406-458-5241 • www.gatesofthemountains.com challenging rock garden trails.
www.goby.com/hiking--near--helena-mt
HELENA NATIONAL FOREST
The Helena National Forest offers many scenic opportunities. The Helena National Forest
For a full list of options visit www.fs.fed.us/r1/helena or The Helena National Forest surrounds Montana’s capital city
call 406-449-5201. offering nearly one million acres of distinctive landscapes.
• Rocky Mountain Front Migration Corridor — Rogers Almost 80 miles of the Continental Divide National Scenic
Pass east of Lincoln is a migration route for eagles Trail, rich in mining history, stretch through the Helena National
October through November. As many as 125 bald eagles Forest from the Scapegoat to the adjacent Deer Lodge
and 800 golden eagles have been counted at one time. National Forest.
406-449-5201 • www.fs.fed.us/r1/helena
• Scapegoat Wilderness —This rugged wilderness area
is north of Lincoln and adjacent to the Bob Marshall The Holter & Hauser Lakes/Beartooth
Wilderness Area. Wildlife Management areas
Created by dams in the Missouri River near Helena, these
Wolf Creek (Prickly Pear) Canyon lakes are perfect for fishing, swimming, camping and water
Now one of the most beautiful scenic drives in Montana, skiing. Elk, deer and bighorn sheep flourish in the wildlife area.
this canyon was the most difficult section along the route 406-449-5201 • www.fs.fed.us/r1/helena
from Helena to Fort Benton. Stagecoach drivers and
teamsters feared the narrow canyon and swift-flowing Canyon Ferry Lake
Prickly Pear Creek. Take Interstate 15 north from Helena. A large reservoir on the Missouri River near Townsend,
the lake offers camping, sailing, boating, swimming, fishing
Tizer Botanic Gardens and rockhounding. Ice fishing and ice boating are popular
Situated in the heart of the Elkhorn Mountains, there are in the winter.
seven acres of perennials, annuals, roses, wildflowers, herbs, 406-444-2535 • www.fwp.mt.gov
vegetables and more than 12,000 bulbs. Features include
theme gardens, shade gardens and a Lewis and Clark garden. Missouri River
Located in Jefferson County, 18 miles south of Helena. Fabulous fishing on the scenic Missouri is best from Toston
406-933-8789 • www.tizergardens.com Dam near Townsend, downstream from Canyon Ferry
Lake, and on to Hauser and Holter dams.
Canyon Ferry Wildlife Management Area www.fwp.mt.gov/fishing/guide
Waterfowl and wildlife viewing opportunities include
abundant ducks, swans, geese and osprey. Take Highway Bob Marshall Wilderness Area
12 east through Townsend one mile, then left on North This one million-acre wilderness area includes a weeks’
Harrison Road and follow to the end. worth of trails traversing the Continental Divide. Gorgeous
406-266-3367 • www.fwp.mt.gov features include the Sun River on the east side of the divide
and the Blackfoot Valley on the west. Contact a local guide
Elkhorn Wildlife Management Area before tackling “the Bob.”
This 129,000-acre wildlife area is managed by the National 406-758-5208 •
Forest Service. Near Townsend, the area is home to many www.fs.usda.gov/attmain/flathead/specialplaces
indigenous animals including big game.
406-449-5201 • www.fs.fed.us/r1/helena/ Blackfoot and Little Blackfoot Fishing
Fine fishing opportunities abound in both rivers, with the
Tizer Garden (Tom Robertson)
Blackfoot also popular with whitewater rafters. Headwaters
are near Lincoln and Elliston.
406-444-2535 • www.fwp.mt.gov/fishing/
www.southwestmt.com 5
Gates of the Mountains Tour Boat (Lisa Wareham)
Great Divide Ski Area Jefferson City
Great Divide is an immense place with more than three miles Named to honor President Thomas Jefferson, the town
of terrain from end to end — including 140 named trails, open began as a stagecoach stop for passengers and freight
glades, bowls and a terrain park. Family-owned, friendly and between Fort Benton and Virginia City. In the early years,
affordable, Great Divide caters to skiers of all levels. this area yielded millions of dollars in gold and silver.
406-449-3746 • www.skigd.com 406-933-8789 • www.bouldermtchamber.com
Lincoln
The Sun River Canyon, the Blackfoot River Valley and
Nearby Communities pristine wilderness surround Lincoln. Its charming National
Register-listed community center is a focal point. Visit the
Augusta Hi-Country Trading Post and the Helena National Forest
Augusta sits on the northern edge of Southwest Montana
Ranger Station, which displays an 830-pound mounted
and is a gateway to the immense Bob Marshall Wilderness
grizzly bear.
and adjoining Scapegoat Wilderness. Known as a friendly
www.lincolnmontana.com
town in a scenic location, there are restaurants, motels
and a full array of visitor services.
Townsend
406-562-3247 • www.augustamontana.com/
Along the Missouri River and Lewis and Clark’s epic route,
Townsend sits at the pristine south end of Canyon Ferry
Boulder Lake. It is home to excellent hunting, fishing and seasonal
Historic Boulder, the county seat, is home to the
cattle drives. Nearby is the Canyon Ferry Mansion Museum
magnificent 1888 National Register-listed Jefferson County
offering B & B accommodations.
Courthouse. Nearby are Elkhorn Ghost Town and Radon
www.townsendmt.com
Health Mines, for relaxation and easing arthritis, lupus,
asthma and other ailments. While there is no guarantee,
Unionville
some claim improved health.
This small community along scenic Secondary 454 south
406-465-2106 • www.bouldermtchamber.com
of Helena was the site of the booming Whitlatch-Union
Mine, one of the largest producers of gold bullion in the
east Helena United States. In 1897, the gold-bearing lode disappeared
Freight wagons once camped where East Helena’s business
under a fault and the mine was abandoned.
district grew. The nation’s longest operating lead smelter
opened here in 1888 processing 70,000 tons annually until it
Helena Area Advertisers: Helena Convention and Visitors
closed in 2001. Today, the resilient community offers visitors
Bureau (pg. 7), Comfort Suites of Helena (pg. 53)
a charming main street, warm hospitality and a good meal.
www.easthelenamt.us
6 www.southwestmt.com
I can bike, hike, swim, shop, dine, go to the museum, attend a
Hollywood type gala, sample wine, golf, rock out, (breathe) catch
the ballet, do some fly fishing, go sailing like the Kennedys, hold
a world class business meeting, oh my gosh,
there’s more? You’ll find it all right here
in Helena, Montana. Now that’s good thinking.
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Visit us at helenamt.com or ring us at 800-743-5362
www.southwestmt.com 7
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Butte streets (Lisa Wareham) St. Partick’s Day parade (Donnie Sexton)Butte AREA
Few places in the U.S. can match Butte’s colorful history and characters (be it Copper Baron William A. Clark
or daredevil Evel Knievel). Known as the “Richest Hill on Earth,” Butte produced silver, gold and copper. In 1900,
Butte was one of the largest cities west of the Mississippi. It was the birthplace of labor unions, the battleground
of industrial titans and home to thousands of immigrants. Today, that proud history provides a fascinating back story
for Butte. A place of ethnic and regional foods, tours of National Historic sites, festivals and some serious antiquing.
History MINERAL MUSEUM
Mining Headframe (Donnie Sexton)
Not just for the rockhound, this fascinating
Trolley Tour collection holds 1,500 specimens and real-
The Butte Trolley is temperature controlled time data from Montana’s seismic network.
and enclosed. Tour Butte’s historic sites Open year round on the Montana Tech campus.
during the summer months. 406-496-4414 •
406-723-3177 • 800-735-6814 • www.mbmg.mtech.edu/museum/
www.buttecvb.com museum.asp
WORLD MUSEUM OF MINING/ COPPER KING MANSION
HELL ROARIN’ GULCH Designated a National Historic Place in
Situated on an actual mine yard, the 1971, the mansion was built for Copper King
museum preserves the rich historical William A. Clark, father of deceased heiress
legacy of mining and the related culture Huguette Clark; depicts the wealthy lifestyle
of Butte. Bring the family and climb a of the last century. Exquisite architectural
100-ft.-high Headframe or descend 65 ft. into the Earth detail and 32 rooms of antiques. Guided tours.
on an Underground Mine tour. 406-782-7580 • www.copperkingmansion.com
406-723-7211 • www.miningmuseum.org
OLD BUTTE HISTORICAL ADVENTURES
GRANITE MOUNTAIN MINE MEMORIAL Explore an authentic underground speak-easy from
Dedicated to the 168 men who died in a hard rock mine the Prohibition era, 1955 barber shop under a six-story
disaster in 1917, this exhibit features letters from the building, City Jail which housed Evel Knievel in 1956,
families of the fallen miners and memorial bricks. This brothel, walking tours and much more.
memorial offers the visitor a stunning panoramic view 406-498-3424 • www.buttetours.info
of Butte. Open all year.
406-723-3177 • 800-735-6814 • BUTTE-SILVER BOW ARCHIVES
www.butteamerica.com/gmtn.htm A collection of manuscripts, documents and photographs
relating to the history of Butte-Silver Bow. Some of the
THE MAI WAH SOCIETY collections housed at the Archives: cemetery records,
In the heart of Butte’s old Chinatown, this historic building voting registration, naturalization and Union records to
houses displays and artifacts relating the story of the name a few. Research services are available for a fee.
Chinese immigrants. 406-782-3280 • www.buttearchives.org
406-723-3231 • www.maiwah.org
LEWIS & CLARK BICENTENNIAL MURALS
BERKELEY PIT In Whitehall, more than a dozen billboard-size murals
View what was once the largest truck-operated open-pit depict scenes of the Lewis and Clark Expedition through
copper mine in the nation: a mile and a half across, three the Jefferson Valley.
miles around and 1,700 feet deep. 406-287-2260
406-723-3177 • 800-735-6814 • www.buttecvb.com
www.southwestmt.com 9National Folk Festival (Donnie Sexton)
JEFFERSON VALLEY MUSEUM BUTTE CENTER FOR THE
Also in Whitehall, artifacts and memorabilia depict the Performing ARTS
history and heritage of the Jefferson Valley area. The Butte Center for the Performing Arts serves to preserve
406-287-7813 the Mother Lode and Orphan Girl Theatres as venues to
promote the performing arts in Southwest Montana by
HEADFRAMES hosting traveling performers throughout the world and local
Dotting the landscape of the Butte hill are 14 tall, black, artists on a world-class stage.
steel structures. Variously called “gallows frames,” “gallus 406-723-3602 • www.buttearts.org
frames” or “headframes,” these mark the remnants of
mines that honeycomb the Butte hill. UPTOWN BUTTE FARMERS MARKET
406-723-3177 • www.buttecvb.com Every Saturday from June 1 through September 30, the
market is held on West Park Street between Main and
NATIONAL HISTORIC LANDMARK DISTRICT Dakota streets from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
One of the largest National Historic Landmark districts in 406-497-6464 • www.mainstreetbutte.org/fmarket.htm
the country, Butte offers a legacy of architectural treasures.
The Uptown is filled with fine, well-preserved examples of THE MONTANA FOLK FESTIVAL
early 20th century architecture. Walking tours are available. The second weekend in July is a free three-day event
406-723-3177 • www.buttecvb.com featuring a broad array of music, dance, workshops,
storytelling and ethnic cuisine. This signature event
attracts thousands of attendees from around the world.
The Montana Folk Festival is the successor to the National
CULTURE Folk Festival.
406-497-6464 • www.montanafolkfestival.com
BUTTE SILVER BOW ARTS FOUNDATION AND
CHARLES W. CLARK MANSION AN RI RA IRISH FESTIVAL
Enjoy Butte’s local traditions, heritage and art by exploring
This festival takes place in August in Historic Uptown
the Charles W. Clark Mansion, featuring changing art
Butte. Sensational Irish music by renowned national and
exhibits, marvelous collections and elegant architecture.
international performers as well as Irish history, archival
The building is a turn-of-the-century mansion on the
photos, author lectures, film festival, children’s activities,
National Historic Register and the home of the Butte Silver
genealogy, music and dance workshops, food, vendors
Bow Arts Foundation.
and an outdoor Gaelic Mass.
406-723-7600 • www.bsbarts.org
www.mtgaelic.org
OUR LADY OF THE ROCKIES EVEL KNIEVEL DAYS
Take a bus tour for a close-up look at the 90-foot statue
The last weekend in July is dedicated to Butte’s own Evel
overlooking Butte from 8,015 feet. This statue is dedicated
Knievel, the World’s Greatest Daredevil. Weekend events
to all women, especially mothers. Excellent views.
include feats and stunts by some of today’s greatest
406-782-1221 • 800-800-LADY •
stuntmen and daredevils. All events are held in Historic
www.ourladyoftherockies.net
Uptown Butte and are free to the public.
www.knieveldays.com
10 www.southwestmt.comLEXINGTON STAMP MILL AND GARDENS ALL-TERRAIN VEHICLE RECREATION
Located in historic Uptown Butte, the Lexington was one The Butte area has an extensive dedicated ATV trail system.
of the early stamp mills that crushed the ore for smelting 406-287-3223 • 406-533-7600
and is now surrounded by beautiful gardens.
406-723-3177 • www.buttecvb.com CONTINENTAL DIVIDE TRAIL
Butte is one of the closest cities to the 3,100-mile
OTHER CULTURE trail network that stretches from Canada to Mexico.
Art Walks, Silver Bow Twin Drive-In Theater, Montana Well-marked area trails provide 75 miles of recreation
Artist’s Refuge (Basin), Freedom Festival/4th of July for bikers, hikers and horsemen.
and St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. 406-683-8000
HOMESTAKE RECREATION AREA
Homestake picnic ground is a day use area. Located in
RECREATION the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest just off I-90,
this area features a small lake for fishing and swimming.
SHEEPSHEAD MOUNTAIN RECREATION Scenic trails nearby are great for hiking.
AREA & MANEY LAKE www.fs.usda.gov/bdnf
Fifteen miles north of Butte. Includes five miles of paved
trails and handicapped accessible fishing dock.
406-494-2147
GEOLOGICAL FEATURES
Geologic features in the area providing interest for all ages.
The “Ringing Rocks” east of Butte chime when tapped
BUTTE-SILVER BOW TRAILS SYSTEM lightly with a hammer. Crystal Park is a favorite for crystal
More than 20 miles of gravel and paved walking trails.
digging. Rock climbing opportunities at Humbug Spires
Open all year.
south of Butte and the Pipestone area.
406-723-3177 • 800-735-6814
www.fs.usda.gov/bdnf
LEWIS & CLARK CAVERNS STATE PARK FISHING
Off I-90 east of Cardwell, offers year-round cabin rental,
Some of the best blue-ribbon trout streams and rivers are
camping and picnicking. Daily guided tours May through
within 10 minutes of Butte.
September in the lighted caves. Candlelight tours available
www.fs.usda.gov/bdnf
in December.
406-287-3541 • www.stateparks.mt.gov/parks
OTHER RECREATION
Golfing, mountain biking, snowmobiling, hunting, hiking,
camping, bird watching and skiing.
NEARBY COMMUNITIES
BASIN
A mining community home to several historic buildings and
radon mines used for their health benefits. Basin is a haven
to musicians and artists.
WHITEHALL
In the Jefferson River Valley, Whitehall is a good base for
fishing and hunting. It has a nice city park and a historical
museum. Be sure to check out the Lewis & Clark Murals.
406-287-2260
Lewis & Clark Caverns (Donnie Sexton)
Butte Area Advertisers: Butte Convention and Visitor
Bureau (pg. 15), Comfort Inn of Butte (pg. 52), Montana
Folk Festival (Inside Back Cover)
www.southwestmt.com 11Virginia City (Chuck Haney) Madison River Fishing, Ennis (Chuck Haney)
12 www.southwestmt.com
Nevada City (Chuck Haney)VIRGINIA CITY &
ENNIS AREA
Nowhere is the mix of Montana’s past and present more evident than here. Virginia City and nearby Nevada City
remain virtually unchanged from their glory days of the 1860s gold rush. Both are living museums and even offer
historical reenactments. Be ready to feel like a time traveler. Ennis, meanwhile, is a working cowboy town with
a serious fishing habit. The fabled Madison River, which claims one of the highest trout-per-mile populations in
Montana, charges through the valley and skirts Ennis. Not surprisingly, Ennis’ charming downtown caters to
visitors with fantastic fly shops, Western art galleries, antique stores, outdoor shops and wonderful restaurants.
History HANGMAN’S BUILDING & BOOT HILL
Five lonely grave markers on Boot Hill tell the story of road
Alder Gulch Tourist Train agents who were hanged January 14, 1864. At Hangman’s
This 1910 steam locomotive runs every day during the Building you can still see the rope burns on the crossbeam
summer months from Virginia City to Nevada City. from the fateful day.
406-843-5247 • 800-829-2969 •
www.virginiacitymt.com/AlderGulch.asp ENNIS NATIONAL FISH HATCHERY
One of three rainbow trout brood stock hatcheries in the
VIRGINIA AND NEVADA CITIES federal hatchery system. Visitor’s center, display pond and
Virginia City is a vast National Historic Landmark, housing tours. Twelve miles southwest of Ennis.
America’s finest collection of 1860s “boom town” buildings 406-682-4847 • www.fws.gov/ennis
on their original sites and collections of Old West artifacts.
Nearby Nevada City is an open-air museum with more TWIN BRIDGES MUSEUM
than 100 buildings, thousands of artifacts and gem mining Located in the historic Reid Building, the museum provides
to experience. Historical reenactments or “Living History” different perspectives on Ruby Valley’s past. Photos, furnishings
weekends are a popular summer attraction. and apparel from the 19th century are on display along with
800-829-2969 • www.virginiacitymt.com memorabilia from Rodeo Hall of Famer Benney Reynolds.
406-684-5121 • www.rubyvalleychamber.com
ROBBER’S ROOST
This stagecoach stop was built on the site of a roadhouse
where outlaws planned their holdups (the roads are safer now). CULTURE
On Highway 287, four miles south of Sheridan.
VIRGINIA CITY PLAYERS
MADISON VALLEY HISTORY MUSEUM The oldest continuously operating summer stock theater
A museum in Ennis that is home to collections of artifacts, west of the Mississippi features melodramas and comedies
tapes, photographs and stories of historical importance to in a 19th century-style opera house.
the region and home to the famous “Beast.” Approximately 800-829-2969 • www.virginiacityplayers.com
four miles from Ennis on Hwy 287 toward Virginia City.
406-682-4685 BREWERY FOLLIES
Relax in Virginia City at Montana’s first brewery, the H.S.
THOMPSON-HICKMAN MUSEUM Gilbert Brewery, and enjoy a performance of the Brewery
Exhibits include Civil War era guns, photos, Indian artifacts, Follies (adult comedy).
a 100-year-old birthday cake and the preserved foot of 800-829-2969 • www.breweryfollies.net
Clubfoot George, who was hanged in the 1860s.
www.southwestmt.com 13ENNIS WALKING ART TOUR FISHING
Walk the streets of Ennis and you will find it has become • Beaverhead River — Prime fishing waters renowned
a living gallery of art. Get a glimpse of the wide variety of for the population of large brown trout with a good mix
talent with paintings, baskets, stained glass, sculptures, of rainbows.
bowls, knives, scrimshaw and furniture all on display. • Jefferson River — Near Twin Bridges where the
406-682-4388 • www.ennischamber.com Beaverhead, Big Hole and Ruby rivers meet.
• Madison River — One of the most famous wild trout
MADISON THEATRE streams in the world flows right past Ennis.
The charm remains in this Ennis movie theatre built in • Ruby River — Small river running through Alder,
1937. Run year-round, it is the social gathering place for Sheridan and Twin Bridges.
locals and tourists alike. Tour the 1950s working projector • Big Hole River — Runs through Wisdom, Jackson,
room and enjoy currently running movies shown nightly. Wise River and Melrose, and empties into the Jefferson
406-682-4023 River near Twin Bridges.
• Kids’ Fishing Hole — In Virginia City, open to children
12 and younger.
SCENIC BEAUTY • Kids’ Fishing Pond — Ennis Lions Club Park, free
MADISON RIVER VALLEY fishing for children 12 and younger, walking trails and
Travel south of Ennis on Highway 287 for excellent views of the public restrooms.
Madison Range and the Lee Metcalf Wilderness to the east. • Guiding — While you certainly don’t need a guide to
www.ennischamber.com fish area rivers, hiring one can help you gain knowledge
quickly and get to “the good spots” right away. Guides
RUBY VALLEY for these rivers can be hired out of Ennis, Dillon, Melrose,
Nestled amid seven mountain ranges, with numerous Sheridan, Twin Bridges and Divide.
blue-ribbon fisheries, the Ruby Valley offers an abundance
of recreational possibilities and unquestionable beauty.
www.rubyvalleychamber.com
NEARBY COMMUNITIES
ALDER
Hunt for garnets south of town. Visit the Red Rock Gem
RECREATION Mine two miles east of town, it’s open to the public for a fee.
BEAVERHEAD NATIONAL FOREST 406-842-5770 • www.rubyvalleychamber.com
Montana’s largest national forest covers 3.32 million
acres offering camping, hiking and mountain biking, LAURIN
plus snowmobiling and cross-country skiing in winter. This quaint turn-of-the-century village situated on the
406-683-3900 • www.fs.usda.gov/bdnf banks of the Ruby River boasts a trophy trout stream,
a historic Catholic church and other architectural gems.
BEAR TRAP CANYON 406-842-5770 • www.rubyvalleychamber.com
Eight miles of whitewater and wilderness begins at the spillway
of Ennis Lake Dam. Hiking and fishing are accessed via the trails. SHERIDAN
Kayakers and rafters should be very experienced or hire a guide. In the heart of the Ruby Valley, this friendly, quintessential
www.glaciertoyellowstone.com/fishing-tales small town is a gateway to the scenic Tobacco Root and
Ruby mountains. Within a few miles of town, superior
ENNIS LAKE outdoor adventures in hiking, fishing (with or without ice),
McAllister/Jeffers area on Ennis Lake Road, 3,692 acre lake, has hunting, bicycling and ATV trips can be enjoyed.
designated areas for camping, fishing, boating and a beach area 406-842-5770 • www.rubyvalleychamber.com
for swimming. Also a good birding loop that circles the lake.
www.ennischamber.com TWIN BRIDGES
Three blue-ribbon trout streams converge in this ranching
RUBY RESERVOIR town to form the Jefferson River and a mecca for fly-fishing.
South of Alder, has good access for camping, fishing and Local museum features unique displays of local and Native
boating, as well as for ice fishing in the winter. American history. Special camping facilities for touring
www.bigskyfishing.com cyclists and a kid’s fishing pond.
406-684-5416 • www.rubyvalleychamber.com
LEWIS & CLARK INTERPRETIVE PARK
Located at the entrance to the county fairgrounds in Twin Virginia City and Ennis Area Advertisers: Virginia City
Bridges. The park offers the public insight into the five days Chamber of Commerce (Back Cover)
the Corps of Discovery spent in this area. Don’t miss the
six-foot bronze statue of Sacagawea.
406-684-5824 • www.rubyvalleychamber.com
14 www.southwestmt.comwww.southwestmt.com 15
Bannack Days (Chuck Haney)
16 www.southwestmt.com
Clark’s Lookout (Chuck Haney) Big Hole River (Chuck Haney)DILLON & BEAVERHEAD
COUNTY AREA
The Dillon area carries on a centuries-old tradition of hospitality that began when Lewis and Clark were first
greeted with open arms by the Shoshone Indians at Camp Fortunate. Today, this beautiful, wildlife-rich
landscape defines the essence of rural Montana. It is open, cool and dry. Its high valleys graze cattle and
sheep and are dotted with traditional haystacks. The ranges — from the compact, jagged Pioneers to the
wall-like Centennials — are rugged and inspiring. History, too, marks the land. Bannack, now a ghost town
and state park, was Montana’s first territorial capital. And the Battle of the Big Hole was fought on the banks
of Trail Creek during the Nez Perce War of 1877.
History Lewis & Clark Trail Sites
Sites of special interest: Beaverhead Rock, Clark’s Lookout
Camp Fortunate Interpretive Center State Park, Lewis and Clark diorama, Camp Fortunate
Lewis and Clark exhibits, Beaverhead Chamber of Commerce Outlook, Lemhi Pass National Historic Landmark and
and Visitor Information Center. New log building showcases Gibbon’s Pass-Trail Creek.
wood construction and furnishings. Located in historic 406-683-5511 • www.beaverheadchamber.org
downtown Dillon.
406-683-5511 • www.beaverheadchamber.org
Scenic Beauty
Beaverhead County Museum
Indoor and outdoor exhibits in Dillon. Genealogy research
Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway
This scenic route through the national forest to Wise River
center, extensive bird display and boardwalk, one-room
begins 30 miles northwest of Dillon. Spectacular scenery,
schoolhouse, Union Pacific Railroad Depot, theater and
outdoor recreation, wildlife and ghost towns along the way.
restored Lewis and Clark diorama.
406-683-5511 • www.byways.org/explore/byways/2136
406-683-5027 • www.beaverheadcountymuseum.com
Big Hole National Battlefield Big Sheep Creek Back Country Byway
Fifty miles from Bannack. Originally a freight road used for
Memorializes the Nez Perce and U.S. troops who clashed
hauling supplies to the mining towns, the road is two-lane dirt,
at the Battle of the Big Hole in 1877. National Park
recommended for four-wheel-drive vehicles; side roads lead to
Interpretive Center, trails, picnic sites and special events.
trailheads into the mountains. A beautiful drive through gorgeous
Open year-round; 10 miles west of Wisdom.
countryside: Look up at high rock cliffs and look down long
406-689-3155 • www.nps.gov/biho
valleys with the Beaverhead Mountains to the west and the
Tendoy Mountains to the east. Early morning and evening hours
Bannack State Park
bring out the deer, elk and bighorn sheep. A rustic campground
In 1862 prospectors struck gold triggering a gold rush to
is at Deadwood Gulch. Road conditions will vary dramatically
what would become Montana. Bannack was founded that
with the weather, safest from June until September.
fall and became the first territorial capital. Bannack is one
of the best-preserved ghost towns in the country and is
rich in history. Activities include walking tours, gold panning,
Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge
Remote lakes in the Centennial Valley east of Lima. Home
picnicking and ice skating.
to many species of wildlife and birds, with nesting areas for
406-834-3413 • www.bannack.org
endangered trumpeter swans. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
406-276-3536 • www.fws.gov/redrocks
www.southwestmt.com 17Recreation Nearby Communities
Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest Dell
Largest national forest in Montana, encompassing several A small town near the Red Rock River, this ranching
mountain ranges. Diverse wildlife habitat and fisheries, community is surrounded by broad expanses of
year-round outdoor recreation opportunities: Anaconda-Pintler open rangeland.
Wilderness, Continental Divide National Scenic Trail, 406-683-5511 • www.beaverheadchamber.org
Lewis & Clark and Nez Perce national historic trails and the
Crystal Park Mineral Collecting Area. U.S. Forest Service. Jackson
406-683-3900 • www.fs.usda.gov/bdnf Near the headwaters of the Big Hole River, the Jackson
area offers exceptional fishing, hunting, skiing and
Crystal Park snowmobiling. Jackson Hot Springs is a central attraction
Search for crystals in the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, based around the natural hot springs mineral pool first
26 miles south of Wise River on the Pioneer Scenic Byway. discovered by Captain William Clark in 1806.
406-683-3900 • 406-683-5511 • www.bigholevalley.com
www.fs.usda.gov/activity/bdnf/recreation/rocks-minerals
Lima
Clark Canyon Reservoir Southern gateway to Montana, Red Rock Lakes and
Many fishing access areas and boat launch sites, plus Centennial Valley. Bird-watching and wildlife viewing at
camping and picnicking facilities, 20 miles south of Dillon. an elevation of 6,232 feet, and beautiful scenery along the
Ice fishing in the winter. Camp Fortunate Overlook along Continental Divide. Lima Historical Society Museum,
the Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail. Cattail Marsh city pool and park.
Nature Trail. U.S. Bureau of Reclamation. 406-683-5511 • www.beaverheadchamber.org
406-683-6472 • www.usbr.gov/gp/mtao/clarkcanyon
Melrose
Beaverhead and Big Hole Rivers Known for great fishing on the Big Hole River between
Miles of blue-ribbon trout streams especially favored by Butte and Dillon.
fly-fishermen. Public fishing access sites. 406-683-5511 • www.beaverheadchamber.org
406-444-2535, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks •
406-683-8000, U.S. Bureau of Land Management Polaris
On the Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway in the Grasshopper
Cattail Marsh Nature Trail Valley, this historic ranching and mining community enjoys
Near Clark Canyon Dam, south of Dillon. Drive over the outdoor recreation year-round. Activities include skiing and
dam and turn right at the fishing access sign. snowmobiling, hot springs, hiking and trail riding, digging for
406-683-6472, Bureau of Reclamation crystals, camping, fishing and hunting.
406-683-5511 • www.beaverheadchamber.org
Kids’ Fishing Pond
By the YMCA on Swenson Way, in Dillon. Wisdom
406-683-5511 Nestled in the beautiful Big Hole Valley, this cowboy town
adopted the name given to the Big Hole River by Lewis
and Clark in 1805. The Big Hole National Battlefield and
Wise River (Chuck Haney)
surrounding Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest provide
a wealth of outdoor recreational opportunities.
406-683-5511 • www.bigholevalley.com
Wise River
Surrounded by breathtaking scenery, located at the
north end of the Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway.
High peaks, quiet lakes and rippling rivers offer many
outdoor opportunities.
406-683-5511 • www.beaverheadchamber.org
Dillon and Beaverhead County Area Advertisers:
Comfort Inn of Dillon (pg. 53)
18 www.southwestmt.comwww.southwestmt.com 19
20 www.southwestmt.com
The Sweet Palace, Philipsburg (Tom Robertson) Old Works Golf Course, Anaconda (VauthierFerguson)ANACONDA &
PHILIPSBURG AREA
The Anaconda/Philipsburg Area is a hidden gem. Anaconda has one of the best public golf courses in the
United States. Its downtown is rich in history and is home to fantastic architecture funded by the billions of dollars in
Butte copper processed here in the late 1800s. It even has a bighorn sheep herd at the edge of town. Philipsburg,
with its National Register-listed district, features one of the most faithfully restored, Victorian street fronts you’ll
see. The main street includes an old-time candy store, soda fountain, jewelry store, general store and more.
Most impressive, though, is what surrounds these towns — the Flint, Pintler and Anaconda ranges; blue-ribbon
trout water; stunning Georgetown Lake; and a scenic byway that links it all. Be prepared to linger.
History WALKING TOUR
Washoe Theater (VauthierFerguson)
Tour Anaconda’s four national historic
Anaconda Stack districts that tell the story of the city’s past.
More than 585 feet high and one of the View unique homes and striking downtown
few remnants of Anaconda’s huge copper architecture.
smelting plant, it is the world’s tallest free- www.discoveranaconda.com
standing masonry structure. Now a state
park and interpretive site. COPPER VILLAGE MUSEUM AND
406-563-2400 • ART CENTER
www.discoveranaconda.com Housed in the former Anaconda City Hall,
built in 1896. Complex includes a historical
ANACONDA VISITOR CENTER museum, archives and art center, along with
This building is a replica of an old a retail shop and the local historical society.
train depot. Includes information on 406-563-2422 •
Anaconda’s many attractions and www.coppervillageartcenter.com
adventures. Vintage bus tours begin here.
406-563-2400 • www.discoveranaconda.com HEARST FREE LIBRARY
Built in 1898 with classic beauty. Located on Main Street
ANACONDA COURTHOUSE in Anaconda.
Construction began on the courthouse in June of 1898 406-563-6932 • www.hearstfreelibrary.org
and was completed in the early spring of 1900 at a cost of
$199,539. The building boasts a rotunda, circular staircases, GRANITE COUNTY MUSEUM
frescoes and a dumbwaiter so the clerk of the court wouldn’t Explore the daily routine of the turn-of-the-century
have to carry books up and down stairs. underground miner. This museum in Philipsburg features
www.discoveranaconda.com a replicated silver mine complete with equipment,
a prospector’s cabin and a fire assay lab.
OLD WORKS HISTORICAL TRAIL 406-859-3020 • www.philipsburgmt.com/museum
Interpretive plaques address the history of the Old Works
smelter. Kiosks and benches are provided for resting along GRANITE GHOST TOWN
the paved trail. Approximately one and a quarter miles. South of Philipsburg, this abandoned silver mine was known
406-563-2400 • www.discoveranaconda.com as the “Silver Queen,” the richest silver-producing area in the
country in the late 1890s. Stroll the Granite Ghost Walk.
406-859-3388 • www.philipsburgmt.com/ghost_towns
www.southwestmt.com 21CULTURE
Philipsburg (Donnie Sexton)
WASHOE THEATER
Anaconda’s historic 1930s working movie theater is listed on
the National Register of Historic Sites.
406-563-6161 • www.discoveranaconda.com
ST. TIMOTHY’S SUMMER MUSIC FESTIVAL
Playing host to some of the world’s best chamber groups,
this festival is held on a hillside 600 feet above Georgetown
Lake. Views of the lake, the Pintler Wilderness Area, the
Continental Divide and peaks 11,000 feet high are just as
breathtaking as the music. GOLF
888-407-4071 • www.sttimothysmusic.org
• Old Works Golf Course — A Jack Nicklaus signature design,
nationally recognized by Golf and Golf Digest magazines as
OPERA HOUSE THEATRE “One of the top 100 Public Facilities in America” and “One of
Emerging as a showcase producer of Montana playwrights,
the best values.” It is truly challenging and unique.
the Opera House Theatre in Philipsburg — dubbed
406-563-5989 • www.oldworks.org
“The Jewel of Montana” — offers live professional summer
theatre. The oldest theatre in Montana hosts yearly events. • Fairmont Hot Springs Resort Golf — Beautiful scenery
Your own theatrical journey starts at the front door! provides a stunning backdrop for this course.
406-859-0013 • www.operahousetheatre.com 800-332-3272 • www.fairmontmontana.com
• Anaconda Country Club Golf Course — A must see,
must play nine-hole golf course.
SCENIC BEAUTY 406-797-3220
MOUNT HAGGIN WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREA LOST CREEK STATE PARK
Montana’s largest at 54,000 acres. Moose, elk, cranes Mountain goats and bighorn sheep often graze in the 500-
and other native species abound with cross-country skiing acre canyon five miles north of Anaconda. A handicapped
available in winter. From Anaconda, travel southeast on accessible trail leads to a stunning 50-foot waterfall. Enjoy
Highway 1 to Mill Creek State Highway 273. hiking, picnicking and great views.
406-444-2535 • www.fwp.mt.gov 406-542-5500 • www.stateparks.mt.gov/parks/
PINTLER SCENIC ROUTE GEORGETOWN LAKE
Since 1915 this famous scenic byway (Highway 1) has Boating, fishing, camping and windsurfing 14 miles west
been one leg of the coast-to-coast Yellowstone Trail. The of Anaconda. Ice fishing, snowkiting and snowmobiling in
route was Montana’s first paved highway and connected winter. Access to lodging, restaurants, casinos and a marina.
Drummond, Philipsburg and Anaconda to both Yellowstone Near Discovery Ski Area.
and Glacier national parks. 406-563-2400 • www.discoveranaconda.com
www.philipsburgmt.com •
www.discoveranaconda.com GEM MINES
The Philipsburg area is home to a well-known cache of
sapphire and ruby gems discovered over a century ago.
RECREATION Area businesses allow digging for a fee.
406-859-4367 • www.gemmtn.com
WASHOE PARK 800-525-0169 • www.sapphiregallery.com
Historic park located in Anaconda. Dedicated in the 1890s 406-859-6725 • www.opalmtngems.com
and expanded just after 1910. Park attractions include the
historic Glover Cabin (the oldest standing building in Anaconda), BICYCLING OPPORTUNITIES
swimming pool, tennis courts, approximately six miles of walking Whether your preference is riding a mountain trail to an alpine
trails, large picnic area, playground and Legion Baseball field. lake, cruising the bike paths, enjoying breathtaking views
406-563-2400 • www.discoveranaconda.com on a road tour, or even grinding out a skate park session,
Anaconda has something to please almost any cyclist.
STATE FISH HATCHERY 406-563-7988
Located in Anaconda’s Washoe Park. Originally opened in 1908,
it’s the state’s oldest-run fish hatchery facility still in existence. The Anaconda and Philipsburg Area Advertisers: Philipsburg
visitor center is open daily with underwater trout stream viewing. Chamber of Commerce (pg. 19), Fairmont Hot Springs
406-563-2531 • www.fwp.mt.gov (pg. 23), Sapphire Gallery (pg.50), Sweet Palace (pg. 51),
Opal Mountain Gems (pg. 55), Gem Mountain (pg. 59)
22 www.southwestmt.comGENUINE.
MONTANA.
EXPERIENCE.
HOT SPRINGS LODGING DINING GOLF SPA
Visit our website to see all of our
online packages and specials!
FairmontMontana.com | 800.332.3272
I-90 Exit 211, 15 miles west of Butte, MT
www.southwestmt.com 23Cottonwood City (Lisa Wareham)
24 www.southwestmt.com
Old Montana Prison Museum (Pat Hansen) Tri-County Rodeo (Lisa Wareham)DeeR LODGE AREA
Deer Lodge, Montana’s second oldest city, was settled by gold miners and ranchers in the late 1800s.
Its comparably mild climate and rich, open grasslands were prime for raising cattle that could be marketed to
mining towns throughout the region and to settlers traveling the Oregon Trail. Today, Deer Lodge boasts an
eclectic mix of historic attractions including five museums, one of which is the Old Montana Prison. The town
is also home to the Grant-Kohrs Ranch, the only U.S. National Historic Site that is a working cattle ranch,
operated by the National Park Service.
History Cottonwood City
Grant-Kohrs Ranch (Pat Hansen)
Represents the early days of Deer
Grant-Kohrs Ranch Lodge. Visit the Snowshoe Creek
Operated by the National Park School, the Blood Homestead
Service as an 1880s working Cabin, Post Office, barber shop
ranch, this is a well-preserved slice and Spanish Fork blacksmith shop
of Western history, once home to where the hammer rings on the
a Montana cattle baron. Original anvil daily.
home furnishings and horse-drawn 406-846-3111 • www.pcmaf.org
equipment. Open year-round.
406-846-2070 •
www.nps.gov/grko MILWAUKEE RAILROAD
This display features the 1909 Last Spike Monument,
Old Montana Prison an all-electric “Little Joe” engine built in 1948 for Joseph
Guided and self-guided tours behind the gray stone walls Stalin, a Bayside caboose and E-9 Diesel locomotive.
and towers, through a massive cell block, hanging gallows 406-846-3111 • www.pcmaf.org
and guard turrets. In use until 1979.
Yesterday’s Playthings
406-846-3111 • www.pcmaf.org
Intriguing collection of dolls and toys from days gone by.
406-846-3111 • www.pcmaf.org
Montana Auto Museum
Montana Auto Museum offers interpretive exhibits and more
Yellowstone Trail
than 150 classic cars. With an exceptional muscle car exhibit,
“A Good Road from Plymouth Rock to Puget Sound.”
you cruise down memory lane and enjoy seven decades of
The first transcontinental route in the upper-tier states
automotive history.
came through Deer Lodge in 1916. Construction of the trail
406-846-3111 • www.pcmaf.org
began in 1912 with steam-powered tractors, horse-drawn
graders, shovels and picks and was completed in 1915.
Frontier Montana Museum www.yellowstonetrail.org
The best display of cowboy collectibles between Cody and
Calgary. Guns, spurs, chaps, lassos and all the rest. Includes
Montana State Prison Hobby Shop
Desert John’s Saloon, a whiskey memorabilia collection.
Nationally known since 1880 for “horsehair” products
406-846-3111 • www.pcmaf.org
including belts, bridles, head stalls, hat bands, earrings
and an assortment of handcrafted products. Open seven
Powell County Museum days a week.
Old mining exhibits, Huntoon wood carving collection and life
406-846-1320, ext. 2323 or ext. 2310
in Powell County are featured in this local history museum.
406-846-3111 • www.pcmaf.org
www.southwestmt.com 25Avocet (John Belobraidic)
Garnet Ghost Town Arrow Stone Park
Ghost town west of Drummond restored to its original mining A relaxing refuge for Deer Lodge visitors who want to
camp condition, including a visitors center. Ask for directions picnic, fish the Clark Fork, walk the trails or just sit on a
in Drummond. Open year-round but access in winter is only bench to view the variety of wildlife surrounding them.
by snowmobile or cross-country skiing. RVs and trailers are
not recommended through I-90 but can go on Route 200. Fishing
406-859-3388 • www.garnetghosttown.org Flint Creek, Rock Creek, Blackfoot River, Little Blackfoot
River, Boulder Creek, Willow Creek Reservoir, Clark Fork
New Chicago School River, Nevada Creek Reservoir and high mountain lakes
One of Montana’s early schools built in 1874, was moved west of town all offer fine trout fishing.
to West Edwards Street in Drummond and renovated by www.fwp.mt.gov/fishing/guide
the Lower Valley Historical Society. It houses local history,
pictures of the area and is set up as closely as possible to Birding
its original school house décor. Opportunities for birding are found at Arrow Stone Park and
Grant-Kohrs Ranch in Deer Lodge, Warm Springs ponds, south
The Ovando Brand Bar Museum of Deer Lodge and Blackfoot Waterfowl area east of Ovando.
Located in the Town Square of Ovando, the Brand Bar
Museum houses a collection of local memorabilia, stories
of settlers, homestead maps and historic information.
There isn’t always an attendant present, so please ask
Nearby Communities
someone at Blackfoot Commercial Company or Blackfoot
Drummond
Angler to open the door for you.
Authentic Western community just off I-90—filled with
hard-working, friendly people—marks the beginning of the
Pintler Scenic Route. Ranching remains the town’s focus,
Scenic Beauty home of the World Famous Bullshippers.
BOB mARSHAL AND sCAPEGOAT Ovando
wILDERNESS aREAS Mountain meadows ablaze with wildflowers and the mountain
Browns Lake and Blackfoot Waterfowl Area offer fishing, peaks of the Bob Marshall Wilderness greet visitors to Ovando.
windsurfing and bird-watching. See eagles, loons, herons A number of guides and outfitters in the area will take you into
and pelicans among many other waterfowl. Follow fishing the wildlands or several guest ranches offer accommodations.
access signs on Highway 200 east of Ovando. 406-793-0018 • www.ovandomontana.net
Helmville
A quiet town nestled in a pretty valley between the Bob
Recreation Marshall/Scapegoat wildernesses and the Garnet Range
provides a picturesque setting for watchable wildlife,
Warm Springs Ponds fishing, hunting, snowmobiling and cross-country skiing.
An ARCO reclamation site, this area now boasts excellent
bird viewing. Includes picnic area, wildlife viewing and
Deer Lodge Area Advertisers: Old Prison Museums (pg. 27)
walking trails. Exit 171 off I-90 south of Deer Lodge.
Beaverhead County Area Advertisers: Comfort Inn of Dillon
(pg. 53)
26 www.southwestmt.comwww.southwestmt.com 27
Yours is not the first imagination
to be captured by a
place called Montana.
Southwest Montana has long been a place where legends and fortunes are made and lost. The Blackfeet and
Shoshone hunted bison herds so vast they stretched across the horizon and plowed the grasslands under hoof.
The Lewis and Clark crew pulled boats up the Beaverhead River in search of a water route to the Pacific. Mountain
men harvested game and trapped beaver for wealthy Easterners. Miners in search of gold sprouted hardscrabble
towns in the rugged, upper reaches of streams. Industrial leaders built empires on copper and on the backs of
those who unearthed it. Ranchers settled in the high valleys and fattened cattle on green pastures. These men and
women were captivated with the possibility of Montana; walking in their footsteps, you will be too.
Buckhorn Bar, Augusta (Tom Robertson)
28 www.southwestmt.comYou can also read
