Between the high pinnacles of stunning mountains and the wide expanse of valleys flanking blue river streams throughout Southwest Montana, we are rich in history and culture, outdoor recreational opportunities, natural geological attractions, birding and wildlife watching. The vast landscapes are dotted with the historical stories of several Indian tribes, persevering miners, fearless outdoorsmen, and roaming cattle. Come and explore the amazing opportunities in Southwest Montana.
Come & Explore
Beaverhead County
There’s a lot to take in in Beaverhead County, Montana. A little bit of the Old West is very much alive in its ghost towns, streams and prairies full of abundant wildlife, and distant mountain peaks.
Much of the county’s western border runs along the boreal heights of the Continental Divide, and its valleys are filled with prime trout streams and cattle ranches.This region has historically been used by several tribal nations, including the Shoshone, Bannock, Nez Perce, Salish, Kootenai, Crow, and Sioux.
The Corps of Discovery passed through the area in 1805, resulting in a number of historic sites that commemorate their journey. Bannack was the first territorial capital of Montana; today, it is a state park that hosts annual reenactments of the vigilante justice of the Old West. Rumor has it that the Meade Hotel still standing along Bannack’s main street is one of the most haunted places in the U.S.
An abundance of public lands give visitors many opportunities to get closer to nature, whether its viewing the migration of trumpeter swans at Red Rocks National Wildlife Refuge or backcountry skiing in Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest.
Dillon, Montana is the seat of Beaverhead County. Although the town feels small, with a population of 4, 134, there’s a lot going on in this city. Gold and silver mines in the area brought the railroad in the early 1800s, and many sheep and cattle ranchers began to move in.
Today, Dillon boasts a Carnegie library, the first location of Great Harvest Bread Company, and one of five Patagonia outlets in the nation. The University of Montana Western campus sits on the south side of town, offering a unique form of education through the block model of classes.
Area local have started up family businesses, such as the immensely successful La Fiesta Mexicana Taco Bus. Other popular eateries include Sweetwater Coffee, the Milk Pail, Blacktail Station, and many others.Whether you’re a history buff, a rock hound, an angler, or something else entirely, Beaverhead County has something for you.