Welcome to Jackson, Montana

Jackson is on the Big Hole River twenty miles from Idaho by snowshoe and forty-five by automobile. The area, now a famous winter sports resort, was named for Anton Jackson, who also served as the first postmaster in 1896. (from Cheney's Names on the Face of Montana, Mountain Press Publishing Company)

Jackson lies on the valley floor near the headwaters of the Big Hole River. The valley is considered by many to be the finest outdoor recreation area in the state. The town is surrounded by several mountain ranges with numerous streams and high mountain lakes. The fishing, hunting hiking, skiing, and snowmobiling are all exceptional!

Jackson Hot Springs Lodge offers cabins, a full service restaurant, and a large western style bar and dance hall, and features a spectacular natural hot springs mineral pool.

Jackson is near the Big Hole Battlefield. The Battle of the Big Hole on August 9 and 10, 1877, was a turning point of the Nez Perce War, a five-month war in which U.S. Army forces tried to place one third of the Nez Perce tribe on a reservation. The fighting began in White Bird Canyon in Idaho and had a dramatic ending in the Bear Paw Mountains of Montana. Self-guiding tours take you to many points on the Battlefield. A short drive to the lower parking area connects with foot trails to the Nez Perce Camp, the Siege Area, and the Howitzer Capture site. The walks each take about an hour. Ranger conducted programs are offered in summer; introductory presentations and exhibits are available year-round.

Bannack State Park is also near Jackson. It is a registered historic landmark and the site of Montana's first major gold discovery on July 28, 1862. This strike set off a massive gold rush that swelled Bannack's population to over 3,000 by 1863. As the value of gold steadily dwindled, Bannack's bustling population was slowly snuffed out. There are over 50 buildings that line Main Street with their historic log and frame structures that recall Montana's formative years.