Gold West Communities (Overview) Alder Alder served as a shipping center during early gold rush days. Gold dredging operations at the turn of the century left large gravel mounds to the west of the town. Robber's Roost This roadhouse between Alder and Sheridan on Highway 287 had a dance hall on the second floor when it was built in 1863. Local lore says stagecoach hold-ups were planned on the premises during the gold rush days. An antique shop now fills this historic structure. Ruby River Reservoir Although its main purpose is irrigation, this large open reservoir offers fishing, boating and camping. Follow signs on Highway 287 in Alder to drive the seven miles to the reservoir. Red Rock Mines A fun chance to "mine" garnets from local gravel bought in five-gallon buckets. Gravels from other mines for sapphires and gold panning also available. On Highway 287 across from Historical Marker 21; look for red barn and house. Anaconda 406-563-2400 "The Stack" stands as a 585-foot reminder of the smelting operations that founded this community. In 1883, Marcus Daly platted the town and built a copper smelter for ore from his Butte mines. Today, Anaconda's mining history can be experienced in numerous fun-filled ways, and the town is a gateway to scenic outdoor recreation. Pick up information about a self-guided, downtown walking tour or catch the historical bus tour (twice a day, Monday through Saturday during the summer) at the Anaconda Visitor Center, 306 E. Park. Copper Village Museum & Arts Center 406-563-2422 Area history and smelter display. City Hall Center near the visitor center. Fairmont Hot Springs 800-332-3272 or 797-3241 A huge pool fed by natural hot springs is the featured attraction of this year-round family resort southeast of Anaconda. Hearst Free Library 406-563-6932 William Randolph Hearst's mother, Phoebe, donated this impressive 1898 building to the city. 401 Main Street. Lost Creek State Park 406-542-5500 A waterfall, the limestone canyon and populations of bighorn sheep and mountain goats make this seasonal park special. Interpretive hiking trails, picnic sites and camping. Two miles east of Anaconda, take 273 (Galen Road) north and follow signs for about five miles. RV length limit is 25 feet. Old Works Golf Course 406-563-5989 A Jack Nicklaus signature golf course built on the Old Works site of the Washoe Smelter. Mining relics are incorporated into the world-class course. Upper Works Historic Trail 1.5-mile trail offers a panoramic view of the town and the old smelter operations. It is paved for accessibility, but be aware there is an incline. Trailhead kiosk in the Cedar Park Bowling Lanes parking lot, 301 N. Cedar. Washoe Theater Outstanding art-deco architecture captured a ranking from the Smithsonian Institute as one of the country's five most beautiful theaters. 305 Main Street. Washoe Park 406-563-3409 Picnic area, swimming pool, playground, trout display pond, and the oldest fish hatchery in the state. Augusta The plains-to-the-mountains gateway to the million-acre-plus Bob Marshall Wilderness and adjoining Scapegoat Wilderness. Two back country roads out of Augusta take you to the edge of the wild lands: Sun River Canyon Road to the northwest ends along Gibson Reservoir; Benchmark Road to the west goes to Wood Lake. Avon This community along the Little Blackfoot River is the pivot point to turn northward off of Highway 12 and into the Avon Valley. The Garnet Range to the west is a scenic backdrop for wildlife watching in the agricultural valley. Basin Tunnels in some of the mines which built this mountain community now are open for patrons who believe in the health benefits of "radon mines." Beautiful Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest scenery. Boulder The 1889 county courthouse will interest history and architecture buffs. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, its stone walls are two feet thick and topped with griffins. Elkhorn State Park & Historical Mining Town 444-4720 Remnants of frontier architecture from the 1880s silver boom. The seasonal state park includes two of the remaining buildings from the old town (some other buildings are on private land). Seven miles south of Boulder on Highway 69, then 11 miles north on a county road. Limited public access. Boulder Hot Springs 406-225-4339 Part of this grand old structure is now a bed-and-breakfast as renovation of the resort continues. Indoor hot and cold soaking pools plus an outdoor swimming pool refresh visitors. Three miles south of Boulder on Highway 69. Butte 800-735-6814 or 723-3177 Mineral wealth put Butte on the map, and rich copper strikes earned the city the nickname of "the richest hill on earth." The Butte Chamber Visitor and Transportation Center at 1000 George Street (Exit 126 off I-90) provides walking tour maps of the historic district, as well as visitor information for Butte and the surrounding area. It is also the place to catch a tour on "Old No. 1," a replica electric trolley car. Arts Chateau 406-723-7600 1898 Victorian mansion built by the son of copper king William A. Clark. Now an arts center and museum open varying hours. 321 West Broadway. Anselmo Mine Yard 406-723-3177 The surface support facilities which once served Butte's mines can be seen here seasonally. Uptown Butte near the intersection of Caledonia and Excelsior streets. Berkeley Pit 406-723-3177 When it ceased operations in the early 1980s, this was the largest truck-operated open pit copper mine in the U.S. At 7,000 feet in length and 5,600 feet in width, the pit dominates the city's landscape. The visitor center and viewing stand located off of Continental Drive are open March through November. Copper King Mansion 406-782-7580 Furnished with lavish antiques, this 34-room, 1880s mansion was home to Butte's billionaire copper king William A. Clark. Privately owned, but tours are available May - September and otherwise by appointment. 219 W. Granite. Dumas Brothel 406-723-3177 This historic reminder of Butte's rowdier past finally closed as a brothel in 1982. Tour three floors of fascinating souvenirs of a wilder era. 45 E. Mercury Street. Granite Mountain Mine Memorial 406-723-3177 This memorial overlooking the Continental Pit honors 168 men killed in a 1917 mining disaster. Turn right at the St. Lawrence Church, 1308 N. Main, and follow the signs. Humbug Spires Primitive Area 406-494-5059 Rocky spires rising 600 feet from the tree-covered foothills make a dramatic setting for hiking. 25 miles south of Butte off I-15. Mai Wah Historic Chinese Building 406-723-6669 The mines in Butte drew immigrants from around the world. This former mercantile and noodle parlor offers exhibits interpreting the city's Asian history. In Butte's Chinatown between Galena and Mercury. Mineral Museum 406-496-4414 A 27.5-ounce gold nugget found near Butte in 1989 is a featured piece in the 1,500 specimens displayed at this Montana Tech museum. Open year-round on the Montana Tech campus at the west end of Park Street. Our Lady of the Rockies 800-800-LADY or 782-1221 90-foot statue atop the Continental Divide east of Butte overlooks the city. Gift shop and seasonal tours from Our Lady of the Rockies Center at 434 N. Main. Sheepshead Mountain Recreation Area 406-494-2147 "Interaction through recreation" is the theme of this wildlife viewing site in the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest. Paved trails throughout make much of the area universally accessible. Includes picnic pavilions, lake access with fishing pier and fully accessible toilets. A seven-station sensory nature trail with audio messages is a delight for all family members. Open late May through September 13 miles north of Butte on I-15. Take exit 138 (Elk Park interchange), follow the signs for 6 miles. St. Lawrence Church 406-782-9220 The hand work and 40 frescoes in this 1897 church were paid for by donations from miners and their families. Open Friday and Sunday seasonally. 1308 N. Main. U.S. High Altitude Sports Center 406-494-3406 This Olympic-class training facility also hosts world-class speed skating competitions. Call for schedule of events located on Continental Drive. World Museum of Mining & Hellroarin' Gulch 406-723-7211 Beneath a real mining headframe, dozens of structures spread over 12 acres create an 1899 mining town. Open 9 - 9 summer, limited fall/spring hours; at the end of West Park Street west of Montana Tech. Cameron This Madison River Valley hamlet south of Ennis lies between the Madison mountains and the Gravelly Range and is surrounded by nearly 3 million acres of National Forest lands. See also Earthquake Lake Visitor Center. Canyon Creek Just north of this cluster of conveniences in the Prickly Pear Valley, you can choose to stay on the highway and cross the Continental Divide at Flesher Pass or opt for the back country route of Stemple Pass. Cardwell Cardwell was a crossroad in its early days with a Northern Pacific Railroad station and a location along the Jefferson River. Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park 406-287-3541 Although tours of the spectacular caverns are seasonal, cozy log cabins are available for rent year-round in Montana's first state park. Camping, hiking and picnicking. Daily cave tours May - September on Highway 2 east of Cardwell. Clancy Rich silver ore deposits started this town just south of Helena. The old hot springs resort of Alhambra is nearby. Deer Lodge 406-846-2094 Cattle outlasted mining as a source of wealth here, and an impressive collection of museums and historical sites honor both. Stop by the visitor center in the Old Montana Prison for a brochure detailing the fun to be had. Frontier Montana Museum 406-846-0026 or 846-3111 Cowboy collectibles such as handguns, spurs and chaps, and saloon memorabilia in the Old Prison Mule Barn. Open 9 - 5, May 15 - October 1; Main Street. Grant-Kohrs Ranch National Historic Site. 406-846-3388 See how life was lived at the headquarters of an 1800s cattle-ranching empire that grazed cattle in four states and Canada. Blacksmith shop, livestock, bunkhouse, wagon collection and elegant ranch house with original antique furnishings. Still a working ranch. Open year-round except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's days. Just off I-90 at the northern edge of Deer Lodge. Montana Law Enforcement Museum. 846-3111 Inside the Old Montana Prison. Seasonal. Old Montana Prison 406-846-3111 The turreted stone towers may look castle-like, but the iron bars on the windows tell you this was no luxury accommodation. Guided and self-guided tours of the cellblock, gallows, and maximum security cells of this first territorial prison in the western U.S. Open year-round, 8 - 8 Memorial Day - Labor Day with shortened hours after Labor Day; 1106 Main Street. Old Prison Players 406-846-3114 Musicals and comedies performed by professional actors make an evening of fun. Wednesday through Sunday at 8 p.m. during the height of the summer season. Pioneer Carriages 406-846-3111 Horse-drawn carriage rides between the Old Prison Museums and Grant-Kohrs Ranch. Fun for the whole family. Powell County Museum 406-846-3294 or 846-3111 Local history exhibits, art gallery, weapons collection, and jukebox and slot machine collection. Summers only; on Main Street in the Old Prison Complex. Towe Ford Museum 406-846-3111 Each year, a special vehicle exhibition adds to the excitement of this museum's permanent collection of antique and vintage cars. Always about 100 cars, plus displays depicting the history of transportation in Montana. Open daily 8 - 8 Memorial Day - Labor Day, with shortened hours after Labor Day. At the Old Montana Prison entrance and visitor center, 1106 Main Street. Yesterday's Playthings (toy museum) 406-846-1480 or 406-846-3111 More than 1,000 dolls and toys spanning more than a century of playtime. Open 9 - 5 daily May 15 - October 1. On Main Street across from the Old Montana Prison visitor center. Dell This very small town features a restored historic inn (old Dell Hotel) and a cafe in the historic Dell Schoolhouse. Big Sheep Creek Back Country Byway (683-2337) begins here. The isolated, narrow canyon is a Bureau of Land Management byway and a wildlife viewing area. If you travel the entire 45 miles to the Medicine Lodge Creek end near Grant, be prepared for some rough stretches of road and for the trip to take at least four hours. Take the Dell exit off of I-15, go south on the frontage road for 1.5 miles and then take a right onto Big Sheep Creek Road (marked). Dillon 406-683-5511 The ranches in this area predate the town, which was founded in 1880 as the railroad went through. Western Montana College (683-7011) features an art gallery and the Seidensticker Wildlife Collection. The Dillon Visitor Information Center is a statewide travel information center housed in the town's historic railroad depot at 125 S. Montana. A restored Lewis & Clark diorama is featured in the depot. Bannack State Park 406-834-3413 Montana's first territorial capital (1864), following the first major gold strike in the territory (1862). The walking tour down the ghost town's main street includes Montana's first jail, Sheriff Henry Plummer's gallows, a hotel and a church. Camping, fishing, picnicking, seasonal visitor center. Open year-round off Highway 278 west of Dillon. Beaverhead County Museum 406-683-5027 Branded boardwalks and rotunda set the stage for an impressive museum of local history that houses artifacts back to the age of mammoths. Indoor and outdoor displays; walking tour of historic downtown. Open March - November; 15 S. Montana. Beaverhead Rock State Park 406-834-3413 This landform was recognized in 1805 by Lewis & Clark's Shoshoni guide Sacagawea because of its resemblance to the head of a swimming beaver. Preserved as an undeveloped, day-use-only state park. Between Dillon and Twin Bridges on Highway 41. Interpretive sign located about 12 miles north of Dillon on Highway 41. Clark Canyon Recreation Area 406-683-6472 The reservoir offers fishing, boating and camping. The Beaverhead blue-ribbon trout stream flows below the dam. The Red Rock River flows into the reservoir from the south. 20 miles south of Dillon off I-15. Clark's Lookout State Park 406-834-3413 This undeveloped, day-use-only site overlooks the Beaverhead River. The large rock outcropping provided the Lewis & Clark expedition with a view of the route ahead. About one mile north of Dillon on Highway 91 North (parallels I-15 on the east side); signs may not yet be in place. Divide Here is where you leave I-15 to explore the Big Hole Valley to the west. Humbug Spires Primitive Area lies to the east. Drummond The northern end of the famed Pintler Scenic Route (Highway 1) begins here where Flint Creek joins the Clark Fork River. Garnet Ghost Town 406-329-3914 This gold camp ghost town in the Garnet Mountain Range is now well preserved thanks to the efforts of the Garnet Preservation Association and the Bureau of Land Management. It is a popular snowmobiling and cross-country ski destination in the winter, with two cabins available for rent. Northwest of Drummond; take I-90 to the Bearmouth exit and follow the signs north. Earthquake Area Visitor Center 406-646-7369 An earthquake in 1959 slid half a mountain into the Madison Canyon to create Quake Lake. This interpretive, memorial visitor center is open seasonally; 30 miles south of Cameron on Highway 287. Ennis 406-682-4388 Cattle and sheep ranching are extremely productive in this beautiful valley. Below the high peaks of the Madison Range, this spirited western town lies alongside the fly-fishing mecca of the Madison River. Earthquake Area Visitor Center Also referred to as Madison Canyon Earthquake Area - see separate listing. Ennis National Fish Hatchery 406-682-7635 Rainbow trout here produce 23 million eggs annually for stocking fisheries across the U.S. On Varney Road. Beartrap Canyon 406-683-2337 This section of the Lee Metcalf Wilderness is popular for whitewater rafting, as well as hiking and fishing. At the head of the canyon below Ennis Lake, Trail Creek Access Picnic Area is accessible for the disabled. Northeast of Ennis. Garrison The Little Blackfoot River joins the Clark Fork at this little railroad town. This is the I-90 jumping off point to take Highway 12 east to Helena. Watch for eagles as Highway 12 runs alongside the Little Blackfoot. Georgetown Big, beautiful Georgetown Lake offers boating, fishing, windsurfing and camping; ice fishing and snowmobiling in winter. Southern Cross ghost town is to the northeast, across from Discovery Basin Ski Area. St. Timothy's Chapel offers excellent views of the lake. Gold Creek The east and west segments of the Northern Pacific Railroad met here in 1883. The first sluices for working a gold strike in Montana were set up at the head of Gold Creek. Harrison Harrison Lake to the east of this single-street ranching town is a popular spot for trout fishing. Helena 800-7-HELENA or 406-442-4120 The mansion districts in Montana's capital city attest to the gold wealth found in the creek dubbed "Last Chance Gulch" by four weary miners in 1864. The walking mall in downtown Helena now follows the path of the old gulch and retains the name. Pick up a self-guided tour map at the downtown Helena Chamber office, 225 Cruse Avenue, or at the seasonal visitor center off I-15 at the Cedar Street exit. Archie Bray Foundation 406-443-3502 Internationally recognized ceramic arts center. Gallery and self-guided tour. 2915 Country Club Avenue. Canyon Ferry Recreation Area 406-457-3310 The visitor's center on the east side of Canyon Ferry dam is in the old community schoolhouse. During the great eagle migration from October 31 - December 15, it becomes an interpretive center for visitors coming to view the eagles that gather in the Canyon Ferry/Hauser Lake corridor. The Canyon Ferry Lake recreation area is just 20 minutes east of Helena and is extremely popular for fishing, water sports, camping and wildlife watching. Frontier Town 406-449-3031 In 1957, John R. Quigley finished the last building, a chapel, in this log-and-rock village he created just east of the Continental Divide at McDonald Pass. Restaurant and bar open limited hours with live music and dancing. Visit our gift shop and art gallery. Horseback rides in summer. Village and displays open most of the year for touring. Highway 12, 15 miles west of Helena. Gates of the Mountains 406-458-5241 Boat tours through the beautiful Missouri River canyon that Meriwether Lewis named because of its illusion of blocking the river only to open upon closer approach. Prime wildlife watching. Seasonal; 18 miles north of Helena on I-15 to the Gates of the Mountains exit. Grandstreet Theater 406-442-4270 Historic brownstone building sets the stage for community theater productions. Call for schedule. 325 N. Park. Hauser Lake (Black Sandy) State Park 406-449-8864 Public access for water sports on Hauser Lake. Camping, picnicking. Go seven miles north of Helena on I-15, then four miles east on Secondary 453, then 3 miles north on county road. Holter Lake Recreation Area 406-494-5059 Popular boating, fishing and camping area that provides access to the Beartooth Wildlife Management Area, Gates of the Mountains Wilderness and Sleeping Giant Wilderness. Holter Museum of Art 406-442-6400 Contemporary and historic art in a diversity of media, educational events and gift shop. Hours change seasonally, closed Mondays and major holidays: 12 E. Lawrence Street. Last Chance Tour Train 406-442-1023 Open-air, narrated tour provides excellent overview of the city's historical highlights. Mid-May through September; leaves from 6th and Roberts at the Montana Historical Society. Kleffner Ranch 406-227-6645 This working cattle ranch boasts a stone, octagonal house and a three-story barn with 27,000 feet of floor space. Call for times of guided tours; four miles east of Helena. Marysville Remnants of a once wildly productive gold camp populate this small community. Access to National Forest lands and the Great Divide Ski Area. Turn off from Highway 279 northwest of Helena. Montana Historical Society 406-444-2694 Montana history, the MacKay Gallery of Charles M. Russell Art, Haynes Gallery of photography, changing exhibits, historical library and archives, and a museum store. 225 N. Roberts, across the street from the State Capitol. Mount Helena City Park One of the largest city parks in the country, Mt. Helena rises 1,300 feet above downtown Helena. Hiking trails, panoramic view of the city. Access and parking off of S. Park Avenue. Myrna Loy Center 406-443-0287 The historic Lewis & Clark County Jail building makes a dramatic setting for national touring performances, films and local events. Check the brick walkway outside for the names of the famous who paved the way for the building renovation. 15 N. Ewing. Original Governor's Mansion 406-444-2694 This 1888 Victorian mansion was the official residence of nine governors between 1913 and 1959. Guided tours April - December. 304 N. Ewing. Pioneer Cabin 406-443-7641 At the base of Reeder's Alley, this 1864 cabin houses many original furnishings. Seasonal or by appointment. 212 S. Park Avenue. Reeder's Alley 406-449-2552 These brick one-room apartments built between 1872 and 1884 provided some permanence of structure to the mining camp that was becoming a town. Specialty shops and a restaurant. S. Park Avenue. Sapphires Some sapphire mines along the Missouri River northeast of Helena, such as the Spokane Bar Mine (227-8989) and Eagles' Nest Trading Post (475-3176), allow patrons to dig for gems or take home paydirt for treasure hunting later. Also garnets and gold panning. Spring Meadow Lake State Park 406-449-8864 This day-use park is an urban wildlife viewing site that offers swimming and fishing in the 30-acre spring-fed lake. Nature trail circles the lake. Highway 12 West, then north on Joslyn to Country Club (follow signs). St. Helena Cathedral 406-442-5825 The golden crosses and spires of this magnificent cathedral can be seen from miles away and the interior is just as stunning. 530 N. Ewing. State Capitol 406-444-4789 Interior historical murals, statues inside and out. Capitol grounds are a state park and part of the city's arboretum tour. Daily tours Memorial Day - mid-September. 6th and Montana. Helmville At the foot of the Garnet Range, this farming and ranching community is just north of Nevada Reservoir and just south of where Nevada Creek joins the Blackfoot River. Deer and antelope are often visible in the surrounding valley, and beaverslide haystacks are numerous in the fields. Jackson Headwaters forming the Big Hole River come together near this tiny community best known for the naturally heated pool of Jackson Hot Springs Lodge. Laurin This little agricultural community began in the late 1860s when Jean Baptiste Laurin established a stagecoach route trading post on the banks of the Ruby River. He financed the building of St. Mary's Church, which is constructed of local stone. Lima The first railroad town in Montana. This town's architecture and the cemetery's many elaborate Victorian-era tombstones are worth a tour. This is the last place on I-15 for lodging and meals before leaving Montana. Lincoln 406-362-4949 The famous Blackfoot River begins near this rustic mountain community. The Lincoln Community Hall and Lincoln Lodge log structures are on the National Register of Historic Places. The Blackfoot Valley Historical Society Museum presents area history. Rogers Pass northeast on Highway 200 is a prime viewing area for golden eagles and other raptors during the spring and fall migrations. More than 250 miles of groomed snowmobile trails and numerous cross-country ski trails at nearby Stemple Pass make Lincoln a hub of winter activity. McAllister Quickest access to Ennis Lake and Beartrap Canyon (see listing under Ennis). Melrose On the Big Hole River halfway between Butte and Dillon. Trout fishermen and hunters find this crossroads community to their liking. Old charcoal kilns used for silver mining can be found at the site of the ghost town of Glendale, accessed by traveling 14 miles west of Melrose on a gravel road. Primitive roads continue through the historic area and Vipond Park to emerge at the small town of Dewey on Highway 43. Monida Red Rock Lakes Wildlife Refuge (276-3536) is along the unpaved road out of Monida. The refuge is a wildlife viewing site and an important nesting site for the rare trumpeter swan. The drive through idyllic Centennial Valley is memorable for spectacular scenery. There are camping areas along the primitive road, but no services. May - September travel is best, but check road conditions locally. Yellowstone Park can be accessed via this primitive road in good weather. Nevada City Please see Virginia City. Norris This former mining town turned cattle railhead is located on Hot Springs Creek. A private enterprise still offers a naturally hot plunge. Ovando In the backyard of the Scapegoat Wilderness, this area offers great wildlife viewing. Nearby Brown's Lake is a state wildlife viewing site known for birding, and the numerous wetlands between are productive sites as well. To the west of town is the Blackfoot-Clearwater Wildlife Management Area, another hot spot for wildlife viewing and photography. Snowmobiles for winter exploration of the Garnet Mountains are available for rent here. Philipsburg 406-859-3388 The state's first silver mine laid this town's foundation. Today, the town is a National Historic District, and sapphires are a prime attraction for treasure hunters and family fun (Sapphire Gallery, 800-525-0169). Take a walking tour of its renovated Victorian-era business district or a driving tour of area ghost towns and mines. Philipsburg has been named one of the five "Prettiest Painted Places in the Northwest." Maps available at the Chamber of Commerce, 135 S. Sansome. Granite Ccounty Museum & Mine Exhibit. 406-859-3020 The featured exhibits are the Ghost Town Hall of Fame (where you can see pictures of the boom towns that were bustling in gold- and silver-mining days) and a recreated mine drift (tunnel) with tours. Seasonal; 135 S. Sansome. Granite Ghost Town 406-542-5500 This day-use-only state park is remote and difficult to reach (high-clearance, four-wheel drive vehicle is recommended). This 1880s silver boomtown features the remains of the old miner's union hall and the mine superintendent's house. About five miles southeast of Philipsburg; south on Sansome Road, then east on dirt road opposite Center Street (inquire locally about road conditions). Skalkaho Pass and Waterfall A beautiful seasonal drive over mostly gravelled roads. Rock Creek's headwaters and the Sapphire Mountains. A cascading waterfall is roadside near the pass. Highway 38, generally closed mid-October to June. Polaris The post office here is one of the tiniest in the U.S., but Polaris offers lodging and food at the southern end of the Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway. Elk Horn Hot Springs is just to the north. Maverick Mountain Ski Area nearby has great views of the Sawtooth Mountains. Pony Access for Potosi campground, deep in the Tobacco Root Mountains, is through this old mining town. Rocker The primitive Hail Columbia Gulch Road from here to Sheepshead Mountain Recreation Area is known for its wildlife viewing opportunities. The Bluebird Trail lets you hike back toward Butte's city limits. Sheridan Sheridan's gold rush era storefronts attest to its history as a trade center for miners from Alder Gulch to the Tobacco Root Mountains. Toston The old gold-mining town of Radersburg is to the west. There is a year-round Bureau of Land Management campground at Toston Dam on the Missouri River. The river below the dam is a popular fishing area. Townsend 406-266-3911 This county seat at the southern end of Canyon Ferry Lake is a hub for outdoor activities with four city parks and 24 campgrounds in the area. The Wildlife Management Area that begins just one mile north of town along the eastern side of Highway 287 is a wildlife viewing site. Nearly 100 species of birds, mammals, amphibians and reptiles occur here. Get a sense of local history by visiting the Broadwater County Museum (266-5252). Pick up maps at the Chamber of Commerce for self-guided tours of historical mining and scenic areas in the Elkhorn and Big Belt Mountains. 127 S. Spruce. Twin Bridges 684-5259 or 684-5701 The Ruby, Beaverhead and Big Hole Rivers join nearby to form the Jefferson River. This quiet town is a mecca for trout fishing in the midst of cattle and agriculture country. The Madison County Fair and Rodeo each August is a major attraction. The July celebration called the Floating Flotillas and Fish Fantasies Festival features a river parade. Visit Twin Bridges City Park or Jessen Park Tourist Area (on the Beaverhead River) for relaxation. Visitor information at the library, 206 S. Main. Virginia City & Nevada City 800-829-2969 or 406-843-5555 These two authentically preserved and restored gold-rush-era mining towns are so complete and unique that the State of Montana has purchased them for continued preservation. Virginia City became Montana's second territorial capital after an 1863 gold strike brought thousands into the area. It is often referred to as a very lively ghost town, since it is still the seat of Madison County and its residents are quite vigorous. Nevada City is a town-sized museum, complete with a two-story outhouse. Open seasonally. Virginia City is located on Highway 287 west of Ennis. This "must-see" National Historic Landmark District is home to the largest collection of 1800's "Boomtown" buildings on their original locations in the United States. Nevada City is located on Highway 287 west of Ennis. Suburb of Virginia City where George Ives of the Henry Plummer gang was tried and hanged. An open-air museum comprised of over 100 faithfully restored buildings from the 1800's including a music hall with the world's larges collection of operating mechanical music machines. An narrow-gauge railroad connects Nevada City with Virginia City. Alder Gulch River of Gold 406-843-5526 A commercial operation where you can learn gold panning techniques and try your luck with some paydirt. Virginia City Players 406-843-5377 Daily summer performances in the Virginia City Opera House and the old Gilbert Brewery. Walkerville In its mining heyday, this suburb of Butte was heavily populated by miners from Cornwall, England. Warm Springs Reclamation of an old mine-tailings area has produced a wildlife management unit (693-7395) with hiking, biking and wildlife viewing. Whitehall The welcoming city park that runs the length of the town's business district offers travelers picnic facilities and shade trees. The Boulder and Jefferson Rivers merge nearby. Once-a-week free tours of the Golden Sunlight gold mine may be arranged through the Butte Chamber of Commerce. Jefferson Valley Museum 406-287-7813 A 1914 dairy barn, worth a tour by itself, houses a museum depicting the history of this river valley. "Grandma's kitchen" is on display, as well as "Grandpa's" farm machinery. Open 1-4 Memorial Day through Labor Day (closed Mondays), other times by appointment. 303 South Division. Winston Travel east from here to visit the White Earth Recreation Area on Canyon Ferry Lake. Wisdom Anchoring the "valley of 1,000 haystacks," Wisdom enjoys a blue-ribbon trout stream location along the Big Hole River. An excellent western art gallery is worth checking out. Picnic in the city park. Big Hole National Battlefield 406-689-3155 This historic site memorializes the 1877 battle between five bands of non-treaty Nez Perce and the troops of Col. John Gibbon. Hiking trails, picnic area. Visitor center includes museum, information and sales desk, and video presentation. Open daily 8 - 5 (extended visitor center hours in summer) except Thanksgiving, Christmas Day and New Year's Day; 10 miles west of Wisdom on Highway 43. Wise River At the northern end of the spectacular Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway (683-3900), this town is the gateway to a half million acres of mountain scenery. Of particular note along this 40-mile back country drive are remnants of the Elkhorn Mill, the ghost town of Coolidge, and Crystal Park (683-3900) where rockhounds may dig for quartz crystals. You'll come upon Elkhorn Hot Springs on your way south to Polaris. Summer/fall travel recommended; popular snowmobile area in winter. Wolf Creek The drive through Wolf Creek Canyon, either on I-15 or the local recreation road, offers dramatic scenery. This is the quickest access to Holter Lake Recreation Area. York The drive to York from Helena takes you over Hauser Lake and into sapphire-mining countryside. Continue through York to the popular trails along Trout Creek and Vigilante campground. Or, turn south and drive a scenic backroad to the eastern side of Canyon Ferry Dam. FREE Gold West travel info - call 1-800-879-1159 or request online 1105 Main Street - Deer Lodge, MT 59722 For information on linking to Gold West Country see our Links information. If you know the name of the business or event you are looking for click below: 1 - F   |   G - L   |   M - S   |   T - Z Accommodations | Attractions | Things To Do | Events | Communities | Dining Photos & Videos | Maps | Links | Vacation Deals | Contact Us © 2005 Gold West Country and Tempest Technologies, LLC. Site designed by Tempest Technologies, LLC.