Welcome to Twin Bridges, Montana

Twin Bridges was either named for the two bridges that spanned the Jefferson River nearby, or for two bridges over the Beaverhead and Big Hole Rivers built by the Lott brothers in 1865. The town is near the confluence of the tributaries of the Jefferson River, which were named by Lewis and Clark in 1805. The explorers chose to commemorate the "three cardinal virtues" of President Thomas Jefferson with the names Philosophy, Wisdom and Philanthropy. These small rivers were later renamed, respectively, the Beaverhead, the Big Hole, and the Ruby.

The settlement was first known as The Bridges. The Lotts donated land for public buildings and to individuals who promised to build homes on them. By 1884 Twin Bridges was being served by three daily stagecoaches from Virginia City, Dillon, and Whitehall. (from Cheney's Names on the Face of Montana, Mountain Press Publishing Company)

Twin Bridges is not far from Beaverhead Rock State Park. Sacajawea recognized this huge landmark, resembling the head of a swimming beaver, while traveling with the Lewis and Clark Expedition in 1805. The nearby Beaverhead River offers great fishing opportunities.

Elevation: 4,627 feet