WELCOME TO YOUR PUBLIC LANDS

National Park Service

Southwest Montana is located midway between Yellowstone and Glacier national parks providing breathtaking scenery, unique geological formations, history, and an abundance of wildlife, including buffalo, elk, moose, deer, and wolves. Southwest Montana boasts two national parks highlighting the history of the West, including the battle with the Nez Perce tribe at the National Big Hole Battlefield and ranch life in the West at Grant-Kohrs Ranch. Both parks are open year-round and provide a glimpse into Montana’s rich history.

Big Hole National Battlefield

This memorial preserves a Nez Perce War battlefield located in Montana. The Nez Perce fought a delaying action against the 7th Infantry Regiment here on August 9 and 10, 1877, during their failed attempt to escape to Canada. Big Hole National Battlefield was created to honor all who were there. The 655-acre park has a visitor center with fully accessible exhibits, a 26-minute film, and four trails to explore the park. 406.689.3155, www.nps.gov/biho/index.htm

GRANT-KOHRS RANCH NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE

Grant-Kohrs was created in 1972 and commemorates the role of cattlemen in the Western cattle industry from its 1850s inception through recent times. The original ranch was established in 1862 by a Canadian fur trader, Johnny Grant, at Cottonwood Creek, Montana, along the banks of the Clark Fork River. The site offers tours, ranger-led activities for adults and kids, and 7 miles of trails to experience parts of the ranch. 406.846.2070, www.nps.gov/grko/index.htm

DIG DEEPER: The Big Hole was named by settlers and is the highest and widest of the broad mountain valleys of western Montana. The valley separates the Pioneer Mountains along its eastern margin from the Beaverhead Range on the west.

FlatheadRiver

NATIONAL FOREST SERVICE – BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT – BUREAU OF RECLAMATION

Southwest Montana straddles the Continental Divide, a natural occurring ridge separating river systems to flow into the Atlantic or Pacific oceans. More than 6 million acres of public land offer an array of opportunities for adventure and sightseeing on many roads and trails. Whether you want to hike, bike, fish, hunt, or view wildlife there is an abundance of rugged mountain ranges, high mountain lakes, reservoirs, rivers and streams, geology and wildlife for the entire family, or you can adventure solo for some solitude. (See page 63 for agency contact information.)

Trails

There are over 3,000 miles of motorized (e-bikes, ATVs, and motorcycles) and non-motorized (foot, horse, bicycle) trails available on public lands. Whether you want to trek wilderness and backcountry areas, spend a couple hours or days stretching your legs, or explore lakes and mountain peaks, there are trails suited to your curiosity and sense of adventure open throughout the year. The Continental Divide National Scenic Trail offers over 400 miles of trails in Southwest Montana with easy access from four gateway communities to welcome visitors to start their adventure, spend a long weekend, resupply, or as a can’t-miss stop through Southwest Montana.

Camping

There are many ways to enjoy camping, from primitive sites to developed, full-service campgrounds and historic cabins offering a variety of activities including fishing, swimming, boating and wildlife viewing.

Community Parks And Trails

Our local communities welcome visitors to sit back and relax for a few hours, whether it’s enjoying a picnic or family gathering, visiting a pet-friendly park, fishing a pond, or a swimming at a waterpark. There are many urban trail connections to shopping, parks, points of interest and backcountry trails accessible by foot or bicycle, including several abandoned railroad lines providing a glimpse of days gone by, with signage and historic points of interest.

DIG DEEPER: Southwest Montana boasts 21 mountain ranges. The highest peak is West Goat Peak in the AnacondaPintler Wilderness, reaching nearly 11,000 feet.

Montana State Parks

Southwest Montana’s state parks take visitors back in history through interpretation, special events and tours. Explore landscapes and rich history away from the crowds of Montana’s national parks. From interpretive programs to visitor centers and marked trails, our state parks feature amenities to help guide your adventures. Visit stateparks.mt.gov

Bannack State Park Dillon

The site of Montana’s first major gold discovery in 1862, Bannack was Montana’s first territorial capital. Now a preserved ghost town, the state park takes visitors back to life in the Old West through reenactments, special events and old-fashioned ice skating in the winter. 406.834.3413, fwp.mt.gov/stateparks/bannack-state-park

LEWIS & CLARK CAVERNS WHITEHALL

This state park, easily accessed off I-90 near Whitehall, features one of the largest-known limestone caverns in the Northwest. Experience the amazing geologic wonders of the caverns lined with stalactites, stalagmites, columns and helictites with guided tours in the summer and candlelight tours in December. 406.287.3541, fwp.mt.gov/stateparks/lewis-and-clark-caverns

SPRING

Meadow

LAKE − HELENA

This family-friendly urban park in Helena is perfect for a day of swimming, fishing, hiking and more. 406.495.3270, fwp.mt.gov/stateparks/spring-meadow-state-park

BLACK SANDY HELENA

Come visit and enjoy one of the few public parks on the shores of Hauser Reservoir. Black Sandy State Park is an extremely popular weekend boating, fishing, camping and water skiing location. 406.495.3270, fwp.mt.gov/stateparks/black-sandy

LOST CREEK ANACONDA

Near Anaconda, enjoy a short hiking trail to view the spectacular Lost Creek Falls, cascading over a 50-foot drop. Scan the limestone cliffs for bighorn sheep and mountain goats. 406.287.3541, fwp.mt.gov/stateparks/lost-creek

ANACONDA SMOKE STACK − ANACONDA

At 585 feet, the 100-year-old Anaconda Smoke Stack is one of the tallest free-standing brick structures in the world. 406.563.2400, fwp.mt.gov/stateparks/anaconda-smoke-stack

ELKHORN STATE PARK

See more information on page 8.

GRANITE GHOST TOWN PHILIPSBURG

See more information on page 8.

BEAVERHEAD ROCK DILLON

See more information on page 23.

23.

LEWIS & CLARK

The Lewis and Clark Expedition made their way through what would eventually become the state of Montana in 1805. Moving up the Missouri River they encountered amazing natural wonders, endured grueling hardships, were met and aided by many American Indian tribes and crossed Lemhi Pass in the Rocky Mountains in their pursuit of a Northern Route to the Pacific Ocean.

www.southwestmt.com/specialfeatures/lewisandclark

Beaverhead Rock State Park Dillon

On the Lewis and Clark expedition, Sacagawea recognized this natural landmark, resembling the head of a beaver. This gave the expedition hope that they were in the vicinity of Sacagawea’s relatives, from whom they would acquire horses. 406.834.3413, fwp.mt.gov/stateparks.mt.gov/beaverhead-rock

CLARK’S LOOKOUT STATE PARK DILLON

Located above the Beaverhead River near Dillon, this is the site where Captain Clark of the Lewis and Clark Expedition viewed the route ahead on August 13, 1805. Admire the same magnificent view Clark did that day. Interpretive signs explain the expedition’s navigational methods and a monument shows Clark’s compass readings. 406.834.3413, fwp.mt.gov/stateparks.mt.gov/clarkslookout

Gates Of The Mountains Helena

Meriwether Lewis named this spectacular canyon north of Helena. Steep limestone cliffs flanking the Missouri River create the illusion of a gate that seems to open as you travel toward these cliffs. Enjoy a leisurely, narrated boat tour during the summer months. 406.458.5241, www.gatesofthemountains.com

WHITEHALL LEWIS & CLARK MURALS

When you pull into the quaint town of Whitehall, you’ll notice something unique. A variety of vibrant murals adorns the town, depicting Lewis and Clark historic Montana events that provide a glimpse of the area during a unique time in history.

AMERICAN INDIAN SITES & EVENTS

Southwest Montana encompasses the traditional hunting grounds of many American Indian people, stretching back more than a thousand years. In addition, there are several sites significant to the native tribes that came later—the Blackfeet, Nez Perce, Shoshone and Salish—throughout the region. www.southwestmt.com.

FlatheadRiver

Big Hole National Battlefield National Historic Site

Big Hole National Battlefield is a memorial to the brave men and women who fought and died here in August of 1877. The historic site features a visitor center with interpretive video and a museum with photographs, artifacts and interpretive displays. You can also take a self-guided tour of the battlefield and visit the deeply moving teepee memorial along the Big Hole River. 406.689.3155, www.nps.gov/biho

Camp Fortunate

After passing Beaverhead Rock, the Corps of Discovery followed the river south where it met the Shoshone. There, Sacagawea recognized her brother, Chief Cameahwait, and through her translations, horses were obtained for the trip west. Today, travelers can walk in the footsteps of Sacagawea and her brother by visiting Lewis and Clark Memorial, Camp Fortunate Overlook and Cameahwait Campground (Clark Canyon Dam and Recreation Area, exit 43 off I-15). 406.683.6472, www.usbr.gov/gp/mtao/clarkcanyon

Last Chance Community Powwow Helena

While all powwows are family-oriented events, the Last Chance Community Powwow holds particular appeal because of its focus: honoring the children. The three-day powwow is held every September at the Lewis and Clark County Fairgrounds in Helena. 406.439.5631, www.lastchancepowwow.com

North American Indian Alliance Powwow Butte

The North American Indian Alliance Powwow offers participants and visitors an unforgettable immersion in colorful regalia, captivating dancing and moving and traditional music, while creating new community bonds across tribes and cultures. The three-day powwow takes place at the Butte Civic Center every September. 406.782.0461

ARTS & CULTURE

Art galleries in Southwest Montana offer diverse displays of original, historic, reproductive and unique made-in-Montana pieces. Performing arts include children’s theater, concerts, symphonies, festivals and plays featuring both professional and amateur talent. Many of the facilities offering cultural attractions are in preserved and historic venues.

ANACONDA

Copper Village Museum And Art Center

Includes a historical museum, archives and art center along with a retail shop and historical society. 406.563.2422, www.facebook.com/coppervillagemuseumandartcenter

Fred Boyer Studio

A living legend sculptor, Boyer's work depicts nature frozen in time. 406.797.3386, www.fredboyer.com

Washoe Theatre

Anaconda’s historic 1930s working movie theater is listed on the National Register of Historic Sites. 406.563.6161, www.discoveranaconda.com

Augusta

Latigo and Lace

Features art that reflects the old western heritage of the area, local scenery and wildlife. 406.562.3665, www.latigoandlace.com

Tippets Fine Art

Nationally recognized artists exhibiting paintings of the western landscape. 406.562.3611, www.lindatippetts.com

Butte

B’nai Israel Temple

A cultural center to recognize both the Jewish community and other prominent ethnic communities whose influence played a part in Butte’s history. 406.782.3280 (for tour details)

Butte Civic Center

The Center has two large areas for concerts, trade shows. 406.497.6400, www.butteciviccenter.com

Copper King Mansion

A designated National Historic Place, the mansion was built for copper baron William A. Clark. Guided tours are available during the warm season and year-round for lodging guests. 406.782.7580, www.thecopperkingmansion.com

Imagine Butte Resource Center

An artistic center in Uptown Butte fostering artistic growth for youth and adults in both individual and group environments and projects. 406.299.3389, www.phoenixartsalliance.org

Charles W. Clark Chateau

This historic mansion features changing art exhibits, marvelous collections and elegant architecture. 406.490.6678, www.clarkchateaubutte.wordpress.com, www.facebook.com/ clarkchateau

Main Stope Gallery of Original Art

Joint venture gallery consisting of a number of Montana member artists. 406.723.9195, www.mainstopegallery.com

Mother Lode Theatre

The Mother Lode hosts events including the Butte Community Concert, Butte Symphony, Montana Repertory Theatre, Orphan Girl Children’s Theatre and numerous other performances from across the state and nation. 406.723.3602, www.buttearts.org

Deer Lodge

Pen Art Gallery and Deer Lodge Art Club

Across from the Old Montana Prison, the gallery features summer exhibits and local art year-round. 406.846.3111

Cutler Bros. Production

Live theatre, musicals, and comedy acts year-round! 406.846.4096, www.cutlerbros.com

Rialto Community Theatre

Live performances by national and local talent with weekend movies showing throughout the year. 406.846.7900, www.deerlodgerialto.com

Dillon

Beaverhead County Museum

Started by the Daughters of the American Revolution, this museum is a collection of buildings, brands, artifacts, art, and a lifelike Lewis & Clark Diorama. The campus is comprised of the museum, cabins, the Argenta School, the Depot with a boarded sidewalk complete with ranch brands from the county. 406.683.5027, www.beaverheadcounty.org/ departments/beaverhead-county-museum/

Tendoy Fine Art

This gallery displays original paintings, pottery, stained glass, weaving, carved wood and jewelry. Tendoy Fine Art is a nonprofit cooperative art gallery specializing in works by area artists. 406.660.3007, www.tendoyfineartgallery.com

University Of Montana Western Gallery/Museum

A collection of traveling exhibits, student art, and a permanent art collection including C.M. Russell and Ansel Adams. 406.683.7232, www.umwestern.edu

DRUMMOND

Ohrmann Museum & Gallery

Featuring paintings and sculptures by rancher-turned-artist Bill Ohrmann. 406.288.3319, www.ohrmannmuseum.com

ENNIS

Carleton McCambridge Fine Art

Representational oil paintings depict the beauty and intrigue of the West. 612.722.2744, www.carletonmccambridge.com

DIG DEEPER: Quilt shops abound! In the pioneer days, quilting and needlework were essential to survival on the frontier. From shops to retreats, quilting still adds a splash of color to life in Southwest Montana today. www.southwestmt.com/specialfeatures/quilting

Cattleman Gallery

A collection of Western Art, prints and more from local artists and nationally known artists. 406.682.5775

HELENA

1+1=1 Gallery

1+1=1 is not just a fine art gallery—it's a gathering spot. 406.431.9931, www.1plus1is1.com

A.l. Swanson Craftsman Studios

Offers handmade fine furniture and luxurious consumer goods and teaches woodworking courses. 406.443.3342, www.alswanson.com

Archie Bray Foundation

Established in 1951, the Bray is a ceramics studio that attracts artists from around the world. 406.443.3503, www.archiebray.org

Art Space LLC

An inspiring set of available paintings in the gallery, steady north light, and just enough quiet to create your own work. 406.404.6359, www.theartspacellc.com

Basin Creek Pottery & Gallery

A selection of handmade work by artists and craftspeople from Montana and beyond. 406.225.3218, www.basincreekpottery.com

Ghost Art Gallery

Features paintings of buildings and themes from the surrounding ghost towns. 406.443.4536, www.ghostartgallery.com

Grandstreet Theatre

Offering up to 10 productions each year, this Montana theater blends modern comfort with historic ambience. 406.447.1574, www.grandstreettheatre.com

Helena Civic Center

Originally built as a Shrine temple in 1920, the Civic Center offers a unique place to enjoy concerts, conferences, conventions, balls, expositions, art shows and other special events. 406.447.8481, www.helenaciviccenter.com

Helena Symphony

The Helena Symphony performs in the Helena Civic Center and the Cathedral of Saint Helena. 406.442.1860, www.helenasymphony.org

Holter Museum of Art

Includes the best in regional fine arts and crafts with new shows opening every six weeks. 406.442.6400, www.holtermuseum.org

Jmacs Pottery

This gallery and studio is a place for artists to take the next step and market their items. Studio and classes available to the public. 406.996.1279, www.jmacspottery.com

Montana History Foundation

The Foundation offers quality history tours in the Helena area including Breweries & Brothels, Steeples & Stories, and Legends in Limestone. 406.202.8196, www.mthistory.org/events

Montana Historical Society Museum

Collects, preserves, and interprets fine art and Montana artifacts, including works from Charlie Russell. 406.444.2694, www.mhs.mt.gov/museum

Mountain Sage Gallery

Enjoy a variety of styles from realism to abstract, including Montana landscapes, historical sites, wildlife and more. 406.457.8240, www.mountainsagegallery.com

Myrna Loy Center

This independent movie theater is housed in the former 1886 county jailhouse and offers films, live performances and the Jailhouse Art Gallery. 406.443.0287, www.myrnaloycenter.com

The Painted Pot

A creative arts studio that offers paint-your-own pottery, glass fusing and canvas painting classes and parties. 406.443.3799, www.paintedpothelenamt.com

LINCOLN

Blackfoot Pathways: Sculpture in the Wild

This outdoor park celebrates the rich environmental, industrial and cultural heritage of the Blackfoot Valley. www.sculptureinthewild.com

PHILIPSBURG

Philipsburg Theatre

Historic Montana theatre is open year-round with a variety of programming from the nonprofit Philipsburg Playhouse Productions. 406.859.0013, www.philipsburgtheatre.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. 888.407.4071, www.sttimothysmusic.org

VIRGINIA CITY

Brewery Follies

Enjoy adult comedy performances of the Brewery Follies at Montana’s first brewery. 800.829.2969, www.breweryfollies.net

Virginia City Players

The oldest continuously operating summer stock theater west of the Mississippi features melodramas and comedies in a 19th-century-style opera house. 800.829.2969, www.virginiacityplayers.com

Winter Adventures

Enjoy untrammeled and uncrowded winter adventures, whether it’s downhill or cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, fat-tire biking, ice fishing, or skating. There are hundreds of miles of groomed ski and snowmobile trails plus downhill ski areas with vertical drops over 2,000 feet and breathtaking views.

Enjoy a day ice fishing, cruise on your fat-tire mountain bike on groomed trails, snowshoe, or ice skate at Bannack State Park, High Altitude Speed Skating Center, or a community skating rink. If hockey is your interest, the North American 3 Hockey League has junior ice hockey league teams in Butte and Helena. www.na3hl.com

DOWNHILL SKIING & SNOWBOARDING

Discovery Ski Area − Anaconda area

406.563.2184, www.skidiscovery.com

Great Divide Ski Area – Helena area

406.449.3746, www.skigd.com

Maverick Ski Area – Dillon area

406.834.3454, www.skimaverick.com

FAT-TIRE MOUNTAIN BIKING

Thompson Park (groomed) – Butte area

406.494.2147, 406.533.8541, www.facebook.com/friends-ofthompson-park-100327408390533

South Hills − Helena Area www.pricklypearlt.org/trails

Lewis & Clark Caverns − Cardwell 406.287.3541, fwp.mt.gov/stateparks/lewis-and-clark-caverns

Snowmobiling

Throughout Southwest Montana there are hundreds of miles of groomed snowmobile trails for family fun and adventure on many of our public lands. Snowmobile trail passes and permits, interactive trail and avalanche information is available at 406.444.2535, www.mtrecmaps.com

Ice Fishing

Cross Country Skiing

Many of our region’s most beautiful areas are groomed during the winter to provide track and skate-skiing adventures on private and public lands. Rentals are available at many sporting goods stores and ski areas.

Chief Joseph – Wisdom area

406.689.3243, www.fs.usda.gov/activity/bdnf/recreation/wintersports

Echo Lake – Anaconda/ Philipsburg areas

406.859.3211, www.echolaketrails.org

Homestake Lodge – Butte area

406.284.1725, www.homestakelodge.com

MacDonald Pass – Helena area

406.449.5201, www.lcnsc.org/macdonald-pass

Moulton – Butte area

406.494.2147, www.milehighnordic.org

Mount Haggin – Butte/Anaconda area

406.498.9615, www.milehighnordic.org

Ice fishing adventures abound on Southwest Montana’s numerous lakes and reservoirs. Canyon Ferry Reservoir, Clark Canyon Reservoir and Georgetown Lake are highly recommended for perch, trout and walleye.

Helena Area

BOULDER, CLANCY, EAST HELENA, HELENA, JEFFERSON CITY, TOWNSEND

Mining, agriculture and transportation attributed to the lifestyle and wealth for the Helena region. Helena became known as the “Queen City of the Rockies” for the fabulous mansions and flamboyant business blocks financed by Montanan’s early elite. Helena was named the state capital in 1894.

CATHEDRAL OF ST. HELENA

Patterned after the renowned Votive Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Vienna, Austria, St. Helena’s 230-foot spires dominate the Helena skyline. The impressive interior features 59 spectacular Munich-style stained-glass panels crafted in Germany by renowned artist F.X. Zettler. 406.442.5825, www.sthelenas.org

Exploration Works

A museum of science and culture for children and adults, Exploration Works is 3,500 square feet of hands-on fun and science education. For those who like to play, create, discover and explore, Exploration Works is the place to be. 406.457.1800, www.explorationworks.org

GATES OF THE MOUNTAINS

Meriwether Lewis named this spectacular canyon north of Helena. Steep limestone cliffs flanking the Missouri River create the illusion of a gate that seems to open as you travel toward these cliffs. Enjoy a leisurely, narrated boat tour during the summer months. 406.458.5241, www.gatesofthemountains.com

GREAT NORTHERN CAROUSEL

Thirty-eight hand-sculpted animals and century-old stained glass from the famed Broadwater Hotel promise a memorable ride. Enjoy the enclosed carousel year-round. 406.457.5353, www.gncarousel.com

HELENA CIVIC CENTER

Originally built as a Shrine temple in 1920, the Civic Center offers a unique place to enjoy concerts, conferences, conventions, balls, expositions, art shows and other special events. 406.447.8481, www.helenaciviccenter.com

LAST CHANCE GULCH

Prospectors took “one last chance” that paid off in 1864. Helena grew along the gulch that today is the most historic mile in Montana. Victorian-era buildings now line the site where digs produced millions in gold. Enjoy great shopping, dining, art galleries and history. 406.447.1535, www.downtownhelena.com

LAST CHANCE TOUR TRAIN

Step aboard and experience Helena’s history on this one-hour, narrated train ride through the state capital. You'll view the State Capitol, the Mansion District, Last Chance Gulch and much more. It’s the best way to see it all. 406.442.1023, www.lctours.com

MONTANA HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM

Founded in 1865, the society houses art, artifacts, archives and photographs. The museum features the work of cowboy artist C.M. Russell and American Indian and Montana history exhibits. Discover your roots at the Research Center and find a Montana treasure at the gift store. 406.444.2694, www.mhs.mt.gov/museum

Montana Learning Center And Observatory

The Montana Learning Center at Canyon Ferry Lake, just 20 miles northeast of Helena provides visitors with the perfect place for teaching, learning, experiencing the outdoors, and viewing the night sky with multiple state-of-the-art telescopes. The center is the largest public-use observatory in Montana. 406.475.3638, www.montanalearning.org/astronomy

Montana Military Museum

Montana’s official military repository offers a rich collection of memorabilia, artifacts and archives ranging from Lewis and Clark’s Corps of Discovery through modern times. The museum is located just west of town at the Fort Harrison complex. Open select hours and by appointment. 406.324.3550, www.montanamilitarymuseum.org

Mount Helena City Park

Acres of hiking and biking trails in the South Hills and on National Register-listed Mount Helena offer great panoramic vistas and diverse landscapes in all seasons. The city trail system rivals biking destinations like Moab, Utah, and includes runs from butter-smooth single track to challenging rock garden trails. www.helenamt.com/content/hiking-helena-montana-trails

ORIGINAL GOVERNOR’S MANSION

Take a guided tour of the 1888 Queen Anne-style mansion that served as the official home of Montana’s governors from 1913 to 1959. 406.444.4794, www.mhs.mt.gov/education/ogmtours

REEDER’S ALLEY

This quaint alley, once home to miners, is Helena’s most intact territorial-period neighborhood. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, visitors can take a self-guided tour. The Montana Heritage Commission, the managing entity for Virginia City and Nevada City, maintains this historic state-owned property. 406.843.5247, www.reedersalley.com

Helena Area

State Capitol Building

Montana’s stunning neoclassical-style Capitol reflects the American Renaissance of the late 19th century. The building, fully restored to its 1902 appearance, features a dome of Montana copper. Self-guided tours emphasize the blending of fine Western art and classical architecture that makes the Montana Capitol unique. 406.444.2694, www.mhs.mt.gov/ education

Tizer Botanic Gardens And Arboretum

Situated in the heart of the Elkhorn Mountains, there are seven acres of perennials, annuals, roses, wildflowers, herbs, vegetables and more than 12,000 bulbs. Features include theme gardens, shade gardens and a Lewis and Clark garden. The gardens are located in Jefferson County, 18 miles south of Helena. 406.933.8789, www.tizergardens.com

WOLF CREEK (PRICKLY PEAR) CANYON

One of the most beautiful scenic drives in Montana, this canyon was the most difficult section along the route from Helena to Fort Benton. Stagecoach drivers and teamsters feared the narrow canyon and swift-flowing Prickly Pear Creek. To access the canyon, take I-15 north from Helena. www.southwestmt.com/communities/wolfcreek.htm

Nearby Communities

BOULDER

Historic Boulder, the Jefferson County seat, is home to the magnificent 1888 Jefferson County Courthouse and Boulder Hot Springs, both listed on the National Register. Elkhorn Ghost Town is nearby, along with Radon Health Mines which, while there is no guarantee, some claim improves health and eases arthritis, lupus, asthma and other ailments. 406.465.2106, www.bouldermtchamber.com, www.discoverjeffersonmt.org

JEFFERSON COUNTY HERITAGE CENTER BOULDER

Located in an 1888 bank building on nearby Boulder’s Main Street, the center preserves the rich history and culture of Jefferson County. The center houses a museum, library and genealogy collections. 406.422.9879, www.theheritagecenter.yolasite.com

CLANCY

South of Helena in Jefferson County, Clancy began in 1873 as a gold camp but soon became famous for its silver mines. Clancy district silver, hauled by oxen team to Fort Benton and shipped to Swansea, Wales, for smelting, was so rich it still made a profit even after all that travel. 406.224.5106

JEFFERSON

County Historical Museum Clancy

Housed in an 1898 schoolhouse at Clancy, the museum interprets pioneer living and features a 19th-century classroom in a hand-built frontier town and hosts traveling exhibits. 406.933.5528, www.jeffersoncounty-mt.gov/Museum_Clancy.html

EAST HELENA

Freight wagons once camped where East Helena’s business district grew. The nation’s longest operating lead smelter opened here in 1888 and processed 70,000 tons annually until it closed in 2001. Today, the resilient community offers visitors a charming main street, warm hospitality and a good meal. 406.227.5321, www.easthelenamt.us

JEFFERSON CITY

Named to honor President Thomas Jefferson, the town began as a stagecoach stop for passengers and freight between Fort Benton and Virginia City. In the early years, this area yielded millions of dollars in gold and silver. 406.225.4015, www.bouldermtchamber.org/plan-a-trip, www.discoverjeffersonmt.org

TOWNSEND

Along the Missouri River and Lewis and Clark’s epic route, Townsend sits at the pristine south end of Canyon Ferry Lake. It is home to excellent hunting, fishing and seasonal cattle drives. 406.266.4101, www.townsendmt.com

HISTORIC CANTON CHURCH − TOWNSEND

A Colonial-style church dating to 1875, the historic Canton Church reflects the roots of many local settlers who came here from Canton, New York. The church was moved to its present location on Montana Highway 284 east of Townsend in 1952 when Canyon Ferry Reservoir was filled. 406.266.4101, www.canton-church.org

THE BROADWATER COUNTY MUSEUM – TOWNSEND

The museum preserves local American Indian, Lewis and Clark and Broadwater County history through its exhibits and collected artifacts. The facility features an extensive library with copies of most of the early local newspapers. 406.266.5252, www.broadwatercountymuseum.com

WHEAT MONTANA BAKERY – TOWNSEND AREA

Since the early pioneers first made their way west, Montana has earned a reputation for producing first-quality wheat and grains packed with nutrients and bursting with flavor. That's why Wheat Montana was established here years ago, and they're glad to share Montana's natural goodness with friends and neighbors. 406.582.4572, www.wheatmontana.com