Go walk the deserted streets of Bannack and discover for yourself the realities of the "Old West." Bannack is the best preserved of all Montana ghost towns.
Bannack State Park is a National 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 lost. Over 50 buildings line Main Street; their historic log and frame structures recall Montana's formative years.
Tours are conducted from the visitor center, which is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Bannack Days, with historic displays, re-enactors, and activities, are held annually the 3rd weekend in July.
2023 Bannack Education and Entertainment Program Series (pdf)
The campground has 28 sites, including a rental tipi located along Grasshopper Creek, a hike-in/bike-in campsite, with 4 tent pads, and a group picnic site.
On August 9, 1877, gun shots shattered a chilly dawn on a sleeping camp of Nez Perce. By the time the smoke cleared on August 10, almost 90 Nez Perce were dead along with 31 soldiers and volunteers. Big Hole National Battlefield was created to honor all who were there.
Big Hole National Battlefield is the site of unimaginable tragedy as well as a sacred site to the Nez Perce people. The events of August 9 & 10, 1877 will long be remembered by the world and it is our duty to tell the story of what happened here.
The 655 acre park has a visitor center with fully accessible exhibits, a 26 minute film and a place to get out of the weather and still see the park. They have four trails that radiate out of the lower parking lot to go to various parts of the park. Trail guides are available at the trail heads for free.
In the summer plan on spending two hours in the park.
Jackson Hot Springs Lodge invites you to be their guest in the beautiful Big Hole Valley for an authentic western experience! Enjoy a relaxing soak in the natural hot springs pool, come sit by the fireplace with your favorite beverage, or play pool and shuffle board. Follow it all with a delicious meal at their restaurant and spend the night in one of the cozy western rooms. Find outdoor activities galore such as fishing, hiking, skiing, snowmobiling, hunting and horse back riding!
Located 40 miles South West of Dillon Montana, Elkhorn Hot Springs is a primitive, family owned retreat nestled in the beautiful Pioneer Mountains.
Elkhorn is just minutes away from several recreational sites such as the famous Big Hole River, Crystal Park, Bannack State Park, and Maverick Mountain.
Other nearby activities include, downhill skiing, cross country skiing, snowmobiling, hiking, fishing, and much more!
The hot springs pools were first built in 1918 followed 3 years later by the lodge, built in 1921. The cabins were built in the 1920’s and 30’s. Even with the luxury of electricity the cabins remain much like they were originally built. The rustic atmosphere allows guests to experience Montana the way it was in the early 1900’s.
Elkhorn Hot Springs is a year-round hot springs resort which offers two outdoor hot mineral pools, a Grecian sauna, a restaurant, and a bar. Guests enjoy hiking, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, plus downhill skiing at nearby Maverick Mountain. Accommodations include rustic cabins, modern cabins, or lodge rooms.
A wonderful antique store and the location of the wedding ceremony itself, we invite you to check it out!
The Big Hole Valley is defined by majestic snowy mountain peaks, the willow-lined Big Hole River, and verdant wild grass hayfields. Cattle is king in this valley where they outnumber the residents nearly 100 to one. The iconic "Beaverslide" or "Sliding Hay Stacker" was invented here in 1910.
Beaverslide Antiques & Art offers a unique shopping experience, inside and out, onsite or online. The building materials were cut and milled locally, handcrafted in a traditional Western style. Display cabinets are preserved from past businesses, some even from down the street from the former Jackson Mercantile. Our website was designed to give you a taste of that rustic and historical feel that makes the stories of these items and their history come alive.
Our items will delight and intrigue people of all ages and interests. You will find beautiful artwork, such as one-of-a-kind handcrafted items, framed prints, and antique pieces from the past. From kitchen to parlor, bedroom to barn, there are collectibles for a wide range of styles and venues.