|
Home >
Travel >
State Parks >
Montana >
Bannack State Park |
|
|
Open : All Year
Stay Limit : 14 days
Site Map | Area Map
Elevation : 5837 ft
Nearest Town : Dillon
Size : 1528.4 Acres
Bannack State Park 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.
A walk down the deserted streets of Bannack evokes a feeling of the realities
faced by the 'Old West'. Bannack is the best preserved of all Montana ghost
towns being preserved rather than restored... protected rather than exploited.
Bannack Days with historic displays, activities and events is held the third
weekend in July each year. The visitor center does tours and is open from
Memorial Day through Labor Day. A tipi is available to rent from the center.
For more information about Bannack State Park, read Spirit of the West, 2003
Montana Outdoors article. Also visit www.bannack.org for historical information
and trip planning tips.
Bannack State Park is located on Grasshopper Creek at river mile 17. Bannack is
the only access site along Grasshopper Creek maintained by FWP. Grasshopper
Creek is a tributary of the Beaverhead River.
Directions
Bannack State Park is located in the southwestern area of Montana. Take I-15
south of Dillon to exit #59 (Highway 278 exit.) Drive west on Highway 278 for 18
miles. Turn south onto the Bannack Road and travel four miles. Park entrance
road will be on the left hand side. (Lat 45.163, Lng -112.995)
Contact Information
If you have questions or comments please send mail to; Bannack, 4200 Bannack Rd
Dillon, MT 59725 or call (406) 834-3413. |
|
|
|
