The Pryor Mountains are a striking and sacred mountain range in southern Montana, just north of the Wyoming border. Known for their ecological diversity, limestone formations, and cultural significance, the Pryors remain one of the most geologically unique and historically rich landscapes in the United States. Visitors are drawn here for scenic drives, remote hikes, and a chance to explore wild Montana backcountry shaped by nature and time.

Recommended For

Whether you're seeking adventure, solitude, or cultural insight, the Pryor Mountains deliver a rugged and unforgettable experience:

  • Nature Lovers: Explore alpine prairies, wildflowers, caves, and a diverse wildlife population.
  • History & Culture Buffs: Discover archaeological sites, sacred Crow lands, and homestead remains.
  • Backpackers & Campers: Find solitude and starry skies in this remote, high-elevation wilderness.
  • Scenic Drivers: Take the rugged Pryor Mountain Road Driving Tour with scenic stops and unique geology.

Natural & Cultural History

  • Inhabited for over 10,000 years—rich with archaeological evidence
  • Sacred to the Crow Nation, still used today for cultural and spiritual practices
  • Named after Sgt. Nathaniel Pryor of the Lewis and Clark Expedition (1805)
  • Traversed by the Bozeman Trail during westward expansion in the 1860s
  • Historic homesteads from the 1800s–early 1900s still stand in parts of the range
  • Protected sites are closely monitored—respect signage and restrictions

Geology & Landscape

  • Formed by limestone erosion, not glaciers—creating dramatic cliffs and isolated plateaus
  • Elevation ranges up to 9,000 feet on the south and west; dips into desert on the north and east
  • Habitats include alpine meadows, canyons, desert scrublands, and riparian woodlands

Flora & Fauna

  • Over 1,000 plant species, including the rare Pryor Mountain Bladderpod
  • Wildflowers bloom from spring through fall—look for:
    • Bitterroot, shooting stars, larkspur, paintbrush, yucca, and more
  • Notable wildlife includes:
    • Bighorn sheep, black bears, mountain lions
    • Peregrine falcons, eagles, 10 bat species
    • Yellowstone cutthroat trout in streams
    • Five types of native snakes, including the rattlesnake and milk snake

Recreation & Access

Pryor Mountain Road Driving Tour

  • Access the range from the north via Route #2308 (mostly gravel)
  • SUVs recommended—conditions can be muddy or rough
  • Highlights include:
    • Sage Creek Campground
    • Big Ice Cave Picnic Area
    • Scenic overlooks, hidden caves, and wildlife spotting

Hiking

  • Access via Custer National Forest lands
  • No signed trailheads—use Pryors Coalition hiking guides online
  • Expect long, rugged hikes with panoramic views and archaeological sites

Camping

  • Sage Creek Campground: 10 sites, toilets, and drinking water
  • Primitive camping allowed (follow Leave No Trace guidelines)
  • Backpacking permitted—note that water sources can be scarce

Visitor Tips

  • Check road conditions before driving into the range
  • Bring plenty of water, maps, and layers—weather and terrain can change fast
  • Respect cultural and ecological sites; many are protected or sacred

Location: The Pryor Mountains are located in southern Montana, east of Bridger, MT, and south of Billings. Access via Pryor Mountain Road (Route #2308) from the north or Bureau of Land Management roads from the east.

Tip: For planning guides and maps, visit the Pryors Coalition website.

Plan Your Trip