Looking for wide-open skies, frontier history, and outdoor adventure? Head to Three Forks, Montana! This small town marks the meeting point of three rivers that form the Missouri. It’s a gateway to hiking, fishing, history, and rugged Rocky Mountain charm—perfect for nature lovers and road trippers alike.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Three Forks is from late spring through early fall (May to September). Warm weather invites hiking, fishing, river rafting, and scenic drives. Fall foliage in September adds an extra dose of beauty to the surrounding landscapes.
How to Get There
- By Car: Located just off I-90, Three Forks is about 30 minutes west of Bozeman and 1.5 hours from Yellowstone’s north entrance.
- By Air: Fly into Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN), then rent a car for the short scenic drive west.
- By Train: Amtrak’s Empire Builder route stops in nearby Whitefish and Havre, though additional travel is needed to reach Three Forks.
Where to Stay
- Sacajawea Hotel – Historic, beautifully restored hotel offering boutique charm, fine dining, and live music on summer weekends.
- Broken Spur Motel – Affordable, clean, and cozy motel with easy access to downtown and area attractions.
- Lewis & Clark Motel of Three Forks – Vintage roadside motel with updated rooms and great hospitality.
Top Attractions
1. Venture Underground and Marvel at Nature’s Artistry in Lewis and Clark Caverns
The best known and first state park in the state of Montana, the Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park features one of the Northwest region’s most decorated limestone caverns. These fascinating caves are naturally air conditioned, electrically lighted for safe visits, and lined with helictites, columns, stalagmites, and stalactites. A self-guided, above ground nature trail offers a chance for visitors to gain a better understanding of the park’s natural surroundings. The Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park also contains visitor centers, picnic sites, camping cabins and tipi, a campground with forty campsites, and ten miles of trails for hiking.
25 Lewis & Clark Caverns Rd, Whitehall, MT 59759, Phone: 406-287-3541
2. Hit the Trails at Missouri Headwaters and Stand Where Three Rivers Meet
The Missouri Headwaters State Park is possibly the heart of Three Forks, Montana, the place where the Missouri River, North America’s longest river, begins. The park is home to the “Three Forks of the Missouri National Historic Landmark,” the site where William Clark and Meriwether Lewis landed in the year 1806. The state park features picnic areas, more than a dozen campsites, tipi rentals, interpretive displays of the natural and cultural history of the area, and hiking trails to various points of interest. Fishing, camping, hiking, cycling, picnicking, and river floating are all popular activities in the park.
1585 Trident Rd, Three Forks, MT 59752, Phone: 406-285-3610
3. Step Into the Past at Headwaters Heritage Museum and Uncover Frontier Tales
Housed inside of a historic bank building dating back to 1910, the Headwaters Heritage Museum can be found in the heart of downtown Three Forks, Montana and the structure itself is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Opened in 1982 by the Three Forks Area Historical Society, the museum features an interesting and extensive variety of artifacts from the Missouri River Headwaters area of Montana. Highlights of the Headwaters Heritage Museum include a log cabin from Gallatin City, the largest brown trout caught in Montana, and perhaps the oldest American-made anvil. There is also a gift shop.
202 South Main St, Three Forks, MT 59752, Phone: 406-285-4778
4. Gaze Across the Hills and Behold the Bleu Horses in Silent, Windswept Grace
Just a few minutes outside of the main part of Three Forks, visitors and local Montana residents alike may discover what looks like a group of horses on a hillside along US Highway 287. This unique herd of horses are actually a work of art created by Jim Dolan, a sculptor who uses perspective to tell the story behind his artwork and specializes in metal carvings. The Bleu Horses sculptures are made up of nearly forty horses crafted completely out of steel. These horses are spread out across the hillside in a very life-like way that makes travelers look twice.
10493 US-287, Three Forks, MT 59752
Attractions for First Time Visitors
- Three Forks Historical Museum – Dive into the area’s pioneer, railroad, and Native American history.
- Headwaters Trail System – Bike or walk scenic riverside trails with panoramic mountain views.
- Downtown Three Forks – Enjoy quaint shops, local dining, and small-town Western character.
Where to Eat
- Pompey’s Grill – Upscale dining at the Sacajawea Hotel with regional specialties and Montana-raised beef.
- Iron Horse Cafe & Pie Shop – Hearty breakfasts, homemade pies, and cowboy coffee in a rustic setting.
- Stageline Pizza – Casual, family-friendly stop for pizza, wings, and local flavor.
Local Events
- Rockin’ the Rivers (August) – One of Montana’s biggest rock music festivals held just outside of town.
- Headwaters Country Jam (June) – Three-day outdoor country music fest with camping and scenic views.
- Three Forks Rodeo Dayz (July) – Classic small-town rodeo, parade, and street dance celebrating local heritage.
Day Trips Within 30 Minutes of Three Forks, Montana
- Manhattan (15 min) – Stroll Main Street, enjoy local eateries, or visit nearby trout fishing spots.
- Belgrade (25–30 min) – Dine at cozy restaurants, browse small shops, or explore local parks and trails.
- Logan (10 min) – Discover quiet riverfront beauty and nearby access to the Missouri Headwaters.
- Willow Creek (15 min) – Enjoy rural charm, scenic drives, and nearby hiking or horseback riding.
- Missouri Headwaters State Park (5–10 min) – Explore Lewis and Clark history, camp, hike, or fish at this historic site.
- Gallatin Gateway (30 min) – Visit gateway ranches, enjoy scenic views, or head toward Big Sky adventures.
- Toston (25 min) – Visit this quiet riverside community with great access to fishing and nature viewing.
- Clarkston (20 min) – Fish or boat on the Missouri River and enjoy wide-open Montana landscapes.
- Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park (10–15 min) – Take a guided cave tour or hike the rugged limestone hills nearby.
- Three Forks Historic Downtown
FAQ
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Where is Three Forks, Montana located?
- The city of Three Forks, Montana is situated along US Route 287 and Interstate 90.
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How did Three Forks get its name?
- The city gets its name from being located at the point where the Jefferson, Madison, and Gallatin Rivers meet to form the historically significant Missouri River.
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What outdoor activities are available in Three Forks?
- The area is a paradise for nature lovers, home to the Missouri Headwaters State Park and the Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park, offering opportunities for camping, hiking, and many other outdoor recreation activities.
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What attractions are available for art and history enthusiasts?
- Fans of art and history can visit the Bleu Horses and the Headwaters Heritage Museum in Three Forks.
Plan Your Trip
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Where is Three Forks, Montana located?