Quick Facts
- Population: 605
- County: Chouteau
- Founded: 1887
- Elevation: 2,747 ft
- Known For: Agricultural heritage, Golden Triangle wheat region, hometown of Pearl Jam bassist Jeff Ament
- Nearby Landmarks: Bear Paw Mountains, Lonesome Lake, Missouri River
- Fun Fact: Big Bud 747, the world's largest farm tractor, was located here from 1997 until 2009, and returned in 2020.
Notable People & Pop Culture
- Jeff Ament – Pearl Jam bassist, raised in Big Sandy, built the town's skatepark
- Jon Tester – Former U.S. Senator, organic farmer, and music teacher in Big Sandy
- Charlie Russell Connection – The famed western artist once worked as a ranch hand in the Big Sandy area
Top Things to Do in Big Sandy
- ✧ Big Sandy Historical Society Museum – Explore exhibits on the town's supply route and agricultural history
- ✧ Big Sandy Skate Bowl – Modern skatepark built by Jeff Ament
- ✧ Lonesome Lake Wildlife Viewing – Prairie wetland wildlife north of town
- ✧ Missouri River Recreation – Fishing, hunting, and outdoor activities along the historic waterway
Local Industry & Economy
Big Sandy is a trade center for farmers and ranchers in the "Golden Triangle" wheat region. Grain elevators, wheat and barley production, and a long-standing agricultural tradition define the local economy. The town's farming heritage dates to the early 1900s homesteaders and is celebrated at the local museum.
History & Heritage
Big Sandy's story begins with its namesake creek and the arrival of the railroad in 1887. It quickly became a supply junction for routes from the Missouri River to Fort Assiniboine. The town's frontier past is preserved at the Big Sandy Historical Society Museum, where visitors can explore its evolution from railway stop to agricultural hub.
Seasonal Activities & Local Events
- Spring/Summer: Outdoor swimming, wildlife viewing at Lonesome Lake, hiking in the Bear Paw Mountains, fishing along the Missouri River
- Fall/Winter: Hunting, cross-country skiing, and community gatherings
- Annual Events: Christmas Stroll, Fire Department Chili Cook-off, Rotary Banquet, Big Sandy Homecoming (every five years)
Getting There & Nearby Destinations
Big Sandy is on U.S. Route 87 between Great Falls and Havre. Montana Highway 432 intersects in town. The Big Sandy Airport is one mile south. Nearby: MSU Northern (30 min north), Missouri River recreation, Bear Paw Mountains.
Where to Stay in Big Sandy
- The Motel: Clean rooms, friendly service at the foot of the Bear Paw Mountains.
- Nearby options: Havre (30 min north) and Fort Benton (historic Grand Union Hotel, chain hotels).