Quick Facts
- Population: ~136 (Source: U.S. Census Bureau estimates)
- County: Yellowstone County
- Elevation: 3,888 ft (1,185 m)
- Known For: Proximity to Hailstone National Wildlife Refuge and serving as a quiet agricultural outpost along Highway 3 near Billings.
History & Heritage
Broadview is a very small, unincorporated community located in Yellowstone County, about a half-hour's drive northwest of Billings. Like many towns dotting the central Montana plains, it was historically established as a rail stop or agricultural service center for the surrounding dryland wheat farms and cattle ranches. Over the decades, as agriculture modernized and required fewer laborers, and as the larger city of Billings expanded its economic gravity, Broadview’s population slowly declined, retaining its peaceful, tight-knit rural character.
Top Things to Do in Broadview
- Visit Hailstone National Wildlife Refuge: Broadview's primary attraction is this nearby refuge, which serves as a satellite to the larger Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge complex. Established as a sanctuary for migratory birds, the refuge features critical prairie pothole wetlands that are fantastic for birdwatching and wildlife photography, especially during the spring and fall migrations.
- Experience the Quiet Plains: For visitors, the appeal of Broadview is the vast, open skies and the stunning, uninterrupted views of the Montana plains. It provides an incredibly quiet, solitary driving route (Highway 3) stretching between Billings and central Montana.
Local Industry & Economy
The local economy of Broadview is entirely driven by agriculture, particularly dryland farming (wheat) and livestock ranching. Given its small size and close proximity to Billings (Montana's largest city), the town itself has very few commercial businesses. A significant portion of the working-age population either works in local agriculture or commutes the 31 miles into Billings for employment in healthcare, retail, energy, or education.
Getting There & Nearby Destinations
- Getting There: Broadview sits directly on Montana Highway 3, approximately 31 miles northwest of Billings and roughly 50 miles southeast of Lavina.
- Nearby Destinations:
- Billings, Montana: Located just a half-hour to the southeast, Billings provides an international airport, extensive shopping, dining, medical facilities, and attractions like the Rimrocks and ZooMontana.
- Hailstone National Wildlife Refuge: Located just north of town, a vital haven for migratory birds.
- Lake Mason National Wildlife Refuge: Another nearby refuge (near Roundup) offering additional wildlife viewing and outdoor recreation.
Where to Stay in Broadview
Because Broadview is essentially a rural residential and agricultural community, it does not have traditional lodging facilities like hotels or motels.
- Billings (31 miles Southeast): The overwhelming majority of visitors exploring the area base themselves in Billings, which offers dozens of accommodation options ranging from luxury downtown hotels to budget-friendly motels and extensive RV parks.
- Roundup (50 miles Northeast): For those heading further into central Montana, Roundup offers a few small motels and local lodging options.