Butte, Montana

Quick Facts

• Population: 34,494 (2020 census)
• County: Silver Bow
• Founded: 1864
• Elevation: 5,824 ft
• Known For: Rich mining history (The Richest Hill on Earth), National Historic Landmark District, Irish heritage, resilience, and outdoor recreation.
• Nearby Landmarks: Our Lady of the Rockies, World Museum of Mining, Berkeley Pit, Granite Mountain Memorial Overlook, Continental Divide National Scenic Trail
• Fun Fact: It is estimated that there are 10,000 miles of underground tunnels beneath the city.

Notable People & Pop Culture

• Evel Knievel – World-famous daredevil and motorcycle stuntman known for his record-breaking jumps and flamboyant persona.
• Mike Mansfield – Longest-serving U.S. Senate Majority Leader and U.S. Ambassador to Japan under President Jimmy Carter.
• Myrna Loy – Classic Hollywood actress known for her roles in The Thin Man series and often dubbed “The Queen of Hollywood.”

Top Things to Do in Butte

• World Museum of Mining: Delve into Butte's mining legacy with an underground tour and a recreated 1890s mining town.
• Our Lady of the Rockies: Visit this 90-foot statue atop the Continental Divide for panoramic views and a story of faith.
• The Berkeley Pit: Witness the immense scale of this former open-pit copper mine, now a Superfund site, offering a starkly beautiful and thought-provoking view into mining's environmental impact and reclamation efforts.
• Montana Tech Mineral Museum: Explore a vast collection of minerals and learn about the region's geology.

Local Industry & Economy

Butte's economy, historically rooted in its mining heritage, has shown remarkable resilience and diversification. While copper mining remains significant, the city has expanded into technology, energy research, medicine, and communications. Development projects like the Port of Montana Hub and Silicon Mountain Technology Park highlight Butte's forward-looking strategy. The city continues to foster growth through initiatives like the Butte Local Development Corporation (BLDC), attracting new industries and supporting local businesses.

History & Heritage

Butte, known as "The Richest Hill on Earth," has a storied past deeply intertwined with the mining industry. The area saw its first major influx during the Gold Rush of the 1860s, but it was the discovery of vast copper deposits that truly shaped its destiny. By the late 19th century, Butte was one of the world's largest and most prosperous copper mining towns, attracting immigrants from Europe and Asia. Mining wealth built impressive architecture, but also brought labor disputes and environmental challenges. Today, Butte preserves its legacy with historic mine headframes, the Berkeley Pit, and vibrant cultural traditions.

Seasonal Activities & Local Events

• Spring/Summer: Hiking, mountain biking, exploring historic uptown, fishing, and boating.
• Fall/Winter: Scenic drives, skiing, snowboarding, ice fishing, and snowshoeing.
• Annual Events: Montana Folk Festival, An Ri Ra Irish Festival, Freedom Festival (July 3-4), Butte 100 Mountain Bike Race, and more.

Getting There & Nearby Destinations

• By Road: At the crossroads of Interstate 90 and Interstate 15.
• By Air: Bert Mooney Airport (BTM) offers convenient connections.
• Nearby: Anaconda, Georgetown Lake, Bannack State Park, Helena, and more.

Where to Stay in Butte

• Hotels: Find hotels in Butte on Expedia.
• Motels: Find motels in Butte on Expedia.
• Vacation Rentals: Find houses, apartments, and cabins for rent on VRBO.
• Bed & Breakfasts: Try a boutique B&B or historic inn for local charm.
• Campgrounds: Campgrounds and guest ranches are available in the surrounding area.