Explore Butte, Montana: The Richest Hill on Earth: A Gateway to Unforgettable Adventures

Nestled in the grandeur of the Rocky Mountains of Southwest Montana, between Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks, is Montana’s most unique city offering small-town charm with a big city feel. Within minutes you can enjoy miles of non-motorized and motorized trails; and waterways for fishing, floating, and wildlife viewing. Surrounded by the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail; there are 13 trailheads for day and overnight treks offering panoramic vistas and distinctive geologic formations. Home to one of the nation’s largest National Historic Landmark Districts is a wealth of turn of the 20th century architecture listed on the National Register of Historic Places; celebrating the history of our mining industrialization with stories and culture of the men and women who immigrated to “Butte America” from western European countries. Butte welcomes visitors looking for open spaces for adventure and relaxed lifestyle. Prepare to delve into a city where every street corner whispers tales of daring miners, resilient communities, and the untamed spirit of the American West, inviting you to embark on your own unforgettable Montana adventure.

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 – Famed American stunt performer and entertainer.
Martha Jane Cannary (Calamity Jane) – Legendary American frontierswoman, scout, and acquaintance of Wild Bill Hickok, known for her adventurous life and appearances in Wild West shows. While not born in Butte, her adventurous spirit embodies the character of the region and she is a significant figure in the lore of the American West, which Butte is a part of.
The TV Series "1923" - Set in Butte, it portrays the challenges of the Dutton family during a period of hardship, including Prohibition and the Great Depression, reflecting the rugged and adventurous spirit of early 20th-century Montana.

Top Things to Do in Butte

✧ World Museum of Mining – Delve into the depths of Butte's mining legacy with an underground tour and explore a recreated 1890s mining town.

✧ Our Lady of the Rockies – Take a breathtaking tour to this majestic 90-foot statue of Mary, perched atop the Continental Divide, offering 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 geological wonders of the region.

Local Industry & Economy

Butte's economy, historically rooted in its rich mining heritage that once produced billions in minerals, has shown remarkable resilience and diversification. While copper mining, a cornerstone since the gold boom 마무리, continues to be significant, the city has adventurously expanded into new territories. Following a downturn in the 1980s, a resurgence in mining in 1986 catalyzed growth in transportation, tourism, and small businesses. Today, Butte is not just about extracting minerals like copper, lead, zinc, and magnesium; it's a burgeoning hub for technology, energy research, medicine, and communications. The city actively fosters this growth through initiatives like the Butte Local Development Corporation (BLDC), which has been pivotal in attracting new industries and supporting existing ones through various incentive programs and loan schemes. Key development projects, including the Port of Montana Hub for mineral and forest product transport, the Silicon Mountain Technology Park, and the U.S. High Altitude Sports Center, underscore Butte's forward-looking economic strategy. The city's spirit of tenacity and hard work is evident in its successful transition towards a more diversified and robust economy, attracting both national acclaim and international firms, ensuring that the 'Richest Hill on Earth' continues to offer rich opportunities for adventure and prosperity.

History & Heritage

Butte, Montana, often referred to as "The Richest Hill on Earth," has a storied past deeply intertwined with the mining industry. Originally inhabited by Native American tribes, the area saw its first significant influx of settlers during the Montana Gold Rush in the 1860s. However, it was the discovery of vast copper deposits that truly shaped Butte's destiny. By the late 19th century, Butte had become one of the largest and most prosperous copper mining towns in the world. This boom attracted a diverse population of immigrants from Europe, particularly Ireland, as well as from Asia, creating a unique cultural melting pot. The city played a crucial role in the electrification of America, as copper was essential for conducting electricity. The wealth generated from mining led to the construction of impressive Victorian architecture, much of which still stands today. However, the mining industry also brought challenges, including labor disputes and environmental concerns. The legacy of mining is still visible in Butte, with historic mine headframes dotting the landscape and the Berkeley Pit, a former open-pit copper mine that is now a Superfund site. Today, Butte embraces its rich history while looking towards the future, with efforts to preserve its heritage and diversify its economy.

Seasonal Activities & Local Events

Spring/Summer: Butte offers a variety of seasonal activities. In spring and summer, visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and exploring the historic uptown area. Fall brings vibrant foliage and opportunities for scenic drives. Winter activities include skiing and snowboarding at nearby resorts, as well_as ice skating and snowshoeing.
Fall/Winter: - Fall/Winter: Enjoy the crisp mountain air with scenic drives as the leaves change, or hit the slopes for skiing and snowboarding in the nearby ranges. Ice fishing and snowshoeing are also popular winter pastimes.
Annual Events: Butte hosts vibrant annual events that draw crowds and celebrate its unique culture. Key among them are the Montana Folk Festival, a free three-day extravaganza of music, dance, and craft from across the nation and the world, held in historic Uptown Butte. Another major highlight is An Ri Ra Irish Festival, an authentic celebration of Irish heritage with music, dance, food, and cultural exhibits, reflecting Butte's deep Irish roots. The Freedom Festival on July 3rd and 4th features Montana's most spectacular fireworks display. For the adventurous, the Butte 100 Mountain Bike Race offers grueling endurance challenges. These events, among others, showcase Butte's lively community spirit and rich traditions.

Getting There & Nearby Destinations

Butte is strategically positioned at the crossroads of Interstate 90 (east-west) and Interstate 15 (north-south), making it an easily accessible destination for road-trippers embarking on a Montana adventure. The city is also served by Bert Mooney Airport (BTM), offering convenient flight connections. Navigating Butte itself is generally straightforward, though its historic, hilly terrain and winding old roads can offer a charming challenge to newcomers. For those looking to extend their exploration, several captivating destinations are within a comfortable drive: venture to nearby Anaconda to witness the imposing historic smelter stack, a testament to the region's industrial might; discover the serene beauty of Georgetown Lake, perfect for fishing, boating, and camping amidst breathtaking mountain scenery; step into the past at Bannack State Park, Montana's first territorial capital and a remarkably preserved ghost town; or explore Helena, the current state capital, rich with museums and historical sites. These nearby gems offer further opportunities to delve into Montana's diverse landscapes and compelling history.

Where to Stay in Butte

Plan Your Visit

Ready to explore Butte? Add it to your Montana travel itinerary and discover the charm, history, and adventure waiting in Big Sky Country.