Quick Facts
- Population: 1,721 (2020 census)
- County: Teton (county seat)
- Founded: 1873 (trading post), 1883 (platted), 1913 (incorporated)
- Elevation: 3,816 ft
- Known For: Gateway to Rocky Mountain Front, dinosaur paleontology, bird watching at Freezout Lake
- Nearby Landmarks: Rocky Mountain Front, Teton Pass Ski Area, Freezout Lake, Old Trail Museum
- Fun Fact: Named after French fur merchant and explorer Pierre Chouteau, Jr.
Notable People & Pop Culture
- David Letterman – Iconic late-night talk show host who owns a 2,700-acre ranch near Choteau. Letterman has mentioned the town on his show and even got married at the Teton County Courthouse in Choteau in 2009.
- A.B. Guthrie Jr. – Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist known for his authentic portrayals of the American West. His works helped shape the literary identity of Montana.
- John Edward Erickson – Former Governor of Montana who was born in Stoughton near Choteau.
- Flint Rasmussen – Famous rodeo clown and entertainer who has brought national attention to Montana's rodeo culture.
Top Things to Do in Choteau
- ✧ Explore the Montana Dinosaur Trail – Visit the Old Trail Museum to see the Montana state fossil, the Maiasaura, and learn about the nearby Egg Mountain, one of the world's most important paleontology sites.
- ✧ Witness Bird Migrations at Freezout Lake – Experience the awe-inspiring sight of hundreds of thousands of waterfowl during spring and fall migrations, with 230 documented bird species.
- ✧ Adventure in the Rocky Mountain Front – Hike, camp, fish, or backpack in the pristine Bob Marshall Wilderness and Lewis and Clark National Forest.
- ✧ Ski Teton Pass – Enjoy downhill skiing, backcountry skiing, and snowmobile trails at this local ski area just 15 miles west of town.
Local Industry & Economy
The economic heartbeat of Choteau pulses with a blend of traditional Montana industries and evolving opportunities that reflect the town's position as a gateway to adventure. Agriculture remains the cornerstone of Choteau's economy, with sprawling ranches and farms dotting the landscape surrounding the town. The fertile lands of Teton County support cattle operations, wheat farming, and hay production that have sustained families for generations. These agricultural enterprises not only provide economic stability but also maintain the authentic western character that defines the region.
The Choteau Chamber of Commerce actively works to support and diversify the local economy, with a mission to support and promote economic growth, enhance political and public action, and promote civic development. This collaborative approach has helped small businesses thrive in the downtown area, where locally-owned shops, restaurants, and services create a vibrant main street experience for both residents and visitors.
Tourism has emerged as an increasingly vital economic driver for Choteau, capitalizing on the town's strategic location between Glacier and Yellowstone National Parks. The paleontological treasures at nearby Egg Mountain and the Old Trail Museum draw science enthusiasts, while the spectacular bird migrations at Freezout Lake bring wildlife photographers and birdwatchers from across the country. Outdoor recreation opportunities in the Bob Marshall Wilderness and along the Rocky Mountain Front provide year-round visitor appeal.
History & Heritage
The rich tapestry of Choteau's history begins long before the town itself existed, with Native American tribes including the Blackfeet considering the area part of their traditional territories. The stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife made the region important to indigenous peoples for thousands of years before European settlement.
The town's namesake, Pierre Chouteau, Jr., was a prominent French fur merchant, trader, and explorer whose influence extended throughout the American West. Though Chouteau himself never established the town, his legacy lives on in its name, just as it does in Chouteau County, Montana, and the South Dakota communities of Fort Pierre and Pierre.
Choteau's formal beginnings trace back to 1873 when A.B. Hamilton established a trading post at the site. This strategic location along travel routes and near the Teton River made it a natural gathering point for travelers, traders, and eventually settlers. The town was officially platted in 1883, establishing its street grid and laying the groundwork for permanent settlement. Thirty years later, in 1913, Choteau was formally incorporated, and it has served as the county seat of Teton County ever since.
One of the most fascinating chapters in Choteau's history began in the 1970s when paleontologist Jack Horner discovered Egg Mountain nearby, one of the world's most important dinosaur nesting sites. This discovery revolutionized scientific understanding of dinosaur behavior and put Choteau firmly on the map for paleontology enthusiasts. Today, the Old Trail Museum in Choteau proudly displays the Montana state fossil, the Maiasaura, and tells the story of this remarkable scientific legacy.
Seasonal Activities & Local Events
- Spring/Summer: Ranch rodeos, golfing, hiking in the Lewis and Clark National Forest, fishing in nearby rivers and streams, camping, and witnessing the spectacular spring waterfowl migration at Freezout Lake.
- Fall/Winter: Hunting for big game and pheasants, downhill and cross-country skiing at Teton Pass Ski Area (15 miles west), snowmobiling on mountain trails, and viewing the fall bird migration.
- Annual Events: Independence Day Fireworks Display, Montana Dinosaur Center events, and local community celebrations that showcase the town's western heritage.
Getting There & Nearby Destinations
Choteau is strategically located on the path between Glacier and Yellowstone National Parks, making it an ideal stopover for travelers exploring Montana's natural wonders. U.S. Route 89 and Highway 287 converge in town, providing easy access from multiple directions. The Choteau Airport, a public-use facility, is located just one mile northeast of town for those arriving by small aircraft.
For commercial air travelers, Great Falls International Airport is the nearest option, located approximately 60 miles (97 km) away. This proximity to a major transportation hub makes Choteau accessible while still maintaining its off-the-beaten-path charm.
The town serves as an excellent base for exploring the surrounding region. Just 13 miles north is Bynum, home to The Montana Dinosaur Center with its impressive collection of dinosaur fossils, including what is believed to be the world's longest dinosaur, a diplodocus. To the west lies the stunning Rocky Mountain Front and the Bob Marshall Wilderness, offering endless opportunities for outdoor adventure. The Freezout Lake Wildlife Management Area to the south provides world-class bird watching, especially during migration seasons.
Where to Stay in Choteau
Visitors to Choteau discover a range of accommodations that blend western hospitality with modern comfort, offering everything from full-service hotels to intimate guest ranches that showcase Montana's outdoor heritage. Whether you're seeking a convenient base for exploring the Rocky Mountain Front or a genuine ranch experience, Choteau's lodging options provide authentic Montana hospitality without the premium prices found in more touristy destinations.
The Stage Stop Inn stands as Choteau's premier lodging establishment, offering 77 rooms with western flair and full-service amenities. This hotel combines the rustic charm of Montana with modern conveniences, featuring a swimming pool and conference facilities that make it suitable for both leisure travelers and business gatherings.
For travelers seeking a more intimate experience, the Gunther Motel provides 15 quaint rooms on the edge of town. This family-operated establishment offers clean, comfortable accommodations with the personal touch that only a small, locally-owned business can provide. Similarly, the Big Sky Motel features small efficiency rooms, perfect for budget-conscious travelers or those who appreciate simplicity and value.
Beyond the town limits, the surrounding countryside offers guest ranch experiences that connect visitors with Montana's ranching heritage. These working ranches invite guests to participate in authentic western activities while enjoying comfortable accommodations and home-cooked meals.