Quick Facts
- Population: ~560 (Source: U.S. Census Bureau estimates)
- County: McCone County (County Seat)
- Elevation: 2,434 ft (742 m)
- Known For: Being the heart of Montana's "Missouri River Country," the McCone County Museum, and serving as a critical crossroads on the Big Sky Back Country Byway.
History & Heritage
Circle is a quintessential eastern Montana farming and ranching community. The town's unique name originates from the brand of the historic Mabry Cattle Corporation, which operated a massive open-range cattle operation in the area during the late 19th century. The original ranch headquarters were established around 1884, and the brand used was a simple circle. As homesteaders began arriving in the early 1900s, the community that grew up around the old ranch headquarters naturally adopted the name. In 1914, the post office was officially established, and Circle later became the county seat of the newly formed McCone County. Today, the town proudly preserves the deep agricultural and frontier heritage of eastern Montana's vast plains.
Top Things to Do in Circle
- Visit the McCone County Museum: This is the cultural highlight of Circle. The museum boasts an impressive collection of over 4,000 artifacts detailing the region's homesteading, ranching, and Native American history. It also features a significant collection of locally discovered dinosaur fossils, reflecting the rich paleontology of eastern Montana.
- Drive the Big Sky Back Country Byway: Circle is situated directly on this scenic byway, which connects the Yellowstone River to the south with the Missouri River to the north, offering breathtaking views of the rugged, unpopulated prairie landscapes.
- Explore Local Shops: Stop by local businesses like The Bin & Studio U for unique regional crafts and supplies, representing the enduring spirit of small-town commerce.
- Experience Eastern Montana Hunting: The vast public and private lands surrounding Circle are renowned for big game and upland bird hunting during the fall seasons.
Local Industry & Economy
The economy of Circle and McCone County is almost exclusively agricultural. The surrounding shortgrass prairie is utilized for extensive cattle and sheep ranching, while the arable land is dedicated to dryland farming, primarily producing high-quality wheat. The town itself exists primarily to provide essential services, retail, education, and government administration (as the county seat) to the dispersed rural population of the region.
Getting There & Nearby Destinations
- Getting There: Circle is a major crossroads in eastern Montana, located at the intersection of Montana Highway 200 and Highway 13. It is roughly halfway between Glendive (to the southeast) and Wolf Point (to the north).
- Nearby Destinations:
- Glendive, Montana: Located about 50 miles southeast, offering Makoshika State Park, a must-see for its spectacular badlands and dinosaur fossils.
- Wolf Point, Montana: Located about 50 miles to the north on the Missouri River, serving as the gateway to the Fort Peck Indian Reservation.
- Fort Peck Lake: Located to the northwest, offering massive expanses of water for boating, fishing, and recreation.
- Miles City, Montana: Located about 75 miles to the southwest, a major historic hub for the cattle industry.
Where to Stay in Circle
Lodging in Circle caters primarily to highway travelers passing through the remote eastern plains, as well as seasonal hunters and agricultural workers:
- Local Motels: There are a few independent motels located in town offering clean, basic, and friendly accommodations.
- Horse Creek RV & Trailer Park: A convenient option for visitors traveling by RV or looking to camp.
- Regional Hubs: For a wider variety of major hotels and dining, travelers often stay in Glendive or Miles City, using Circle as a scenic stopover on the Big Sky Back Country Byway.