Quick Facts
- Population: 1,449 (2020 Census)
- County: Chouteau County
- Founded: 1846
- Elevation: 2,651 ft (808 m)
- Known For: "Birthplace of Montana," "World's Innermost Port"
- Nearby Landmarks: Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument, Lewis & Clark Trail, Highwood Mountains
- Fun Fact: Oldest continuously occupied settlement in Montana; Forbes named it one of the fifteen prettiest towns in America
Notable People & Pop Culture
- Denise Curry – Olympic gold medalist and basketball Hall of Famer, born in Fort Benton
- U.S. Grant Sharp, Jr. – Admiral, commander of U.S. Naval forces during the Vietnam War
- Shep the Dog – Fort Benton's famous loyal dog, a national symbol of loyalty
Top Things to Do in Fort Benton
- ✧ Missouri River Boat Tours – Guided historical tours on the river
- ✧ Fort Benton Museums Complex – Four world-class museums on frontier history
- ✧ Historic Old Fort – Reconstructed trading post, birthplace of Montana Territory
- ✧ Levee Trail – Scenic riverside path, first Missouri River bridge, outdoor art
Local Industry & Economy
Fort Benton’s economy is rooted in agriculture (especially wheat) and tourism. The town is a hub for wheat production in Montana’s "Golden Triangle." Historic architecture, museums, and river recreation support a vibrant tourism sector, with hotels, restaurants, and shops serving visitors and locals alike.
History & Heritage
Founded in 1846 as a fur trading post, Fort Benton became the "World’s Innermost Port" and commercial hub of the northern plains. Steamboats traveled 3,500 miles from New Orleans to Fort Benton. The town’s levee, historic fort, and 19th-century buildings are part of a National Historic Landmark District, telling the story of Montana’s frontier era.
Seasonal Activities & Local Events
- Spring/Summer: Float trips, guided fishing, swimming, golf, hiking
- Fall/Winter: Pheasant/waterfowl hunting, cross-country skiing, ice fishing, snowshoeing
- Annual Events: Summer Celebration (June), Farmers Market (May–Sept), Montana History Conference (Sept), Christmas Stroll (Dec), Shep Days
Getting There & Nearby Destinations
Fort Benton is 40 miles northeast of Great Falls via US-87. From Helena: 2 hours. From Billings: 3.5 hours. Nearby: Geraldine, Havre, Upper Missouri River Breaks, Loma/Decision Point.
Where to Stay in Fort Benton
- Grand Union Hotel: Montana’s oldest operating hotel (1882), elegant Victorian architecture
- Fort Benton Motel: Clean, comfortable, walkable to downtown
- Benton Bed & Breakfast, Pioneer Lodge: Historic homes, modern amenities
- Canoe Camp: Riverside camping, access to river launches