Glendive, Montana: Gateway to Prehistoric Adventure

Good People Surrounded by Badlands

Nestled between the winding Yellowstone River and the dramatic badlands of Makoshika State Park, Glendive invites adventurers to step back in time. This eastern Montana gem offers a unique blend of prehistoric discovery and outdoor thrills, where dinosaur fossils emerge from eroded hillsides and paddlefish swim in ancient waters. Hikers can traverse the same rugged terrain that once felt the footsteps of massive dinosaurs, while photographers capture the otherworldly landscape sculpted by millions of years of geological forces. Whether you're scaling the captivating rock formations, fishing in the mighty Yellowstone, or exploring off-road trails, Glendive stands as Montana's gateway to a wilderness adventure 65 million years in the making.

Quick Facts

• Population: 4,873 (2020 census)
• County: Dawson (county seat)
• Founded: 1881
• Elevation: 2,064 ft
• Known For: Makoshika State Park, dinosaur fossils, Yellowstone River fishing
• Nearby Landmarks: Theodore Roosevelt National Park (ND), Yellowstone River, Short Pines OHV Recreation Area
• Fun Fact: Glendive holds Montana's all-time high temperature record of 117°F (47°C), recorded on July 20, 1893

Notable People & Pop Culture

• Tim M. Babcock – 16th Governor of Montana, grew up on a ranch near Glendive and graduated from Dawson County High School
• Matt Rosendale – Montana State Auditor, U.S. Representative for Montana's at-large congressional district (2020-)
• Mike Person – NFL offensive lineman who played for the San Francisco 49ers
• KXGN-TV – One of the last television stations in the United States to broadcast both CBS and NBC programming on the same channel

Top Things to Do in Glendive

• ✧ Makoshika State Park – Explore Montana's largest state park featuring spectacular badlands formations and dinosaur fossils
• ✧ Yellowstone River Fishing – Try your luck at catching the prehistoric paddlefish during spring season
• ✧ Glendive Dinosaur & Fossil Museum – Discover one of Montana's premier paleontological attractions
• ✧ Short Pines OHV Recreation Area – Experience off-roading adventure through 2,800 acres of rugged terrain

Local Industry & Economy

Glendive serves as an agricultural and ranching hub of eastern Montana, with its economy historically centered around these traditional industries. The city's strategic location between the Yellowstone River and the Badlands has shaped its economic development over the decades. Tourism has become increasingly important, centered around Makoshika State Park, dinosaur attractions, and outdoor recreation on the Yellowstone River. The oil and gas industry has had periodic influence on the local economy, including a brief boom in the early 1950s after the discovery of oil in the Williston Basin, and more recently experiencing modest growth due to the North Dakota oil boom in the 2000s. The Chamber of Commerce lists 109 member businesses (as of 2025), with a focus on promoting local businesses through "Live. Shop. Local." initiatives. Downtown Glendive features boutiques, unique artisans, restaurants, and various service providers supporting the local economy.

History & Heritage

The area that would become Glendive was first named by Sir George Gore, a wealthy Irish sportsman, who named the local tributary to the Yellowstone River "Glendive" in 1855 during his hunting expeditions. Glendive was officially established by the Northern Pacific Railway during the construction of the transcontinental railroad that connected Minnesota to the Pacific Coast. The settlement began primarily as a collection of tents and log cabins until 1881, when the arrival of the first load of lumber sparked a building boom in the area.

The Montana territorial legislature created Dawson County in 1869 but did not initially designate a county seat. In 1881, Glendive citizens successfully petitioned to name their growing community as the county seat, cementing its importance in the region. The town served as the headquarters for the Yellowstone Division of the Northern Pacific Railway, which encompassed 875 route miles, establishing it as an important transportation hub in eastern Montana.

Throughout its history, Glendive has experienced various economic phases, evolving from a railroad town to an agricultural and ranching center, with periodic influence from the oil industry. The city's cultural identity is deeply tied to its natural surroundings, particularly the Yellowstone River and the badlands formations of Makoshika State Park, with the discovery of dinosaur fossils contributing significantly to the city's heritage and tourism appeal.

Seasonal Activities & Local Events

• Spring/Summer: Paddlefish fishing in the Yellowstone River, hiking in Makoshika State Park, camping, floating, boating, photography
• Fall/Winter: Bird watching, hiking, disc golf, archery, star-gazing due to limited light pollution
• Annual Events: Chamber Member Social in June, community events throughout the year

Getting There & Nearby Destinations

Glendive is accessible via Interstate 94, with exits 215, 224, and 231 providing access to the city. The nearest commercial airports are Sidney-Richland Municipal Airport (approximately 50 miles away) and Billings Logan International Airport (approximately 220 miles away). Nearby destinations include Theodore Roosevelt National Park in North Dakota (approximately 90 miles east), Billings, Montana (approximately 220 miles west), Medora, North Dakota (approximately 100 miles east), and Miles City, Montana (approximately 80 miles west). A personal vehicle is recommended for exploring the area, as public transportation options are limited. When traveling between towns, it's advisable to fill up on gas, as stations can be widely spaced in eastern Montana.

Where to Stay in Glendive

Glendive offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. Modern hotel chains include La Quinta Inn & Suites By Wyndham Glendive (featuring a fitness center, shared lounge, and bar) and Holiday Inn Express & Suites Glendive (offering an indoor pool, EV charger, and free Wi-Fi). Local options include the Yellowstone River Inn, located close to the Yellowstone River and Makoshika State Park, and the Riverside Inn, known for affordable rooms with friendly service and clean accommodations.

For those seeking a more immersive outdoor experience, Makoshika State Park Campground offers 28 camping sites within Montana's largest state park, providing a perfect base for exploring the badlands. Various campgrounds along the Yellowstone River and at Short Pines OHV Recreation Area offer additional options for nature enthusiasts. Most accommodations provide standard amenities including free Wi-Fi, breakfast options, and parking, with several properties being pet-friendly for those traveling with four-legged companions.

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Plan Your Visit

Ready to explore Glendive? Add it to your Montana travel itinerary and discover the charm, history, and adventure waiting in Big Sky Country. Whether you're drawn to the prehistoric wonders of Makoshika State Park, the fishing opportunities on the Yellowstone River, or the welcoming atmosphere of this eastern Montana community, Glendive offers a genuine Montana experience off the beaten path.