Judith Gap - Scenic View

Judith Gap

Where the Wind Blows Free

Population
140
County
Wheatland County
Region
Central Montana
Elevation
4,623 ft
Top Industry
Transportation
Nearest Hospital
Wheatland Memorial Hospital (17.2 mi)
Zip Code
59453
Area Code
406
Time Zone
Mountain Time (MT)
Industry: Census ACS 5-Year 2019–2023 · Hospital: MT DPHHS 2024
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Nearest Major Airports

✈️ Billings (BIL)
100 miles
~1h 55m drive
✈️ Bozeman (BZN)
110 miles
~2h 4m drive
✈️ Great Falls (GTF)
113 miles
~2h 8m drive

Quick Facts

  • Population: ~TBD (Source: U.S. Census Bureau estimates)
  • County: TBD County
  • Elevation: TBD ft
  • Known For: Historical agricultural roots, stunning Montana landscapes, and quiet small-town charm.

History & Heritage

The quiet town of Judith Gap represents the vast, enduring frontier spirit of Montana.

The history of Judith Gap is closely tied to the pioneering spirit of early Montana. Founded during the homesteading or railroad eras, the town grew as a central hub for the surrounding farmers and ranchers who worked the expansive plains and river valleys. Today, it retains its deep agricultural heritage and stands as a testament to the resilience of rural Montana communities.

Top Things to Do in Judith Gap

  • Explore the Surrounding Wilderness: Judith Gap serves as a fantastic, quiet basecamp for exploring the vast public lands, rivers, and mountain ranges that define this region of Montana.
  • Experience Local Culture: Visit the local businesses, cafes, and historic sites in town to experience the genuine, welcoming hospitality of a classic Montana ranching community.
  • Hunting and Fishing: The surrounding agricultural fields, prairies, and waterways provide excellent, uncrowded opportunities for seasonal hunting and fishing.

Local Industry & Economy

The economy of Judith Gap is primarily driven by agriculture. The vast expanses of land surrounding the town are dedicated to cattle ranching and dryland farming (primarily wheat, barley, and hay). Small, locally-owned businesses provide essential services and goods to the community, while the local school district often serves as one of the primary civic anchors and employers in town.

Getting There & Nearby Destinations

  • Getting There: Judith Gap is accessible via Montana's network of scenic state highways and local county roads, offering a beautiful drive no matter which direction you approach from.
  • Nearby Destinations:
    • Regional Hubs: Larger neighboring cities offer comprehensive dining, shopping, and commercial airports.
    • State Parks and Public Lands: Visitors can easily take day trips to nearby state parks, national forests, or wildlife refuges.

Where to Stay in Judith Gap

Because Judith Gap is a smaller, residential community, traditional commercial lodging can be limited.

  • Local Motels: There may be small, independent motels in or near town offering basic accommodations for highway travelers and hunters.
  • Nearby Cities: Many visitors choose to stay in larger regional hubs a short drive away, utilizing Judith Gap as a scenic day-trip destination.
  • Camping: For outdoor enthusiasts, nearby public lands often provide beautiful, rustic camping options.

Average Monthly Climate — Judith Gap

MonthAvg HighAvg LowPrecipSnow
Jan36°F20°F0.9"2.1"
Feb27°F9°F1.3"3.6"
Mar40°F20°F0.8"2"
Apr48°F27°F2.3"3.3"
May60°F39°F2.9"0.8"
Jun71°F48°F3"0"
Jul81°F56°F1"0"
Aug80°F56°F1.1"0"
Sep71°F47°F1.8"0.3"
Oct52°F32°F1.9"2.5"
Nov42°F24°F1"1.8"
Dec35°F18°F0.8"2.2"

Housing & Cost of Living

$220,497
Typical Home Value
Census (2019–23): $106,500
$525/mo
Median Rent
National Rankings
Home Value38th percentile
Rent4th percentile
Percentile among ~21,000 U.S. cities. Higher = more expensive (home/rent) or higher earning (income).
Housing Availability
74
Total Housing Units
0%
Vacancy Rate
Employment & Economy
ACS 5-Year 2019–2023
1.8%
Unemployment Rate
MT avg: ~3.5%
52.3%
Labor Force Participation
55
Employed Residents
Top Industries
Transportation
21.8%
Education & Healthcare
18.2%
Retail
14.5%
Home values from Zillow ZHVI (Jan 2026). Data may not reflect current conditions. Check Zillow for the latest market data.
🏫
Judith Gap Public Schools
~40 students

Outdoor Recreation Near Judith Gap

8.5/10
Excellent
85 sites within 50 mi
12 categories
🏕️1🌳1🏞️26♨️1⛷️127🥾5🏛️6📜23🛣️1🦅11
Must-See Highlights
🏕️
Gates of the Mountains Wilderness
Wilderness100 mi
🌳
Ackley Lake State Park
State Parks27 mi
🏞️
Deadmans Basin Reservoir
Lakes29 mi
♨️
Spa Hot Springs
Hot Springs55 mi
⛷️
Showdown Montana
Ski Areas47 mi
🛣️
Kings Hill Scenic Byway
Scenic Drives49 mi
Crystal Lake Campground
Campgrounds14 mi
Jellison Place
Campgrounds15 mi
Jawbone Creek Country Club
Golf17 mi
🏛️
Milwaukee Depot Museum
Museums17 mi

Distances are straight-line estimates. Driving distances may be longer. Data: OpenStreetMap contributors & editorial research.

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