Sunburst - Scenic View

Sunburst

The Top of the Golden Triangle

Population
301
County
Toole County
Region
Central Montana
Elevation
3,363 ft
Top Industry
Education & Healthcare
Nearest Hospital
Northern Rockies Medical Center (25.6 mi)
Zip Code
59842
Area Code
406
Time Zone
Mountain Time (MT)
Industry: Census ACS 5-Year 2019–2023 · Hospital: MT DPHHS 2024
Loading current weather...

Nearest Major Airports

✈️ Great Falls (GTF)
120 miles
~2h 14m drive
🛩️ Havre (HVR)
121 miles
~2h 15m drive
✈️ Kalispell (FCA)
137 miles
~2h 32m 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 Sunburst represents the vast, enduring frontier spirit of Montana.

The history of Sunburst 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 Sunburst

  • Explore the Surrounding Wilderness: Sunburst 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 Sunburst 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: Sunburst 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 Sunburst

Because Sunburst 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 Sunburst as a scenic day-trip destination.
  • Camping: For outdoor enthusiasts, nearby public lands often provide beautiful, rustic camping options.

Average Monthly Climate — Sunburst

MonthAvg HighAvg LowPrecipSnow
Jan32°F16°F0.6"1.3"
Feb25°F8°F1"2.7"
Mar37°F18°F0.7"1.9"
Apr50°F28°F0.7"1.3"
May61°F40°F2.4"1.1"
Jun71°F50°F2.5"0"
Jul79°F56°F0.5"0"
Aug79°F55°F1.1"0"
Sep69°F47°F1.1"0.8"
Oct51°F32°F1.3"2"
Nov38°F22°F1.3"2.7"
Dec30°F15°F0.8"1.9"

Housing & Cost of Living

$135,600
Median Home Value
$1,042/mo
Median Rent
$80,938
Median Household Income
National Rankings
Home Value36th percentile
Rent59th percentile
Income69th percentile
Affordability Ratio (home price ÷ income)1.7xAffordable
Percentile among ~21,000 U.S. cities. Higher = more expensive (home/rent) or higher earning (income).
Housing Availability
176
Total Housing Units
25%
Vacancy Rate
Employment & Economy
ACS 5-Year 2019–2023
7.7%
Unemployment Rate
MT avg: ~3.5%
74%
Labor Force Participation
192
Employed Residents
Top Industries
Education & Healthcare
21.4%
Government
18.2%
Retail
16.7%
Income, home values,, vacancy,, employment, industry, from U.S. Census Bureau ACS 5-Year 2019–2023. Data may not reflect current conditions. Check Zillow for the latest market data.
🏫
Sunburst Public Schools
~60 students

Outdoor Recreation Near Sunburst

8.3/10
Excellent
35 sites within 50 mi
8 categories
🏔️2🏕️1🏞️147🏛️4📜33🦅1
Must-See Highlights
🏔️
Glacier National Park (East Glacier)
National Parks67 mi
🏕️
Great Bear Wilderness
Wilderness96 mi
🏞️
Eyraud Lakes
Lakes9 mi
🏞️
Goeddertz Reservoir
Lakes9 mi
🏞️
Goedertz Lake
Lakes10 mi
🏞️
Verden Lake
Lakes23 mi
Lewis & Clark Camping
Campgrounds25 mi
🏞️
Virden Lake
Lakes25 mi
🏛️
Marias Museum of History and Art
Museums26 mi
📜
Veterans Memorial Park
Historic26 mi

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

Sunburst in Our Rankings & Guides

Moving GuideMost Affordable Towns
Compare Sunburst with Another Town

Map & Nearby

Loading map...

Explore Nearby Destinations

KevinCut BankShelby

Bring Montana Home

Discover authentic, locally-inspired apparel, gifts, and souvenirs at the official Treasure State Trading Post.

Shop Now