Quick Facts
- Population: 1,989
- County: Gallatin
- Founded: 1908
- Elevation: 4,075 ft
- Known For: The birthplace of the Missouri River, where three rivers converge
- Nearby Landmarks: Missouri Headwaters State Park, Lewis & Clark Caverns, Madison Buffalo Jump State Park
- Fun Fact: Three Forks is home to what was once the longest beaver dam in the world, measuring 2,139 feet long, until 2007
Notable People & Pop Culture
- Sacagawea – Native American interpreter and guide for the Lewis and Clark Expedition who was honored with a memorial park in Three Forks
- John Q. Adams – Founder of Three Forks in 1908, who financed construction of the town and helped establish it as an important railroad hub
- A River Runs Through It – While not filmed directly in Three Forks, this iconic Montana film showcases the rivers and fly fishing culture that define the region
Top Things to Do in Three Forks
- ✧ Missouri Headwaters State Park – Experience where America's great rivers begin, with hiking trails, interpretive displays, and opportunities for fishing and canoeing
- ✧ Headwaters Heritage Museum – Dive into the rich tapestry of local history, showcasing artifacts from Native American history to the early homesteading era
- ✧ Three Forks Ponds – The perfect place to enjoy & relax with family, featuring picnicking, swimming, and volleyball courts
- ✧ Lewis & Clark Caverns – Explore underground limestone caverns featuring guided tours and stunning geological formations
Local Industry & Economy
Three Forks maintains a diverse economic base that blends traditional industries with modern enterprises. The area's largest industries include retail trade, construction, and public administration. Key employers include the CRH US Cement Plant in nearby Trident, Imerys Talc Mill, and Kanta Block Products. The town's strategic location at the intersection of major rivers and proximity to Interstate 90 has historically made it an important transportation hub, first for the railroad industry and now for highway travel. Tourism plays an increasingly significant role in the local economy, with visitors drawn to the area's rich historical sites, outdoor recreation opportunities, and charming downtown. While maintaining its small-town character, Three Forks has shown modest but steady economic growth, balancing development with preservation of its unique heritage and natural surroundings.
History & Heritage
The three rivers that converge at Three Forks were named by Meriwether Lewis in late July 1805 for President Thomas Jefferson, Secretary of State James Madison, and Treasury Secretary Albert Gallatin. This historic confluence became a U.S. National Historic Landmark and is preserved today as Missouri Headwaters State Park. Honored in Three Forks is Sacagawea, the Native American woman who served as interpreter and guide for the Lewis and Clark Expedition. In 1800, she was captured by the Mennetaree tribe near the present site of Three Forks and later returned to this area with Lewis and Clark.
The present-day city was founded on September 17, 1908 by John Q. Adams for the Milwaukee Land Company, a subsidiary of the Chicago, Milwaukee and St. Paul Railway. The Milwaukee Land Co. platted the town and held a lot sale that day. Some buildings were moved to the present city from "Old Town Three Forks," a mile to the northeast. The city became a division point on the Milwaukee Road's Rocky Mountain Division and was an important hub for the railroad during its existence in Montana (1908-1980).
Two banks for the town were chartered in 1909 and 1910. The town's early growth prospects floundered from the effects of economic depression, crop failures, and an earthquake that hit the town on June 27, 1925, damaging all of its brick buildings. The town's population never reached the 10,000 level that some once hoped for, and dropped to about 1,000. Some prosperity returned during and after World War II, and population has grown modestly since.
Seasonal Activities & Local Events
- Spring/Summer: Fishing in the three rivers, hiking and biking on the Headwaters Trail, swimming and picnicking at Three Forks Ponds, and the Three Forks NRA Rodeo in mid-July featuring traditional rodeo sports and community festivities
- Fall/Winter: Cross-country skiing, ice fishing, snowshoeing, and the festive Christmas Stroll in early December featuring a tree lighting, parade, and local shopping
- Annual Events: Three Forks NRA Rodeo (mid-July), Rappin' the Rivers Festival (mid-August) - Montana's biggest 2-day Rap, Hip-Hop & EDM Festival, Magpie Renaissance Faire (mid-September) - a cultural event celebrating renaissance and fantasy themes with costumes and performances
Getting There & Nearby Destinations
Three Forks is conveniently located just off Interstate 90, making it easily accessible for travelers. The town is approximately 31 miles west of Bozeman, 64 miles east of Butte, and 98 miles southeast of Helena. The closest major airport is Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport, about 35 minutes away by car. For those traveling by train historically, Three Forks was once an important stop on the Milwaukee Road's Rocky Mountain Division, though passenger rail service is no longer available.
Nearby destinations worth exploring include Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park (23 miles west), Madison Buffalo Jump State Park (15 miles southeast), and the historic mining town of Virginia City (65 miles south). Yellowstone National Park's west entrance is approximately 90 miles south, making Three Forks a good starting point for park adventures. The town's central location in southwestern Montana makes it an ideal base for exploring the region's mountains, rivers, and historic sites.
Where to Stay in Three Forks
Three Forks offers a range of accommodations to suit different preferences and budgets. The crown jewel is the historic Sacajawea Hotel, an elegantly refurbished property dating back to 1910 that offers luxury accommodations, fine dining, and modern amenities in a charming historic setting. For more budget-friendly options, the Broken Spur Motel provides clean, comfortable rooms with queen beds and pet-friendly policies. Additional choices include the Travelodge by Wyndham Three Forks and the Lewis & Clark Motel of Three Forks, both offering convenient locations near Interstate 90 with amenities like continental breakfast and satellite television.
For those seeking a more immersive outdoor experience, Missouri Headwaters State Park offers 17 campsites and even tipi rentals for a unique stay. The area also has several vacation rentals and private accommodations available through online booking platforms, providing options for families or larger groups. Most accommodations are within easy reach of the town's attractions, dining options, and outdoor recreation opportunities, making Three Forks a convenient and comfortable base for exploring this historic region of Montana.