Three Forks is a small town of 1,989 residents in Gallatin County, sitting at 4,075 feet elevation at the exact spot where the Jefferson, Madison, and Gallatin Rivers converge to form the Missouri River. Meriwether Lewis named these three rivers on July 27, 1805, for President Jefferson, Secretary of State Madison, and Treasury Secretary Gallatin — making this confluence one of the most significant geographic landmarks in American exploration history.

Missouri Headwaters State Park preserves the confluence 4 miles northeast of town and is a U.S. National Historic Landmark. Sacagawea, who guided Lewis and Clark, was captured near this site in 1800 and later returned with the expedition. The historic Sacajawea Hotel (1910) anchors downtown. Three Forks sits on Interstate 90 just 31 miles west of Bozeman and 64 miles east of Butte. Within 30 miles there are 64 recreation sites including 14 trailheads, 13 lakes, 10 museums, 6 campgrounds, 4 hot springs, 3 state parks, 5 golf courses, and 1 fishing access. Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park is 16 miles west, and Madison Buffalo Jump State Park is 15 miles southeast.

Below you'll find a complete profile including cost of living data, school information, climate details, and housing market trends. For deeper coverage, explore our dedicated guides.

Explore Three Forks Guides

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Cost of Living

A detailed breakdown of what it costs to live in Three Forks — housing, income, affordability, and how it compares to nearby Bozeman and the Gallatin Valley.

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Housing Market

Current housing market data for Three Forks including home values, inventory trends, and Bozeman spillover demand dynamics.

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Jobs & Economy

Three Forks' economy by the numbers — from industrial employers to Bozeman commuters, plus workforce data and industry breakdown.

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Schools & Education

School district information, graduation rates, and what families should know about education in Three Forks.

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Hiking & Trails

The best trails and hikes near Three Forks — from headwaters river walks to cavern hikes and Bridger Range trails.

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Fishing

Complete fishing guide for Three Forks — from Missouri headwaters trout to Madison River blue-ribbon fly fishing.

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Weekend Itinerary

A 2-day plan for experiencing the best of Three Forks — river confluence, caverns, frontier history, and blue-ribbon fishing.

Population

1,989

County

Gallatin County

Region

Central Montana

Elevation

4,075 ft

Top Industry

Retail

Nearest Hospital

Bozeman Health Deaconess (28.8 mi)

Zip Code

59752

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

✈️ Bozeman (BZN)

25 miles
~39m drive

✈️ Butte (BTM)

55 miles
~1h 9m drive

✈️ Helena (HLN)

64 miles
~1h 19m drive

Browse recreation

Map & Nearby

Explore Three Forks on the interactive map with 3 nearby towns and 60 highlighted recreation sites. Use the zoom controls or select a recreation item to focus it on the map.

Open Area in Google Maps

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Outdoor Recreation Near Three Forks

Jump to map →

9.3/10

World-Class

92 sites within 30 mi

14 categories

Must-See Highlights

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Missouri River Headwaters State Park

Headwaters Heritage Museum

Museums0 mi

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Headwaters Railroad & Trident Heritage Center

Museums0 mi

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Blackbird Fishing Access Site

Fishing1 mi

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Three Forks Ponds Fishing Access Site

Fishing1 mi

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Headwaters Public Golf Course

Golf1 mi

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Drouillard Fishing Access Site

Fishing2 mi

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

Three Forks, Montana: Where Three Rivers Forge an Adventure Paradise

Where Adventure & Rivers Meet

Nestled at the confluence of the Jefferson, Madison, and Gallatin Rivers, Three Forks offers a unique blend of history, nature, and adventure spirit. Visitors come to explore the pristine Missouri Headwaters State Park, a cornerstone of local heritage and natural beauty. Stroll through the charming Downtown Three Forks, where friendly faces and quaint shops create a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're angling for trout or soaking up the rich tales of the Headwaters Heritage Museum, Three Forks delivers an unforgettable experience where every path leads to discovery.

Quick Facts

Population: 1,989
County: Gallatin County
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. Lewis and Clark reached the headwaters July 25–27, 1805, naming the Jefferson, Madison, and Gallatin rivers after President Jefferson, Secretary of State Madison, and Treasury Secretary Gallatin. Missouri Headwaters State Park attracted approximately 68,000 visitors in 2024. Wheat Montana employs around 190 people. The historic Sacajawea Hotel dates to 1910.

Notable People & Pop Culture

Sacagawea – Native American interpreter and guide for the Lewis and Clark Expedition; in 1800 she was captured by the Hidatsa tribe near the present site of Three Forks and later returned to this area with Lewis and Clark. Honored with Sacajawea Park in Three Forks.
John Q. Adams – Agent for the Milwaukee Land Company who platted Three Forks on September 17, 1908, and held the town's inaugural lot sale; the city was incorporated December 13, 1909.
John Colter & John Potts – In 1808, trappers Potts and Colter were ambushed by Blackfeet on the Jefferson River near Three Forks; Potts was killed and Colter made a legendary 300-mile escape on foot to Fort Lisa.
Dale & Dean Folkvord – Co-founded Wheat Montana in the 1990s, transforming their family farm into a prominent farm-to-table enterprise that employs around 190 people.
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. Lewis and Clark reached the headwaters July 27, 1805, determining the Jefferson River to be the principal continuation of the Missouri. The site became a U.S. National Historic Landmark and is preserved as Missouri Headwaters State Park. In 1808, trappers John Potts and John Colter were ambushed by Blackfeet near Three Forks; Potts was killed and Colter made a legendary 300-mile escape. Fort Henry (Three Forks Post) was established in 1810 but abandoned after Blackfeet attacks. The Madison House, built in 1864 by James Shedd, served as the first permanent European-American settlement. The Northern Pacific Railway arrived in 1883; the Milwaukee Road selected a site southwest of Old Town for its division point in 1908. John Q. Adams platted the modern town September 17, 1908; the city was incorporated December 13, 1909. The Trident cement plant began production in 1910. An earthquake on June 27, 1925, damaged all brick buildings. The Milwaukee Road went bankrupt in 1977. The Headwaters Heritage Museum, established in 1982, is housed in a 1910 bank building on the National Register of Historic Places.

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.

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Average Monthly Climate: Three Forks

Month	Avg High	Avg Low	Precip	Snow
Jan	37°F	20°F	0.9"	2.2"
Feb	31°F	13°F	1.5"	4.1"
Mar	43°F	23°F	1.3"	2.8"
Apr	53°F	29°F	2.1"	2.4"
May	64°F	41°F	2.4"	0.7"
Jun	74°F	50°F	2.6"	0"
Jul	85°F	57°F	0.5"	0"
Aug	84°F	57°F	1.1"	0"
Sep	74°F	49°F	1.6"	0.2"
Oct	56°F	35°F	2.1"	2.4"
Nov	44°F	25°F	1.1"	1.8"
Dec	37°F	21°F	0.9"	2.1"

Housing & Cost of Living

$535,753

Typical Home Value

Census (2019–23): $382,400

$1,263/mo

Median Rent

$80,394

Median Household Income

National Rankings

Home Value87th percentile

Rent73rd percentile

Income69th percentile

Affordability Ratio (home price ÷ income)6.7xExpensive

Percentile among ~21,000 U.S. cities. Higher = more expensive (home/rent) or higher earning (income).

Housing Availability

Updated Jan 2026

Homes for Sale

↑ 35.3% vs last year

$679,967

Median List Price

895

Total Housing Units

1.8%

Vacancy Rate

Employment & Economy

ACS 5-Year 2019–2023

1.1%

Unemployment Rate

MT avg: ~3.5%

67%

Labor Force Participation

1,111

Employed Residents

Top Industries

Retail

19.4%

Construction

17.2%

Education & Healthcare

13.2%

Home values from Zillow ZHVI (Jan 2026). Inventory, list prices & new listings from Zillow Research (Jan 2026). Income, 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.

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Three Forks Public Schools

~500 students

Grad Rate

94%

Graduation rate: OPI/NCES 2022–23. MT state avg: ~87%.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Three Forks

What is the cost of living in Three Forks, Montana?

Three Forks offers a more affordable alternative to Bozeman, 31 miles east. The census median home value is $382,400, with the Zillow Home Value Index at $535,753 as of January 2026. Median household income is $80,394, producing an affordability ratio of 6.7 — significantly better than Bozeman (ratio ~10). Median rent is $1,263. The 1.8% vacancy rate is extremely low, reflecting strong demand from Bozeman commuters and limited housing stock (only 895 total units). The median list price of $679,967 shows a premium for new construction and larger properties.

What is the Missouri Headwaters State Park?

Missouri Headwaters State Park preserves the exact confluence where the Jefferson, Madison, and Gallatin Rivers merge to form the Missouri River. Meriwether Lewis named these three rivers on July 27, 1805, during the Lewis and Clark Expedition. The site is a U.S. National Historic Landmark located 4 miles northeast of Three Forks. The park offers hiking trails along the river bluffs, interpretive displays about Lewis and Clark and Sacagawea, fishing access, 17 campsites, and tipi rentals. It’s one of the most historically significant sites in the American West.

What are Lewis & Clark Caverns?

Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park, 16 miles west of Three Forks, contains one of the largest known limestone caverns in the Northwest. Guided cave tours descend through chambers of stalactites, stalagmites, columns, and helictites. The park also offers camping, hiking trails, and mountain biking. Despite the name, Lewis and Clark did not actually visit the caverns. The caves were Montana’s first state park, established in 1937. Tours run from May through September, with the cave maintaining a constant 50°F year-round.

How far is Three Forks from Bozeman?

Three Forks is 31 miles (about 30 minutes) west of Bozeman via Interstate 90. Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport is approximately 35 minutes away. Many Three Forks residents commute to Bozeman for work, shopping, and Montana State University access while enjoying lower housing costs and small-town living. The I-90 corridor between the two towns passes through Belgrade (21 miles from Three Forks), another growing Gallatin Valley community.

What fishing is available near Three Forks?

Three Forks sits at the convergence of three legendary trout rivers. The Madison River is one of Montana’s most famous blue-ribbon trout streams, renowned for dry-fly fishing. The Jefferson River offers excellent brown trout fishing in a less-crowded setting. The Gallatin River, featured in “A River Runs Through It,” provides crystal-clear water and mountain scenery. The Missouri River itself begins here and offers productive fishing downstream. Within 30 miles there are 13 lakes and fishing access sites. Norris Hot Springs (24 miles) offers a post-fishing soak.

What is the Sacajawea Hotel?

The Sacajawea Hotel is a historic hotel in downtown Three Forks, originally built in 1910 when the town was founded as a Milwaukee Road railroad division point. The hotel has been elegantly restored and offers luxury accommodations, fine dining, and a full-service bar. It’s named for Sacagawea, the Lemhi Shoshone woman who guided Lewis and Clark through this region. The hotel is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is considered one of Montana’s premier boutique hotels.

What is the Madison Buffalo Jump?

Madison Buffalo Jump State Park, 15 miles southeast of Three Forks, preserves a cliff site where Native Americans drove bison herds over a precipice for an estimated 2,000 years. The jump site features interpretive trails explaining this ancient hunting technique, which predated the introduction of horses. The park offers hiking, wildlife viewing, and panoramic views of the Madison Valley. It’s one of the best-preserved and most accessible pishkun (buffalo jump) sites in Montana.

What events happen in Three Forks?

Three Forks hosts several distinctive events. The Three Forks NRA Rodeo (mid-July) is a traditional rodeo with bronc riding, barrel racing, and community festivities. Rappin’ the Rivers Festival (mid-August) is Montana’s biggest 2-day rap, hip-hop, and EDM music festival, drawing crowds from across the state. The Magpie Renaissance Faire (mid-September) brings costumes, jousting, and medieval performances. The Christmas Stroll in early December features a tree lighting, parade, and local shopping. Weekly farmers markets run through the summer.

What are winters like in Three Forks?

Three Forks winters are cold but relatively dry for Montana. January averages a high of 37°F and low of 20°F. The valley location means less snowfall than nearby mountain towns, though chinook winds can bring dramatic temperature swings. Ice fishing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing are popular winter activities. Bridger Bowl ski area is about 50 miles east (via Bozeman), and Big Sky Resort is approximately 60 miles south. The low precipitation and open valley create beautiful winter landscapes.

How do I get to Three Forks?

Three Forks is on Interstate 90 in southwest Montana, 31 miles west of Bozeman and 64 miles east of Butte. Take I-90 Exit 274 or Exit 278. Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) is the nearest commercial airport, about 35 minutes east. Three Forks sits at the junction of I-90 and US-287, which runs south toward Ennis and Virginia City. The town is roughly 90 miles north of Yellowstone’s west entrance, making it a convenient base for park visitors seeking a quieter, more affordable alternative to Big Sky or West Yellowstone.

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