Twin Bridges, Montana: A River Adventurer's Paradise
Where Three Rivers Converge, Adventures Begin
Nestled at the confluence of three pristine rivers, Twin Bridges is the perfect destination for those seeking a mix of outdoor excitement and small-town charm. Surrounded by stunning landscapes, this Montana gem offers world-class fly fishing, cycling adventures, and countless other thrills for nature lovers. The rushing waters of the Jefferson, Ruby, and Beaverhead rivers create not just a geographical landmark, but a haven for adventurers seeking authentic Montana experiences away from the crowds.
Quick Facts
- Population: 330
- County: Madison
- Founded: 1864
- Elevation: 4,593 ft
- Known For: World-class fly fishing, being at the confluence of three rivers
- Nearby Landmarks: Tobacco Root Mountains, Doncaster Round Barn, Madison County Fairgrounds
- Fun Fact: Twin Bridges produced Spokane, the winner of the 1889 Kentucky Derby
Notable People & Pop Culture
- Angela McLean – First teacher to serve as Montana's Lieutenant Governor, native of Twin Bridges
- Benny Reynolds – World Champion All-Around Cowboy (1961), rodeo legend with over 360 championship buckles
- Spokane – Kentucky Derby winner of 1889, bred at the historic Doncaster horse farm
Top Things to Do in Twin Bridges
- ✧ Fly Fishing on the Jefferson River – Cast your line and enjoy some of the best trout fishing in Montana
- ✧ Bicycle Touring – Explore Twin Bridges on two wheels with scenic routes and bike-friendly amenities
- ✧ Tobacco Root Mountains – Discover hiking trails, breathtaking views, and outdoor adventures
- ✧ Madison County Fairgrounds – Enjoy year-round events and activities at this vibrant community hub
Local Industry & Economy
Twin Bridges serves primarily as a tourist destination, with its economy centered around outdoor recreation, particularly fly fishing and cycling tourism. The town sits at the intersection of two major long-distance cycling trails - the TransAmerica Trail and the Lewis & Clark Bicycle Trail, which has led to the development of cyclist-friendly infrastructure, including a dedicated "bike camp" built in 2009. Local businesses cater to visitors with fishing supplies, guide services, and basic cycling equipment. Agriculture remains important to the surrounding area, with the Ruby Valley Chamber of Commerce actively promoting commercial, industrial, civic, and agricultural interests. The median household income is modest at around $25,833, reflecting the rural nature of this small Montana community that balances tourism with traditional agricultural pursuits.
History & Heritage
Four Indian trails converged at a bend of the Beaverhead River, establishing what would become Twin Bridges long before European settlement. The town's formal beginnings trace to 1864 when Judge M.H. Lott and his brother John settled in the Ruby Valley. In 1865, they built a bridge across the Beaverhead River, later adding a second bridge at the Point of Rocks—hence the name "Twin Bridges." The Lott brothers continued developing roads and promoting settlement, with the town officially incorporating in 1902 and M.H. Lott serving as its first mayor. The area's rich heritage is preserved at the Twin Bridges Historical Association Museum, housed in one of the town's first commercial buildings, which displays artifacts related to indigenous culture, pioneers, mining, and agriculture. The historic Twin Bridges Public Library, established in 1897 by the Temperance Society as an alternative to saloons, continues to serve the community today. Perhaps most notable is the Doncaster Round Barn, a three-story structure listed on the National Register of Historic Places, which produced Spokane, the winner of the 1889 Kentucky Derby.
Seasonal Activities & Local Events
- Spring/Summer: Fly fishing on the Jefferson, Ruby, and Beaverhead rivers; cycling on the TransAmerica and Lewis & Clark Bicycle Trails; hiking in the Tobacco Root Mountains
- Fall/Winter: Fall Festival celebrations; winter fishing for dedicated anglers; cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in nearby mountains
- Annual Events: Floating Flotillas Fish Fantasies, Fall Festival, Christmas Stroll, and various events at the Madison County Fairgrounds
Getting There & Nearby Destinations
Twin Bridges is located in northwestern Madison County, Montana, at the intersection of Montana Highway 287 and Montana Highway 41. It is 9 miles northwest of Sheridan, 27 miles south-southwest of Whitehall and Interstate 90, and 28 miles northeast of Dillon. The town is easily accessible by car, though visitors should note its rural location. For cyclists, Twin Bridges serves as a popular stop on both the TransAmerica Trail and Lewis & Clark Bicycle Trail. The nearest commercial airports are in Bozeman and Butte, both requiring a drive of approximately 1-2 hours to reach Twin Bridges.
Where to Stay in Twin Bridges
Twin Bridges offers a variety of lodging options that cater to different preferences and budgets. Anglers can choose from several fishing lodges and guide services that provide all-inclusive packages with accommodations, meals, and guided fishing trips on the area's renowned rivers. For cyclists traversing the long-distance trails, the town's unique "bike camp" provides basic amenities specifically designed for touring cyclists. Traditional options include small, locally-owned motels and bed and breakfasts that offer authentic Montana hospitality. Visitors seeking a more immersive experience can find vacation rentals and cabins in and around town, many with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and rivers. While Twin Bridges maintains its small-town character without large hotel chains, the accommodations available provide comfortable, clean, and friendly places to stay while exploring this outdoor recreation paradise.
Plan Your Visit
Ready to explore Twin Bridges? Add it to your Montana travel itinerary and discover the charm, history, and adventure waiting in Big Sky Country.