By editor
Beaverhead County
In 1862, prospectors found gold in the gravels of Grasshopper Creek, triggering the Montana gold rush. The gold likely eroded from the Pioneer Batholith upstream. Bannack was built on the banks of the creek, becoming Montana's first territorial capital. The creek produced five million dollars in gold dust in its first year alone.
Visitor Access
Bannack is now a meticulously preserved State Park. For an eight-dollar vehicle entry fee, visitors can walk the ghost town year-round. More importantly for the geologically inclined, limited gold panning is permitted along designated sections of Grasshopper Creek. You must check with park staff before putting a pan in the water, as rules and designated areas shift seasonally.