Blackfoot River Valley in Montana

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Blackfoot River Valley

The Blackfoot River Valley stretches between the Continental Divide, the Bob Marshall/Scapegoat Wilderness, and the Garnet Mountains, featuring great fishing on the Blackfoot River, endless recreation, and historical attractions within valley communities. Read More

  • The valley lies between the Continental Divide and the confluence of the Clark Fork River near Missoula. 
  • From Missoula, travel east on I-90 and MT-200. 
  • Enjoy recreation in Helena National Forest and the Bob Marshall/Scapegoat Wilderness. 
  • Fish and raft the Blackfoot River. 
  • Visit old mining camps. 
  • Explore the Blackfoot Valley Historical Museum.

Overview

The Blackfoot River Valley extends from the Blackfoot River’s beginnings at Roger’s Pass, atop the Continental Divide, to the river’s confluence with the Clark Fork River, just east of Missoula. This gorgeous valley was originally carved by glaciers and later explored by Lewis and Clark. Surrounded by the Bob Marshall/Scapegoat Wildernesses and the Garnet Mountains, and traversed by the Blackfoot River, there’s no end of great year-round recreation. Blackfoot Valley communities, such as Lincoln, provide services, amenities, and historical attractions including museums and old mining locations.

Driving Directions

From Missoula, simply travel east on I-90 before taking exit 109 for MT-200 E toward Bonner/Great Falls. MT-200 E is the main thoroughfare through the valley.

Time/Distance

The drive from Missoula through the Blackfoot River Valley is 96 miles and take roughly 2 hours.

Highlights

  • Fish or whitewater raft the Blackfoot River.
  • Explore over 1 million acres within the Bob Marshall/Scapegoat Wilderness.
  • In Lincoln, visit the Blackfoot Valley Historical Museum or one of several old mining camps located in the vicinity including Gould Mine, Mike Horse, and Jay Gould.
  • During winter, enter a snowmobile race or enjoy over 250 miles of groomed snowmobile trails near Lincoln.
  • See a variety of wildlife on the Rocky Mountain Front Corridor or in Sun River Canyon.
  • Book a guided fishing trip or horse packing trip.
  • Camp, hike, mountain bike and more in Helena National Forest.

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