Deer Lodge and Butte, Montana

The Berkley Pit - A Superfund Site in Butte, Montana

Deer Lodge / Butte, Montana:

We were drawn to this area of Montana after learning that John's grandfather had listed Butte as his residence in the 1890 census. James O'Boyle spent his days working the mines as a "Powder Monkey" on the "Richest Hill on Earth."

We made reservations for the Trolley Tour of Butte, Montana located at the Visitors Center. The Berkeley Pit is a former open pit copper mine and currently one of the largest Superfund sites in the U.S. Having a tour guide will open your eyes to the history and beauty of this remarkable area.

Points of Interest:

1. Butte, Montana Trolley Tour is a must!

2. Reserve a table "In the Vault" at the Metals Sports Bar and Grill. The food is good and the experience unforgettable. It is interesting to compare the current view of downtown with the photo of the early 1900's hanging on the wall.

3. The Montana Auto Museum and Old Montana State Prison in Deer Lodge includes the history of the prison and an impressive display of cars.

4. Grant-Kohrs Ranch National Historic Site is a mainstay visitor location in Deer Lodge.

5. The Anaconda Smelter Stack is the tallest surviving masonry structure in the world, with an overall height of 585 feet. If you have time be sure to include a stop by the Veteran's Memorials for World War II and Vietnam. The patriotism in this small town is impressive.

6. The Sweet Palace Candy Store in Philipsburg is the "Grandest Candy Emporium in the American West." Certainly the best candy store we have ever seen!

Scenic Motorcycle Routes:

1. From historic Anaconda the road climbs quickly to Georgetown Lake before descending down the picturesque Flint Valley and Philipsburg. It is a pleasant drive showcasing classic Montana scenery finishing in the town of Drummond.

2. Riding from Deer Lodge, Wisdom, and ending in Dillon will lead you through wide open valleys, farm land, and historic markers along the way. Feel free to stop and take a selfie near any old building you find interesting!

There are so many photo opportunities to be had out on the country roads.

RV Location:

Indian Creek Campground

745 Maverick Lane

Deer Lodge, Montana 59722