Butte, Montana is a charming community that is practically settled on the Continental Divide. There are a number of ways to access the CDT from Butte, and the community's proximity to the trail makes it the perfect place for thru hikers to re-supply and rest. The area also offers day and weekend trail users ample access to the incredible Continental Divide National Scenic Trail.
The historic city of Butte grew to prominence at the end of the 19th century with the influx of the mining industry. In its heyday, Butte was one of the largest cities west of the Mississippi River, second only to San Francisco. Today, the city offers visitors the opportunity to dig into the incredible history of the area while also enjoying the wide-open spaces of Southwest Montana.
Butte is home to one of the country's largest National Historic Landmark Districts with over four thousand structures around the city. The community is steeped in history and visitors can explore the rich and diverse history of the town, dig deeper into the mining history and even connect with the paranormal on a Spooks & Spirits Tour. The community hosts a wide range of events throughout the year including the Montana Folk Festival, St. Patrick's Day, An Ri Ra Irish Festival, Serb Fest, SnöFlinga and more!
How to Access the Continental Divide Trail From Butte
The Continental Divide Trail Coalition has designated 4 communities in Montana (all of which are located in Southwest Montana) as official CDT Gateway Communities. These communities are friendly to trail users and are dedicated to the completion and protection of the trail. The communities we have listed as accessible have connecting trails from the community to the CDT itself. These connecting trails are also popular day hikes for Montana visitors!
Gateway Community
Access Point
Trailheads
Butte to Homestake Pass
From Butte, MT, travel east on Interstate 90 for 7.2 miles to Homestake Pass; there is a trailhead to the right that accesses the CDT to the south.
Butte to Pipestone Pass
From Butte, travel south on Continental Drive to the intersection with MT Highway 2. Turn left onto the highway and travel approximately 6 miles to the top of the pass. There is a trailhead on the right that accesses the CDT to the north and south.
Butte to Nez Perce Access
From Butte, head north on I-15, and take exit 138. From here, head south and take the first left turn on Nez Perce Road and continue for about three miles. This access point offers overnight parking and horse trailer parking in a gravel lot on the left hand side of the road.
Visiting Butte, Montana
Ready to plan a trip to or through Butte, Montana? Whether you are looking for campgrounds, boutique hotels or something in between Butte has something to offer. Don't forget to thumb through the visitor guide before you arrive.
Things to do While Visiting Butte, Montana
There is so much to see and do in the Butte area! While you are enjoying the incredible history and rich culture of Butte, make sure you take the chance to truly dig into the beauty of this community! Whether you are planning to attend a live performance, grab a pint at a local craft brewery, explore one of the many historic structures or enjoy the nearby trails, there is no end to the adventure Butte offers.
Butte Weather
Butte Information for Thru Hikers
Thru hikers on the Continental Divide Trail will find that Butte is a welcoming community with many amenities sought after by trail users like wifi, showers, trail shuttles, camping/lodging, food and camp supplies. Here's a quick look at Butte businesses that provide these services.
Where to Resupply
Safeway
310 W Front St.
406-723-5808
Safeway
2500 Massachusetts Ave.
406-494-7046
Bob Wards Sports and Outdoors
1925 Dewey Blvd.
406-494-4452
Where to Send Packages
US Post Office
701 Dewey Blvd.
406-494-2107
Butte Chamber of Commerce
1000 George Street
800-735-6814
Places to Stay
Butte KOA Journey
1601 Kaw Ave.
406-782-8080
Other Useful Information
Butte Public Library
226 West Broadway
406-723-3361
Butte Chamber of Commerce
1000 George Street
800-735-6814
Linked Adventures - Trail Shuttle
2750 Kossuth
406-498-9653
