Dillon is one of the largest towns in the southwest corner of the state and has long been a hub for exploring the area. The Lewis and Clark Expedition were lucky to meet the Lemhi Shoshone near present-day Dillon. By the 1860s the town was an agricultural center and supply hub for the Montana gold rushes. Today anglers, hikers, and campers appreciate the town’s easy access to rivers and national forests.
In addition to incredible access to nature, Dillon is also one of the closest towns to the historic ghost town of Bannack, site of Montana’s first gold rush and one of the best-preserved ghost towns in the state. Rock hounders come to Dillon for the opportunity to search for crystal and quartz in nearby Crystal Park. Each Labor Day weekend, the Dillon Jaycees host an annual rodeo, which calls itself “Montana’s Biggest Weekend”--with good reason!
How to Access the Continental Divide Trail From Dillon
On the banks of the Jefferson River and encircled by the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, Dillon is popular with hikers, especially for hikers heading into the Beaverhead Mountains, which straddle the Continental Divide.
Gateway Community
Access Point
Trailheads
Visiting Dillon, Montana
Dillon offers a number of lodging options for visitors to the community. In addition to their proximity to the Continental Divide, there is plenty of history, local businesses and outdoor recreation to explore.
Things to do While Visiting Dillon, Montana
The Dillon and Beaverhead County Area provides endless exploration. Whether you are hoping to dig deeper into the history of the area, grab a drink with friends, try your hand at paranormal investigation, or get outside you'll find something to fit the bill! The area is famous for its prominence on the Lewis & Clark Trail, has rich agricultural history and incredible opportunity for rockhounding. Not to mention the mining history that has left us with a number of ghost towns to explore and the blue ribbon fishing that draws hundreds to the area.
