Amongst the mountains and valleys of Southwest Montana, Bannack State Park is a National Historic Landmark that stands as a testament to the gold rush of the 1860s. Once a lively hub for hopeful prospectors, this ghost town now offers a chance to wander through history and discover its secrets. Whether you're drawn to tales of the past or just seeking a unique adventure, Bannack invites you to step back in time and explore its well-preserved charm.
Where is Bannack State Park in Montana?
Bannack State Park is located in Southwest Montana, 25 miles west of Dillon, MT. To reach Bannack State Park from Dillon, take Interstate 15 south to Exit 59 for State Highway 278. Travel west on Highway 278 for about 17 miles, then turn left onto Bannack Bench Road and continue south for 4 miles to the park entrance.
Address: 721 Bannack Road, Dillon, MT 59725
The Significance of Bannack State Park
Founded on July 28, 1862, Bannack State Park sits on the site of Montana's first major gold discovery. John White and his crew of prospectors set up camp along the banks of Grasshopper Creek, and it wasn’t long before word of the gold rush turned Bannack into a thriving frontier town. By 1863, the population had surged past 3,000, and the town was alive with wooden boardwalks, bustling saloons, and shops lining its Main Street. Under Governor Sidney Edgerton, Bannack even served as Montana’s first territorial capital in 1864.
In its prime, the town was a hotbed of outlaws and misfits, with notorious figures like Henry Plummer and his gang stirring up trouble across southwest Montana. As the gold slowly disappeared, so did Bannack’s population, leaving behind a ghost town by the late 1800s.
Today, many of the original buildings still stand in remarkable condition, offering visitors a vivid look back at the excitement and hardships of the early gold rush days. Widely considered one of the best-preserved ghost towns in the American West, Bannack is a testament to the gritty spirit of the Old West.
Want to learn more about Montana’s Ghost Towns? Browse our guide to ghost towns in Montana.
Park Hours & Fees
Bannack State Park is open year-round, but its hours shift with the seasons, so it’s a good idea to check the official website before you go.
Summer Hours
- May 19 – August 11
- 8 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Shoulder Season Hours
- May 3 – May 17 and August 12 – October 17
- 8 a.m. – Sunset
Winter Hours
- October 18 – April 15
- 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- Closed December 24 & 25
No matter what time of year you visit, Montana residents who paid the $9 state parks fee with their vehicle registration can enter for free. For residents who didn’t pay the fee and for out-of-state visitors, daily entrance fees are:
- $8 per vehicle
- $4 per person for walk-ins, cyclists, or bus passengers
- Free with a Nonresident Entrance Pass
What to do at Bannack State Park
There’s plenty to keep you busy during your visit, whether you’re pedaling the park’s trails, casting a line in the creek, or simply soaking up the history and beauty of this well-preserved ghost town. Explore the historic buildings, watch for local wildlife, or pack a picnic and take in the scenery. For a deeper dive into the area’s past, the visitor center is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily between Memorial Day and Labor Day, making learning more about Bannack’s fascinating history easy.
Events and Programs
Bannack State Park offers a lineup of events and educational programs all year long. Every summer, they host an exciting entertainment and education series featuring everything from guided hikes to tours of the historic mill, giving visitors countless ways to step back in time and experience Montana’s rich history.
Signature Events
Bannack Days
When: 3rd weekend in July
Tickets:
- $5 for Adults
- $20 per family
- Free for ages 5 & Under
As Bannack State Park’s biggest summer event, Bannack Days is an unforgettable experience for the whole family! During this lively celebration, the ghost town springs to life with historical displays, reenactments, and fun activities for all ages. Delicious food and live music add to the excitement, making for a perfect summer weekend immersed in Montana’s rich past.
Ghost Walk
When: October
Tickets: Available in September
One of the park’s spookiest events takes place in October when the ghost of Bannack’s past comes to life after dark. Guests can take an eerie tour through the historic streets and hear the haunting tales of this once-bustling gold rush town.
Ice Skating
When: December - February
Price: Free
When winter arrives, and the dredge pond at Bannack State Park freezes over, ice skating becomes the star of the show! Glide across the pond with the whole family, then warm up at the cozy warming house on weekends between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m., where you can sip hot drinks and snack on tasty treats.
Plan your Montana Vacation with Mountian Home Montana!
Ready to experience one of the best-abandoned towns in Montana? Bannack State Park is just one of the many Ghost Towns you can explore while staying with Mountain Home Montana. Browse our vacation rentals in Bozeman, Big Sky, West Yellowstone, and Livingston, and book directly with us to secure the best price on your stay.