Elkhorn State Park Ghost Town
Explore a genuine Montana ghost town with preserved buildings and scenic mountain drives, offering a raw glimpse into the Wild West.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring
Elkhorn State Park Ghost Town
Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a genuine Montana ghost town with preserved buildings and scenic mountain drives, offering a raw glimpse into the Wild West.
"A rustic place with intact buildings and amazing mountain views, worth the drive for sure."
🚗 4WD Recommended
Gravel roads can be rough; a 4WD vehicle is best for exploring the scenic routes.
💧 Pack Essentials
No services here! Bring water, snacks, and anything else you need.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Gillian Hall & Fraternity Hall
Main townsite
Step inside these remarkably preserved historic buildings and glimpse life in a 19th-century silver mining town.
Scenic Mountain Drives
Surrounding roads
Navigate backcountry gravel roads for breathtaking panoramic views of the Elkhorn Mountains.
Remnants of a Bygone Era
Throughout the park
Wander among the scattered foundations and piles of wood, imagining the bustling town that once stood here.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Rustic Charm
Plan for Remote Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 4WD Recommended
Gravel roads can be rough; a 4WD vehicle is best for exploring the scenic routes.
💧 Pack Essentials
No services here! Bring water, snacks, and anything else you need.
🚶♀️ Respect Residents
Some people live here. Be mindful of private property and driveways.
🕰️ Allow Ample Time
Explore the buildings and enjoy the views; don't rush your visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 4WD Recommended
Gravel roads can be rough; a 4WD vehicle is best for exploring the scenic routes.
💧 Pack Essentials
No services here! Bring water, snacks, and anything else you need.
🚶♀️ Respect Residents
Some people live here. Be mindful of private property and driveways.
🕰️ Allow Ample Time
Explore the buildings and enjoy the views; don't rush your visit.
🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Cell service is unreliable; ensure you have maps downloaded beforehand.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Elkhorn State Park Ghost Town for its authentic, rustic charm and the opportunity to step back in time. The preserved buildings and scenic mountain drives are highlights, offering a genuine glimpse into Montana's mining past. However, the remote location and rough access roads require careful preparation, and the lack of amenities means visitors must bring all their own supplies.
"This a rustic place in the Elkhorn Mountains of central Montana. It has somewhat of a ghost town with several intact buildings that are open to the public. There are backcountry gravel roads to drive which are four-wheel drive vehicles only, but offer some of the most amazing mountain views you're likely to see. It's worth the driver for sure."
Ben Moore
"For some reason there are still people living there.But it’s a gorgeous drive and I would do it again. Also a good place for a quick supper over a fire."
Laci Coblentz
"Nice scenic drive to.this place, quite remote with some trails leading off, nice views when you get there.
Took about an hour to walk around . There are quite a lot of buildings which are just piles of wood which is very sad. The 2 buildings in the photo are the only ones you can go into. Also, some people live here in renovated lodges so you need to be mindful not to walk onto their driveways. There are no shops etc so bring your own drinks etc if you need refreshment."
Anna L-S
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Elkhorn State Park Ghost Town is located in the Elkhorn Mountains of central Montana, near Boulder. Access is via backcountry gravel roads. While some reviews suggest a 4WD vehicle is recommended due to rough road conditions, others mention it's a scenic drive.
No, the roads leading to and within Elkhorn State Park Ghost Town are primarily gravel and can be rough, with some reviewers noting many potholes. A 4WD vehicle is often advised for the best experience.
The driving distance can vary depending on your starting point, but it's considered remote. Reviewers mention it's a scenic drive, and some suggest it takes about an hour to walk around the town itself once you arrive.
While possible, it's not always recommended. The gravel roads can be challenging, and a 4WD vehicle is often preferred to navigate them comfortably and safely.
Due to its remote location, there are no public transportation options directly to Elkhorn State Park Ghost Town. You will need your own vehicle.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Elkhorn State Park Ghost Town is a state park and generally does not require an entrance fee. It's a rustic, undeveloped historical site.
As an outdoor historical site, Elkhorn State Park Ghost Town is typically accessible during daylight hours. There are no set operating hours, but it's best to visit when there's sufficient light for exploration.
While the park is generally accessible year-round, winter conditions can make the gravel roads impassable or hazardous. Summer and early fall are the most favorable times to visit.
Two main buildings, Gillian Hall and Fraternity Hall, are open to the public for viewing. Other buildings are either deteriorating, private property, or locked. Be respectful of these boundaries.
No, there is typically no admission fee to enter Elkhorn State Park Ghost Town, as it's a historical site focused on preservation and public access to its remnants.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the intact historic buildings like Gillian Hall and Fraternity Hall, walk among the remnants of other structures, and enjoy scenic drives with mountain views. It's a place to imagine the past.
Reviewers suggest it takes about an hour to walk around the main townsite. However, you might want to allocate more time for scenic drives and soaking in the atmosphere.
While not extensively developed with marked trails, the area offers opportunities for walking and exploring the ghost town site and surrounding natural beauty. Some Reddit users mention it as a place for hiking.
One review mentioned it's a good place for a quick supper over a fire, suggesting that campfires might be permissible in designated areas or with caution, but always check local regulations.
Absolutely! The historic buildings, rugged mountain scenery, and remnants of the past offer fantastic photographic opportunities. The golden hour light is particularly beautiful.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, Elkhorn State Park Ghost Town is a remote historical site with no services. You must bring your own food and drinks.
Yes, it's a great spot for a picnic. One reviewer even mentioned it's a good place for a quick supper over a fire, so packing a picnic is highly recommended.
The nearest dining options would be in the town of Boulder, Montana, which is a short drive away. Boulder offers classic Montana experiences like steakhouses.
Definitely. There are no water sources or facilities available at the ghost town, so bringing plenty of water is essential.
You'll need to stock up on supplies before heading to Elkhorn State Park. The nearest towns with grocery stores would be Boulder or Whitehall.
📸 📸 Photography
The two main buildings, Gillian Hall and Fraternity Hall, are prime subjects. Also, capture the surrounding mountain vistas and the scattered remnants of the town for a sense of history.
Late afternoon, during the golden hour, offers beautiful lighting on the historic buildings and landscapes. Early mornings can also provide soft, atmospheric light.
Regulations regarding drone usage can vary. It's always best to check with Montana State Parks or local authorities before flying a drone in a state park.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for capturing both buildings and landscapes. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the expansive mountain views.
No, you should not photograph private residences. Be respectful of the people who still live in the area and only photograph the designated public areas of the ghost town.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, parents should be prepared for the remote nature of the park. Bring plenty of snacks, drinks, and entertainment for the car ride, as cell service is spotty and there are no facilities. The gravel roads can be bumpy, so ensure car seats are secure. It's also important to teach children about respecting historical sites and private property, as some residents still live in the area.
🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts
📸 Photographers
Beyond the structures, the surrounding mountain landscapes offer breathtaking backdrops. Capture the textures of the old wood, the remnants of collapsed buildings, and the vastness of the Montana sky. Remember to be respectful of the environment and any residents, and consider bringing a versatile lens to capture both close-up details and wide scenic shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Elkhorn: A Silver Boomtown
However, like many mining towns, Elkhorn's fortunes were tied to the volatile price of silver. As the mines eventually played out and the industry shifted, the town's prosperity waned. The majority of residents departed, leaving behind a shell of its former glory. Today, Elkhorn State Park preserves the remnants of this era, offering a poignant glimpse into the lives of those who sought their fortune in the rugged Montana landscape. The remaining structures, like Gillian Hall and Fraternity Hall, serve as silent storytellers of its vibrant past.
It's important to note that Elkhorn is not a fully restored tourist attraction but a genuine ghost town. While some buildings are accessible, others are deteriorating or on private property. This raw authenticity is part of its charm, allowing visitors to connect with history in a tangible way. The park encourages respectful exploration, reminding visitors that this is a place where history still lives, even if the bustling crowds of the past are long gone.
Navigating the Roads and Access
While it might be possible to reach the town in a standard vehicle during dry, favorable conditions, it's a risk that could lead to damage or getting stuck. The scenic drive itself is part of the experience, offering stunning mountain views, but it demands a vehicle capable of handling such terrain. Downloading offline maps is crucial, as cell service is unreliable in this remote region.
Once you arrive, be aware that some residents still live in renovated lodges within the ghost town area. It's essential to be respectful of private property and driveways, sticking to the public areas of the park. The park's rustic nature means there are no amenities, so come prepared with everything you need, including water, snacks, and a full tank of gas.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit