Russell Country, Montana

Full of hidden treasures

Discover historic, western charm in the heart of Montana's Russell Country

by Autumn Reagor

Russell Country, spread across Montana from the mountains to the plains, is home to a diverse geography where visitors will be pleasantly surprised by towns rich in history and laden with small-town, western-American charm. This unique area is spaced close enough to explore from the front seat of a car.

CLOSER TO NATURE: Canoeing on the Upper Missouri National Wild and Scenic River is rewarding, indeed.

EXPLORE HISTORY: The Belt Museum in Belt is housed in the original city jail and dates back to 1895 —Russell Country photos

The adventure starts here Discover a few of Russell Country's hidden treasures along the Rocky Mountain Front beginning in the town of Choteau (it's pronounced Show-Toe). The town's name dates back to 1882, but its history reaches back to the time of the dinosaurs. Millions of years ago, the area was a breeding ground for prehistoric creatures.

Egg Mountain, located 12 miles west of Choteau, is the first site in North America where dinosaur eggshell fragments, nests and babies were discovered. This site alone has provided more information about dinosaur biology than any other dig in the world.

Just 15 minutes north of Choteau are Bynum and Two Medicine Dinosaur Center. Two Medicine offers paleontology displays and programs, including dinosaur digs, for adults and children.

In addition to Choteau and Bynum, museums in Rudyard, Havre, Chinook and Harlowton offer displays about significant dinosaur discoveries in their areas.

For more information visit www.russell.visitmt.com/dinosaurs/dinotrail.htm.

Step back in time
After taking in the sites of prime dinosaur territory, take a short trip to Fort Benton, the birthplace of Montana. Travellers can walk along the mighty Missouri River and imagine a time when steamboats were the fastest way to get to the West.

As the last stop on the Missouri River before the great falls, Fort Benton was a transfer station for all goods as they came in by steamboat and were sent west on freight wagons pulled by teams of oxen. The town is home to three museums where visitors can get a closer look at artifacts from the glory days of steamboats, as well as the Grand Union Hotel-the oldest operating hotel in Montana. Spend the night in a historic room with modern living conveniences or stop by the restaurant for a decadent dinner that won't soon be forgotten.

Fort Benton is a gateway to the scenic and geographically unique Upper Missouri National Wild and Scenic River. Visit www.fortbenton.com/river/index.htm for more information on the Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument.

Black diamonds and beer
Hop back in your car to travel the short distance from Fort Benton to Belt. Belt boasts the first coal mine in Montana; the black mineral mined from the earth in Belt was used to fuel the fledgling community of Fort Benton. As time progressed, coal was used in a nearby smelter, located in Great Falls.

Plan a stop at the Belt Museum, housed in the original city jail dating back to 1895. The museum's exhibits include an historic jail cell, a coal mine replica, records and photos, and works of local artists.

Belt is also home to Harvest Moon Brewery, famous for two award-winning beers and six other varieties. This one-of-a-kind brewery offers tours and samples, as well as a gift shop.

Soak up the experience
After leaving Belt, travel along the King's Hill Scenic Byway. This two-hour drive will lead you along 71 miles of highway that pass right through one of Montana's majestic mountain ranges. The byway winds along pristine mountain springs and creeks and is home to abundant wildlife.

At the end of this scenic treat, you'll find yourself in White Sulphur Springs. The town is named for the white deposits caused by hot water bubbling in the city's public park. Spa Hot Springs Motel taps the water so that visitors can enjoy a soak in the naturally occurring hot mineral springs. More information on the hot springs is available at russell.visitmt.com/listings/2508.htm.

Whether it's time spent relaxing in hot springs or a day digging for dinosaur bones, Russell Country offers something for everyone.

This is only one driving tour option; to plan your own driving trip visit the Russell Country Scenic Byways website at www.russell.visitmt.com/scenicbyways/.

DETAILS: Russell Country is a great place to visit for a true western historical experience.
RESOURCES: For more information about Russell Country, visit www.russell.visitmt.com or call 1-800-527-5348.