Three Forks, Montana

Where Adventure & Rivers Meet

three forks, montana

Discover Where Adventure and Rivers Meet

Nestled at the confluence of the Jefferson, Madison, and Gallatin Rivers, Three Forks offers a unique blend of history, nature, and community spirit. Visitors come to explore the pristine Missouri Headwaters State Park, a cornerstone of local heritage and natural beauty.

Stroll through the charming Downtown Three Forks, where friendly faces and quaint shops create a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re angling for trout or soaking up the rich tales of the Headwaters Heritage Museum, Three Forks delivers an unforgettable experience where every path leads to discovery.

Explore

the start of the Missouri River

Shop

our beautiful stores downtown,

& Enjoy

our history!

Three Forks MT 27
Downtown Three Forks, MT

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Elevation
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City Founded
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Population
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Stevensville, MT

Things To Do in Three Forks, MT

Explore the treasures of Three Forks, where the natural and cultural wonders of Montana come alive. Discover the Missouri Headwaters State Park, wander through the historic Downtown, relax at Three Forks Ponds, and dive into history at the Headwaters Heritage Museum.

 

Missouri Headwaters State Park

Experience where America’s great rivers begin.

Shop Downtown
Three Forks

A charming center with a warm, welcoming vibe.

Three Fork
Ponds

The perfect place to enjoy & relax with family.

Headwaters
Heritage Museum

Dive into the rich tapestry of local history.

Missouri Headwaters State Park

Missouri Headwaters State Park serves as the historical nexus where the Jefferson, Madison, and Gallatin Rivers unite to form the Missouri River, the longest river in North America. This park not only offers a panorama of stunning natural landscapes but also a rich tapestry of American history. Visitors can explore numerous trails by foot or bicycle, camp under the stars in a traditional tipi, or float down one of the three converging rivers. The park’s comprehensive interpretive displays shed light on its cultural significance, from its role in Native American history to its pivotal moments during the Lewis and Clark expedition. With activities like fishing, bird watching, and historical site exploration, this park encapsulates the spirit of Montana’s vast wilderness and its historical heritage.

"Had a wonderful time. Friendly staff, clean camping sites, beautiful views, great activities and a whole lot of history. Will definitely return."

Missouri Headwaters State Park - Confluence

Visit Our Charming Downtown Area

Downtown Three Forks captures the essence of small-town charm with its array of local shops, dining options, and periodic live events. The area’s rich railroad and homesteading history is palpable as you stroll down its streets, making it a perfect spot for leisurely exploration and shopping.

Downtown Three Forks, MT

Three Forks Ponds

Nestled beside the local golf course, Three Forks Ponds offers a picturesque setting for relaxation and recreation. This tranquil park features multiple ponds surrounded by lush greenery, providing stunning views that are a favorite for both locals and visitors. Families can enjoy a variety of activities here, from picnicking under the gazebo situated on a charming peninsula to engaging in more active pursuits like volleyball with courts available on-site. For the little ones, there’s a playground that promises hours of fun. The proximity to the golf course adds an extra layer of scenic beauty, making this spot ideal for a leisurely day out or a spirited game of volleyball.

Headwaters Heritage Museum

Located in the heart of downtown Three Forks, the Headwaters Heritage Museum is a treasure trove of local history, preserving the vibrant stories of the Missouri River Headwaters area. The museum, which opened its doors in 1982, showcases a diverse collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the tales of the people and events that shaped the region. Visitors can explore exhibits on Native American history, the early homesteading era, and the impact of the railroads. Special features include a replica of a pioneer cabin and a detailed model railroad. The museum also offers a variety of local handcrafted items and souvenirs for those looking to take a piece of Montana history home.

"Not enough time to really look at everything in every corner, downstairs and upstairs of the cute tiny museum. Friendly hostesses, fun to chat with! Many things I have never seen elsewhere and I'm in my 70's! So I took several photos! Lots of history here! Worth the stop on the way to Helena airport! We went to Headwaters State Park first. Priceless exhibits!"

Other Attractions in the Surrounding Area

Lewis & Clark
Caverns

Underground limestone caverns featuring guided tours and stunning geological formations.

Headwaters
Golf Course

A scenic 9-hole course offering a relaxed golfing experience with beautiful views.

Madison Buffalo Jump State Park

Historic Native American hunting grounds with interpretive trails and panoramic views.

Jefferson River Canoe Trail

Follow the historic path of Lewis and Clark by canoe along the Jefferson River.

Three Forks, Montana

Annual Events in Three Forks, MT

Three Forks, Montana, bursts with vibrant events that capture its rich cultural heritage. From the exhilarating Three Forks NRA Rodeo in mid-July to the historical Magpie Renaissance Faire in September, there’s an event for every taste. Don’t miss the festive Christmas Stroll in early December, welcoming the holiday season with community cheer. Be sure to check out all our events and stay up to date on the Chamber’s event page on their website for the latest information.

Three Forks NRA Rodeo

Celebrate traditional rodeo sports and community festivities in mid-July. Features bull riding, barrel racing, and more.

Rappin' the Rivers Festival

Montana's biggest 2 day Rap, Hip-Hop & EDM Festival

Magpie Renaissance Faire

A cultural event celebrating renaissance and fantasy themes with costumes and performances at Missouri Headwaters State Park.

Christmas
Stroll

A festive community event featuring a tree lighting, parade, and local shopping, held in early December.

Historical Events of Three Forks, MT

Lewis & Clark Expedition
Lewis, Clark, and Sacajawea arrived at the headwaters of the Missouri River.
Fort Henry
A trading post for hunters, trappers, and traders during the early exploration days.
Gallatin City Founding
Early settlement established for Missouri River traffic, which never materialized.
Shedd’s Bridges
James Shedd began building toll bridges, influencing local commerce and travel.
Town of Three Forks
Three Forks was officially platted with the establishment of the Milwaukee Railroad.
Three Valleys State Bank
One of the first banks in Three Forks, its building is now a historical museum.
July 25, 1805
Operated between 1808 and 1810
1863
1867
1908
Chartered in1909

Drag the scroll bar to view historical information.

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Dining & Drinking

Three Forks, Montana, boasts a variety of dining options that reflect its warm hospitality. Noteworthy venues include the Iron Horse Cafe & Pie Shop, known for its hearty meals and pies, and Pompey’s Grill at the Sacajawea Hotel, offering fine dining with American flavors. For casual eats, Wheat Montana Bakery & Deli provides fresh sandwiches and pastries, while the Willow Creek Cafe and Saloon features classic American fare in a rustic setting. These spots are favorites among locals and visitors alike.

Lodging & Rentals

Three Forks, Montana, offers a range of lodging options for visitors seeking anything from rustic charm to modern comfort. Highly rated choices include the historic Sacajawea Hotel, known for its elegant accommodations and proximity to local attractions, and the Grey Cliffs Ranch, which offers a luxurious escape on a vast, scenic property. Both establishments are celebrated for their unique settings and exceptional service, making them popular among travelers

Discover Three Forks, MT

Discover where adventure and rivers meet. Book your next vacation to Three Forks, Montana, and immerse yourself in a truly memorable experience!

Downtown Three Forks, MT

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Disclaimer

All efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy of the information on this website. The details provided are accurate to the best of our knowledge as of the most recent update. However, Small Town Travel Sites (“Touch Point Designs”) is not responsible for any inadvertent inaccuracies, changes, or misinformation. For the most current information, we recommend contacting individual establishments or checking the latest online updates before planning your visit.