Many of Bannack's inhabitants had fled to Alder Gulch by February 1865. There, Virginia City, Montana's capital became the capital for the next ten decades before Helena took the title.
1.Things you can do at Bannack State Park. A National Historic Landmark
Bannack State Park provides a fascinating glimpse into Montana's gold rush history, in one of Montana's most iconic mining towns. The townsite is a great place to spend the day, or just get a glimpse during a half-day. It's also a National Historic Landmark that offers many things to do.
First, stop at the Visitor Center:
You can park your car and then go to the Visitor Center (open Memorial Day through Labor Day) to sign-up for a tour, or to chat with one the knowledgeable rangers. You can also visit the center on weekends in October and May. If you prefer to tour the townsite yourself, you can purchase a $2 self guided photo tour pamphlet. While you're still at the Visitor Center browse the extensive collection of regional books, or stop by the video room for a brief presentation.
2.Visit 60 buildings still in existence at Bannack Ghost Town
Bannack was home to a fluctuating population in the 1930's, but it had fallen into decline by 1950. For history buffs, the Montana State Parks and the Bannack Association teamed up to save the 60 buildings still standing. Some buildings were destroyed by fires and nature's whims. Now, visitors can walk the wooden sidewalks and step inside buildings to see the mining history or marvel at the town's origins. It is like going back in time. You can also visit The Gallows and The Old Cemetery, which are necessary structures for lawless times. You can also book a tour to the Hendricks Mill which is part of the gold mining process.
The four best buildings at Bannack State Park are
Bannack's buildings can be toured. Photographers can capture the past if you are a photographer. There are so many buildings that you can visit, it is impossible to see them all. I have seen some amazing photos of interiors. These are the top four places you must see.
Where to Stay:
You'll find a variety of hotels in Dillon, approximately 30 miles away (check availability here). For a more special stay, Montana High Country Lodge and Grasshopper Inn are recommended (both about 16 miles from Polaris on the Pioneer Scenic Byway). You can easily access Elk Horn Hot Springs and Crystal Park, as well as Coolidge Ghost Town. There are not many dining options.
3.Visit Bannack State Park during a fall vacation
As Alan and I walk along the wooden sidewalks, autumn leaves crackle under our feet. Even though it is only mid-September, we have missed the peak week of fall color in this remote corner of Southwest Montana. Inside the Visitors Center, there are excellent regional books and video rooms, as well as a knowledgeable park ranger who has many stories to share. Unfortunately, the Visitors Center closes on Labor Day so no group tours of the town nor the mill are offered. We purchase a self-guided walking tour guide for $2 from the ranger, and we set off to explore. With a few other weekday visitors, we also explore the buildings that once belonged to a bustling gold rush town. Through creaking doors, creaking sidewalks and the sound of footsteps on uneven wooden walkways, history whispers to us.
4.There are more ghost towns in Montana to explore
There are many abandoned towns in the American West that bear witness to the gold rush history. Southwest Montana has 17 ghost towns. Bannack Ghost Town is the most well-preserved. Preservation is the goal, not restoration. Coolidge Ghost Town is nearby and slowly being reclaimed. This offers a completely different experience. Both are worth a visit on a trip to Southwest Montana.
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