Preserved 1890s mining town featuring original log and frame buildings, interpretive trails, and seasonal access to Montana’s frontier history.

How to Get There

From Missoula (40 mi): Take I-90 E to Exit 138, follow signs to Garnet Range Road, and continue 11 miles on gravel road to the parking area.

Overview

The Garnet Ghost Town is one of Montana’s best-preserved historic mining settlements, offering a glimpse into life during the gold rush of the 1890s. Tucked into the Garnet Range, the town once bustled with saloons, stores, and homes, but was abandoned by the 1940s. Today, visitors can explore over 30 original buildings, including a hotel, schoolhouse, and miner’s cabins, all maintained by the Bureau of Land Management. Interpretive signs and a visitor center provide historical context, while hiking trails lead to scenic overlooks and nearby mining sites.

Accessible by car in summer and by snowmobile or cross-country skis in winter, Garnet offers a unique year-round destination for history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts. The town’s remote setting and quiet atmosphere make it easy to imagine the lives of the miners and families who once called it home. Whether you're exploring the rustic buildings or enjoying a picnic in the surrounding forest, Garnet Ghost Town is a hauntingly beautiful reminder of Montana’s frontier past.