Nestled Along The Missouri River Is A Historic City In Montana With Rugged Cliffs And A Storied Past

Few places can boast of being a state's birthplace while hosting the "bloodiest block in the west" and not trip over the inherent contradictions. Fort Benton served as a fulcrum in America's expansion, earning its designation as a National Historic Landmark and becoming one of the oldest communities in Montana by initially serving as a trading post for the American Fur Company in 1846. Fort Benton mixes its renown and infamy with aplomb, presenting a historic Montana city that embraces its storied past as a rough-and-tumble outpost while sharing its abundant natural beauty in equal measure.

At the heart of it all lies the town's main artery, the Missouri River. Walking along the waterway's smooth waters to its surrounding cliffs puts you in rarified company by following in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark, who also trekked along the Missouri River's banks two centuries ago. The frontier explorers had a knack for uncovering some of America's tallest monoliths, an experience you rarely find on a list of the best things to do in Montana. This mix of hardscrabble grit and equally rugged cliffs, all nestled along the languid Missouri River, makes it a perfect destination for history buffs with a wild streak. Take a beat while there to take it all in; you might spot a bald eagle along the way.

Covering a mere 2.3 square miles, Fort Benton begs to be moseyed through. Start with a stroll along the steamboat levee to the remnants of Historic Old Fort Benton. From there, hit Fort Benton's Heritage Complex, a collection of seven museums or interpretive centers exploring the town's storied past as a frontier outpost and fur trade hub. If all the historic grit leaves you feeling tenderfooted, follow in the pawsteps of local legend Shep, a crestfallen dog that followed its deceased owner's casket to the Fort Benton train station, then spent the rest of its days there, greeting every train in anticipation of its master's return.

A stroll also offers plenty of chances to mingle with friendly locals, who've clung to the frontier's knack for specialized mom-and-pop shops with niche goods: The city offers a Charm Trail with participating businesses offering customized charms to collect as you explore. Set aside any reservations you may have and give in to the fun of giddily collecting teacups, saddles, campfires, cowboy boots, or any other tchotchkes you can add to your wrist. Ask along the way about Fort Benton's lurid history with the watering holes, dice dens, and cat holes that lined Front Street and earned its tough reputation among frontier folk.

After getting a good dose of history and humanity, surrender to Fort Benton's natural wealth. The White Cliffs on the Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument offer a breathtaking, imposing showcase of nature. Meriwether Lewis, in awe of the cliffs' imposing precision, suggested nature took a stab at masonry so successfully that it rivaled human efforts. With a broad range of geological and historic sites, local outfitters can help you fish, hike, or hunt along the river. Or just stand in the middle of it all, taking in the colossal stone monoliths surrounding you.

Like all wise frontiers folk discovered, the true treasure out west is the journey it takes to get there, though Fort Benton's days as a remote outpost are long over. Lewis and Clark would envy flying to Great Falls International Airport, then driving 47 miles northeast to Fort Benton. Finding a dreamin' spot ain't that hard either; it's the frontier, go camping. The Benton RV Park and Campground, located within the city, is a logical stop. If you're not up for roughin' it, the historic Grand Union Hotel offers an elegant alternative.

The temperatures in Montana can be a bit nippy, so try to visit during the summer when the weather is more hospitable — locals throw their best events during that time of year, so your itinerary can fill quickly. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a camera, sunblock, and weather-appropriate clothes. Ultimately, Fort Benton is one of many legendary historic attractions with an unmatched slice of the Wild West.