Fairfield MontanaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Fairfield, Montana.
1. Freezeout Lake Wildlife Management Area
SPECTACULAR BIRD MIGRATION VIEWING
Freezeout Lake Wildlife Management Area offers one of the most spectacular wildlife viewing experiences in Montana, particularly during March and April when hundreds of thousands of snow geese and over ten thousand tundra swans descend during their annual migration. Visitors can witness the breathtaking sight of thousands of snow geese taking to the skies at sunrise or landing at sunset. The area also attracts iceboaters in winter, boaters in summer, and hunters in fall, making it a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
2. Fairfield Municipal Golf Course
SCENIC NINE-HOLE COURSE
Fairfield Municipal Golf Course is a nine-hole golf course offering players dramatic vistas of the Rocky Mountain Front. The course provides a relaxing yet challenging experience for golfers of all skill levels. Its location near the town center makes it easily accessible for both locals and visitors looking to enjoy a round of golf surrounded by Montana's natural beauty.
3. Fairfield Municipal Park and Swimming Pool
COMMUNITY RECREATION CENTER
Fairfield's Municipal Park and Swimming Pool serves as the heart of community recreation in this small Montana town. The beautiful park and pool become the center of attention during the annual Swim Day reunion held on the third Saturday of July, a tradition dating back to 1932. Visitors can enjoy the refreshing pool during summer months while taking in the peaceful atmosphere of this charming agricultural community.
4. A Lazy H Outfitters
WILDERNESS PACK TRIPS
A Lazy H Outfitters offers guided wilderness experiences in the breathtaking landscape near Fairfield. Their highly-rated services provide visitors with authentic Montana adventures including horseback riding, fishing trips, and backcountry excursions. Their experienced guides help guests explore the stunning natural beauty of the region while creating unforgettable outdoor memories.
5. Sun River Canyon
WILDLIFE AND SCENIC VIEWS
Sun River Canyon, located near Fairfield, offers spectacular natural scenery and remarkable wildlife viewing opportunities. In November, visitors can observe bighorn sheep battle for leadership of one of the largest herds in the country. The canyon, carved by the Sun River, features impressive rock formations, diverse plant life, and outdoor recreation possibilities throughout the year.
6. Gibson Dam
HISTORIC WATER ENGINEERING
Gibson Dam, completed in 1929, was a transformative structure that enabled farming to thrive in the Fairfield region. The dam, located in the Sun River Canyon, supplies water to the Greenfield Irrigation District, supporting over eighty-three thousand acres of prime grain-growing land. Visitors can appreciate both the impressive engineering of this historic structure and the scenic beauty of its mountain setting.
7. Old Trail Museum
REGIONAL HISTORY EXHIBITS
The Old Trail Museum in nearby Choteau showcases the rich history and paleontological significance of the region surrounding Fairfield. The museum features exhibits on dinosaur discoveries, Native American history, and the development of agriculture in central Montana. Visitors can explore fascinating displays that bring the area's past to life through artifacts, fossils, and informative presentations.
8. Dropstone Outfitting
GUIDED WILDERNESS ADVENTURES
Dropstone Outfitting offers highly-rated guided wilderness trips exploring the stunning landscapes near Fairfield and Choteau. Their experienced guides lead hiking, backpacking, and horseback riding adventures through some of Montana's most pristine wilderness areas. Visitors can enjoy customized trips ranging from day hikes to multi-day backcountry expeditions that showcase the natural beauty of the region.
9. Lazy B Bar
LOCAL DINING EXPERIENCE
The Lazy B Bar serves as a popular gathering spot for locals and visitors in Fairfield. This establishment offers authentic Montana cuisine and beverages in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Guests can enjoy hearty meals while mingling with friendly locals who are often happy to share stories about the region's agricultural heritage and community traditions.
10. Fairfield Swim Day
ANNUAL COMMUNITY CELEBRATION
Fairfield Swim Day is a beloved annual community celebration held on the third Saturday in July since 1932. The event transforms the town's municipal park and swimming pool into a festive gathering place for current and former residents. Visitors can experience small-town Montana culture through games, food, swimming, and community activities that highlight Fairfield's tight-knit community spirit.
11. Rocky Mountain Front
MAJESTIC MOUNTAIN SCENERY
The Rocky Mountain Front provides a dramatic backdrop to Fairfield and the surrounding region with its impressive peaks and rugged landscape. This stunning mountain range offers countless opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, photography, and outdoor adventure. Visitors can explore numerous trails and viewpoints that showcase the breathtaking natural beauty that defines this part of Montana.
12. Greenfield Irrigation District
AGRICULTURAL HERITAGE SITE
The Greenfield Irrigation District represents the agricultural heart of Fairfield, known as the 'Malting Barley Capital of the World.' This irrigation system, developed after the completion of Gibson Dam in 1929, transformed the region by delivering water to over eighty-three thousand acres of prime grain-growing land. Visitors interested in agricultural heritage can observe the extensive irrigation network and the productive farming operations that define the local economy and landscape.
13. Fairfield High School Eagles
CHAMPIONSHIP SPORTS PROGRAM
The Fairfield High School Eagles are known for their exceptional athletic programs, particularly the girls' basketball team which achieved national recognition with 120 consecutive wins between 2010 and 2015. This remarkable winning streak stands as one of the longest in United States high school girls' basketball history. Visitors during basketball season can experience the community pride and competitive spirit that has made this small town a powerhouse in Montana high school sports.
14. Fairfield Public Library
COMMUNITY LEARNING CENTER
Fairfield Public Library serves as an important cultural and educational resource for the community through its joint city-county operation. The library provides access to books, digital resources, and community programs for residents and visitors alike. Its welcoming atmosphere makes it an excellent stop for travelers interested in learning more about local history, agriculture, and the unique character of this small Montana town.
15. The Fairfield Sun Times
HISTORIC WEEKLY NEWSPAPER
The Fairfield Sun Times is a weekly newspaper that has been documenting the town's history and current events since Fairfield's founding. This longstanding publication offers insights into local culture, community events, and the agricultural economy that defines the region. Visitors interested in local perspective can pick up a copy to learn about current happenings and discover the authentic character of this small Montana farming community.