Stanford MontanaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Stanford, Montana.
1. Ackley Lake State Park
SERENE OUTDOOR RECREATION
Ackley Lake State Park offers visitors a peaceful retreat for fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. The park features a 160-acre reservoir nestled in the foothills of the Snowy Mountains with stunning panoramic views. Visitors can enjoy camping, picnicking, and water activities in this tranquil natural setting.
2. Showdown Ski Area
MONTANA'S OLDEST SKI RESORT
Showdown Ski Area is Montana's oldest continuously operating ski resort and a popular winter destination near Stanford. The ski area offers 36 trails across 640 acres of skiable terrain suitable for all skill levels from beginners to experts. During winter months, visitors can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and a cozy lodge with dining options.
3. Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest
VAST WILDERNESS ADVENTURE
Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest encompasses over 2.8 million acres of diverse landscapes surrounding Stanford. The forest offers countless recreational opportunities including hiking, camping, fishing, hunting, and wildlife viewing throughout the year. Visitors can explore mountain ranges, alpine lakes, and lush valleys while experiencing Montana's natural beauty.
4. Sluice Boxes State Park
HISTORICAL MINING SITE
Sluice Boxes State Park preserves a dramatic limestone canyon along Belt Creek with remnants of Montana's mining past. Visitors can hike through the rugged terrain and see abandoned mines, railroads, and building foundations that tell the story of the area's gold rush history. The park also offers excellent opportunities for fishing, wildlife viewing, and photography in a stunning natural setting.
5. Judith Basin County Museum
LOCAL HISTORY SHOWCASE
The Judith Basin County Museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits depicting the rich history of Stanford and surrounding areas. Visitors can explore displays featuring pioneering families, agriculture, ranching, and the development of the region over time. The museum offers a fascinating glimpse into rural Montana life through photographs, documents, and preserved items from the past.
6. CMR Stampede Rodeo
THRILLING WESTERN TRADITION
The CMR Stampede is Stanford's annual PRCA rodeo event that brings together competitors and spectators from across the region. This community celebration features exciting rodeo competitions, street dances, pancake breakfasts, and barbecue dinners that showcase Montana's western heritage. Beyond the rodeo action, visitors can participate in running races, bike competitions, and enjoy a quickdraw art contest.
7. Dauna's Deli
HOMESTYLE LOCAL EATERY
Dauna's Deli serves as a beloved local gathering spot offering hearty sandwiches, soups, and homemade desserts in Stanford. The deli prides itself on using quality ingredients and providing friendly service in a comfortable, casual atmosphere. Visitors and locals alike appreciate the consistent quality and welcoming environment that makes this eatery a Stanford staple.
8. Steven E. Lillegard Studio and Foundry
WESTERN ART CREATION
Steven E. Lillegard Studio and Foundry showcases the work of this renowned Montana sculptor known for his Western-themed bronze pieces. Visitors can observe the artistic process from clay modeling to finished bronze works in this working studio. The gallery displays Lillegard's detailed sculptures depicting cowboys, Native Americans, wildlife, and scenes from Montana's history and landscape.
9. C.M. Russell Auto Tour
SCENIC HISTORICAL DRIVE
The C.M. Russell Auto Tour offers a self-guided driving experience through landscapes that inspired the famous Western artist Charles M. Russell. The route takes travelers through the rolling plains, mountains, and rangelands that Russell captured in his iconic paintings and sculptures. Along the way, interpretive signs highlight historical sites and natural features that connect visitors to both Montana's past and Russell's artistic legacy.
10. Hughes Mountain Ranch
AUTHENTIC RANCH EXPERIENCE
Hughes Mountain Ranch provides visitors with an authentic Montana ranching experience near Stanford. Guests can participate in cattle drives, horseback riding, and learn about sustainable ranching practices firsthand from experienced ranchers. The ranch offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and prairies while providing insight into Montana's agricultural heritage.
11. Grandview Trail
BREATHTAKING MOUNTAIN HIKE
Grandview Trail is a scenic 3.5-mile hiking path that climbs steadily from Crystal Lake to Grandview Point at elevations between 6,000 and 7,000 feet. The trail rewards hikers with spectacular panoramic views of central Montana's mountains, valleys, and prairie landscapes. Outdoor enthusiasts appreciate this moderately challenging trail for its natural beauty, wildlife viewing opportunities, and access to the pristine wilderness of the Little Belt Mountains.
12. Judith Basin County Free Library
COMMUNITY KNOWLEDGE CENTER
The Judith Basin County Free Library serves as a vital community resource offering books, digital media, and internet access to Stanford residents and visitors. The library hosts regular events including children's story times, book clubs, and educational programs throughout the year. Beyond its collection, the library provides a welcoming space for community gatherings and serves as a repository for local history and information.
13. Crystal Lake Recreation Area
MOUNTAIN LAKE GETAWAY
Crystal Lake Recreation Area features a beautiful alpine lake surrounded by forested mountains just a short drive from Stanford. Visitors can enjoy fishing for rainbow and cutthroat trout, hiking nearby trails, and camping in the peaceful mountain setting. The recreation area is especially popular during summer months when wildflowers bloom and the crystal-clear waters provide relief from the heat.
14. Basin Trading Post
LOCAL GOODS AND GROCERIES
Basin Trading Post serves as Stanford's essential general store offering groceries, supplies, and local Montana products. The trading post provides travelers and residents with necessary provisions while also featuring unique regional items and souvenirs. Visitors appreciate the friendly service and authentic small-town Montana shopping experience found at this local establishment.
15. Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument
WILD RIVER LANDSCAPES
The Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument preserves a spectacular segment of the Missouri River that looks much as it did when Lewis and Clark explored it in the early 1800s. The monument encompasses dramatic white cliffs, rugged badlands, and native prairie ecosystems spread across 375,000 acres of protected land. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing while experiencing one of America's most historically significant and naturally beautiful waterways.