Bannack State Park

Bannack State Park is a National Historic Landmark and the site of Montana's first major gold discovery on July 28, 1862. This strike set off a massive gold rush that swelled Bannack's population to over 3,000 by 1863. As the easy to mine gold steadily dwindled, Bannack's bustling population slowly declined till no one was left. Over 50 buildings line Main Street; their historic log and frame structures recall Montana's formative years.

A walk down the deserted streets of Bannack evokes a feeling of the realities faced in the 'Old West.' Bannack is the best preserved of all Montana ghost towns -- being preserved rather than restored, protected rather than exploited.