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Discover the Garnet Ghost Town Historic Mining Tour in Montana

Located near Drummond, Montana, high in the Garnet Mountains, the Garnet Ghost Town Historic Mining Tour offers visitors a preserved look at one of Montana’s best-kept gold mining towns. This self-guided historic mining tour allows guests to walk original wooden boardwalks, explore restored buildings, and experience the rugged realities of late 19th-century frontier industry.

Visitors can enter former saloons, hotels, general stores, and miners’ cabins while learning how gold discovery transformed this remote mountain settlement into a bustling boomtown.

Why it’s special: Garnet is one of Montana’s most intact ghost towns, with dozens of original structures preserved by the Bureau of Land Management, offering an authentic and immersive mining-era experience.

History & Story of Garnet Ghost Town

Gold was discovered in the Garnet Range in the 1860s, and by the 1890s the town of Garnet had grown into a thriving mining community. At its peak, Garnet supported hundreds of residents, complete with hotels, stores, saloons, and family homes.

When gold production declined in the early 20th century, the town gradually emptied. Unlike many mining towns that were dismantled or destroyed, Garnet remained largely intact. Today, it stands as one of Montana’s most preserved ghost towns, offering insight into frontier mining life and early industrial extraction.

What You’ll See & Do on the Garnet Ghost Town Historic Mining Tour

• Walk through original 19th-century wooden buildings
• Explore the former Wells Hotel and Kelly’s Saloon
• View historic homes and miners’ cabins
• Learn about hard-rock gold mining techniques
• See mining relics and equipment remnants
• Experience panoramic mountain views surrounding the town

Hands-On Elements: Primarily observational; interactive interpretive displays available in select buildings.

Photo/Video Policy: Photography permitted throughout the site.

Souvenirs & Extras: Visitor center offers informational materials and limited merchandise; no large retail facilities on-site.

Pricing of the Garnet Ghost Town Historic Mining Tour

Adult price: $5 per adult

Fees are typically collected at the site; children may be admitted at a reduced rate.

Visiting information for Garnet Ghost Town Historic Mining Tour

Duration: Approximately 1–2 hours depending on pace

Age limits: All ages welcome

Accessibility: Limited accessibility due to uneven terrain, boardwalks, and historic structures

Working Hours: Monday–Sunday 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM (seasonal access; typically late spring through early fall)

Road access may vary depending on weather conditions; check conditions before visiting.

Nearby attractions to Garnet Ghost Town Historic Mining Tour

• Clark Fork River
• Drummond City Park
• Flint Creek Range scenic drives

FAQs About Visiting the Garnet Ghost Town Historic Mining Tour

Is Garnet accessible year-round?
Access is typically seasonal, with primary road access available during warmer months. Winter visits may require special arrangements or snow travel.

How far is Garnet from Missoula?
Garnet is approximately 40–45 minutes east of Missoula by car, followed by a drive up a mountain road.

Are the buildings original?
Yes. Many of Garnet’s structures are original and have been stabilized and preserved.

Is the road to Garnet paved?
The final stretch includes unpaved mountain roads, which can be rough depending on conditions.

Can I explore inside the buildings?
Yes. Many buildings are open to visitors, though some areas may be restricted for safety.