Stillwater Mining Company Visitor Tour — Columbus, Montana

Discover the Stillwater Mining Company Visitor Tour in Montana

Located near Columbus, Montana, along the Stillwater River, the Stillwater Mining Company Visitor Tour offers a rare look into one of the United States’ primary platinum and palladium mining operations. This industrial mining tour experience highlights modern underground extraction, ore processing systems, and the role of critical minerals in global manufacturing.

Visitors learn how platinum group metals are mined, transported, and refined for use in automotive catalytic converters, electronics, and advanced industrial applications—all while gaining insight into Montana’s ongoing role in strategic mineral production.

Why it’s special: Stillwater Mining Company operates one of the few platinum and palladium mines in the United States, making it a key site for understanding modern critical mineral supply chains.

History & Story of Stillwater Mining Company

Established in the 1980s, Stillwater Mining Company began developing platinum and palladium deposits discovered in the Stillwater Complex of south-central Montana. Unlike traditional gold or copper mining operations, the company focuses on platinum group metals (PGMs), which are essential for emissions control technologies and advanced manufacturing.

Over time, the operation expanded underground mining infrastructure and processing facilities, positioning Montana as a significant contributor to domestic precious and strategic metal production.

What You’ll See & Do on the Stillwater Mining Company Visitor Tour

• Learn about underground platinum and palladium extraction methods
• View processing and concentrator operations (from designated areas)
• Discover how ore is transported and refined
• Understand the role of PGMs in modern automotive and electronics industries
• Explore safety protocols and environmental management systems
• Gain insight into Montana’s geological formations

Hands-On Elements: Educational presentations only; no direct equipment interaction.

Photo/Video Policy: Photography typically restricted due to safety and operational policies.

Souvenirs & Extras: No public gift shop; informational materials may be provided during arranged visits.

Pricing of the Stillwater Mining Company Visitor Tour

Adult price: $0 per adult (free)

Visits generally arranged for educational institutions, industry professionals, or scheduled groups.

Visiting information for Stillwater Mining Company Visitor Tour

Duration: Approximately 60–90 minutes when arranged

Age limits: May be restricted to older students and adults due to industrial safety requirements

Accessibility: Limited accessibility; terrain and industrial infrastructure may restrict mobility

Working Hours: Monday–Friday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Saturday–Sunday Closed

Advance coordination required; the site is not open for walk-in tourism.

Nearby attractions to Stillwater Mining Company Visitor Tour

• Stillwater River
• Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary (Red Lodge)
• Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness

FAQs About Visiting the Stillwater Mining Company Visitor Tour

What metals are mined at Stillwater?
The operation primarily produces platinum and palladium, both part of the platinum group metals.

Is this an underground mine?
Yes. The mining operations are primarily underground rather than open-pit.

Can the general public visit without booking?
No. Visits require prior coordination and are typically arranged for educational or professional groups.

Why are platinum and palladium important?
These metals are widely used in catalytic converters, electronics, and advanced industrial applications due to their unique chemical properties.

How far is Columbus from Billings?
Columbus is approximately 40 minutes west of Billings by car.