Pine and juniper trees shape the badlands formations at Makoshika State Park. At the same time, the Late Cretaceous Hell Creek Formation is exposed throughout the park. Landscape and geology are right alongside each other here: visitors interested in how the region was shaped and its geological history will find a tangible starting point before heading to museums, art or activities on the water.
Fossils and Dinosaurs
The Glendive Dinosaur and Fossil Museum features more than 23 life-size dinosaur and fossil exhibits. It also offers full- or half-day fossil digs in the badlands near Glendive. Individuals, families and small groups can learn about, identify, collect and interpret fossils. The digs explicitly present these topics from a biblical creationist perspective. If you would like to take part, confirm reservation requirements and eligibility in advance. This distinguishes a museum visit from a dig, which requires its own planning. Glendive also has two stops on the Montana Dinosaur Trail.
Museums, Art and Regional History
The Frontier Gateway Museum’s exhibits span prehistory through the 20th century. The museum includes two country stores, a blacksmith shop, a log cabin and a restored rural schoolhouse. The Talking Trail experience complements the tour with interpretive signs, a mobile app or phone access. Since digital access options can change, it’s a good idea to check which ones are currently available before your visit.
The Lewis and Clark Interpretive Kiosk and DCAU/The Gallery focus on other topics. The kiosk shares information about Clark on the Yellowstone River in 1806, as well as cattle drives, camps of Indigenous peoples and the railroad’s influence on the development of eastern Montana. The Gallery features a different artist or work in monthly rotating exhibitions. It also provides space for art and craft classes. Together, these topics range from long-term historical developments to changing artistic works.
Along the Yellowstone River and on the Water
The Historic Bell Street Bridge is a 1,300-foot steel truss structure that serves as a pedestrian and bicycle crossing over the Yellowstone River. It pairs a striking engineering landmark with a practical way to cross the river. On the riverbank near Black Bridge, you can go for a walk and look for agates; river conditions can vary. Hollecker Lake is a day-use area managed by Dawson County Public Works, with opportunities for fishing and swimming. The three offerings have different draws: crossing on foot or by bicycle, a walk with the chance to look for agates, or time at the lake fishing and swimming. Check local conditions before your visit.
Activities and Getting Here
The Glendive Short Pine OHV Area covers 2,800 acres. It has trails for off-highway vehicles, as well as opportunities for rockhounding, wildlife viewing and camping. Check current conditions and restrictions before riding. This offering is quite different from walking, cycling or visiting the water: it’s for travelers interested in motorized off-highway vehicles and other outdoor activities.
Dawson County Airport offers fuel, parking, hangars, a passenger terminal with lounge, a courtesy car, public phones, restrooms and camping. Since airport services can change, it’s a good idea to check in advance which services are relevant to your trip. For the other experiences, it’s also worth checking the applicable participation requirements or access options if you’re planning an activity such as the fossil dig or Talking Trail.
Discover more destinations: Glendive, Richey, Treasure County, Powder River County, Glacier, Cascade, Prairie County, Stillwater County.
For the main travel overview: Montana.
