BANNACK
Bannack is a National Historic Landmark. In the summer of 1862, John White and fellow members of a group from Colorado, discovered gold along the banks of a creek he named the Grasshopper. White filed one of the first recorded mining claims in Montana.
The mining camp boomed to 400 within a few months to 3,000 within 6. Approx. $500,000 in gold was taken out of the area by the end of 1862.
One of Bannack's more famous stories is it's part in the story of the criminal gang known as the "Innocents” and the the Vigilantes who reigned them in in 1863. More Info.
This area is pretty remote, we recommend stopping in Dillon to stock up and pack yourself a lunch to enjoy in Bannack.
Bannack does have a campground on site.
BIG HOLE VALLEY
The Big Hole Valley is a vast, lush meadow surrounded by stunning peaks, showcasing the meandering Big Hole River. It is home to the Big Hole National Battlefield, the site of the 1877 conflict between the Nez Pierce and the US Army.
There is not a lot of services in the Big Hole Valley, which makes Wisdom and Jackson key points along your route to refuel your bike and your body for your adventures. There isn't much in the way of grocery options besides the small market in Wisdom and the mercantile in Wise River, so you may want to make a stop in a bigger town and stock up before heading this direction.
The Pioneer Scenic Byway is HIGHLY recommended, from Polaris to Wise River, however it was still to early in the season when we passed through to ride it. I have had the pleasure of riding it before though. There is a hot spring. As well as some hidden ghost town sites for those willing to search for them.
THE BITTERROOT VALLEY
Chief Joseph Pass and Lost Trail Pass are well known motorcycle roads in Western Montana, but it would be a disservice if we didn't mention them. Their junction is also the border of Idaho and Montana.