Welcome to Three Forks, Montana — where rivers meet and adventures begin! Nestled at the headwaters of the Missouri River, this charming small town is rich in natural beauty, history, and western hospitality. Whether you’re exploring the trails and trout-filled waters, stepping back in time at the Missouri Headwaters State Park, or enjoying local shops, events, and eateries, Three Forks offers the perfect blend of outdoor recreation and small-town charm. From Lewis and Clark history to rodeos and river sunsets, there’s something here for every explorer.
Distance and Estimated Time from Helena:
69 Miles (taking US-12 & US-287)
1hr 15 min
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Shops and attractions worth stopping into when visiting Three Forks:
Headwaters Heritage Museum
Native American art and artifacts, Lewis and Clark memorabilia, fur trader exhibits, mining and agriculture exhibits as well as exhibits of early settlers and businesses, veterans, homemakers and much more.
Be Lazy Quilting
Great quilt shop owned and operated by husband and wife team.
Iron Horse Cafe & Pie Shop
Veteran-owned and operated since 2018, this award-winning café has a scratch-made menu and mouthwatering pies baked daily by the owner herself — the one and only Three Forks Pie Lady.
Wheat Montana Bakery & Deli
Enjoy fresh bread, legendary cinnamon rolls, and farm-to-table goodness that’s proudly made in Montana and shared across the country.
Stageline Pizza
For a true flavor of the city, try some of Three Forks’s top dishes. See what all the fuss is about with these local favorites. Don’t miss the chance to try the popular Cheese Pizza. It’s a classic for a reason.
Bridger Brewing
Brewing delicious beer, making great food, and creating community gathering places that give back and inspire others to do the same.
Sawdust & Steel Brewing
A small-town brewery with deliciously creative craft beers owned by a construction company.
Three Forks Saddlery
A cornerstone of western craftsmanship, offering custom-made saddles of unmatched quality, a full line of tack and gear, and a true Montana welcome to cowboys, cowgirls, and horse lovers of all kinds
LaHood Park Steakhouse (25 minutes from Three Forks / 30 minutes from Butte)
Every dish served is Montana Made — from sourcing Certified Angus Beef and working with local ranchers and farmers.
Helena, East Helena, Townsend, Three Forks,
Boulder, Montana City & Clancy, back to Helena