Anaconda and Philipsburg Area
The Anaconda and Philipsburg Area encompasses the Pintler Mountains and offers incredible recreation during every season with Discovery Ski Area and Georgetown Lake at the center. Anaconda was founded by Copper King Marcus Daly while Philipsburg was founded as a trading center. This area is known for gem mining.
Anaconda and Philipsburg Area Communities
Anaconda was built by Copper King Marcus Daly and quickly gained fame as the Smelter City. History, while rich, is not Anaconda’s only claim to fame and today you will find a lively community complete with a craft brewery, multiple state parks, and one of the state’s premier golf courses. Recreation of all kinds rests at your fingertips and a drive along the Pintler Veterans’ Memorial Scenic Byway is not easily forgotten.
Drummond sits at the northern end of the Pintler Veterans’ Memorial Scenic Byway known as one of the state’s most beautiful drives. Along the drive you will find Philipsburg, Georgetown Lake, and Anaconda. If you make your way east toward Missoula, you will find Garnet Ghost Town, one of the best preserved ghost towns in Montana. Hungry? Swing by Parkers’ Family Restaurant for one of over 135 different burgers!
As you come to the northern end of Montana Highway 1, the Pinter Veterans Memorial Scenic Highway, you’ll find the small community of Hall. Montana Highway 1 is a beautiful drive and the perfect road trip as it leads you through Philipsburg by Georgetown Lake and into Anaconda. Hall was originally called “Hall’s Crossing” as the Northern Pacific Railroad created a branch line through the area in 1877.
Philipsburg is largely surrounded by the Beaverhead-Deer Lodge National Forest. As you can imagine, this means that recreation abounds in the area. Georgetown Lake, Discovery Ski Area, and Flint Creek are all popular outdoor destinations. Above all else, Philipsburg is known for its rich sapphire mines. Try your hand at prospecting or simply wander in to one of the town’s jewelry shops!
Warm Springs located near Deer Lodge, Butte and Anaconda was named for the nearby hot springs. Nearby Lost Creek State Park features spectacular grey limestone cliffs that rise 1,200 feet above the canyon's narrow floor. The Pintler Scenic Route, a 63-mile drive, starts in nearby Anaconda.
Recreate Responsibly
We’re committed to keeping Montana’s outdoor spaces, communities, residents, and visitors safe. As you enjoy all the area has to offer, please join us in following these guidelines for responsible recreation.
- Know before you go
- Practice physical distancing
- Plan ahead
- Play it safe
- Explore locally
- Leave no trace
- Build an inclusive outdoors
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