Missouri River Overlook (Fort Benton)

If you are traveling on US Highway 87 between Great Falls and Havre, this will be your only chance to view the Missouri River. You will also have an uninterrupted line of sight to the Highwood and Belt Mountain ranges to the south.

This is also the likely perspective Meriwether Lewis had when Sgt. Ordway’s detachment paddled down the Missouri on their way to the rendezvous location at the Marias River. Lewis and his three men were fleeing from a fatal encounter with the Blackfeet, so the relief he felt is palpable when one imagines the scene from this overlook. For more, see at our educational website, Fight on the Two Medicine.

Several interpretive panels tell the story of the Lewis and Clark Expedition passing through here in June 1805 and July 1806. The pull-off also provides a rare chance to use your cell phone.

Address: 38870 US-87, Fort Benton, MT 59442