Milltown
United States, Montana
About Milltown
Milltown State Park encompasses 60 acres at the confluence of the Blackfoot and Clark Fork rivers near Missoula in Missoula County. The park was created following the removal of Milltown Dam and extensive Superfund remediation, transforming a contaminated site into a recreation area.
Wildlife Ecosystems
The restored river confluence supports native trout including bull trout and westslope cutthroat trout. Ospreys and bald eagles fish the rivers. The restored riparian area attracts diverse birdlife, and white-tailed deer utilize the area.
Flora Ecosystems
Extensive revegetation with native plants has transformed the former reservoir site. Cottonwoods, willows, and native shrubs are establishing along the restored riverbanks. Native grasses and wildflowers cover the uplands.
Geology
The park sits at the confluence of two major western Montana rivers. Milltown Dam, built in 1907, trapped millions of cubic yards of sediment contaminated with heavy metals from upstream mining at Butte and Anaconda. The dam was removed in 2008.
Climate And Weather
The Missoula area experiences cold winters and warm, dry summers typical of western Montana valleys. Annual precipitation averages about 14 inches. Valley inversions can occur in winter.
Human History
Milltown Dam was built in 1907 to generate electricity. Over a century, contaminated sediments from upstream mining accumulated behind the dam. Groundwater contamination threatened Milltown's water supply, leading to Superfund designation.
Park History
Milltown State Park opened in 2018 following one of the largest dam removal and environmental restoration projects in American history. The park represents the transformation of a contaminated industrial site into a public recreation area.
Major Trails And Attractions
The confluence of the Blackfoot and Clark Fork rivers is the centerpiece. Trails explore the restored landscape with interpretive signs explaining the remediation story. Fishing access and river recreation are available.
Visitor Facilities And Travel
The park offers trails, fishing access, and interpretive displays. It is located at the junction of Highways 200 and 10, about 7 miles east of Missoula.
Conservation And Sustainability
The park is a national model for environmental restoration. The dam removal restored fish passage and natural river processes. Ongoing monitoring ensures contamination remains controlled. The park tells the story of environmental harm and recovery.
Visitor Ratings
Overall: 60/100
Photos
3 photos
Frequently Asked Questions
Milltown is located in Montana, United States at coordinates 46.871289, -113.898157.
To get to Milltown, the nearest city is Bonner (0 mi), and the nearest major city is Missoula (5 mi).
Milltown covers approximately 2.57 square kilometers (1 square miles).
Milltown was established in 2018.
Milltown has an accessibility rating of 90/100 based on visitor reviews. The park offers good accessibility features for most visitors.
Milltown has a wildlife rating of 52/100. Wildlife sightings are possible but may require patience. Check recent reviews for current wildlife activity.
Milltown has a beauty rating of 55/100 from visitor reviews. The park has its own unique charm and natural features.
Based on visitor ratings, Milltown has an accessibility score of 90/100 and a safety score of 82/100. These ratings suggest the park is suitable for families with children.
