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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.