This Remote Montana Town Feels Like It Could Belong in Europe

Montana is home to some breathtaking small towns. From Whitefish to West Yellowstone, the Treasure State is where you will find incredible places to escape and get away. Dillon is one small town in southwestern Montana that may not be at the top of your list of places worth visiting but I am about to change your mind. In fact, there are spots in and around Dillon that may just transport you overseas—these are places that remind you of destinations in Europe. Dillon is a destination worthy of any bucket list. Let me tell you why.

Dillon, Montana, is home to approximately 4,100 people. It’s the largest city in the region and a quick road trip stop for many people traveling on Interstate 15. However, if you stop and stay for a while, you will realize that this town has much to discover, from natural wonders and picturesque landscapes to incredible food.

As you first drive into town, you’ll feel more like you’ve stepped into the Wild West. The main streets are lined with historic buildings, and the town certainly feels like it moves at a slower pace. You’ll find locally owned shops with friendly faces behind the counters and unique items on the shelves.

And when you are hungry, dining in this town can transport your taste buds to a dreamy vacation. Start your day off with coffee and pastries from Sweetwater Coffee, where you’ll enjoy a vibe similar to that of a cozy French café. Then, you can end your day at restaurants like The Den Steakhouse and Bar or the Knotty Pine Tavern, where you’ll find incredible food and drinks, welcoming staff, and the atmosphere of a British pub.

However, the thing I love most about Dillon is the long list of things to do outdoors near the town and in the Beaverhead Valley. In fact, multiple state parks are just a short drive from Dillon, including Beaverhead Rock State Park, Clark’s Lookout State Park, and Bannack State Park. Each one has something special to admire, but Clark’s Lookout State Park is one of our favorites. During a visit here, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported far away. This state park is small and packed with history. Spend some time at the lookout and enjoy sweeping views everywhere you look.

For even more time outdoors, put on your hiking shoes and tackle a trail like the Gorge Lakes Trail. This hike is a short drive from Dillon, is approximately 7 miles long, and boasts a climb of more than 1,700 feet. It is a quiet trail with tall mountains surrounding the clear water. The picturesque scenery resembles what you’ll see visiting alpine lakes in Austria, Switzerland, or even Germany.

Of course, this is just the beginning of outdoor adventures near Dillon as there’s ice fishing, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing to do in the winter. Fall brings leaf-peeping opportunities, and summer is filled with golfing, camping, and horseback riding. Throughout the year, this town hosts events for all ages, and you can create memories driving along the Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway, visiting nearby ghost towns, and watching wildlife at the nearby Red Rocks Lakes National Wildlife Refuge.

Okay, it may be a stretch to say a visit to Dillon, Montana, is just like taking a European vacation, but there are a handful of places full of beauty, delicious food, and a relaxing vibe like you will find in many countries overseas. Spend a few days in this small Montana town and see for yourself.