Welcome to Big Timber
Wide open spaces and dream homes in the mountains
Timber Creek received its namesake in honor of the large cottonwoods first noted by William Clark on The Corps of Discovery expedition. The cottonwood trees grew along the creek, and Clark named it "Timber Creek." Big Timber's name reflects the town's natural abundance of wood and rivers and is also named in their honor. Outside of town, this area is flanked on three sides by stretches of the Absaroka and Crazy Mountain Ranges. The rest of Big Timber is on the prairie and right on Yellowstone. The town saw its population flourish when the 1883 Northern Pacific River railway stopped there. Big Timber has a history of farming and ranching. In more recent times, people have mined the area for platinum. Its prime location, where the Boulder and Yellowstone Rivers intersect at the base of two mountain ranges, makes it an excellent vacation spot or a quiet place to establish a home.
What to Love
- Fast-paced life in a true Montana racing community
- The West Boulder River and its natural bridge
- Hunting, fishing, and shopping not far from home
- Appreciating both the thrills and peace of nature
- Unique pubs and festivals celebrating life in Montana
Local Lifestyle
People who live in Big Timber tend to enjoy the scenery, explore the great outdoors, and like rural ranching traditions. This part of Montana is home to many rodeos, and residents appreciate livestock and local festivals. Big Timber homeowners often relish roaming the quiet prairie and living in small settlements in the mountains.
Dining, Entertainment, and Shopping
The Thirsty Turtle Burgers & BBQ has some laid-back dining options and an excellent drink menu. The Iron Star Pizza Company has outdoor firepits and the best pizza around. For craft brew, Crazy Peak Brewing Company has local beer and is a great place to unwind. The Sweet Grass Fest has been held in town for over 100 years and involves an exciting two-night rodeo show, parade, car show, and an annual run. The Big Timber Weekly Pro Rodeo is on Wednesday nights and hosted by JS Rodeo Company, which has 50 years of experience in the business. Often, locals drive to other small towns for their unique restaurants and establishments. For example, Holly's Road Kill Saloon is a little bar and grill in McLeod with an authentic Old West-style design, and many Big Timber locals recommend it.
Things to Do
Big Timber has events that can only be found in Montana, such as the rodeo festivals and other outdoor gatherings put on by the local towns. The Big Timber Pro Rodeo is held at the Sweet Grass Country Fairgrounds with two action-packed nights in June. The Cow Country Stampede is a 4-mile run (or walk, depending on what the participant chooses) held in Melville, which is slightly north of town. Also nearby and truly worth a visit is the Sheep Drive in Reed Road, where sheep run through the town of Columbus, and residents celebrate with live music, games, and a parade. In Big Timber, the Sweet Grass Brewfest is at the Lions Club Park, also home to the Farmers' Market from July to September on Friday nights. Whether it's in Big Timber proper or just outside of town, there are endless activities and fun events in this historic frontier town.
