Sluice Boxes State Park

Quick Facts

Montana

(406) 454-5840

Map Directions

Things To Do

Overview

Remains of mines, a railroad, and historic cabins line Belt Creek as it winds through a beautiful canyon carved in limestone. A primitive, unmaintained trail provides access to fishing, challenging floats, and wildlife viewing. Steep cliffs, rugged terrain, and cold, swift water may pose risks to visitors. Please use caution while hiking and floating in the park. A Backcountry Campsite Permit is required to camp in this park. Check with Fish, Wildlife & Parks staff in the Great Falls office when planning your trip. This rugged area has seen its share of prospectors searching for precious metals, miners, muleskinners, smeltermen and railroaders building bridges. The Barker mines and the Montana Central Railroad are just a part of the rich history of this park. Long before the mines opened, the railroad was built, and white settlers and ranchers came to what now comprises Sluice Boxes State Park, several tribes of Indians that still live in present-day Montana occupied and managed the natural resources of the area. These tribes include the Blackfeet, Salish, Pend d'Oreille, Kootenai, Gros Ventre, Crow, Assiniboine, Chippewa-Cree, and Little Shell Band of Chippewa.

Map of Sluice Boxes (MT)

Latitude, Longitude: 47.172561, -110.947838

Boating
Non-motorized boats and floating only are permitted in this park. Cold, swift water may pose risks to visitors, please use caution when floating.
Camping
Camping is allowed only with a backcountry permit, available from Fish, Wildlife & Parks staff in the Great Falls office.
Fishing
A primitive, unmaintained trail provides access to fishing.
Hiking
Three miles of primitive, unmaintained trails allow hikers to explore this rugged wilderness.
Historic Sites
Remains of mines, a railroad, and historic cabins line Belt Creek as it winds through a beautiful canyon carved in limestone. This rugged area has seen its share of prospectors searching for precious metals, miners, muleskinners, smeltermen and railroaders building bridges. The Barker mines and the Montana Central Railroad are just a part of the rich history of this park. Contact the park for a schedule of interpretive programs.
Picnicking
Picnicking is a common activity here.
Wildlife Watching
A primitive, unmaintained trail provides access to wildlife viewing. You will definitely want your camera handy when you spend a day or a weekend in this remote setting.