The visitor center at Grant-Kohrs Ranch is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM from Memorial Day to Labor Day, and from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM the rest of the year, except for Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.
There is no entrance fee to visit Grant–Kohrs Ranch National Historic Site. It is free year-round.
From Deer Lodge, take Interstate 90, exit 187 or 184, and drive a short distance to Grant Circle, immersing yourself in the historic heart of the American West.
Parking is available in the visitor center lot, with pull-through spaces for large vehicles and RVs, but no overnight parking. Accessible parking is near the main ranch house. No parking fees. Motorcycles and smaller vehicles fit in regular spaces. Leashed dogs allowed in parking lot.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Full
In the heart of Montana’s Deer Lodge Valley, the Grant–Kohrs Ranch National Historic Site stands as a living testament to the American West’s rich cattle ranching heritage. This 1,618-acre working ranch, established in 1862 by Canadian fur trader Johnny Grant and later expanded by cattle baron Conrad Kohrs, once served as the headquarters of a vast 10 million acre cattle empire.
The landscape, sculpted by retreating glaciers, is a tapestry of rolling hills, meandering streams, and the serene Clark Fork River. Flanked by Mount Powell and Thunderbolt Mountain, the valley’s natural beauty is a backdrop for a historical narrative that spans centuries. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in the culture and practice of ranching, from the open range days of the 1800s to the modern ranching techniques of the early 20th century.
Seasonal changes paint the valley in vibrant hues: spring brings blooming wildflowers, summer warmth invites exploration of historic trails, autumn colors the hills in golden tones, and winter blankets the land in a serene silence. The site is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, and birds, adding to the natural allure.
The ranch’s historic buildings and working landscapes offer a glimpse into the lives of its past inhabitants. Visitors can engage with ranger-led tours, witness traditional ranching practices, and explore the valley’s archaeological sites that reveal the ancient presence of Native American tribes such as the Pend d’Oreille, Flathead, and Shoshone.
Nearby, the charming town of Deer Lodge beckons with its local artisan shops and historic charm. For those seeking more adventure, local outfitters provide opportunities for horseback riding and fishing in the Clark Fork River, renowned for its trout. As the sun sets over the valley, the air is filled with the sounds of nature and the whispers of history, making Grant–Kohrs Ranch a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to experience the authentic heart of the American West.
- Area (mi²)
- 2.5
- Annual visitors
- 27 000
- Established year
- 1862
Top 3 Facts about Grant–Kohrs Ranch National Historic Site
Johnny Grant, the founder, had a complex family life, fathering 21 children by seven different mothers and adopting many more, reflecting his extensive interactions with various Native American tribes during his travels across the Northwest.
In this verdant Montana landscape, over 230 bird species, including great blue herons, bald and golden eagles, and woodpeckers, thrive alongside deer, elk, and moose. Trout and whitefish inhabit the Clark Fork River, while beavers, muskrats, and coyotes find home in the surrounding willows. The ranch’s 1600 acres and adjacent conservation easement preserve a rich tapestry of wildlife, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
Surrounded by the rolling hills and vast open spaces of western Montana, this historic site is set against the backdrop of the Clark Fork river, whose crystal-clear waters flow gently through the landscape. The nearby mountains, part of the Rocky Mountain range, rise to heights of over 9,000 feet, creating a dramatic contrast to the ranch’s serene valleys. The area’s unique geology features limestone and sandstone formations, sculpted by centuries of erosion. During summer, the temperatures can soar, while winters bring crisp, cold air, adding to the rugged beauty of this untouched terrain.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Self-guided Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Living History & Cultural Demos
- Arts & Crafts
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Plan a summer visit to avoid crowds, especially during the Living History Days event. Arrive early, bring mosquito repellent, and pack a meal; trails are varied, so wear sturdy shoes and rest often. Stop by the visitor center first to map out your day.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for variable mountain weather, sturdy hiking boots, and a daypack with essentials like water, snacks, and a first-aid kit. For camping, bring a tent, sleeping bag, and headlamp. Check the season for specific gear needs.
Respect Wildlife
Maintain a safe distance from wildlife, at least 25 yards, to avoid stressing them. Stay on designated trails to protect habitats and minimize noise to prevent startling animals. Respect nesting sites and avoid feeding wildlife. Obey speed limits and watch for animals crossing roads, especially during peak migration seasons.
Stay Informed
Stay on marked trails, avoid ledges and fast water, and check weather and fire alerts. For emergencies, call 911 or park rangers at 406-683-3900. Be aware of seasonal temperature changes and follow all park signs and advisories.
Seasons
In spring, witness the open range come alive with the Branding Event in July, as cowboys rope and brand calves. Mild temperatures, 60s-70s Fahrenheit, and blooming landscapes make it an ideal time to experience historic ranching traditions and hiking trails.
Experience summer’s warm days (70s-80s°F) and mild evenings at this historic ranch. Join the Summer Youth Explorer Programs from June to August, featuring events like Cowboy Cooking and Nature’s Paint Pallet. Enjoy living history demonstrations, chuckwagon talks, and starry nights around the campfire. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a unique and educational adventure.
Experience the rustic charm of a historic cattle ranch in the fall, with crisp temperatures in the 40s-60s°F. Enjoy Pumpkin Sunday in October, featuring fall activities and pumpkin picking, amidst the scenic autumn landscape. Ideal for a serene and immersive visit.
Experience the rugged beauty of winter from November to February, with temperatures often below 0°F and frequent snow. Despite the harsh conditions, witness the historical ranch in a serene, snowy landscape, a true testament to the resilience of the frontier era.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Grant–Kohrs Ranch National Historic Site has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest city to the site is Deer Lodge, Montana, which is located on the northwest edge of the town along Interstate 90. Deer Lodge is midway between Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks.
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Dogs are allowed but only in the main parking lot and must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet. They are not permitted in areas around the ranch house, on the nature trail, or in other main attraction areas. However, there are free outdoor dog kennels available for dogs while owners tour the site.
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Parking is free at this site. You can park your camper, trailer, motorhome, or any other vehicle without a fee. The main parking lot is where you’ll find the visitor center.
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The ranch was established by John Grant in 1862 in the Deer Lodge Valley, Montana, where he built a large house and raised thousands of cattle and horses. In 1866, Grant sold the ranch to Conrad Kohrs, a German immigrant, and his brother John Bielenberg, who expanded the operation into a vast horse and cattle enterprise across four states and two Canadian provinces by 1900. After Kohrs’s and Bielenberg’s deaths, the ranch was managed by Kohrs’s grandson Conrad Warren, who ran it until it was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1960 and later purchased by the National Park Service in 1972, opening as a park in 1977.