This wild and remote area, which spans 149 miles of the Upper Missouri River and includes six wilderness study areas, makes for an ideal spot to see Montana’s epic star show. You’ll also find an incredible array of biological, geological and historical discoveries throughout the Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument.

The Missouri River segment and corridor were designated a National Wild and Scenic River in 1976, and it has remained largely unchanged since Lewis and Clark explored the region, i.e., dark skies abound here—and there are a good number of camping sites to park your gear for the night.

Planning to get out on the water? Find an extensive boaters' guide for the Upper Missouri River Breaks here.

During the Day

• Fish, float and boat the Missouri River.
• Visit the Missouri Breaks Interpretive Center and Museums & Heritage Complex in Fort Benton.
• Go for a scenic drive along the Back Country Byway. Note that the byway, which consists of gravel and unimproved roads, becomes impassable when wet.

Photo: Tony Bynum

Getting there

The "Breaks" begins at historic Fort Benton on HWY 87 and ends 149 miles away on HWY 191 where the Robinson Bridge crosses the Missouri River.