Once considered "the richest hill on Earth", the town of Butte, MT is still a joy to visit, even long after the gold has disappeared. This southwestern Montana town sits amid the Rocky Mountains on the Continental Divide, providing not only breathtaking scenery but also access to myriad mountain lakes, rivers, national forests, and lots of other places where travelers can revel in the great outdoors.

Hikers love the abundant public land and the accompanying trails, such as the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail and the Nez Perce Historic Trail. Anglers can take advantage of blue ribbon trout fishing at the nearby Big Hole River as well as other rivers east of the Divide, like the Madison, Gallatin, Yellowstone, and Missouri. Local outfitters can provide information on where to find the best fly fishing spots as you travel through this part of Montana.

Butte's Uptown area is on the National Register of Historic Places and certainly worth checking out on your travels through this pretty city. This area of town boasts a handful of interesting museums, churches, and historic mansions that are fun to explore on a self-guided walking tour. And don't miss a chance to view "Our Lady of the Rockies", Butte's answer to the Statue of Liberty!