JACKSON, Montana Community Information

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  Town Overview

  Photo courtesy: John Ansotegui

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  Jackson Hot Springs

  Photo courtesy: Jackson Hot Springs

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  Montana Snowkite Rodeo

  Photo courtesy: Montana Kite Sports

Jackson is on the Big Hole River twenty miles from Idaho by snowshoe and forty-five by automobile. The area, now a famous winter sports resort, was named for Anton Jackson, who also served as the first postmaster in 1896. (from Cheney's Names on the Face of Montana, Mountain Press Publishing Company)

Jackson lies on the valley floor near the headwaters of the Big Hole River. The valley is considered by many to be the finest outdoor recreation area in the state. The town is surrounded by several mountain ranges with numerous streams and high mountain lakes. The fishing, hunting hiking, skiing, and snowmobiling are all exceptional!

Jackson Hot Springs Lodge offers cabins, a full service restaurant and features a spectacular natural hot springs mineral pool.

Jackson is host for the Montana Snowkite Rodeo where freestyle and racing event attracts competitors from multiple countries including powerkiters from Norway, Canada, Sweden and the United States.

Jackson is near the Big Hole National Battlefield. The Battle of the Big Hole on August 9 and 10, 1877, was a turning point of the Nez Perce War, a five-month war in which U.S. Army forces tried to place one third of the Nez Perce tribe on a reservation. Ranger conducted programs are offered in summer; introductory presentations and exhibits are available year-round.

Bannack State Park is also near Jackson. It is a registered historic landmark and the site of Montana's first major gold discovery on July 28, 1862. There are over 50 buildings that line Main Street with their historic log and frame structures that recall Montana's formative years.