St. Ignatius MontanaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near St. Ignatius, Montana.
1. St. Ignatius Mission
HISTORIC RELIGIOUS LANDMARK
St. Ignatius Mission is a National Historic Site built in 1891 by American Indians and Jesuit missionaries. The mission features 58 hand-painted murals on its walls and ceiling created by Brother Joseph Carignano, a self-taught artist who worked as the mission's cook and handyman. Visitors can explore this beautiful religious landmark showcasing the rich history of collaboration between Native Americans and missionaries in the region.
2. Four Winds Indian Trading Post
NATIVE AMERICAN ARTIFACTS
Four Winds Indian Trading Post offers authentic Native American crafts, artwork, and cultural items in Saint Ignatius. Visitors can browse through traditional handcrafted goods including jewelry, pottery, and textiles created by local tribal artisans. The trading post serves as both a retail space and a cultural showcase of Native American heritage in the Mission Valley region.
3. CSKT Bison Range
WILDLIFE CONSERVATION AREA
The CSKT Bison Range is a wildlife conservation area managed by the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes located near Saint Ignatius. This expansive range provides habitat for American bison and other native wildlife species in a natural setting. Visitors can take a scenic drive through the property to observe bison herds, elk, deer, and various bird species in their natural habitat.
4. Garden of One Thousand Buddhas
SPIRITUAL PEACE GARDEN
Garden of One Thousand Buddhas is a public botanical garden and Buddhist center located near Saint Ignatius in Arlee. The garden features 1,000 hand-cast Buddha statues arranged in the pattern of an eight-spoked dharma wheel. This peaceful sanctuary welcomes visitors of all faiths to experience its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful mountain views.
5. Mission Mountains Wilderness
MAJESTIC MOUNTAIN RANGE
The Mission Mountains Wilderness provides a dramatic backdrop to Saint Ignatius with its towering peaks and pristine alpine landscape. This protected wilderness area offers numerous hiking trails, rock climbing opportunities, and stunning vistas of the surrounding valleys. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the area's crystal-clear lakes, dense forests, and abundant wildlife throughout the different seasons.
6. Three Chiefs Cultural Center
NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE
Three Chiefs Cultural Center showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Salish, Pend d'Oreille, and Kootenai tribes in Saint Ignatius. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring traditional artifacts, historical photographs, and contemporary Native American art. The center offers educational programs and cultural events that help preserve and promote the traditions of the Flathead Indian Reservation's indigenous communities.
7. McDonald Lake
SCENIC MOUNTAIN LAKE
McDonald Lake is a picturesque alpine lake nestled in the Mission Mountains near Saint Ignatius. The lake offers excellent fishing opportunities for trout species as well as kayaking, canoeing, and swimming during summer months. Surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery, McDonald Lake provides a perfect setting for photography, picnicking, and wildlife viewing.
8. Good Ol' Days Park
COMMUNITY GATHERING SPACE
Good Ol' Days Park serves as a central gathering place for community events and recreational activities in Saint Ignatius. The park hosts regular outdoor concerts, seasonal festivals, and family-friendly activities throughout the year. Located at 339 Mountain View Drive, this welcoming green space offers residents and visitors alike a place to relax and connect with the local community.
9. Bob Marshall Wilderness Ranch
AUTHENTIC WESTERN EXPERIENCE
Bob Marshall Wilderness Ranch offers authentic western experiences near Saint Ignatius with guided horseback riding excursions through Montana's backcountry. Guests can enjoy trail riding, fishing trips, and immersive ranch activities that showcase the region's cowboy heritage. The ranch provides visitors with opportunities to experience the natural beauty of Montana's wilderness from a traditional western perspective.
10. KettleHouse Amphitheater
RIVERSIDE CONCERT VENUE
KettleHouse Amphitheater is a popular outdoor concert venue located along the Blackfoot River near Missoula, not far from Saint Ignatius. The amphitheater hosts national touring acts and local musicians in a stunning natural setting with mountain and river views. Concert-goers can enjoy live music while sampling craft beers from the adjacent KettleHouse Brewing Company.
11. Ninepipes Museum of Early Montana
REGIONAL HISTORY COLLECTION
Ninepipes Museum of Early Montana preserves the history of the Mission Valley and Flathead Indian Reservation in nearby Charlo. The museum houses an extensive collection of Native American artifacts, pioneer memorabilia, and wildlife displays that tell the story of the region. Visitors can view historical photographs, tools, clothing, and artwork that document the diverse cultural heritage of western Montana.
12. Ninepipes Lodge Restaurant
LOCAL CUISINE WITH VIEWS
Ninepipes Lodge Restaurant offers hearty Montana cuisine with spectacular views of the Mission Mountains in Charlo, near Saint Ignatius. The restaurant specializes in regional dishes including bison burgers, huckleberry desserts, and fresh trout caught from local waters. Diners can enjoy their meals on the outdoor patio overlooking the Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge with its abundant bird species and mountain backdrop.
13. Mission Mountain Country Store
LOCAL GOODS AND GROCERIES
Mission Mountain Country Store serves as both a grocery outlet and community hub in Saint Ignatius. The store offers locally-sourced produce, Montana-made products, and essential groceries for residents and visitors to the area. Shoppers can find unique regional specialties alongside everyday necessities in this charming country market.
14. Flathead Lake
LARGEST NATURAL FRESHWATER LAKE
Flathead Lake is the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi River, located just a short drive from Saint Ignatius. The lake offers year-round recreational activities including boating, fishing, swimming, and water sports during summer months. With over 200 square miles of crystal-clear water and 185 miles of shoreline, Flathead Lake provides endless opportunities for outdoor adventure and relaxation.
15. Glacier National Park
CROWN OF THE CONTINENT
Glacier National Park, often called the Crown of the Continent, is a spectacular wilderness area located within driving distance of Saint Ignatius. The park features over one million acres of pristine forests, alpine meadows, rugged mountains, and spectacular lakes. Visitors can explore more than 700 miles of hiking trails, drive the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road, or participate in ranger-led programs throughout this UNESCO World Heritage Site.