Getting bored in Montana is pretty much impossible. After all, there’s so much to do, especially if we love spending time outdoors. Next time you’re up for a one-of-a-kind adventure, pack your car with goodies and head to these three roadside attractions in Butte. Each offers a fascinating backstory and promises memorable moments. Be sure to bring your camera!
1. Berkley Pit
Berkley Pit boasts a long and storied history in Butte, dating back to 1955. It served as a copper mine from the time it opened until the early 1980s with more than 290 billion tons of copper ore removed during the mine’s history. Today, visitors flock to this unique roadside attraction to snap photos and marvel at the massive pit that measures 7,000 feet in length and 5,600 feet in width.
Add to that a depth of 1,600 feet! Bring along $2 for the fee to access the viewing platform that offers prime views of the pit. Learn more about Berkeley Pit.
2. Our Lady of the Rockies
Nestled just four miles from Buttle, Our Lady of the Rockies is another must-visit roadside attraction. The 90-foot statue of Mary, the mother of Jesus, sits 8,500 feet above sea level. The statue made its debut in 1985, honoring creator Bob O'Bill's wife's fight with cancer, but has since become a popular roadside attraction ever since.
At the present, visitors can only make their journey to see Our Lady of the Rockies by bus. However, that may change, as the city has proposed a tram that will shuttle visitors to the statue and back. If you’re visiting today, make sure you carve out at least four hours for your visit, which includes the trip to and from the statue and time at the top.
3. Evel Knievel’s Grave
While it might not be typical roadside attraction, Evel Knievel’s grave is worth a visit, especially if you’re a fan of the famous daredevil. Robert Craig Knievel, his official name, was born in 1938 in Butte. Although he traveled all over, beginning in the 1960s and performing death-defying stunts throughout his life, he returned home after his death.
Knievel died at age 69 in 2007. Today, his final resting place is at Mountain View Cemetery in Butte.
Have you been to any or all of these roadside attractions in Butte? What did you think? Share your experience in the comments! Then check out these 10 bizarre roadside attractions in Montana that will make you do a double-take.
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