This Underground Cheese Cave in Montana Is One of the Best Road Trip Stops You’ve Never Considered

I love a good road trip, especially one that takes you to hidden gems and attractions you won’t find anywhere else. Tucked away in Greycliff is what I consider one of the best road trip stops in Montana. Here, you’ll find the Greycliff Mill, home to a historic barn, water-powered gristmill, delicious snacks, and much more in a gorgeous setting. You can enjoy a horseback ride, shop for delicious goods at the market, or my favorite activity: step into the underground cheese cave.

What Makes the Greycliff Mill So Unexpected

Greycliff is a tiny town east of Big Timber. It is nearly halfway between Bozeman and Billings on Interstate 90—both Montana cities are approximately 70 miles away. Greycliff sits at the edge of Greycliff Prairie Dog Town State Park, a unique destination dedicated to protecting the black-tailed prairie dogs. But this teeny-tiny town is home to something else—something unexpected. It is where you’ll find the Greycliff Mill, a must-visit destination when on a road trip along Interstate 90.

Greycliff Mill offers something for everyone. When you first arrive, you’ll immediately be impressed by the beauty of the area and the property. The main building is a restored 1760s barn, originally built in upstate New York and later rebuilt in Montana. There is also a water-powered gristmill, which uses the flowing water to power machinery that grinds grain. Oh, and watch out for the bison roaming on the land.

Why This Stop Is Worth the Detour

One of the many reasons you don't want to miss the Greycliff Mill is for the food you’ll find here. This is a terrific place to grab a cup of coffee, a milkshake, an Italian soda, a panini, or even breakfast items. I strongly recommend purchasing some of the pastries and baked goods that are made fresh each day, from donuts to cinnamon rolls. Plus, if you time your visit just right, you can also enjoy one of the farm dinners served at this unique Montana stop. Dinners are only served on select nights, and reservations are required. These farm dinners do sell out.

One of my favorite areas of the Greycliff Mill—and one of the reasons I believe it is the best road trip stop in Montana—is its underground cheese cave. Head to this underground creamery where you can watch experts create a variety of artisan cheeses and possibly even enjoy a few samples. You can see where these Montana-made cheeses age and learn more about the cheesemaking process. This is a hidden gem that your whole family will be thrilled to discover.

Of course, you’ll want to step into the market to purchase your own cheeses to take home, give as a gift, or even to devour when the craving strikes on your road trip. You'll also find many other products to take home, including freshly-baked bread, fruits and vegetables, and more.

Things To See and Do at the Greycliff Mill

If you want to spend even more time here, learn something new, and stretch your legs, Greycliff Mill offers various classes throughout the year, from gardening and cheesemaking to knitting. At the nearby Greycliff Creek Ranch, you can have a true western experience by taking a horseback ride, enjoying an authentic chuckwagon dinner, and spending the night under the stars in a quaint cabin. There are several additional lodging options at the Greycliff Mill as well, if you wish to stay here for a day or two. This is a destination with amenities, quiet, and gorgeous views—a much different vibe than the hustle of nearby cities.

Additionally, Greycliff Wool Works is a darling on-site weaving studio, yard, and fiber shop, where you can take classes and find projects to keep you busy after your road trip or possibly while you sit in the car (the beauty of Montana may distract you, however).

Your New Favorite Roadside Attraction in Montana

The Greycliff Mill is a road trip stop that you don’t want to pass by. In fact, it’ll become a place that you can’t stop recommending to friends and family. Even if you make a quick visit or stay overnight, there’s plenty to love here. For more information, including hours, classes, events, rates, etc., visit the Greycliff Mill website. I also recommend following the Greycliff Mill Facebook page for news and updates.

Feeling inspired? Start planning your own Montana road trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner. Or, if you need a few ideas, check out some of our favorite Montana road trip itineraries we’ve created. And if you know of other unexpected places in Montana that we should check out, let us know by filling out this nomination form.