Located in the heart of Montana’s Blackfoot Valley, Lincoln is a small town bursting with charm. Whether you’re craving outdoor adventures, unique art, or a dive into local history, this small town delivers big.
From hiking the iconic Continental Divide Trail to exploring unique art at Blackfoot Pathways, Lincoln offers a perfect mix of fun and discovery. Join us for a day packed with the best things to do in Lincoln, Montana!
Discover Lincoln
Blackfoot Pathways: Sculpture in the Wild
Kick off your day at Blackfoot Pathways: Sculpture in the Wild, an outdoor art park that’s as unique as it sounds. Wander through stunning sculptures crafted by artists from around the globe. Each piece inspired by the natural beauty and rich history of the Blackfoot Valley. It’s a perfect spot for photos and a must-visit for art lovers.
Lincoln Ranger Station
Just across the road, pop into the Lincoln Ranger Station to check out the Grizzly Bear Exhibit. Learn about the area’s wildlife, grab trail maps, and get tips on nearby parks and businesses. It’s a quick stop that sets you up for adventure.
Hike the Continental Divide Trail
For outdoor enthusiasts, the Continental Divide Trail (CDT) is one of the top things to do in Lincoln, Montana. Stretching over 3,000 miles from Mexico to Canada, this epic trail winds through five U.S. states. Offering stunning views of Montana’s rugged wilderness.
Lincoln proudly holds the title of the first CDT Gateway Community, with three trailhead access points: Stemple Pass, Flescher Pass, and Rogers Pass. Whether you’re up for a short hike or a longer trek, the CDT delivers.
A Quick Trip to Nearby Ovando
Just a short drive from Lincoln, you will find charming Ovando. Known for endless outdoor recreation activities throughout the surrounding mountains and the Blackfoot River. This area was also part of the early Lewis and Clark Expeditions.
After reaching the Pacific Ocean, Lewis and Clark split up their expeditions briefly. Lewis explored the Blackfoot River area while Clark ventured toward the Yellowstone. They reunited at the Missouri and Yellowstone Rivers before heading home.
Lunch in Ovando: Stray Bullet Cafe
A great lunch stop in Ovando! We met the lovely owner and enjoyed delicious soup and sandwiches for lunch. We highly recommend the “Traveler”, a hearty Reuben sandwich. The kids decided on breakfast, and loved the giant pancakes!
Don’t miss out on the homemade pie for dessert. We couldn’t decide between cherry and mixed berry….so we just had to get a slice of each. Served warm with ice cream on top, they were both absolutely delicious!
Ovando History: Brand Bar Museum and Gallery
Right across the street from the café, the Brand Bar Museum and Gallery offers a glimpse into Ovando’s early history. Stroll through fascinating exhibits to round out your day with a dose of local culture.
Dining in Lincoln
After a quick stop to explore Ovando, head back to Lincoln for dinner. Enjoy a meal at the Wheel Inn Tavern, official home of the “wheel burger”, or stop by the Scapegoat Eatery for a specialty pizza. Both are very popular restaurants in town. We ran out of time during this visit, but we’ll definitely have to check them out next time!
Shop Lincoln
Carve Me A Bear Custom Chainsaw Carvings
Driving through the main road of town, you’ll pass Carve Me A Bear- Custom Chainsaw Carvings. Yes, it’s just as cool as it sounds. Marvel at the intricate chainsaw carvings and maybe even take home a unique piece of art. You may be lucky enough to visit on a day when they are actively creating the pieces!
Hi Country Trading Post
For souvenirs, swing by Hi Country Trading Post. Famous for its jerky, this shop also stocks ice cream, huckleberry treats, and locally made Montana gifts. It’s the perfect place to grab a tasty keepsake.
Our day exploring Lincoln, Montana, was a blast—filled with forest adventures, unique art, and delicious food. We can’t wait to visit again! Find more of our favorite small towns here.
Happy Travels!
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