The Highwood Mountains exist outside of time.
They risegreen and furrowed, volcanic and ancientlike an island where the past never fully left.
The towns here are something different, too.
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These places are not for everyone.
Neighbors are miles away, or maybe only ghosts from an old mining ledger.
And yet, theres a pull.
The way a creek bends toward the sun.
The way a storm brews over an old grain elevator.
Others are nearly forgotten, their main streets given over to wind and memory.
The area is ideal for hiking, photography, and experiencing the untouched landscapes of the Highwood Mountains.
Where is Barker?
The main industries revolve around farming and cattle ranching, contributing to the areas laid-back atmosphere.
Where is Armington?
The surrounding rolling hills and farmland create natural barriers that contribute to its sense of isolation.
Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy bird watching, nature walks, and experiencing the quietude of Montanas prairie landscape.
Where is Waltham?
Waltham is located in Cascade County, southeast of Great Falls and north of the Highwood Mountains.
The areas remote setting is accentuated by the expansive farmland that surrounds it and the lack of commercial development.
Where is Neihart?
Neihart is located in southern Cascade County along U.S. Highway 89, approximately 70 miles southeast of Great Falls.
Nestled at an elevation of over 5,500 feet, it sits deep within the Lewis and Clark National Forest.
The towns remote mountain setting and surrounding peaks contribute to its isolation.
The journey through winding mountain roads reinforces the sense of seclusion that defines Neihart.
The primary industries include tourism, small-scale logging, and services catering to visitors seeking adventure in the wilderness.
Where is Monarch?
Monarch is situated along U.S. Highway 89 in Cascade County, about 45 miles southeast of Great Falls.
The isolation is amplified by the winding highway and the natural barriers posed by the surrounding terrain.
This journey through pristine landscapes emphasizes the towns secluded nature.
The main industries are agriculture and ranching, with a focus on wheat farming and cattle.
Where is Raynesford?
The surrounding mountains and lack of urban development contribute to its secluded atmosphere.
Where is Geyser?
Geyser is situated in Judith Basin County along U.S. Highway 87, about 50 miles southeast of Great Falls.
Its remote location is accentuated by the wide-open agricultural lands that surround it, with few neighboring communities nearby.
With a population of fewer than 10 residents, its one of Montanas most secluded spots.
The primary industry is agriculture, with surrounding ranches contributing to the local economy.
Where is Square Butte?
The community is accessed via rural roads that wind through farmlands and open plains, emphasizing its remoteness.
The iconic Square Butte rises dramatically from the surrounding landscape, making it a notable geographic feature.
Shonkin offers a peaceful environment perfect for those seeking solitude amid Montanas untouched natural beauty.
Activities include hiking along Shonkin Creek, wildlife viewing, and photography of the scenic vistas.
The main industries are ranching and farming, with generations of families working the land.
Where is Shonkin?
Shonkin is located in Chouteau County, southeast of Fort Benton and east of the Highwood Mountains.
Accessible via county roads, it lies off the primary transportation routes, contributing to its hidden nature.
The surrounding terrain of rolling hills and the neighboring Shonkin Saga notable geological featureadd to the areas uniqueness.
The towns economy revolves around agriculture, with wheat farming and cattle ranching being the predominant industries.
Where is Highwood?
The surrounding rural roads and lack of nearby major highways enhance the towns secluded feel.
