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A Guide to the Most Famous Bridges in Montana

Mark Barnett
Last Updated: March 30th, 2025

Montana is home to some incredible bridges, each with a unique story to tell.

Whether they’re old truss bridges that have stood the test of time or modern structures designed to handle today’s traffic, these crossings connect people, history, and landscapes in a way that’s easy to behold.

From the Missouri River to the Yellowstone, these bridges have played a key role in Montana’s development, making travel possible across rugged terrain and vast distances.

In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at some of Montana’s most famous bridges, highlighting their history, architecture, and the best ways to experience them.

1. Fort Benton Bridge

Fort Benton Bridge

At a Glance:

Standing proudly over the Missouri River since 1888, Fort Benton Bridge is a landmark of Montana’s past. Originally built to connect travelers and traders moving west, it played a vital role in the development of the region.

Over time, as transportation evolved, the bridge was retired from vehicle use, but it remains a beloved pedestrian walkway. In 1980, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places, cementing its status as a piece of living history.

Today, visitors can stroll across its sturdy trusses, soaking in views of the river and the historic town of Fort Benton. The bridge is also recognized nationally, ranked #80 on America’s Top 100 Bridges for Scenic Commutes.

Whether you’re here for history, photography, or simply a quiet moment by the water, this bridge offers the perfect stop on any Montana road trip.

2. Bell Street Bridge

Bell Street Bridge

At a Glance:

Stretching 1,352 feet across the Yellowstone River, Bell Street Bridge has been a fixture in Glendive since 1926.

Originally designed for motor traffic, this Warren through-truss bridge served as a key crossing for decades before being converted into a pedestrian and bicycle bridge.

Now, it offers a peaceful spot for locals and visitors to take in views of the river, watch wildlife, or enjoy a quiet walk. The bridge’s steel framework stands as a testament to early 20th-century engineering, blending function with beauty.

As one of Montana’s longest truss bridges, it remains an important piece of the state’s transportation history.

Whether you’re looking for a scenic stroll or a great place for sunset photography, Bell Street Bridge provides a unique way to experience the Yellowstone River up close.

3. Big Horn River Bridge

Big Horn River Bridge

At a Glance:

Spanning 624 feet over the Big Horn River, this Pennsylvania through-truss bridge has stood strong since its construction between 1931 and 1933.

Built during a time when Montana’s roadways were expanding, it was designed to endure seasonal flooding, a common challenge in the area. The steel riveted framework reflects the sturdy, no-nonsense engineering of the early 20th century, ensuring safe passage for decades.

In 2010, the bridge was officially added to the National Register of Historic Places, recognizing its historical and architectural significance. Though vehicle traffic still crosses this structure, it’s also a great place to stop and admire the river’s steady flow below.

Whether you’re a history buff or just passing through, the Big Horn River Bridge is a quiet but important reminder of Montana’s long-standing commitment to connecting its communities.

4. Carbella Bridge

Carbella Bridge

At a Glance:

  • Location: Park County, north of Gardiner
  • Built: 1918 (original), 2024 (replacement)
  • Type: Historic bridge (original), modern two-lane bridge (replacement)
  • Best Time to Visit: Fall
  • Cost: Free
  • Reservations: Not required
  • Duration: 10-15 minutes

For over a century, the original Carbella Bridge provided a vital crossing over the Yellowstone River, connecting rural communities north of Gardiner.

Built in 1918, this single-lane truss bridge carried travelers, ranchers, and outdoor enthusiasts along Tom Miner Creek Road for generations.

However, in June 2022, severe flooding swept away the historic structure, leaving the region without a key crossing. In response, a modern two-lane replacement bridge was constructed and opened to traffic on October 11, 2024, about a month ahead of schedule.

While the new bridge offers improved safety and durability, it also marks the end of an era for the original structure.

5. Alberton Gorge Bridges

Alberton Gorge Bridges

At a Glance:

  • Location: Old Hwy 10 W, Alberton, MT 59820, United States
  • Built: Various dates (includes I-90 bridges)
  • Type: Scenic bridges
  • Best Time to Visit: Summer and early Fall
  • Cost: Free
  • Reservations: Not required
  • Duration: 15-30 minutes (for viewing from overlooks, etc.)

Spanning the Clark Fork River, the Alberton Gorge Bridges offer stunning views of Montana’s rugged landscape.

These crossings, including those on Interstate 90, serve as key transportation routes while also attracting travelers who appreciate their scenic setting.

Due to their age, the Montana Department of Transportation is actively working on maintenance and replacement projects to keep them safe for years to come.

Beyond their practical role, these bridges add to the adventure of the area. Whitewater rafters on the Clark Fork get a unique perspective as they float beneath the towering steel structures, making for a one-of-a-kind experience.

Whether you’re driving through or enjoying the river below, the Alberton Gorge Bridges provide a striking blend of nature and engineering, making them a must-see for anyone traveling through western Montana.

6. Bad Route Creek Bridge

At a Glance:

  • Location: County Road 261 near Fallon, Dawson County
  • Built: 1921-1922
  • Type: Reinforced concrete bridge
  • Best Time to Visit: Spring through Fall
  • Cost: Free
  • Reservations: Not required
  • Duration: 10-15 minutes

Built between 1921 and 1922, Bad Route Creek Bridge was the longest reinforced concrete bridge constructed by the Montana Highway Department at the time.

Located near Fallon, in Dawson County, this historic structure was an important part of early road development in eastern Montana. Its solid concrete design was an engineering achievement of its era, ensuring durability in a region prone to extreme weather.

Recognized for its historical significance, the bridge was added to the National Register of Historic Places. While it no longer carries heavy traffic, it remains a quiet reminder of Montana’s early infrastructure projects.

Visitors can stop to admire its craftsmanship and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. If you’re exploring the area, it’s worth taking a few minutes to appreciate this well-preserved piece of history.

7. Hardy Bridge

Hardy Bridge

At a Glance:

  • Location: Cascade, MT 59421, United States
  • Built: 1931
  • Type: Warren through-truss bridge
  • Best Time to Visit: Spring through Fall
  • Cost: Free
  • Reservations: Not required
  • Duration: 15-20 minutes

Hardy Bridge has stood over the Missouri River since 1931, connecting travelers just southwest of Cascade.

This three-span Warren through-truss bridge is not only a vital crossing but also a piece of Hollywood history, having been featured in The Untouchables.

Its rugged steel framework contrasts beautifully with the surrounding Adel Mountains Volcanic Field, making it a striking sight for visitors.

In recognition of its historical and architectural significance, Hardy Bridge was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2010. Though still in use, it also serves as a scenic stop for those exploring central Montana.

Whether you’re a film buff, a history enthusiast, or simply passing through, this bridge offers a great place to take in the sweeping views of the Missouri River.

The Importance of Bridges to Montana’s Communities

Bridges in Montana are more than just crossings; they are lifelines that connect remote towns, ranches, and businesses across the state’s vast and rugged terrain.

Without them, travel would be difficult, isolating communities and making daily life far more challenging. From historic truss bridges to modern highway spans, these structures have helped shape Montana’s development by linking people to jobs, schools, and essential services.

Beyond their practical use, bridges also contribute to local economies and tourism. Many historic bridges, like the Fort Benton Bridge and the Hardy Bridge, draw visitors interested in architecture, history, and photography.

Others, such as those in Alberton Gorge, enhance outdoor recreation by providing access to hiking, fishing, and whitewater rafting spots.

With aging infrastructure, Montana continues to invest in bridge repairs and replacement. Projects like the new Carbella Bridge ensure safe travel for future generations while preserving the state’s connection to its past.

Final Words

Montana’s bridges offer more than just a way to get from one place to another; they tell stories of the past while continuing to serve today’s travelers.

Whether you’re walking across an old truss bridge, driving through a scenic gorge, or learning about a historic crossing, these structures add another layer of history and beauty to Montana’s landscape.

If you’re planning a road trip through Big Sky Country, be sure to take a moment to appreciate the bridges that have shaped its history.

About The Author

Mark Barnett

Mark Philip is a writer and lifestyle enthusiast from the Midlands in the U.K. With a background in martial arts and fitness, Mark headed out to Bangkok, Thailand where he now lives and works. Mark has authored e-books, articles, and blogs across a wide range of topics for commercial, educational, factual, lifestyle and leisure-based purposes.

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