Homesteader Highlight: John Ervin, Upper Missouri River Montana

One of our favorite homesteaders stories is that of John Ervin. He might possibly be the most colorful character amongst the stories contained in our history digest. John’s homestead is located in the Badlands or “Breaks” portion of the monument. We generally stay at a campsite just downriver from his cabin. It is possible to visit the cabin certain times of the year, and if you have time to navigate the often thick willows and brush leading up to the cabin. Mainly, we love picturing John and his life in our of our favorite parts of the entire river.

Preparing and Packing for a Canoe Trip

Montana’s Upper Missouri River is a wilderness canoe adventure taking you into the heart of central Montana by way of a mild, meandering river. We have detailed recommendations for what to pack and considerations based on the time of the year. This adventure is appropriate to all ages and ability levels, but it’s still an adventure into the wilderness. Individuals must be prepared – both physically and with proper equipment. We provide most of the necessary gear, but the personal items you bring make a big difference. Montana is also famous for its weather variations, and your equipment, which you carry in your canoe, plays a pivotal role in ensuring you pass through the entire trip, regardless of Mother Nature, in comfort and safety.

ResourcesHaley MillerJanuary 29, 2023Upper Missouri Breaks, Local Food, Canoeing, camping, Hiking, Adventure packing

Stargazing on the Upper Missouri River

Whether you are an expert astronomer or simply enjoy the rapture of stargazing, the Upper Missouri River is one of the best places for both. Although we are technically down in a river corridor, the breadth of the sky is still extremely vast. And, if you like, at some campsites you can quickly walk up and out of the river corridor to the expansive prairie above. There is a reason Montana is called the “Big Sky State.” Ah, that moment you finally lay down in your tent, snuggle in your sleeping bag, breathe deep and peer into the endless sea of flickering stars above. As the number of wild places shrinks in our world, so does the dark places. Light pollution is certainly a reality for most people. What is the best way to get away from the dull roar of city lights? Well, go camping in a wild, remote place! Thankfully, Montana still has lots of the aforementioned and coveted forests, rivers and protected public lands.