Our Lady of the Rockies Tour in Butte, Montana - Bozeman

Our Lady of the Rockies Tour in Butte, Montana

Bozemaneasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2–3 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels since the trip is bus-supported with minimal walking.

Overview

Discover the monumental Our Lady of the Rockies statue atop Montana’s Continental Divide. This guided mountain tour offers stunning views and a glimpse into Butte’s vibrant history.

Details

Perched above the rugged city of Butte, Montana, the Our Lady of the Rockies Guided Tour offers an experience that blends history, culture, and breathtaking mountain views. Butte, once known as the "Richest Hill on Earth" due to its mining legacy, is surrounded by the towering peaks of the Rocky Mountains, and this tour highlights one of its most striking landmarks: the monumental statue of Our Lady of the Rockies.

The statue, standing more than 90 feet tall, is an impressive feat of dedication. It was built entirely by volunteers as a tribute to mothers and is positioned on the summit of the Continental Divide at an elevation of over 8,500 feet. The tour begins with a short documentary providing insight into the history and effort behind the statue’s creation, setting the stage for the rugged journey upward.

Access to the statue is by a guided bus ride along a private, mountainous road—a bumpy ascent that rewards visitors with panoramic views of Butte’s patchwork of forests, mining sites, and alpine ridges. The ride itself is part of the adventure, with knowledgeable guides sharing local lore and geological background. At the summit, the colossal figure looms large against the sky, an inspiring sight framed by the vast Montana wilderness.

This tour is unique to the Butte area, offering an intersection of outdoor adventure and cultural heritage. The limited vehicle access preserves the site’s integrity and encourages guests to experience the mountain with intention and respect. Visitors come away not just with memories of the scene but a deeper appreciation for the community spirit that brought the statue to life.

For travelers seeking a manageable day trip that combines a moderate mountain drive, remarkable views, and a slice of Montana history, the Our Lady of the Rockies Guided Tour delivers. Its blend of natural grandeur and heartfelt tribute makes it a rare and worthwhile stop within the vast northern Rockies region.

Adventure Tips

Book tickets in advance

Tours require paid reservations as access is by guided shuttle only; no private vehicle entry is allowed.

Prepare for bumpy mountain roads

The shuttle route includes uneven and steep sections—wear comfortable shoes and bring motion sickness remedies if needed.

Arrive early for the introductory video

Plan to arrive at the tour office ahead of departure to watch the informative mini-documentary about the statue’s history.

Dress for changing mountain weather

High elevation means cooler temperatures and wind; layers help keep you comfortable during the visit.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Headframe Memorial Plaza for mining history in downtown Butte
  • Silver Bow Creek Trail offering scenic riverside hikes near Butte

Wildlife

  • Mule deer
  • Golden eagles

History

The Our Lady of the Rockies statue was a volunteer-driven project completed over several decades to honor mothers, symbolizing community strength in a mining town.

Conservation

Restricted vehicle access helps protect the fragile mountain environment and preserve the sacred nature of the monument site.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour
Late morning
Overcast for softer light

Best Viewpoints

  • Summit platform near statue base
  • Alongside the shuttle road with city backdrop
  • Lookout points facing Butte valley

What to Photograph

Statue detail up close
Panoramic city and mountain landscapes
Wild flora on alpine slopes

Recommended Gear

Layered clothing

Essential

Mountain weather can shift quickly, so layers help regulate your comfort.

all specific

Sturdy walking shoes

Essential

The summit area involves walking on uneven ground, so good footwear matters.

all specific

Camera or smartphone

Essential

Capture the sweeping views and striking statue details.

all specific

Sun protection

Essential

Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat help combat intense sun at altitude.

spring|summer|fall specific

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