Fossils to Falls Scenic Byway
in Central Montana

Fossils to Falls Scenic Byway

Big, wild, and prehistoric. Welcome to Montana’s Jurassic era. Central Montana is one of the richest areas in the world for dinosaur fossils, and this drive puts you right in the middle of it. Follow a stretch of the Montana Dinosaur Trail to active dig sites, hands-on exhibits, and larger-than-life discoveries—with a few scenic stops along the way.

275 miles

4 hrs 29 mins

Trip Highlights

Old Trail Museum

Nearby discoveries changed how the world thinks about dinosaurs and they might just change you. Ancient trails. Dinosaur eggs. Rocky Mountain Front history. Uncover it all at the Old Trail Museum in Choteau.

Learn More
The Montana Dinosaur Center

Ready to dig in? Stand beneath a skeletal model of one of the world’s longest dinosaurs, explore fossils and replicas, or sign up to join a real dig expedition. Open to all ages.

Learn More
Buffalo Joes Eatery & Saloon

Come hungry. Dupuyer’s Buffalo Joe’s is known for fresh-made burgers and rib steaks any night of the week. On Fridays and Saturdays, add prime rib to the list and enjoy a laid-back evening in the mountains.

Learn More
Carousel Rest Area of Shelby

This is no ordinary rest stop. Take a spin on Shelby’s restored 1936 carousel, glowing with 900 lights and hand-painted animals. Proof that every road trip could use a little unexpected fun.

Learn More
Liberty County Museum

One museum. Decades worth of history. Explore homesteading, blacksmithing, farming, military exhibits, and even a train depot and schoolhouse at the Liberty County Museum.

Learn More
Historic River Levee Walk

Take a walk through Montana’s birthplace. Follow the Missouri along Fort Benton’s historic levee, cross the old bridge, and soak in the kind of river views that are iconic to Central Montana.

Learn More
C.M. Russell Museum

Discover Charlie Russell, the “original cowboy artist” who captured the art and soul of the American West. Explore his celebrated work, preserved home, and studio alongside thousands of pieces of Western art.

Learn More
Choteau

Dinosaurs may bring you here, but Choteau gives you plenty of reasons to stay. Grab a bite downtown, look West toward the Rocky Mountain Front, and see why this small town is easy to come back to.

Learn More

Map Your Route

Start and end your adventure in Choteau.

Directions for Android Users Directions for Apple Users