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Homestake Picnic Area
Homestake Picnic Area is located approximately six miles east of Butte off Interstate 90 and is a day use site only. The area was once a flag stop for the Nothern Pacific Railroad and the lake was created when dirt was used to construct the railroad bed. The lake is a beautiful area to enjoy a picnic or access nearby trails for hiking, ATV/UTV trails, and other recreation activities for travelers and local residents.
There are tables, fire rings, and handicap accessable toilet facilities at the picnic area.
At a Glance
| Operational Hours: | Open seasonally, from Memorial Day Weekend through September, weather dependent. |
|---|---|
| Reservations: | N/A day use only. |
| Area Amenities: | Picnic tables, Toilets, Drinking water, Parking |
| Fees: | There is no fee ($0) for the picnic area. |
| Open Season: | Memorial Day weekend |
| Restrictions: | Food Storage Restrictions |
| Closest Towns: | Butte, MT |
| Water: | Yes |
| Restroom: | Yes |
| Information Center: | Butte Ranger District Phone: 406-494-2147 |
General Information
Directions:From Butte, take Interstate 90 east for approximately six miles. Take exit 233 and turn left off the ramp. Take the 2nd dirt road after crossing over the interstate and drive approximately 1,000 feet to the picnic area.
General Notes:
Accessibility:
Accessible Features: Toilets
Activities
Mountain Biking
The Continental Divide National Scenic Trail is located at the eastbound exit ramp and just north of the turnoff to Homestake Picnic Area. The trail continues approximately nine miles south to the Pipestone Pass Trailhead or approximately 33 miles north to the Nez Perce Trailhead.
Other trails in the Whitetail-Pipestone Area provide additional opportunities for mountain bike enthusiasts. The Whitetail-Pipestone Motorized Recreation Visitor Map provides additional routes open to mountain bikes as well as motorized vehicles.
Lake and Pond Fishing
There is a small lake available for fishing.
| Permit: | Please check with Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks for licensing and permit information. |
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Day Hiking
The Continental Divide National Scenic Trail is located a the eastbound exit ramp and just north of the turnoff to Homestake Picnic Area. The trail continues approximately nine miles south to the Pipestone Pass Trailhead or approximately 33 miles north to the Nez Perce Trailhead.
OHV Trail Riding
Off-highway vehicle enthusiasts can find fun and excitement at the Whitetail-Pipestone Area. The area boasts miles of OHV routes that provide a challenge to both novice and experienced riders. The Whitetail-Pipestone Motorized Recreation Visitor map provides information on the many routes open for OHV riding on National Forest and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands. Maps are available at the Butte Ranger District, Butte Field Office of the BLM, and various businesses in Whitehall, Boulder, and Butte.
Picnicking
There is a picnic area with tables, fire rings, water, and a restroom. There is limited parking for RVs and trailers.
| Fees: | There is no fee for this area. |
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Amenities
| Toilets: | Vault (No showers) Accessible |
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