Wolf Point, MT

County: Roosevelt

History

Wolf Point, Montana

Wolf Point, Montana is a small town located in the northeastern part of the state. Its history dates back thousands of years, as the area was inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Sioux, Assiniboine, and Gros Ventre tribes.

The town's name, Wolf Point, can be traced back to a tale involving two brothers who were hunting in the area. One of the brothers spotted a wolf and decided to chase it on horseback. While riding, he glanced back only to find that his brother had disappeared. Assuming his brother had been killed by the wolf, he began calling the place where they last saw each other "Wolf Point."

In the late 1800s, the area began attracting settlers, primarily due to its strategic location along the Missouri River, which provided access to trade and transportation routes. In 1873, the Northern Pacific Railway established a station near Wolf Point, further spurring growth and development.

The town officially came into existence in 1915 when Roosevelt County was established, with Wolf Point serving as the county seat. It became the center of agriculture, ranching, and trade in the region, and its population steadily increased.

Wolf Point faced challenging times during the Great Depression, like many other communities in the United States. However, it managed to recover and experienced increased prosperity following World War II. The establishment of Fort Peck Dam on the Missouri River triggered economic growth due to the availability of irrigation for agriculture and opportunities for hydroelectric power.

Over the years, the Native American presence and influence have remained significant in Wolf Point. The town is located near the Fort Peck Indian Reservation, which is home to the Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes. Native American traditions, culture, and history are celebrated through events and organizations in the community.

Today, Wolf Point is known for its diverse population and is the largest town on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation. The town continues to be an agricultural hub, with farming, ranching, and related industries being essential to its economy. It also serves as a central trading and services hub for the surrounding rural communities.

The history and culture of Wolf Point, MT, reflect a mix of Native American heritage, pioneering spirit, and agricultural roots, making it a unique and vibrant community in northeastern Montana.

Attractions

Fort Peck Indian Reservation and Cultural Center

Fort Peck Indian Reservation and Cultural Center

Learn about the history and culture of the Assiniboine and Sioux tribes through exhibits, artifacts, and traditional artwork.

Missouri River

Enjoy fishing, boating, or simply take a scenic walk along the Missouri River, which runs through the town.

Lewis and Clark Trail

Follow the footsteps of the famous explorers Lewis and Clark along the Lewis and Clark Trail, which passes through Wolf Point. Learn about their historic expedition and visit interpretive sites along the way.

Wolf Point Historical Museum

Discover the local history and heritage of Wolf Point and the surrounding area through exhibits and displays at the Wolf Point Historical Museum.

Oswego Historic Park

Explore the ruins of the historic Oswego townsite and see preserved remnants of the early settlements along the Missouri River.

Wild Horse Stampede Rodeo

If you visit during the second weekend in July, you can experience the excitement of the Wild Horse Stampede Rodeo, one of the oldest rodeos in Montana.

Wolf Point Area Museum

Learn about the rich history of the area, including stories of the indigenous tribes, pioneers, and local industries at the Wolf Point Area Museum.

Fourchette Bay Recreation Area

Located on Fort Peck Lake, this area offers camping, boating, fishing, and hiking opportunities, as well as beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.

Indian Creek State Park

Enjoy outdoor activities such as camping, picnicking, and hiking at this scenic state park located near Wolf Point.

Wolf Point Country Club

If you enjoy golf, you can tee off at the Wolf Point Country Club, which offers a nine-hole golf course with picturesque views.

Riverside Park

Relax and unwind at Riverside Park, which features picnic areas, playgrounds, and walking trails along the river.

Cultural Events

Keep an eye out for cultural events in Wolf Point that celebrate Native American traditions, such as powwows, storytelling, and traditional dances.

Please note that some of these attractions may have specific opening hours or seasonal availability, so it is always best to check before planning a visit.

Climate

Wolf Point, Montana has a semi-arid climate. It experiences four distinct seasons with significant temperature variations throughout the year. Summers tend to be warm and dry, while winters are cold and chilly.

In the summer months of June, July, and August, Wolf Point experiences average high temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to low 90s Fahrenheit (24-32 degrees Celsius). However, occasional heatwaves can push temperatures above 100°F (38°C). Summers are relatively dry, with low precipitation levels and occasional thunderstorms.

Fall and spring are transitional seasons in Wolf Point. In fall, temperatures gradually cool down, with highs in the 50s to 70s°F (10-20°C), and nights become colder. Spring brings a gradual warming trend, with temperatures ranging from the 40s to 60s°F (4-16°C). Both seasons can see some precipitation, including rain and light snow.

Winter in Wolf Point is cold and snowy. Average high temperatures in the months of December, January, and February range from the low to mid-30s°F (-1 to 4°C), while lows can drop below zero (-18°C). Wolf Point experiences regular snowfall during the winter months, with significant snow accumulation.

Overall, Wolf Point, MT experiences a continental climate with relatively low humidity throughout the year. The area has a relatively short growing season due to the cold winters, making it more ideal for cold-tolerant agriculture and crops.

Neighborhoods

Wolf Point is a small town located in northeastern Montana, and while it may not have distinct neighborhoods like larger cities, there are a few notable areas within the town.

Downtown Wolf Point

This area serves as the heart of the town, with its main street offering shops, local businesses, and government offices. It is a commercial hub with a mix of historic buildings and modern amenities. Downtown is also home to several annual events and festivals.

Riverside

Located along the Missouri River, the Riverside area provides scenic views and recreational opportunities. It features a riverfront park with picnic areas, walking trails, and boat ramps for fishing or boating activities. This area is quieter and more residential compared to downtown.

Northside

The Northside neighborhood is primarily residential, with a mix of single-family homes, apartment buildings, and duplexes. It has a quieter and more suburban feel, with tree-lined streets and parks. Northside is a popular area for families and those looking for a peaceful residential atmosphere.

Southside

The Southside neighborhood is another residential area in Wolf Point, generally more affordable than the Northside. It has a mix of housing options, including single-family homes, mobile homes, and some apartments. There are also a few small businesses and services scattered throughout the area.

West End

Located on the west side of town, the West End neighborhood is primarily residential but also has some light industrial or commercial areas. This area offers a mix of housing options, from older homes to newer developments. It is a relatively quiet neighborhood with easy access to downtown Wolf Point.

While these areas help define certain parts of Wolf Point, the town overall is quite small, making it easy to navigate and explore different areas.

Nearby Cities