Sundance Lodge Recreation Area
This day-use-only area is at the confluence of the Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone River and the Yellowstone itself on the Lewis and Clark and Nez Perce National Historic Trails. Its cottonwood groves, meadows, and riparian areas are popular for hiking, viewing wildlife, horseback riding, and picnicking.
Sundance Lodge was a working ranch before the BLM acquired it in 1997. The Nature Conservancy, the Yellowstone Chapter of Pheasants Forever, and the BLM combined efforts to acquire the land. It is now designated a Special Recreation Management Area and its purpose is to provide a dispersed recreation experience near the communities of Laurel and Billings, ensure public access to the Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone, and protect wildlife habitat.
Based on historical research, Laurel High School students recommended the name of this site. According to the research, the historical Crow name for the Clarks Fork River is Ashkisshipouoo, translated as "Where the Sun Dance Lodge was run over.” This name refers to an incident in which an abandoned sun dance lodge was run over by a herd of buffalo.
Activities: Wildlife watching, environmental education, photography, hiking, biking, and horseback riding on designated roads and trails. Archery hunting and limited shotgun hunting are available by calling the Billings Field Office at 406-896-5013.
Overnight camping and off-road vehicle use are not allowed.
Accessibility Description (ABA/ADA)
Parking for this site consists of approximately 7 parking spaces in a flat area of compacted aggregate gravel. None of the spots are designated as accessible. Cell phone reception at the site is good.
An accessible single vault toilet is located next to the parking lot. A picnic table with an extended top to accommodate wheelchair users sits on a grass surface the entrance to the site. There are no shade structures, grills, or running water.
An accessible, 1/4-mile out-and-back trail leads from the parking lot to a scenic overlook, where there is a picnic table with an extended end on a compacted aggregate surface. An information kiosk sits near the trailhead, and interpretive panels are scattered throughout the site. Some of these are faded and might be difficult to read.
NOTE: Descriptions and photos uploaded January 2025. Please note that actual on-the-ground conditions may vary due to natural events (e.g., weather, wildfires, erosion), normal wear and tear, or site improvements.
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Geographic Coordinates
Directions
The area is located near the confluence of the Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone and the Yellowstone River. There are about 380 acres of river bottom intermingled with the irrigated hay lands. From Laurel, Montana, take Highway 212 (the road to Red Lodge) over the Yellowstone River. About 1 mile past the bridge, turn east (left) onto Thiel Road. Drive down Thiel Road 1.3 miles to the parking area.