The Sweet Grass Hills are the last of something. Not quite mountains, not quite prairie, they rise alone from the rolling land like islands in a forgotten sea. This is the part of Montana that doesn’t announce itself. It just exists, unchanged except by wind and time, as if it were waiting for something, or for nothing at all.
The towns here—Whitlash, Oilmont, Sunburst—are more suggestions than destinations. A grain elevator, a post office, a church that may or may not still hold Sunday service. Maybe a bar, maybe a gas pump, maybe a handful of people who don’t leave because they never had much reason to. You pass through and wonder if it’s stubbornness or reverence that keeps these places from dissolving into the prairie.
The roads are long, empty, stretching like drawn-out sentences with no real punctuation. The hills, sacred to the Blackfeet, watch over everything, unmoved. In these ten towns, seclusion isn’t a choice—it’s the air, the landscape, the way the wind whittles everything down to its simplest form. Some people come here to escape. Others never left. Either way, the silence swallows you whole.
10. Brady: Agricultural Heartland with Scenic Views
Brady is a small unincorporated community with an approximate population of 140 residents. This quaint town is surrounded by vast farmlands, offering picturesque views of the Sweet Grass Hills in the distance. Visitors and locals alike can enjoy the simplicity of rural life, engaging in activities like bird watching, photography, and exploring local farms. Agriculture is the mainstay of Brady’s economy, with wheat and barley fields stretching as far as the eye can see. Its seclusion stems from its rural setting and low population density, providing a peaceful atmosphere away from urban centers.
Where is Brady?
Located in Pondera County, Brady sits along Interstate 15 between Conrad and Great Falls. The town’s remote location contributes to its secluded nature, with the rolling plains offering a sense of vast open space. Accessing Brady typically involves a scenic drive through Montana’s countryside, where traffic is minimal, and the horizon seems endless. The tranquil surroundings and agricultural backdrop make Brady a serene stop for those exploring the northern part of the state.
9. Ethridge: Rustic Appeal in the Shadow of the Hills
Ethridge is a tiny unincorporated community home to around 60 residents. Known for its rustic charm, the town offers a glimpse into Montana’s agricultural heritage, with numerous grain elevators dotting the landscape. Activities here revolve around enjoying the simplicity of rural life, such as visiting local ranches or taking in the expansive views of the Sweet Grass Hills. The primary industry is agriculture, particularly wheat farming, which has shaped the town’s character. Ethridge’s seclusion is accentuated by its small population and the vast prairies that surround it.
Where is Ethridge?
Situated in Glacier County, Ethridge lies along U.S. Route 2 between Cut Bank and Shelby. Its location on the open plains contributes to its isolated feel, with the nearest larger towns miles away. The town is accessible by a quiet stretch of highway, where the journey is marked by sweeping views and minimal traffic. Ethridge’s proximity to the Sweet Grass Hills provides a stunning backdrop, enhancing its appeal as a peaceful retreat.
8. Oilmont: Quiet Living Near the Hills
Oilmont is an unincorporated community with a small population of about 50 people. The town offers a quiet lifestyle, surrounded by the natural beauty of northern Montana. Visitors can explore the nearby Sweet Grass Hills, which provide opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and photography. Historically, Oilmont was part of Montana’s oil boom, and remnants of this past can still be seen today. Its secluded nature is due to its remote location and sparse population, making it an ideal spot for those seeking solitude.
Where is Oilmont?
Located in Toole County, Oilmont is nestled near the Canadian border, east of Interstate 15. The town is off the beaten path, accessible by rural roads that enhance its feeling of remoteness. The surrounding landscape is characterized by open fields and gentle hills, with the Sweet Grass Hills providing a distant landmark. Getting to Oilmont involves traversing quiet country roads, where the journey itself is a peaceful experience away from crowded highways.
7. Galata: A Peaceful Hamlet on the Prairie
Galata is a small unincorporated community with approximately 60 residents. This peaceful hamlet offers a serene environment amid the vast Montana prairie. Visitors can enjoy the slow pace of life, take leisurely walks, and appreciate the unobstructed views of the Sweet Grass Hills on the horizon. Agriculture is the primary industry, with local farms contributing to the town’s economy. Galata’s seclusion is enhanced by its remote location and the expansive landscapes that surround it.
Where is Galata?
Situated in Toole County along U.S. Route 2, Galata lies east of Shelby. The town’s remote setting is characterized by the endless plains and big skies typical of Montana’s northern regions. Access to Galata is via a quiet highway that sees little traffic, reinforcing the sense of isolation. The unspoiled natural surroundings make it a tranquil destination for those looking to escape the pressures of city life.
6. Shelby: The Crossroads of North Central Montana
Shelby is a small city with a population of around 3,200 residents. While larger than some of its neighboring towns, Shelby maintains a tranquil atmosphere. It serves as a hub for history enthusiasts, featuring sites like the Marias Museum of History and Art. Outdoor activities include exploring nearby parks and the Sweet Grass Hills. The economy centers on agriculture, oil, and transportation services. Shelby’s seclusion comes from its location amidst vast open spaces and its distance from larger urban areas.
Where is Shelby?
Shelby is located at the junction of Interstate 15 and U.S. Route 2 in Toole County. Positioned near the Canadian border, it’s a gateway to the Sweet Grass Hills and the surrounding prairies. Despite being a crossroads, the town retains a sense of isolation due to the expansive landscapes that envelop it. Travelers can reach Shelby via scenic drives that highlight Montana’s natural beauty, making the journey part of the secluded experience.
5. Chester: Serenity on the High Plains
Chester is a small town with a population of about 850 people. Nestled in the heart of the high plains, it offers a serene setting ideal for nature lovers. Visitors can enjoy activities like fishing at nearby lakes, bird watching, and exploring open hiking trails. The local economy is driven by agriculture, with wheat farming playing a significant role. Chester’s seclusion is a product of its remote location and the vast, uninterrupted prairie that surrounds it.
Where is Chester?
Located in Liberty County along U.S. Route 2, Chester is east of Galata and west of Havre. The town’s isolated feel is enhanced by the wide-open spaces and the absence of large cities nearby. Accessing Chester involves a journey through rolling plains and under expansive skies, contributing to its tranquil ambiance. The Sweet Grass Hills can be seen in the distance, adding to the town’s scenic backdrop and secluded charm.
4. Sweet Grass: Gateway to the Hills
Sweet Grass is a small unincorporated community with approximately 60 residents. Serving as a border crossing into Canada, it offers a unique blend of American and Canadian cultures. Visitors can explore local shops that cater to cross-border travelers and enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding hills. The economy revolves around customs services and small businesses. Its seclusion is due to its remote northern location and low population, providing a quiet atmosphere for those passing through.
Where is Sweet Grass?
Positioned in Toole County right on the Montana-Alberta border, Sweet Grass is accessible via Interstate 15. The town’s remote location at the edge of the United States contributes to its isolated feel. The surrounding landscape is characterized by the rolling Sweet Grass Hills and expansive prairies. Travelers can reach Sweet Grass by driving north from Shelby, with the journey highlighting the serene and untouched nature of the region.
3. Kevin: Hidden Oasis in Northern Montana
Kevin is a small town with a population of around 150 residents. It offers a peaceful retreat with stunning panoramic views of the Sweet Grass Hills. Activities include exploring local trails, wildlife viewing, and enjoying the quietude of rural life. The town has historical ties to the oil industry, although agriculture now plays a significant role in its economy. Kevin’s seclusion is emphasized by its sparse population and the vast natural landscapes that envelop it.
Where is Kevin?
Located in Toole County, Kevin lies east of Interstate 15, north of Shelby. The town is nestled amidst rolling plains with clear views of the Sweet Grass Hills to the north and east. Its secluded nature stems from its off-the-main-road location, accessible via secondary highways that see minimal traffic. The journey to Kevin offers a sense of escape, with the expansive Montana sky and prairie setting the scene for a tranquil arrival.
2. Sunburst: Small-Town Charm Amidst Rolling Plains
Sunburst is a town of approximately 375 residents, known for its quiet streets and historic buildings. Visitors can enjoy a stroll through town, visit the local museum, or partake in outdoor activities like hiking and bird watching. The town’s economy is primarily based on agriculture and some oil production. Sunburst’s seclusion comes from its small population and its setting amidst the rolling plains, providing a peaceful environment away from crowded areas.
Where is Sunburst?
Situated in Toole County just west of the Sweet Grass Hills, Sunburst is accessible via Interstate 15. The town is close to the Canadian border, adding to its remote allure. The surrounding landscape features gentle hills and open fields, with the Sweet Grass Hills offering a picturesque backdrop. Reaching Sunburst involves a drive through northern Montana’s serene countryside, enhancing the feeling of seclusion upon arrival.
1. Whitlash: A Remote Gem Near the Canadian Border
Whitlash is an extremely remote unincorporated community with a population of fewer than 20 people. Nestled near the Sweet Grass Hills, it offers unmatched tranquility and seclusion. Visitors seeking solitude can revel in the untouched natural surroundings, perfect for hiking, horseback riding, and wildlife observation. There are no major industries, emphasizing its status as a retreat from modern distractions. Whitlash’s seclusion is profound due to its tiny population and the vast wilderness that surrounds it.
Where is Whitlash?
Located in Liberty County, Whitlash is perched near the Canadian border east of the Sweet Grass Hills. The town is accessible by unpaved county roads, enhancing its remote feel. The journey to Whitlash involves traveling through expansive prairie and rugged terrain, often without encountering other vehicles. Its isolation is a defining characteristic, making it a true hidden gem for those looking to entirely disconnect and immerse themselves in nature.
