Pompeys Pillar
Pompey’s Pillar in Montana is a sandstone butte located along the Yellowstone River, about 25 miles east of Billings. This geological formation stands 150 feet (45 meters) above the surrounding landscape and is notable for its historical significance. The Pillaris is a designated national monument, managed by the Bureau of Land Management. This is a popular destination for history enthusiasts, outdoor enthusiasts, and those interested in the Lewis and Clark Expedition.
William Clark, of the famous Lewis and Clark Expedition, who passed by the site in July 1806 carved his name and the date into the sandstone, marking the first physical evidence of the expedition’s journey through the area. As you make your way along the path Clark’s carving is still visable along with other historic and cultural artifacts at the site.
Pompeys Pillar
National Monument
3039 US Highway 312
Pompeys Pillar, MT 59064
406-896-5013
Open
Last Saturday in April
Thru October 31st
Hours
Daily 9:00 am – 6:00 pm
October 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Fee
$7.00 per vehicle
Latitude 45.9881
Longitude -108.0025
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Pompeys Pillar was designated as a National Monument in January 2001. Before its monument status, it was a designated National Historic Landmark in 1965. It was part of the original 1803 Louisiana Purchase. Pompeys Pillar represents the legacy of the early West and its development. At the Pillar, there is evidence of Native Americans, early explorers, fur trappers, the U.S. Cavalry, railroad development and early homesteaders, many of whom left their history embedded in this sandstone pillar. Captain William Clark, his guide, Sacagawea, her 18-month-old son (nicknamed “Pompey”) and a crew of 11 men stopped near the 200-foot-high rock outcropping on the return leg of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. On July 25, 1806, Clark carved his signature and the date in the rock and recorded doing so in his journal. The historic signature remains today, and visitors can walk on a boardwalk to see it.
All fees collected during the season are returned to the site and used to maintain and improve the facility. All valid federal recreation passes are honored at the site.
Commercial/Group Vehicle Fees Commercial and organized group rates are based on vehicle capacity. Vehicles capable of seating 6 passengers and under–$25 Vehicles capable of seating 7-25 passengers–$40 Vehicles capable of seating 26+ passengers–$100
Even when the Monument is closed, visitors may still walk into the site during daylight hours. The walk from the gates to the Pillar is about 3/4 mile. Facilities available are the boardwalks, walkways, and vault toilets. All buildings will be closed.