Pompeys Pillar — Attraction in Montana

Great National historic site to visit! See the only physical evidence that there is of the Lewis and Clark expedition (other than journals). The park is huge and very well kept, parking for cars, trucks and rv's is available. The visitor center is fairly new/modern and houses a moderately sized museum and exhibits, as well as a small gift shop and restrooms. The actual pillar is approximately a quarter mile walk from the center has picnic tables and benches, trees and shade. There is a pretty good wooden staircase up to the carvings of visitors to the area in the past, including "W. Clark ", as well as others...and the date signed. Staircase goes to a viewing platform at the top. You can see for 10+ miles on a clear day on all directions. Not handicap/wheelchair accessible or for those that cannot handle a 5 or 6 flight, 200 foot climb. This is something you gotta see if you are in the area...take the time! And don't forget the bug spray! Was there on August....dropped a star for this. Mosquitoes ravage you and your pets. Gift shop has OFF wipes for $1.50.... and do very little to help, as well as costly.....should...

I've gotten jaded over the years, sucked into lots of road trip tourist traps. However, Pompey's Pillar is really pretty interesting and worth the stop. There are not many places where you can stand in the same place as another famous person; I calculated that I was in the same place only 219 years, 11 months different from Clark. Granted you don't get to deface the rock like W. Clark did, but then you're not as famous as him either. Coo lplace, nice visitor center, when it's open. Also there is an interesting photo from the Hayden expedition so you can compare the pillar back then to when you are there (HINT: part broke off). A good place to sit in the shade just a few minutes off...

The Pillar is 25 miles east of Billings along I-94, and overlooks the Yellowstone River. In 1806, Captain William Clark visited here and carved his name into the rock. It stands 200 hundred feet high and is quite noticeable from a distance. There is a boardwalk and several sets of stairs that lead up to the engraving and then to the top of the pillar. The stairs are easy enough, but there is not an alternative way to get up there. The view is quite lovely and at certain times of day animals can be seen. There is a very nice Visitor's Center with helpful rangers, and nice restrooms. Parking is also easy. Be sure to visit some of the exhibits on...