Gardiner, Montana

Gardiner is located in southwest Montana, at the north entrance to Yellowstone National Park. The town is situated in breathtaking Paradise Valley with the Yellowstone River running right through town. Founded in 1880, Gardiner is a center of activity for visitors to the region, serving as the original, and only year round entrance to the Park.

President Theodore Roosevelt visited Gardiner in 1903, when he dedicated the famous Roosevelt Arch made of basaltic rock through which travelers could go on their way to the 'Yellowstone Wonderland.' The overall height of the arch is 50 feet with an entrance arch of 30 feet high and 20 feet wide. The arch is inscribed with the words, 'For the Benefit and Enjoyment of All People,' a quote taken from the congressional act which made Yellowstone a National Park in 1872.

Gardiner has survived a rough and tumble existence of gold rushes, the railroad and even destructive fires. A tough little frontier town, it fed and sheltered miners, entertained the early soldiers who operated Yellowstone Park, and learned to host the pioneer visitor. At one time the Northern Pacific Railroad brought visitors to Gardiner where they could meet the stagecoaches that would carry them throughout the park. Gardiner has matured, tempered and grown to meet the needs of today's visitors. It is a good place to spend some rich time in history, in the heart of some of the west's fines country.

Elevation: 5,314 feet.

COAM Member Listings in Gardiner: