Montana State Parks :: Sluice Boxes

Sluice Boxes

STATE PARK

Bring your camera to this rugged area of pristine beauty and see the remains of mines, a railroad, and historic cabins lining Belt Creek as it winds through a beautiful canyon carved in limestone.

RESTRICTIONS AND CLOSURES

Due to safety concerns, the bridge/railroad trestle used to cross the Tiger Creek drainage has been closed indefinitely. Through hiking the entire distance of the park is no longer possible.

HOURS & LOCATION

SEASON & HOURS
Park
Open all year
Parking area/ trailhead open sunrise to sunset.
Backcountry open 24/7

LOCATION
38 Evans Riceville Rd.
Belt, MT 59412
Latitude/Longitude: (47.212 / -110.935)
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Park Map

Trail Map

Montana State Parks Guide

MEET THE PARK MANAGER
Photo of Colin Maas, Sluice Boxes State Park Manager

Colin Maas manages Smith River and Sluice Boxes State Parks. He began his career with Montana State Parks as a seasonal park ranger in 1996. Other experience includes seasons as a river ranger on the Blackfoot and Smith Rivers as well as working in numerous state parks in western Montana. Colin earned his B.S. in Recreation Resource Management from the University of Montana - Missoula. He was born and raised in Minot, ND.

CONTACT

CONTACT INFO
Mailing Address:
Sluice Boxes State Park
c/o FWP Region 4 Headquarters
4600 Giant Springs Rd
Great Falls, MT 59405

Phone: 406-454-5840
Email: SluiceBoxes@mt.gov

Sluice Boxes

STATE PARK

Soaring cliffs and precipitous ledges mark the Belt Creek Canyon as it slices out of the Little Belt Mountains and winds toward the town of Belt. Remains of mines, a railroad, and historic cabins line Belt Creek as it makes its way through the beautiful canyon carved in limestone. This rugged area has seen its share of prospectors searching for precious metals, miners, muleskinners, smeltermen, and railroaders building bridges. The Barker mines and the Montana Central Railroad are just a part of the rich history of Sluice Boxes State Park.

A primitive, unmaintained trail provides access to fishing, challenging floats, and wildlife viewing. Steep cliffs, rugged terrain, and cold, swift water may pose risks to visitors. Please use caution while hiking and floating in the park. Hikers, please note: the trestle at Tiger Creek is closed; through hiking is not possible.

A Backcountry Campsite Permit is required to camp in this park. Contact FWP headquarters in Great Falls to obtain a permit.

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