With 55 state parks in Montana (not to mention the natural areas, wildlife refuges and the Crown Jewel of the Continent, Glacier), it’s safe to say that spending time in the great outdoors is pretty easy here. But when summer arrives, most Montanans head to our more well-known spots like Flathead Lake and Bannack, often overlooking some hidden gems in the process.

If you prefer a more rugged experience and want to truly feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere, make this the summer you see Sluice Boxes State Park.

Located about 38 miles southeast of Great Falls, Sluice Boxes is a large park in the Little Belt Mountains.
David J Laporte / Flickr
It's pretty primitive here, with steep cliffs, swift waters and rugged terrain making it a little intimidating to visitors.
Backcountry camping is allowed here, although you will need a permit.
J. Stephen Conn / Flickr
But you won't find a quieter escape.
Remains of mines, a railroad, and historic cabins line Belt Creek down in the beautiful limestone canyon.
Derek Taylor / alltrails.com
The Barker mines and the Montana Central Railroad are part of the park's rich history.

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If you hike the challenging 7-mile Sluice Boxes Trail, you'll see the true diverse beauty of the park.
Palak Bhesania / alltrails.com
Belt Creek provides some excellent fishing and floating opportunities.
Tim Gage / Flickr
The Belt Creek Canyon is also quite visually stunning.
If you love the great outdoors and don't mind roughing it, a day at Sluice Boxes could be just what you need.
J. Stephen Conn / Flickr
You might even see some wildlife.

Have you ever been to Sluice Boxes State Park? Look around and you’ll find all kinds of underrated parks in Montana.

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