Bearcreek is a beautiful town located in Carbon County, Montana, United States. Situated in the rugged landscape of south-central Montana, Bearcreek is surrounded by mountains, forests, and pristine wilderness. The town is known for its rich coal mining history, stunning natural beauty, and close-knit community. With a population of approximately 150 residents, Bearcreek offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life while providing easy access to outdoor recreational opportunities and nearby attractions such as Yellowstone National Park.
Geography
Bearcreek is located in the heart of Carbon County, Montana, surrounded by the majestic Beartooth Mountains to the south and the rolling hills of the Absaroka Range to the north. The town is situated approximately 10 miles south of the city of Red Lodge and is accessible via Montana Highway 308. Its location near the Wyoming border places it within close proximity to outdoor attractions such as the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness and the Custer Gallatin National Forest, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Population and Area
As of the latest census data, Bearcreek has a population of approximately 150 residents, making it a small but vibrant community with a strong sense of local pride. The area covered by Bearcreek spans approximately 0.5 square miles, consisting of residential neighborhoods, forested areas, and open spaces. Despite its small size, Bearcreek offers a range of amenities and services to its residents, including a community center, a small grocery store, and outdoor recreational facilities.
Famous Company or University
Bearcreek is not home to any major companies or universities. Instead, its appeal lies in its natural beauty, rich history, and outdoor recreational opportunities. The town’s proximity to Yellowstone National Park, Beartooth Highway, and other scenic attractions makes it a popular destination for tourists and outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure in the Montana wilderness.
Major Landmarks
While Bearcreek may not have many traditional landmarks, its natural surroundings and historic sites are major draws for visitors. The nearby Smith Mine Disaster Site, where an underground coal mine explosion occurred in 1943, serves as a poignant reminder of the town’s coal mining heritage and the sacrifices made by its residents. Additionally, the Beartooth Highway, often referred to as “the most beautiful drive in America,” offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and is a popular scenic route for travelers exploring the region.
Climate and Weather Overview
Bearcreek experiences a continental climate, characterized by cold, snowy winters and warm, dry summers. Its location in the Rocky Mountains influences its weather patterns, with dramatic temperature fluctuations and occasional extreme weather events. Residents of Bearcreek enjoy four distinct seasons, each offering its own unique outdoor recreational opportunities and natural beauty.
Average Monthly Temperature, Precipitation, and Sunny Days
To provide a comprehensive overview of Bearcreek’s climate, the following table lists average temperature, precipitation, and sunny days for each month of the year:
| Month | Average Temperature (F) | Precipitation (inches) | Sunny Days |
| January | 26 | 1.5 | 10 |
| February | 30 | 1.2 | 11 |
| March | 38 | 1.4 | 13 |
| April | 48 | 1.2 | 15 |
| May | 58 | 1.6 | 17 |
| June | 67 | 1.0 | 18 |
| July | 75 | 0.8 | 19 |
| August | 74 | 0.7 | 18 |
| September | 64 | 0.9 | 16 |
| October | 52 | 1.0 | 14 |
| November | 38 | 1.3 | 11 |
| December | 28 | 1.4 | 9 |
Weather by Month
January
January brings cold temperatures and snowy conditions to Bearcreek, with an average temperature of 26°F. The month is characterized by winter storms and occasional sub-zero temperatures, making outdoor activities such as skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling popular choices for residents and visitors. Indoor activities such as visiting local museums, cozying up by the fireplace, and attending community events are also enjoyed during this time.
Natural Disasters: January may occasionally experience blizzards and avalanches, particularly in mountainous areas surrounding Bearcreek. These events can result in road closures and hazardous travel conditions, so residents are advised to exercise caution and monitor weather forecasts.
Recommended Activities: Outdoor activities such as skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling are ideal for January. Indoor activities such as visiting local museums, cozying up by the fireplace, and attending community events are also enjoyable options for residents and visitors.
February
February continues the cold temperatures of winter in Bearcreek, with an average temperature of 30°F. The month is characterized by snowy weather and occasional freezing temperatures, although the days gradually begin to lengthen as spring approaches. Outdoor activities such as ice fishing, cross-country skiing, and winter hiking are popular choices for residents and visitors, while indoor activities such as attending concerts, cooking classes, and movie nights provide cozy alternatives.
Natural Disasters: Similar to January, February may experience blizzards and avalanches, particularly in mountainous areas. Residents are advised to stay informed about weather conditions and to take precautions when traveling in winter weather.
Recommended Activities: Outdoor activities such as ice fishing, cross-country skiing, and winter hiking are ideal for February. Indoor activities such as attending concerts, cooking classes, and movie nights provide cozy alternatives for residents and visitors.
March
March marks the transition to spring in Bearcreek, with temperatures gradually warming up to an average of 38°F. The month is characterized by melting snow, budding flowers, and the promise of warmer days ahead. Outdoor activities such as hiking, wildlife viewing, and birdwatching become popular choices for residents and visitors as they embrace the changing seasons. Indoor activities such as visiting art galleries, attending workshops, and cooking classes are also enjoyed during this time.
Natural Disasters: March may occasionally experience early spring storms with snow, rain, or gusty winds. Flooding can occur as snowmelt increases runoff, particularly in low-lying areas. Residents are advised to stay informed about weather conditions and to take precautions when traveling in inclement weather.
Recommended Activities: Outdoor activities such as hiking, wildlife viewing, and birdwatching are ideal for March. Indoor activities such as visiting art galleries, attending workshops, and cooking classes provide enjoyable alternatives for residents and visitors.
April
April brings warmer temperatures and the emergence of spring in Bearcreek, with an average temperature of 48°F. The month is characterized by longer days, blooming wildflowers, and the return of migratory birds. Outdoor activities such as fishing, camping, and nature walks become popular choices for residents and visitors as they celebrate the arrival of spring. Indoor activities such as attending live performances, visiting local markets, and cooking classes are also enjoyed during this time.
Natural Disasters: April may occasionally experience spring storms with rain, thunderstorms, or gusty winds. Flooding can occur as snowmelt increases runoff and spring rains saturate the ground. Residents are advised to stay informed about weather conditions and to take precautions when traveling in inclement weather.
Recommended Activities: Outdoor activities such as fishing, camping, and nature walks are ideal for April. Indoor activities such as attending live performances, visiting local markets, and cooking classes provide enjoyable alternatives for residents and visitors.
May
May brings mild temperatures and abundant sunshine to Bearcreek, with an average temperature of 58°F. The month is characterized by blooming wildflowers, green foliage, and the return of outdoor recreational opportunities. Outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and wildlife photography become popular choices for residents and visitors as they explore the scenic beauty of spring. Indoor activities such as wine tastings, art classes, and cooking workshops are also enjoyed during this time.
Natural Disasters: May may occasionally experience severe weather such as thunderstorms or hail, particularly in the latter part of the month. Residents are advised to stay informed about weather conditions and to take precautions when outdoors.
Recommended Activities: Outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and wildlife photography are ideal for May. Indoor activities such as wine tastings, art classes, and cooking workshops provide enjoyable alternatives for residents and visitors.
June
June brings warm temperatures and long days to Bearcreek, with an average temperature of 67°F. The month is characterized by the peak of springtime activity, with lush vegetation, blooming flowers, and abundant wildlife. Outdoor activities such as camping, fishing, and kayaking become popular choices for residents and visitors as they take advantage of the longer days and warmer weather. Indoor activities such as visiting local museums, attending outdoor concerts, and cooking classes are also enjoyed during this time.
Natural Disasters: June may occasionally experience severe weather such as thunderstorms or hail, particularly in the early part of the month. Residents are advised to stay informed about weather conditions and to take precautions when outdoors.
Recommended Activities: Outdoor activities such as camping, fishing, and kayaking are ideal for June. Indoor activities such as visiting local museums, attending outdoor concerts, and cooking classes provide enjoyable alternatives for residents and visitors.
July
July brings hot temperatures and sunny skies to Bearcreek, with an average temperature of 75°F. The month is characterized by the height of summer, with outdoor recreational opportunities abound. Outdoor activities such as hiking, rafting, and mountain biking become popular choices for residents and visitors as they seek adventure in the Montana wilderness. Indoor activities such as visiting art galleries, attending live performances, and cooking classes are also enjoyed during this time.
Natural Disasters: July may occasionally experience severe weather such as thunderstorms, lightning, or wildfires, particularly in dry forested areas. Residents are advised to stay informed about weather conditions and to take precautions when outdoors.
Recommended Activities: Outdoor activities such as hiking, rafting, and mountain biking are ideal for July. Indoor activities such as visiting art galleries, attending live performances, and cooking classes provide enjoyable alternatives for residents and visitors.
August
August continues the hot temperatures of July in Bearcreek, with an average temperature of 74°F. The month is characterized by sunny days, warm evenings, and outdoor festivals. Outdoor activities such as camping, fishing, and horseback riding remain popular choices for residents and visitors as they embrace the peak of summer. Indoor activities such as wine tastings, cooking classes, and art workshops are also enjoyed during this time.
Natural Disasters: August may occasionally experience severe weather such as thunderstorms, lightning, or wildfires, particularly in dry forested areas. Residents are advised to stay informed about weather conditions and to take precautions when outdoors.
Recommended Activities: Outdoor activities such as camping, fishing, and horseback riding are ideal for August. Indoor activities such as wine tastings, cooking classes, and art workshops provide enjoyable alternatives for residents and visitors.
September
September marks the transition to fall in Bearcreek, with temperatures gradually cooling down to an average of 64°F. The month is characterized by changing foliage, crisp mornings, and the return of wildlife activity. Outdoor activities such as hiking, leaf-peeping, and wildlife photography become popular choices for residents and visitors as they explore the natural beauty of autumn. Indoor activities such as visiting local markets, attending harvest festivals, and cooking classes are also enjoyed during this time.
Natural Disasters: September may occasionally experience early fall storms with rain, thunderstorms, or gusty winds. Residents are advised to stay informed about weather conditions and to take precautions when outdoors.
Recommended Activities: Outdoor activities such as hiking, leaf-peeping, and wildlife photography are ideal for September. Indoor activities such as visiting local markets, attending harvest festivals, and cooking classes provide enjoyable alternatives for residents and visitors.
October
October brings cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage to Bearcreek, with an average temperature of 52°F. The month is characterized by crisp days, chilly nights, and the peak of fall colors. Outdoor activities such as hiking, apple picking, and scenic drives become popular choices for residents and visitors as they immerse themselves in the beauty of autumn. Indoor activities such as wine tastings, cooking classes, and art workshops are also enjoyed during this time.
Natural Disasters: October may occasionally experience early-season snowfall or freezing temperatures, particularly in higher elevations. Residents are advised to stay informed about weather conditions and to take precautions when outdoors.
Recommended Activities: Outdoor activities such as hiking, apple picking, and scenic drives are ideal for October. Indoor activities such as wine tastings, cooking classes, and art workshops provide enjoyable alternatives for residents and visitors.
November
November marks the transition to winter in Bearcreek, with temperatures averaging around 38°F. The month is characterized by shorter days, cooler temperatures, and the arrival of snow. Outdoor activities such as skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing become popular choices for residents and visitors as they embrace the onset of winter. Indoor activities such as visiting local museums, attending holiday markets, and cooking classes are also enjoyed during this time.
Natural Disasters: November may occasionally experience early-season snowstorms or freezing temperatures, particularly in higher elevations. Residents are advised to stay informed about weather conditions and to take precautions when traveling in winter weather.
Recommended Activities: Outdoor activities such as skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing are ideal for November. Indoor activities such as visiting local museums, attending holiday markets, and cooking classes provide enjoyable alternatives for residents and visitors.
December
December brings cold temperatures and snowy conditions to Bearcreek, with an average temperature of 28°F. The month is characterized by winter landscapes, holiday festivities, and the spirit of the season. Outdoor activities such as sledding, snowmobiling, and ice skating become popular choices for residents and visitors as they celebrate the holidays amidst the snow-covered scenery. Indoor activities such as attending holiday concerts, visiting Christmas markets, and cooking classes are also enjoyed during this time.
Natural Disasters: December may experience winter storms with significant snowfall, freezing temperatures, and hazardous travel conditions. Residents are advised to stay informed about weather conditions and to take precautions when traveling in winter weather.
Recommended Activities: Outdoor activities such as sledding, snowmobiling, and ice skating are ideal for December. Indoor activities such as attending holiday concerts, visiting Christmas markets, and cooking classes provide enjoyable alternatives for residents and visitors.