Butte's Hike Through History Covers Ghost Towns, Cemeteries, And More

It's no secret that Butte is a treasure trove of history and if you love to explore our colorful past in a little more detail then most, and maybe get a little exercise in the process, you need to be aware of the Hike Through History program. Each week, local historians and experts dive into a different part of the Mining City's rich history, inviting you to take the hike with them. Each Thursday at 9am a new adventure begins and here is a look at what you can expect through the seasons end in early Septemnber.

JULY 30 - LEXINGTON WETLANDS CONSERVATION AREA

Josh Bryson will lead the July 30th hike along the newly completed Lexington Wetlands Conservation area which features a boardwalk, bird-viewing area and pollinator garden. Beginners are welcome as the hike will have mostly flat terrain. Meet at the parking area off of Lexington Avenue.

AUGUST 6 - HIGHLAND CITY

Dave Stratton will lead the hike as you visit one of our area's historic mining ghost towns. Expect a moderate hike that will be on an incline on dirt. Meet at the Highland City Campground.

AUGUST 13 - RED LIGHT DISTRICT

Aubrey Jaap and Lindsey Mulcahy will take you through Butte's historic Red Light District where you will learn about the lives, labor and legacy of the women who worked there and the role the Red Light District played in our city's story. Meet at the Dumas Brothel, 45 E. Mercury. This is over flat, paved terrain and beginners are welcome.

AUGUST 20 - BIG BUTTE OPEN SPACE RECREATION AREA

Experience this recreation resource with Dr. Colleen Elliott while learning about the geological history of the area. Explore the Big Butte's skills park, mountain bike trails and walking trails. This hike will be moderate with an incline on dirt. Meet at the Big Butte entrance.

AUGUST 27 - GHOST SIGN TOUR

BT Livermore will take you through Butte's Warehouse District exploring the ghost signs and the businesses that were behind them. Terrain is mostly flat and beginners are welcome. Meet at the Butte High School parking lot on Platinum Street.

SEPTEMBER 3 - ST. PATRICK'S CEMETERY TOUR

Walk through St. Patrick's Cemetery with Aubrey Jaap and Lindsey Mulcahy and learn about some of those interned there as well as the symbolism behind some of the headstones. Expect flat terrain, beginners are welcome, meet at St. Patrick's Cemetery.

For further details, please call (406) 782-3280.

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Filed Under: Butte History