Cities and Towns in Carbon County, Montana
Founded in March 4, 1895, Carbon County is one of 56 counties in the state of Montana. Historically, Carbon County was formed from Park County and Yellowstone County. The city of Red Lodge is the county seat. With FIPS code of 9, Carbon County has a population of 10,847 and area of 2,048 square miles (5,304 km²).
List of all cities in Carbon County, MT alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Alpine, MT | 59071 | 406 |
| Bearcreek, MT | 59007 | 406 |
| Belfry, MT | 59008 | 406 |
| Boyd, MT | 59013 | 406 |
| Bridger, MT | 59014 | 406 |
| Edgar, MT | 59026 | 406 |
| Fox, MT | 59070 | 406 |
| Fromberg, MT | 59029 | 406 |
| Joliet, MT | 59041 | 406 |
| Luther, MT | 59068 | 406 |
| Red Lodge, MT | 59068 | 406 |
| Roberts, MT | 59070 | 406 |
| Roscoe, MT | 59071 | 406 |
| Silesia, MT | 59041 | 406 |
| Washoe, MT | 59007 | 406 |
Major Cities and Towns in Carbon County, Montana
Red Lodge
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: 2.8 sq mi
- Population: 2,322 (estimated)
- Zip Codes: 59068
- Latitude and Longitude: 45.1858° N, 109.2463° W
Location and History
Red Lodge, the county seat of Carbon County, is located at the base of the Beartooth Mountains, making it a gateway to the scenic Beartooth Highway and Yellowstone National Park. Founded in the 1880s as a coal mining town, Red Lodge quickly became a bustling center of commerce, drawing miners from around the world, including many immigrants from Eastern Europe and Italy. The closure of the mines in the early 20th century led Red Lodge to shift toward tourism and recreation, leveraging its proximity to the mountains and ski slopes. Today, Red Lodge is known for its charming downtown area, which features historic buildings, restaurants, and shops catering to visitors year-round. The town also hosts numerous events, including the annual Red Lodge Music Festival and the Fourth of July rodeo, which attract thousands of tourists.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Red Lodge is served by the Red Lodge School District, which includes Red Lodge High School and Roosevelt Middle School. Key landmarks include the Red Lodge Mountain Resort, offering skiing and snowboarding in winter, and the Carbon County Historical Museum, preserving artifacts from the town’s mining past. The Beartooth Highway, with its stunning mountain views, is another major attraction. Annual events, such as the Beartooth Rally and the Fourth of July rodeo, highlight the town’s vibrant community spirit and connection to its historical roots.
Joliet
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: 0.39 sq mi
- Population: 636 (estimated)
- Zip Codes: 59041
- Latitude and Longitude: 45.4878° N, 108.9718° W
Location and History
Joliet is a small town located north of Red Lodge along U.S. Highway 212. Established in the late 19th century, Joliet began as a railroad and agricultural town, supporting the farming and ranching industries in the surrounding plains. The town’s name reflects its founders’ admiration for the French explorer Louis Jolliet, who explored much of North America. Over the years, Joliet has maintained its rural charm and serves as a local service center for nearby ranches and farms. The town offers a close-knit community atmosphere and scenic views of the Pryor and Beartooth Mountains, making it a pleasant and peaceful place to live.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Joliet is part of the Joliet School District, which includes Joliet High School and Joliet Elementary School. Major landmarks include the Joliet Community Center, which hosts various community events and gatherings. The nearby Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone River offers fishing and other recreational activities, while the Pryor Mountains provide hiking and scenic drives. Annual events like the Joliet Jamboree celebrate the town’s agricultural roots, bringing together residents and visitors for a day of fun and community spirit.
Bridger
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: 0.55 sq mi
- Population: 739 (estimated)
- Zip Codes: 59014
- Latitude and Longitude: 45.2958° N, 108.9135° W
Location and History
Bridger, located along the Clarks Fork River, is a small town with a rich history rooted in Montana’s early days of settlement and transportation. Named after the famous frontiersman Jim Bridger, the town was founded in the late 19th century and served as a crucial stop along the route between Billings and Red Lodge. Originally a trading post and ranching community, Bridger played an important role in supporting the cattle drives and stagecoach routes in the region. Today, Bridger retains its small-town charm, with a strong sense of community and historical preservation. Surrounded by scenic landscapes, Bridger offers a quiet lifestyle with access to outdoor recreation.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Bridger is served by the Bridger School District, including Bridger High School. Notable landmarks include the Clarks Fork River, which provides fishing and kayaking opportunities, and the Bridger Depot, a historical building that reflects the town’s railroad heritage. The nearby Pryor Mountains offer hiking and outdoor activities, while the town hosts annual events such as the Bridger Summer Celebration, which brings together the community for parades, games, and local entertainment, honoring Bridger’s pioneer spirit.
Fromberg
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: 0.16 sq mi
- Population: 412 (estimated)
- Zip Codes: 59029
- Latitude and Longitude: 45.3850° N, 108.9095° W
Location and History
Fromberg, a small town situated along the Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone River, was established in the early 1900s as an agricultural and railroad community. Named after a local landowner, the town quickly grew due to its fertile lands, ideal for farming sugar beets, alfalfa, and other crops. Fromberg played an essential role in supporting agriculture in Carbon County, with a focus on farming and ranching. Although small, the town has preserved its historic downtown, which features several original buildings from its early days. Today, Fromberg is known for its friendly community and scenic river views, providing residents with a peaceful, rural lifestyle.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Fromberg is part of the Fromberg Public Schools, which includes Fromberg High School. Landmarks include the Fromberg Historical Museum, showcasing artifacts from the town’s early farming days, and the Clarks Fork River, which offers fishing and other recreational activities. The nearby Pryor Mountains and surrounding agricultural landscapes contribute to the town’s picturesque setting. Community events, such as the Harvest Festival, celebrate Fromberg’s farming heritage and bring residents together, reflecting the town’s strong agricultural ties.
Bearcreek
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: 0.11 sq mi
- Population: 79 (estimated)
- Zip Codes: 59007
- Latitude and Longitude: 45.1525° N, 109.1758° W
Location and History
Bearcreek, located near Red Lodge, is a small town with a significant history in Montana’s coal mining era. Established in the early 1900s as a coal mining town, Bearcreek attracted workers and families from across the country, creating a bustling community. However, a tragic mine explosion in 1943 led to the eventual closure of the mines, significantly reducing the town’s population and shifting its economic focus. Today, Bearcreek is a quiet residential community with reminders of its mining heritage. The town has maintained its historical character and offers visitors a glimpse into its storied past.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Bearcreek students typically attend schools in nearby Red Lodge due to the town’s small size. Key landmarks include the remnants of Bearcreek’s mining past, such as the Smith Mine Historic District, where visitors can learn about the area’s coal mining history. The nearby Beartooth Mountains offer hiking, camping, and scenic views, while the popular “Bearcreek Downs Pig Races” held at the local steakhouse provide a unique and entertaining event for residents and tourists alike, showcasing Bearcreek’s quirky charm and community spirit.