Cities and Towns in Pondera County, Montana

Founded in February 17, 1919, Pondera County is one of 56 counties in the state of Montana. Historically, Pondera County was formed from Chouteau County and Teton County. The city of Conrad is the county seat. With FIPS code of 73, Pondera County has a population of 5,994 and area of 1,625 square miles (4,209 km²).

List of all cities in Pondera County, MT alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Brady, MT 59416 406
Conrad, MT 59425 406
Dupuyer, MT 59432 406
Heart Butte, MT 59448 406
Ledger, MT 59456 406
Valier, MT 59486 406

Major Cities and Towns in Pondera County, Montana

Conrad

Location and History

Conrad is the county seat of Pondera County, located in the northwestern part of Montana, about 40 miles north of Great Falls. The town was established in 1899 and named after Charles Conrad, a local businessman and politician who played a key role in the development of the area. Conrad was initially settled as an agricultural and railroad town, and it grew rapidly with the arrival of the Great Northern Railway. The town’s location on the Marias River and its fertile surrounding lands made it an ideal spot for farming, particularly wheat and barley. The early 20th century saw the town flourish with the construction of a number of commercial buildings and the expansion of agricultural infrastructure. Although Conrad’s population has fluctuated over the years, the town remains a vital center for the surrounding farming and ranching community. The economy of Conrad is largely based on agriculture, and it serves as a key trading hub for local farmers and ranchers. Today, it is a small, rural community that remains proud of its agricultural roots.

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 1.20 square miles
  • Population (2020 Census): 2,759
  • Zip Codes: 59425
  • Latitude: 48.1794° N
  • Longitude: 111.9521° W

Major Schools and Landmarks

Conrad is served by the Conrad School District, which includes Conrad High School, Pondera Middle School, and several elementary schools. The district is known for its strong academic programs, extracurricular activities, and athletics, particularly in sports like football and basketball. Conrad also boasts several significant landmarks, such as the Marias River, which runs through the town and provides ample opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife watching. The Marias River is a major natural feature in the town and a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts. The Liberty County Historical Museum in Conrad offers exhibits on local history, including the town’s agricultural roots, the role of the railroad in its development, and the Native American history of the region. Additionally, Conrad is known for its historic downtown area, which features several preserved buildings from the early 20th century. The town is a hub for the surrounding agricultural community, offering services, shopping, and dining to both residents and visitors.

Valier

Location and History

Valier is a small town located in the southwestern part of Pondera County, along the eastern shore of the scenic Lake Frances. The town was founded in 1910 and named after the Valier family, early settlers in the area. Initially, Valier grew as a farming and ranching community, and its location near the lake made it an ideal spot for irrigation and agriculture. During the 20th century, the construction of the Pondera Irrigation Project transformed the surrounding landscape, making it possible to cultivate the fertile land along the lake. This irrigation project played a key role in Valier’s growth, helping the town become a major agricultural hub in the region. Today, the town has a small population but continues to serve as a vital center for farming and ranching in Pondera County. Valier’s position along Lake Frances also makes it a destination for tourists, especially those interested in fishing, boating, and other outdoor activities. The town’s tight-knit community, combined with its rural charm, makes it a unique place in Montana.

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 0.41 square miles
  • Population (2020 Census): 370
  • Zip Codes: 59486
  • Latitude: 48.2130° N
  • Longitude: 112.5032° W

Major Schools and Landmarks

Valier is served by the Valier School District, which includes Valier High School and Valier Elementary School. The district provides strong academic programs, sports teams, and extracurricular activities, including arts and music. Valier’s proximity to Lake Frances makes it a prime location for outdoor activities, and the lake itself is a major local landmark, known for its excellent fishing, boating, and birdwatching opportunities. The lake is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, making it a popular spot for hiking, camping, and picnicking. In addition to the natural attractions, Valier also boasts the Pondera County Museum, which showcases the region’s agricultural history and its development over the years. The museum features exhibits about local farming, ranching, and the early settlers who shaped the community. The town also celebrates its history with annual events such as the Valier Community Days, which features parades, rodeos, and other local festivities. With its picturesque location and a strong sense of community, Valier offers both residents and visitors a peaceful and scenic environment.

Other Communities in Pondera County

In addition to Conrad and Valier, Pondera County includes several smaller communities, including Pendroy, Bynum, and Heart Butte. Pendroy, located to the south of Conrad, is an unincorporated community with a strong agricultural presence, particularly in the farming of wheat and barley. The town is named after the Pendroy family, early settlers who helped establish the area. Bynum, located to the north of Valier, is another small rural community known for its proximity to the Marias River and the local agricultural industry. Bynum also serves as a gateway to the nearby Pondera County Wildlife Management Area, which offers opportunities for hunting, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Heart Butte, a small Native American community on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation, is located in the eastern part of Pondera County. The town has historical significance as a center for Native American culture and continues to be home to members of the Blackfeet Nation. These smaller communities contribute to the rich agricultural and cultural fabric of Pondera County, with farming, ranching, and outdoor recreation remaining central to the region’s economy and lifestyle.