Cities and Towns in Sanders County, Montana
Founded in February 7, 1905, Sanders County is one of 56 counties in the state of Montana. Historically, Sanders County was formed from Missoula County. The city of Thompson Falls is the county seat. With FIPS code of 89, Sanders County has a population of 12,959 and area of 2,762 square miles (7,154 km²).
List of all cities in Sanders County, MT alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Copper King, MT | 59873 | 406 |
| Dixon, MT | 59831 | 406 |
| Heron, MT | 59844 | 406 |
| Hot Springs, MT | 59845 | 406 |
| 59848 | 406 | |
| Lonepine, MT | 59848 | 406 |
| Niarada, MT | 59845 | 406 |
| Noxon, MT | 59853 | 406 |
| Paradise, MT | 59856 | 406 |
| Plains, MT | 59859 | 406 |
| Snider, MT | 59873 | 406 |
| Thompson Falls, MT | 59873 | 406 |
| Trout Creek, MT | 59874 | 406 |
Major Cities and Towns in Sanders County, Montana
Thompson Falls
Location and History
Thompson Falls, the county seat of Sanders County, is located in the western part of Montana, nestled along the banks of the Clark Fork River. The town is surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, with the Cabinet Mountains to the north and the Bitterroot Mountains to the south. Originally settled in the 1880s, Thompson Falls was named after the falls on the Clark Fork River, which were a prominent feature in the area. The town grew rapidly with the arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s, which helped transport timber, minerals, and other goods from the region. Timber production became a major industry, and the construction of the Thompson Falls Dam in the 1950s further bolstered the town’s economy. The dam provided hydroelectric power and created a reservoir that contributed to the area’s growth as a recreational destination. Today, Thompson Falls is a charming small town that serves as a gateway to outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and boating. Its proximity to both the Flathead and Lolo National Forests makes it a popular base for tourists and adventurers.
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 1.29 square miles
- Population (2020 Census): 1,680
- Zip Codes: 59873
- Latitude: 47.5940° N
- Longitude: 115.3454° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Thompson Falls is served by the Thompson Falls School District, which includes an elementary school, a middle school, and Thompson Falls High School. The district is well-regarded for its academic programs, extracurricular activities, and athletics. Notable landmarks in Thompson Falls include the Thompson Falls Dam, a significant feature in the town’s history that provides power to the region and is a popular spot for sightseeing. The nearby Thompson Falls State Park offers access to the Clark Fork River, with opportunities for fishing, boating, and picnicking. The Sanders County Courthouse, located in the heart of Thompson Falls, is another key historic building that adds to the town’s quaint charm. Outdoor enthusiasts also visit the nearby Cabinet Gorge for hiking, birdwatching, and fishing. The town’s historic district is home to several well-preserved buildings from the early 20th century, contributing to Thompson Falls’ unique character. With its picturesque location and access to a wide range of outdoor activities, Thompson Falls is a popular spot for both residents and tourists alike.
Hot Springs
Location and History
Hot Springs, located about 25 miles southwest of Thompson Falls, is a small town in the southwestern corner of Sanders County, situated along the banks of the Hot Springs Creek. The town is known for its natural hot springs, which have been a draw for visitors for over a century. Native American tribes, including the Kootenai and Flathead, used the hot springs for medicinal purposes long before European settlers arrived. In the late 1800s, the springs attracted the attention of settlers, and the town of Hot Springs was founded as a resort community. The town quickly gained a reputation as a health and wellness destination, with bathhouses and hotels springing up to accommodate visitors. Although the town’s focus on tourism and health services remains, Hot Springs has developed a quiet, rural atmosphere. The surrounding areas are also known for their natural beauty, with nearby forests and lakes offering recreational opportunities like hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The town maintains its reputation as a wellness destination, with the hot springs continuing to be a focal point for visitors seeking relaxation and healing.
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.36 square miles
- Population (2020 Census): 543
- Zip Codes: 59845
- Latitude: 47.5623° N
- Longitude: 114.8255° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Hot Springs is served by the Hot Springs School District, which includes an elementary school, a middle school, and Hot Springs High School. The district provides strong academic programs, with an emphasis on individualized learning and outdoor activities. One of the town’s most notable landmarks is the Symes Hot Springs Hotel, a historic resort that has been a major draw for visitors seeking the therapeutic benefits of the town’s natural springs. The hotel features mineral baths, making it a favorite spot for relaxation. Additionally, the nearby Hot Springs State Park offers trails for hiking and opportunities for fishing and boating. Outdoor enthusiasts also enjoy the nearby Flathead National Forest, which provides ample opportunities for camping, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Hot Springs also celebrates local culture with annual events such as the Hot Springs Winter Carnival, which showcases the town’s sense of community. The town’s focus on health and wellness, combined with its natural beauty, continues to attract visitors looking for a peaceful retreat in the heart of Montana.
Paradise
Location and History
Paradise is a small unincorporated community located just west of Thompson Falls in the western part of Sanders County. The town’s name reflects the stunning natural beauty that surrounds it—lush forests, pristine rivers, and expansive views of the nearby mountains. The area was originally settled in the late 1800s by farmers and homesteaders, who were drawn to the fertile soil and abundant wildlife. Paradise grew as a small agricultural community, with farming and ranching as the main economic drivers. While it never developed into a large town, Paradise became a popular stop for travelers along U.S. Highway 200. The town’s location along the Clark Fork River provided access to water resources for farming and fishing, and today it is still known for its beautiful riverfront setting. Paradise remains a quiet, rural community, with few commercial establishments but a strong sense of local pride. The town has evolved into a base for outdoor enthusiasts, with nearby forests and wilderness areas offering a range of recreational opportunities such as hiking, camping, and fishing. Paradise remains a serene and scenic retreat in the heart of western Montana.
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.50 square miles
- Population (2020 Census): 231
- Zip Codes: 59856
- Latitude: 47.3795° N
- Longitude: 114.8017° W
Major Schools and Landmarks
Paradise is part of the Thompson Falls School District, with children attending schools in the neighboring town of Thompson Falls. While there are no major schools or educational facilities within the town itself, the town’s rural setting makes it an ideal location for outdoor learning opportunities. Paradise is known for its peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty, and it serves as a gateway to the nearby Lolo National Forest, which offers extensive hiking, camping, and fishing opportunities. The Clark Fork River runs through the town, making it a popular spot for recreational activities such as fishing and boating. The town is also close to the Flathead River, another natural resource that draws visitors for its scenic views and outdoor activities. While there are no major landmarks or commercial establishments in Paradise, its location amidst stunning forests, rivers, and mountains makes it a beloved retreat for those seeking a tranquil, nature-filled escape. The town’s beauty and access to outdoor recreation remain its primary attractions, drawing nature lovers, anglers, and adventurers year-round.
Other Communities in Sanders County
Sanders County is home to several other small communities and unincorporated towns, such as Perma and Noxon, that add to the area’s rural charm. These towns are primarily agricultural, with farming and ranching as major industries. Noxon, for example, is known for its proximity to Noxon Reservoir and the scenic beauty of the surrounding Cabinet Mountains, making it a favorite spot for outdoor activities. Perma is known for its proximity to the Flathead River and is a popular area for fishing and boating. Sanders County’s natural beauty, with its rivers, forests, and mountains, makes it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and a perfect place for those seeking a peaceful, rural lifestyle. Despite being small in population, these communities are an integral part of Sanders County, with each offering its own unique charm and rural Montana experience.