Overview

Pompey's Pillar is located in Montana, just 25 miles east of Billings, along the Yellowstone River.

Named by Captain William Clark (Lewis and Clark), in honor of Sacajawea’s son, the sandstone mesa stands 150 feet tall and offers gorgeous views of the Yellowstone Valley.

Known to Native Americans as “the place where mountain lions lie,” the pillar, now a National Monument, was the site of various historic events. On July 25, 1806, Captain Clark carved his name into the mesa, and in 1873, Sioux Indians fired upon Custer’s troops while they were camped opposite the pillar.

Today, visitors can walk along the boardwalk leading to the butte, view Captain Clark’s engraving, and take in views of Yellowstone River.

Location/Directions

Pompey's Pillar lies 25 miles east of Billings and 90 miles (1.5 hours) from Red Lodge.

• Directions from Red Lodge: Follow US-212 N out of Red Lodge for 43.5 miles and merge onto US I-90 E towards Billings, continuing for 22 miles. Take I-94 east towards Bismark for 23 miles before taking exit 23 towards Pompey's Pillar. Turn left onto US-312 and follow for 1 mile.

Contact Information

Pompey's Pillar National Monument Information Center

• Phone: (406) 875-2400 or (406) 896-5013

Season/Hours

Pompey's Pillar is open daily from May through September from 9am to 6pm.

* Walk-in traffic permitted during the off-season.

Fees

The following parking fees apply:

• $7 per vehicle per day
• Free for Golden Age, Golden Access, and Golden Eagle Passport holders. 

More Information

Visit Pompey's Pillar during Clark Days, held annually during the last weekend in July, and enjoy Lewis and Clark re-enactments, story-telling, presentations, nature walks, music and more.