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MSU EXTENSION IN PRAIRIE COUNTY
Prairie County Extension Office
217 West Park
P.O. Box 7
Terry, MT 59349-0007
PHONE: 635-2121
FAX: 635-5576
Prairie County is in the heart of Big Sky country in Montana and is a mecca of scenic beauty and tranquility. Wide open spaces with abundant wildlife are everywhere. Silence is taken for granted in the plains, with a population of less than one person per square mile. Early in the morning, the birds can be heard or deer moving around having breakfast. This was once the “wild west” people traveled far and wide to get to. There are many attractions in Prairie County, including recreational opportunities, a small town community atmosphere, and plenty to do.
Places to Explore, Sites to See & Things to Do:
- Take a short drive up the ‘Scenic View’ road northwest of Terry to see the famed ‘Badlands.’ Here you’ll find a vast display of primitive rock formations stretched across almost 43,000 acres of a Wilderness Study Area. Due to the unique geologic formations of the area, it was deemed a Wilderness Study Area by an act of Congress in the 1970's. Livestock grazing is allowed although some Wilderness Area restrictions apply, such as no off road driving. There is plenty of room here for hiking, biking and enjoying the peace and quiet of the plains.
- Calypso Trail was an old freight line used to transport goods down to the railroad. This is a motorized trail with spectacular views of the badlands. Three Natural Bridges of rock are located a short distance from the Calypso Trail.
- Sheridan Butte was used as a signaling site for U.S. soldiers during the Indian Wars. Names and dates are carved into the sandstone by soldiers and early settlers.
- The Powder River Depot is recognized as a state monument. Along this route, you will find old bread ovens as well as two graves. One is the grave of Private William George and the other of Scout Wesley Brockmeyer. The grave is marked by stone and a black steel fence.
- Visitors can discover Terry’s history at the Prairie County Museum & Lady Cameron Gallery in Terry. The Gallery features large crisp copies of a photograph collection that is a stunning portrayal of the everyday lives of eastern Montana homesteaders. The Prairie County Museum, housed in the old State Bank of Terry, is filled with horse and buggy equipment, and household and business antiques. A dentist office, barber shop, butcher shop, one-room school, library, hospital room, laundry, kitchen, dining room and bedroom date back to the turn of the century. Also on display are thousands of old photographs.
- Go fishing and agate hunting on the Yellowstone River. Prairie County is known as “agate country” and agates can be found along the shores of the river.
Community Attractions & Events
Prairie County offers a wide variety of community attractions and events for all ages.
- Terry Yippee is an annual event, sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce, occurring during the last weekend in July. Fun activities include a derby as well as a street dance on Saturday night.
- The Terry Swimming Pool is a large attraction for all ages. It is located in Murn Park, along with tennis courts, a ‘playground’ for kids, and gazebo for family gatherings.
- The Fallon Harvest Festival is the last weekend in September and offers games and activities as well as plenty of home cooked food and festivities.
- Prairie Unique offers a Fun Fly in June every year, where locals and travelers gather to fly remote control planes at the airport and enjoy good food. Contact Prairie Unique at 635-5575 for more information.
- Visitors can also enjoy some old-fashioned fun the third weekend in August at the Prairie County Fair in Terry. The “Biggest Little Fair in Eastern Montana” carries on a rich tradition of bringing the community together to enjoy exhibits, entertainment, food and friends. Attractions include a performance by a local drama group, the Parched Prairie Players, ‘Bump and Run’ car racing, and an old-fashioned Ranch Rodeo hosted by the Terry Roping Club. Other highlights include a parade, display of exhibits, church service, a pie auction and a variety of delicious food concessions.
- Prairie Action League sponsors several events throughout the year, including a haunted house during Halloween. The Chamber of Commerce also has extensive promotions throughout the year to promote local businesses.
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