The Pictograph Cave site was designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1964, because of its archeological significance. Today's visitors can enjoy a unique opportunity to explore the mystery of this extraordinary site and tour the new visitor center.

Prehistoric hunters who camped in Pictograph Cave left behind artifacts and over 100 pictographs, or rock paintings. The oldest rock art in the cave is over 2,000 years old. Their interpretations are still subject to debate. The images of animals, warriors and even rifles tell a story that has lasted thousands of years. The park's three main caves - Pictograph, Middle, and Ghost cave - were home to generations of prehistoric hunters. The caves were carved from the Eagle sandstone cliff by the forces of water and wind. The first recorded discovery of artifacts and paintings in the caves was made in 1936.

The park has a pleasant 3/4 loop trail to the caves, with interpretative displays along the route identifying and explaining the natural features, the prehistoric paintings and vegetation found in the area. Pictograph Cave is the deepest of the three main caves, at approximately 160 feet wide and 45 feet deep. Visitors are advised to bring binoculars to get a better view of the rock art. Allow at least an hour to enjoy the park, it's visitor center and trail. Also an excellent site for bird watching. There are picnic facilities available for day use only, but no camping is permitted.

Seasons & Hours
Summer Hours:
Open Daily between the third Friday in May and the third Sunday in September

• Park: 9 am - 7 pm

• Visitor Center: 10 am - 5 pm

Winter Hours:
Open Wednesday - Sunday between the third Monday in September - third Thursday in May

• Park: 9 am - 5 pm

• Visitor Center: 10 am - 4 pm

• Closed Monday & Tuesday, and Thanksgiving, Dec. 24, 25, 31 & Jan. 1

  Restrictions and Closures
  See a current list of Restrictions and Closures on State Parks and other FWP lands that may be affected by floods, fire, drought or major maintenance activities.

  Park Rules
  Visit the State Parks Fees & Regulations page for park rules.

  Fees
  Montana Residents

• Montana residents who pay the $9 state parks fee with their annual vehicle registration have no daily entrance fees to state parks. For residents who don't include this in their vehicle registration, non-resident day use fees apply.

Nonresidents

• Day use entrance fee with a vehicle: $8

• Day use entrance fee as a walk-in, bicycle or bus passenger: $4

• With a Nonresident Entrance Pass: Free

  Volunteer
  Contact the park manager for open volunteer positions at Pictograph Cave State Park.

For complete position descriptions, application forms, and details about Montana State Parks volunteer programs, visit the Volunteers page.