Grant–Kohrs Ranch National Historic Site
Park Historic working cattle ranch illustrating Western ranching heritage
Grant-Kohrs Ranch National Historic Site preserves a working cattle ranch in Montana, interpreting 19th-century open-range ranching with preserved buildings, livestock demonstrations and ranger-led programs.
Grant‑Kohrs Ranch National Historic Site in Montana preserves a working and historic cattle ranch founded in the 19th century and associated with ranchers Johnny Grant and Conrad Kohrs. The site interprets the open‑range cattle industry that shaped the American West.
The site includes preserved ranch buildings, corrals and historic equipment illustrating cattle operations, branding and livestock management from the late 1800s to early 20th century. Seasonal living‑history programs and demonstrations often show ranching techniques, animal handling and blacksmithing.
The property originated in the mid‑ to late 19th century and was developed into one of the region’s large cattle outfits under successive owners, notably Grant and Kohrs. The National Park Service designated it to preserve the material culture and landscape of western ranching.
Located in western Montana near the town of Deer Lodge, the ranch sits in a broad river valley and is accessible by road from nearby communities and the regional highway network.
- Designation: Established as a National Historic Site in the early 1970s to preserve the American open‑range cattle ranching heritage associated with Johnny Grant and Conrad Kohrs.
What to See #
- Ranch complex: Historic ranch complex composed of original 19th century buildings including a bunkhouse, blacksmith shop, corrals and main ranch house used for administrative and interpretive functions.
- Visitor center and demonstrations: Visitor center with exhibits and orientation materials explaining open‑range cattle ranching, with seasonal demonstrations of ranching practices where offered.
Tips for Visiting Grant–Kohrs Ranch National Historic Site #
- Time your visit for late spring through early fall when ranger-led programs, demonstrations and interpretive tours of the working ranch are most likely to run.
- Start at the visitor center to pick up the day's schedule - many visitors miss the hands-on demonstrations and living-history programs that bring ranch life to life.
- Plan for a weekday visit if possible; weekends and summer holidays draw local families and can make the guided tours and exhibits busier.
Best Time to Visit Grant–Kohrs Ranch National Historic Site #
Best in late spring through early autumn when the ranch programs and outdoor access are most reliably available.
Weather & Climate near Grant–Kohrs Ranch National Historic Site #
Grant–Kohrs Ranch National Historic Site's climate is classified as Cold Semi-Arid - Cold Semi-Arid climate with mild summers (peaking in July) and freezing winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -13°C to 28°C. Semi-arid with limited rainfall.
January
January is the coldest month with highs of 0°C and lows of -13°C. Light rainfall.
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February
February is freezing with highs of 3°C and lows of -11°C. The driest month with just 10 mm.
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March
March is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of -6°C. Light rainfall.
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April
April is cold with highs of 14°C and lows of -3°C. Light rainfall.
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May
May is cool with highs of 19°C and lows of 2°C. The wettest month with 45 mm of rain.
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June
June is cool with highs of 23°C and lows of 6°C. Moderate rainfall (43 mm).
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July
July is the warmest month with highs of 28°C and lows of 8°C. Light rainfall.
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August
August is cool with highs of 28°C and lows of 7°C. Moderate rainfall (30 mm).
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September
September is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 2°C. Light rainfall.
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October
October is cold with highs of 16°C and lows of -2°C. Light rainfall.
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November
November is freezing with highs of 6°C and lows of -8°C. Light rainfall.
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December
December is freezing with highs of 1°C and lows of -11°C. Light rainfall.