Montana is a big state. Really big! So, the number of weekend adventures can keep a person busy for their whole life. And I would bet that there will always be some places on your list that you never did get to see and even more places you have never even heard of.

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Well, one of those hidden gems, is Virgelle, Montana.  It is basically an abandoned ghost town, but truly an amazing place.  Remotely located in the heart of the Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument.

 

Don Sorenson is the owner of the Virgelle Mercantile and has been for 35 years.  The Mercantile was built in 1912 and was the General Store for the railroad crew and the homesteaders in the area.  Now it is one of the most wonderful antique stores I have ever seen.  Don has a passion for antiques and antique furniture from the 1900's to the 1920's.  He really does have some one-of-a-kind pieces.

The Mercantile building is also a Bed & Breakfast.  There are authentically restored guest rooms and homestead cabins.  All overnight guests receive a homecooked breakfast and each room is supplied with your very own snack basket.  Would you prefer to stay in a private cabin?  There are 6 different homestead cabins to choose from.

Virgelle Montana is also one of the ferry crossings on the Missouri River.  The ferry is open Monday - Saturday from 7-7 and Sunday 9-5.  No charge.

Virgelle Montana is open from April to October and is located 42 miles down the Missouri River from Fort Benton.  Take HWY 87 North and go through Loma.  Go 12 miles past Loma and take a right on the gravel road right after mile marker 66.  Head down the gravel road for 8 miles and when you pass through a concrete underpass go right for 1/8 a mile.

Virgelle Montana hosts two great events every year.  The Virgelle Outdoor Flea Market (Sunday July 9th, 2023) and a Real Country Christmas at a real country store (December 2 & 3, 2023).

Virgelle Mercantile, a Montana Hidden Gem.