Beaverhead County

Beaverhead County, located in southwestern Montana, is the state's largest county by area and borders Idaho along the Continental Divide. As of the 2020 census, the population was 9,371, but recent estimates for 2026 place it around 10,240. The county seat is Dillon. Beaverhead County is characterized by its vast open spaces, mountains, and a sparse population density of less than 1.7 people per square mile. Agriculture, particularly cattle and hay production, is a cornerstone of Beaverhead County's economy. The county is also home to Barretts Minerals, one of the world's largest talc mines. Other significant sectors include healthcare, education, and tourism related to outdoor recreation. Barrett Hospital and Healthcare is a major employer in the county. Beaverhead County is historically significant as the site of Montana's first major gold discovery in 1862, which led to the establishment of Bannack, the state's first territorial capital. The county is named after a rock formation resembling a beaver's head, as described by the Shoshone. Today, it offers a blend of historical sites, outdoor recreational opportunities, and a strong connection to its agricultural heritage.