405 US Hwy 2 East
Malta, MT 59538
406-654-5300
Website
Located in the heart of dinosaur country, the museum features many fossils, including those of plants, invertebrates, fish, turtles, crocodiles, and a variety of Jurassic and Cretaceous dinosaur species. Among the dinosaur fossils are Triceratops, Stegosaurus, Camarasaurus, a horned dinosaur called Maltaceratops, a new and as yet un-named species of raptor dinosaur, and several remarkably preserved hadrosaurs (the duck-billed dinosaurs) – including juvenile and adult specimen. The most recognized exhibit is that of “Leonardo,” a mummified duck-bill Brachylophosaurus canadensis. Field digs and education programs are offered for both adults and children throughout the summer.
Did You Know?
A mummy, though most often referred to in the Egyptian context, simply means that the soft parts of a dead animal have been preserved. “Leonardo,” the “mummy dinosaur,” is one of only a handful of mummified specimen. “Leonardo’s” fossilized remains are covered in soft tissue allowing paleontologists to study its skin, scales, muscles, and even its final meal. This find has helped paleontologists “flesh out” and better understand what Brachylophosaurus actually looked like when it was alive.
Where to Next on the Montana Dinosaur Trail?
Nearest
Phillips County Museum
Malta, right next door, east across the parking lot.
Nearest to the West
Blaine County Museum
Chinook, 67 miles (1 hour)
US Highway 2 west from Malta to Chinook.
Nearest to the East
Fort Peck Interpretive Center
Fort Peck, 89 miles (1.5 hours)
US Highway 2 east from Malta to Glasgow, MT Highway 24 south from Glasgow to Fort Peck.
Nearest to the South
Upper Musselshell Museum
Harlowton, 191 miles (3.25 hours)
US Highway 191 south from Malta to Lewistown; US Hwy 200 west from Lewistown to its junction with US Hwy 191 at Eddies Corner; US Hwy 191 south from Eddies Corner to Harlowton.
While You’re in the Area
Bowdoin National Wildlife Refuge
Located just six miles east of Malta, this wetlands prairie preserve provides viewing opportunities for more than 260 species of birds, as well as other Montana wildlife.
CM Russell National Wildlife Refuge
Sitting at just over 1-million-acres, this wildlife refuge is one of the nation’s largest. It preserves untouched wilderness and habitat for wildlife of many species. The Slippery Ann Wildlife Viewing Area is a popular fall viewing site for elk.
Fishing & Hunting
Check out the popular hunting and fishing opportunities in the area.
Little Rocky Mountains
The communities of Zortman and Landusky are nestled in this “island mountain” range about 45 miles south of Malta. The area provides access to outdoor recreation along with lodging and restaurants.
Sleeping Buffalo Hot Springs
These natural springs have created the perfect retreat on US Highway 2, 17 miles east of Malta. This Oasis on the Hi-Line offers pools, a sauna, and RV sites, camping, and cabins.
More to do in Malta
