Fishtail & Dean

Step into classic Big Sky Country as your journey takes you to Fishtail. The area guest ranches offer everything you would expect – dramatic views, quiet and privacy. Local outfitters provide guided fishing trips and mountain adventure on horseback. If you’re headed into the backcountry on your own, get everything you need in Fishtail, picnic at the Fishtail Family Park, or visit the one restaurant in town.

The small community of Dean, on the outskirts of Fishtail, hosts a variety of events all summer long. If you like off road adventure, rent an ATV, there are miles and miles of trails and spectacular scenery waiting for you.

Past and Present

Fishtail, named after Fishtail Butte, an outcropping of rocks resembling a fish’s tail, began with a country post office in 1901. A general store was set up at about the same time, providing services to the many homesteaders in the area. The historic general store still operates in the same location today. The Fishtail Community Center is one of the original buildings and is available for weddings, reunions and community events.

Dean, named after a young mountain maiden, is located at the foot of Fishtail Butte. In the early 1900’s, T.C. Benbow discovered the largest chrome deposit in the western hemisphere. The Benbow Mine, located a few miles from Dean on Benbow Road, brought many families to the area. In those days, the small community had a school, post office and bar. Today, a restaurant and saloon occupy the property. The old school is maintained and used for community get togethers.

Fishtail Family Fun Day, an annual event, is held in June. Previous years have seen parades, a carnival for kids, a community yard sale, food and entertainment. It’s a fun filled day with lots of surprises that you won’t want to miss. All proceeds support the Community Center/Library and the Fishtail Family Park.