The map remembers Chico long after the crowds moved on. Chico Hot Springs are located near Pray, Montana. It is approximately 30 miles north of Yellowstone National Park. Beginning in 1900, the natural hot springs has been gradually turned into a vacation resort.
Park County County holds 5 documented ghost towns, including Electric, Independence, Jardine — Chico keeps them company on the map.
The story of Chico
Montana's ghost towns span gold-rush gulches and the great homestead bust that emptied the Hi-Line.
Chico Hot Springs are located near Pray, Montana. It is approximately 30 miles north of Yellowstone National Park. Beginning in 1900, the natural hot springs has been gradually turned into a vacation resort.
What you'll find today
The on-the-ground condition of Chico is unverified — it's listed here with unknown status. That could mean standing buildings, or an empty field. Go prepared for either, and consider sharing what you find so the record improves.
Nobody has confirmed the access situation, so treat any visit as reconnaissance: verify land ownership first, and be ready to admire from the road.
Getting there
Here's the honest truth: access to Chico is unverified. We couldn't confirm whether the site sits on public land, private property, or something in between — so verify land ownership and local rules before visiting, and respect private property at all times. The mapped point for Chico is roughly 45.3378, -110.6922 — use it as a starting point and cross-reference a current topographic map before leaving pavement.
Good to know
Ghost-town etiquette is simple: take only photographs. Removing artifacts is illegal on public lands and disrespectful everywhere else — and on federal land it can be a serious offense.
Survey Map
Approximate position — verify access locally before visiting
Chico FAQs
01Where is Chico located?
02What county is Chico in?
03What is the history of Chico?
04What remains at Chico today?
05Can you visit Chico?
Sources: account based on Wikipedia (“Chico Hot Springs”), CC BY-SA.
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