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Photos courtesy of Friends of Pompeys Pillar
Pompey’s Pillar: A Mark in Time
There’s something awe-inspiring about standing in the exact spot where history was made, where names you’ve only read in textbooks carved their mark into the land. At Pompey's Pillar National Monument, that feeling is real. Towering 150 feet above the Yellowstone River, this sandstone formation holds the only surviving physical evidence of the Lewis and Clark Expedition: William Clark’s signature, etched into the rock on July 25, 1806.
But preserving that history and making sure it stays meaningful for every visitor doesn’t just happen on its own. It takes dedication, passion, and a whole lot of behind-the-scenes work. That’s where the Friends of Pompey's Pillar come in.
This hardworking nonprofit organization partners closely with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to help operate the visitor center, coordinate a strong volunteer program, and support educational programming and preservation efforts. Their mission is simple but mighty: to make sure everyone who visits Pompey's Pillar walks away with a deeper appreciation of its story, and a connection to the people and cultures who’ve passed through this place for generations.
From families on summer road trips to school groups and researchers, the site draws all kinds of curious minds. What they find is more than just a big rock with a famous name scratched into it. Over 5,000 petroglyphs and pictographs adorn the site, telling stories of Native peoples who lived, hunted, and traveled along the Yellowstone long before Lewis and Clark arrived. Friends of Pompey's Pillar plays a key role in helping to preserve and interpret these cultural legacies, too.
Inside the visitor center (open Thursday–Saturday this summer due to budget constraints), guests can dive deeper into the area’s rich past. Exhibits cover everything from Native American culture and wildlife to the legendary expedition that made the site famous. Even when the visitor center is closed, the grounds remain open daily, and the monument is still fully accessible, allowing visitors to explore, reflect, and learn at their own pace.
This isn’t just a place for quiet walks and history buffs, Friends of Pompey's Pillar also hosts events that bring the monument to life. Seasonal highlights include Signature Day, celebrating Clark’s historic visit, and Native Heritage Day, honoring the Indigenous cultures of the region with storytelling, performances, and community connections. These events help make the site more than a monument; they make it a gathering place.
With panoramic views of the Yellowstone River, walking trails, outdoor exhibits, and a strong sense of place, Pompey's Pillar is a can’t-miss stop on any Montana road trip. Whether you're hiking to the top for that epic view, soaking in stories from centuries past, or just looking to stretch your legs somewhere meaningful, it’s a place that welcomes all.
And behind it all is a group of dedicated locals, the Friends of Pompey's Pillar—who quietly and continuously ensure that this site stays beautiful, educational, and welcoming for generations to come.
Where to Find It: 3039 U.S. Highway 312, Pompey's Pillar, MT
Hours: Visitor Center open Thursday–Saturday | Monument Grounds open 7 days a week
