Mullan Road
Why This Road Matters Here
Built in the late 1850s and early 1860s, the Mullan Road was one of the first engineered wagon roads across the northern Rocky Mountains. Authorized by the U.S. Army and led by John Mullan, the road connected the Missouri River to the Pacific Northwest and helped open the region to settlement, trade, and travel.
Fort Benton served as the eastern gateway. Goods arriving by steamboat were transferred here to wagons headed west across rugged terrain. This combination of river and road strengthened Fort Benton’s role as a vital transportation and supply hub during a pivotal era of Western expansion.
Experience the Mullan Road Story in Fort Benton
Fort Benton gives visitors a tangible way to connect with this history:
- John Mullan statue on the levee, honoring the engineer whose road linked east and west
- Walk the historic riverfront and levee, where supplies once shifted from boat to wagon
- Stroll downtown Fort Benton, where freighters and travelers stocked up before heading inland
- Visit local museums that interpret early transportation networks, roads, and overland travel
These experiences help bring the story of the Mullan Road to life on the ground.
Learn More
For more on the Mullan Road’s history and route, see:
Explore other historic routes near Fort Benton and plan your visit to experience where river, trail, and road come together.
