Anaconda Smoke Stack State Park | Anaconda

Information

Landmark: Anaconda Smoke Stack State Park
City: Anaconda
Country: USA Montana
Continent: North America

Anaconda Smoke Stack State Park, Anaconda, USA Montana, North America

The Anaconda Smoke Stack State Park contains a large, disused industrial chimney located in Anaconda, Montana, USA.

Visual Characteristics

The structure is a brick chimney, measuring 585 feet (178 meters) in height. It has a circular base and tapers towards the top. The exterior brickwork is predominantly red, with visible signs of weathering and some areas of discoloration due to historical industrial emissions.

Location & Access Logistics

The park is situated approximately 1 mile (1.6 km) west of the Anaconda city center. Access is via West Park Street, which leads directly to the site. Ample free parking is available at the base of the smoke stack. No public transport routes directly serve the park; visitors typically arrive by private vehicle.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction of the Anaconda Smoke Stack was completed in 1918 by the Anaconda Copper Mining Company. Its original purpose was to vent toxic fumes from the company's smelter operations, dispersing them over a wider area to reduce localized air pollution. The site is an example of industrial heritage preservation.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe the scale of the smoke stack from its base. Interpretive signage details the history of the Anaconda Copper Mining Company and the construction of the chimney. Photography of the structure is a primary activity. Limited walking paths are present around the immediate vicinity.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available on-site. Limited shade is provided by a few scattered trees. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available. No food vendors operate within the park; dining options are available in the nearby city of Anaconda.

Best Time to Visit

For photography, early morning or late afternoon light provides optimal illumination of the structure. The months of June through September offer the most favorable weather conditions with lower precipitation and moderate temperatures. No tide considerations apply.

Facts & Legends

The Anaconda Smoke Stack was once the tallest masonry structure in the world. A local anecdote suggests that on clear days, the top of the stack can be seen from over 100 miles away.