Hardin

Although its roots are firmly planted in cattle ranching, Hardin makes a significant portion of its living as a visitor gateway to the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument just a few miles to the south. With 3,833 residents, Hardin is among the largest communities in southeast Montana. Due to its proximity to the Crow Reservation, more than half of its residents are Native Americans. During the third week in August, a stretch of land along the Bighorn River about 15 minutes south of Hardin becomes the "tepee capital of the world" during the Crow Fair and Rodeo, the official fair of the Crow tribe. The festival focuses on traditional dances, activities, and sports tournaments.