Montana Television Network

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The Montana Television Network is a system of CBS affiliates in Montana, all but one owned by the Evening Post Publishing Company. It is based in Billings, Montana.

MTN was founded by Montana broadcasting pioneer Joseph S. "Joe" Sample. He signed on KOOK-TV (now KTVQ) in Billings, Montana's second television station, in 1953. He bought KXLF-TV in Butte in 1955 (KXLF had signed on three months before KOOK in 1953). KFBB-TV in Great Falls began sharing programs with KOOK and KXLF in 1958; the three stations formed the Skyline Network.

In the early 1960s, Sample bought KPAX-TV in Missoula. In 1966, KFBB left the network, and Sample bought Great Falls' other station, KRTV. The network became known as the Montana Television Network in the early 1970s.

Sample sold the stations to SJL Broadcasting in 1984, who in turn sold them to Evening Post in 1994. Evening Post runs the stations as part of its Cordillera Communications subsidiary. Combined, the stations and their numerous translators reach 89% of Montana.

Four of the full-powered MTN stations, KTVQ, KXLF, KRTV, and KPAX, also carry programming from The CW on their digital subchannels.

The MTN stations identify as separate stations in their own right, but use a two-way microwave system to share news stories. They also brand as "Montana's News Station." All of the stations (excluding KXGN) air Jeopardy! at 6 & Wheel of Fortune at 6:30.