Montana Trails

Located near Kalispell, in the Flathead National Forest of northwest Montana, Blacktail OHV Trail is unlike any other trail you will find in a National Forest. Designated as a National Recreation Trail in 1979, it was not until the 2000's that members from two local 4-wheel drive clubs were given the "OK" to create numerous manmade "challenge features" along several forest roads that now make up the three legs of the Blacktail-Wild Bill ORV Trail system. This trail system is the northernmost Jeep Badge of Honor (BOH) trail and by far the most unique trail system in Montana. Jeep owners from across the country might visit this area mainly in summer, but don't be fooled. Even during the winter, this area is a 4-wheeler's paradise.

Located west of Kalispell, in the Flathead National Forest of northwest Montana, Wild Bill-Eagle Mountain is part of a unique trail system, unlike any other trail system you will find in a National Forest. Designated as a National Recreation Trail in 1979, it was not until the 2000's that members from two local 4-wheel drive clubs were given the "OK" to create numerous manmade "challenge features" along several forest roads that now make up the three legs of the Blacktail-Wild Bill ORV Trail system. Obstacles range from natural rock ledges and deep mud holes to huge tractor tires and giant logs. Wild Bill-Eagle Mountain is the perfect place to take groups of both beginners and hard-core wheelers. Jeep owners from across the country might visit this area mainly in summer, but don't be fooled. Even during the winter, this area is an off-roader's playground. This trail system is the northernmost Jeep Badge of Honor (BOH) trail, and by far the most unique trail system Jeep has recognized.

Located in the Boulder Hills, about 30 minutes south of Helena, Wickes Road takes travelers down a historic stretch of road showcasing the rich mining history and railroad history that helped build western Montana. The trail offers a rare opportunity to traverse a 130-plus-year-old abandoned train tunnel, pass through once booming mining towns, and traverse open grassy hillsides now populated chiefly by cattle. If making a trip between Butte and Helena, be sure to make a slight detour down a road that is definitely an adventure of a lifetime that won't be around forever.

Located near Kalispell, in the Flathead National Forest of northwest Montana, Upper Dayton Creek OHV Trail is part of a unique trail system unlike any other one in a National Forest. Designated as a National Recreation Trail in 1979, it was not until the 2000's that members from two local 4-wheel drive clubs were given the "OK" to create numerous manmade "challenge features" along several forest roads that now make up the three legs of the Blacktail-Wild Bill ORV Trail system. This trail system is the northernmost Jeep Badge of Honor (BOH) trail, and by far the most unique trail system Jeep has recognized. Obstacles include natural rock ledges, deep machine cut holes, large tractor tires, and huge logs. Jeep owners from across the country might visit this area mainly in summer, but don't be fooled. Even during the winter, this area is an off-roader's fun house.

Elk Lake is one of those out-of-the-way mountain lakes that many of us know for great fishing and some old-school social distancing. Hidden Lake and Elk Lake below are both spring-fed with crystal clear waters. Whether you're planning a wedding at Elk Lake Resort or want to escape the crowds and enjoy some fishing at these remote lakes, this trail has something for you.

The first part of this trail is located in the Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge. This area is popular for birders and photographers wanting to photograph the once nearly extinct Trumpeter Swans. The remaining half of this trail is in the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, the largest national forest in Montana, covering 3.35 million acres.

Conklin Lake Trail is one of those trails that hardly anyone knows with beautiful views of Hidden Lake and the surrounding mountains. This trail is located in the Beaverhead National Forest near the Continental Divide and the Montana Idaho border, and close to the west entrance to Yellowstone National Park. In July, the wildflowers are in full bloom, making the grassy fields full of color and swaying like ocean waves in the wind. Over the fields are snow-capped mountain peaks, birds, grasshoppers, and the famous Montana "Big Sky."

Located in the Flathead National Forest, just south of Kila, Wild Bill-Truman Creek is a lesser know trail within the Blacktail-Wild Bill ORV trail system. This road is a leisurely drive through a narrow, thick forest. Its lack of popularity results in plenty of solitude, with all of the popular trails still within a stone's throw, reachable by one f the many connecting spurs. Use this road to connect the Wild Bill and Blacktail trailheads without running into big groups attempting to take on big obstacles.

Contour Road is located in the Custer Gallatin National Forest just 20 minutes west of West Yellowstone, Montana, and the west entrance to Yellowstone National Park. Custer Gallatin National Forest is one of the most ecologically diverse landscapes in the region and covers more than 3.1 million acres. This road does as the name implies, climbing nearly 1500 feet along the mountain's contours for six miles. Contour Road ends near the 7900 feet elevation mark and offers incredible views from 1500 feet above Hebgen Lake, the highest vantage point of Hebgen Lake accessible by vehicle. Contour Road is not often traveled. The only noises you're going to hear up high on this trail are the bugling of elk, the screeching of birds, and the wind whispering through the treetops.

Big Bear Lake Road is a 3.57-mile trail in the Gallatin Mountain Range. The fun technical trail has great views and, of course, leads to Big Bear Lake. This trail also connects to Big Bear Lake G Road, FR 6969G.

This rocky trail climbs over 1100 feet. Airing down is recommended for both traction and comfort. The trail is moderately difficult to Big Bear Lake and then becomes steeper with loose rock as it climbs above the lake. There are great views of the valley along the trail on the way to the peak with several campsites. The final few thousand feet of the trail is a steep, loose hill climb up to the very top of the peak.

Big Bear Lake is quite beautiful and is only a short distance from the road. A short steep spur trail leads to the lakeshore of the lake. There are a few grassy campsites along the way to the lake and several campsites on the shore of the lake, and places to park. The lake, framed beautifully by the surrounding mountains, is relatively small but is good for swimming on a hot day.

Overall Big Bear Lake Road is good for someone who is willing to drive a more difficult trail to enjoy excellent views or find a quieter place to camp.

Little Bear Road is an 11.4-mile trail in the Little Bear area of the Gallatin Mountains, a fun area trail with nice views and lots of wildlife.

The road begins easy and consists of graded and rough dirt that could be driven with a stock 2WD vehicle when dry, but the difficulty soon increases. The trail becomes narrower with larger rolling dirt bumps and undulations. This area also has larger mud pits with deep holes and depressions, sometimes filled with water. A 4x4 is highly recommended in these sections because the mud is incredibly slick and can pack into tires. The upper trail is rocky. Several fairly steep sections have loose rock, deep ruts, and potholes.

Little Bear Road connects to several other roads, including Wilson Creek Divide Road (3138), Little Bear B Road (980B), Bear Divide Road (3141), and Big Bear Lake Road (6969).

There are a few small camping areas off of the second half of the road, as well as two larger campsites with fire pits, including one at the turnaround at the end of the road.

Overall this is a fun road that allows you to get deep into the woods and enjoy the views and wildlife. A little over half of the road is an easy, relaxing drive, while the few more challenging sections provide excitement and an opportunity to practice technical driving. This makes the trail suitable for beginners looking to get more experience offroading but does not want to be white-knuckled the entire time.

Madison Arm Road offers multiple day-use sites along the South Fork Madison River and the Madison Arm of Hebgen Lake near West Yellowstone, with access to the Madison Arm Resort Campground and Marina. This easy trail offers a nice drive through the trees and access to picnic spots, cabin rentals, RV, and tent camping sites. Unlike driving through Yellowstone National Park, you can enjoy a drive through the woods here rather than parking on the road in bison jams. Due to bear activity, camping is restricted to designated sites only, which along this trail would be at the resort only.

From rolling grasslands to winding mountains and a creek with more twists and turns than a maze, this scenic and easy trail is not one to miss. Blacktail Road is part of a network of interconnected trails offering more miles of exploration than can be explored in one tank of gas. Traveling through private, BLM, and Montana State Trust Lands, this trail showcases diverse landscapes and numerous spurs to explore.

Dispersed camping is allowed on BLM lands, but there is no distinction along this trail between the individual management/ownership boundaries. There are signs for East Fork Blacktail Campground, but amenities and availability are unknown.

Miles Creek Road is a 5.15-mile road in the Bangtail Mountain Range. The road is mostly rough dirt, with several sections that are quite muddy and several that are quite rocky. There are some large ruts in parts of the road. For the most part, the worst obstacles can be easily avoided assuming one drives slow and cautiously. Many small offshoot roads leading to campsites are quite steep and technical, with mud, large rocks, deep ruts, and deep puddles. This road crosses over the top of the ridge and has excellent views of mountains and plateaus that are on the east side of the Bangtail Mountains and travels through several meadows full of wildflowers and butterflies.

There are lots of great camping spots off this road, with campsites right along the road and others a little ways from the trail via short access roads. Many of the campsites have their own unique beautiful views, and several of them have campfire rings.

Overall this is a fun trail for beginners, sightseers, campers, and those who want to explore more technical obstacles or play in the mud.

Hyalite Canyon South Road is a pleasant 2-mile trail near the Hyalite Reservoir in the Custer Gallatin National Forest. The road is easy flat packed dirt with plenty of potholes, a few of them large. The start of the trail offers great views of the head of the reservoir where the Hyalite Creek flows in. Continuing down the road, there are excellent views of peaks and cliffs. The mountain seems to rise thousands of feet from the ground directly in front of you. Several campsites along the road are situated at the bank of the creek. Many are marked as designated campsites with metal fire rings and barbeque grates. There is also plenty of access for fly fishing along the trail. The end of the road is a large parking lot with several hiking trailheads, one of which is a short hike to scenic Grotto Falls. Overall this trail is a relaxing, scenic drive with unparalleled views.

South Valley Road offers a captivating journey through the picturesque landscape of Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge. This scenic route connects Monida, Montana, with Red Rock Pass near Henry's Lake, Idaho. Enjoy the fantastic views of the Centennial Valley and Mountains. The river marsh meanders through the valley, uniting the Lower and Upper Red Rock Lakes. Along the way, you'll encounter the weathered remains of old cabins, a testament to the passage of time as nature gracefully reclaims the land. For those looking to spend time here, there are three campgrounds, various hiking trails, and fishing accesses with boat ramps.

Fairy Lake Road is a 6.36-mile trail in the Bridger Mountain Range. The relatively easy trail has excellent views and leads to beautiful Fairy Lake. The views of the mountain range in the final third of the trail are spectacular. The lake is a popular swimming spot and is busy on hot days and weekends.

The trail is rough dirt, and the start is fairly flat and easy. Continuing up the trail, medium-sized potholes and a few relatively steep hill climbs emerge.

Fairy Lake Campground at the trail's end has nine campsites with fire pits and vault toilets. Numerous dispersed campsites are also along the road in the final section leading up to the lake.

Olson Creek Road is a 4.15-mile road in the Bangtail Mountains. It is mostly rough dirt with small rocks, potholes, and ruts. The road follows Olson Canyon for the first part, with nice views of the steep valley. The road then turns uphill and climbs one side of the valley. The switchbacks provide excellent views of the Bridger Mountains. This part of the trail is fairly steep, with a substantial drop off the side. Exercise caution when the road is wet or slippery with mud. Overall this is a nice trail with excellent scenery, and it connects to both Miles Creek Road and Skunk Creek Road. No campsites are present along this road, but there are many campsites along nearby Miles Creek Road.

Bear Divide Road is an 8.4-mile trail in the Gallatin National Forest with nice views and a variety of terrain, including alpine meadows with a variety of wildflowers. The trail runs along a ridge between Little Bear Road (980) and Wilson Creek Divide (3138). The trail is moderately difficult, with loose rocks, ruts, and mud. Wildlife is plentiful in the area and often seen from the trail.

Campsites are located near the meadow and the western end of the trail.

Goose Creek Road, an easy 1.9-mile out-and-back trail, is located in the Trail Creek Canyon area of the Gallatin National Forest. The road is graded dirt, with mild ruts, rolling bumps, gentle climbs, and tight turns. Water and mud may be present on parts of this trail after rain or when snow is melting. There are a few nice views of the valley from the road, but the trail passes through private land until you see the sign marking the forest service boundary. The woods in this area are quite scenic, with large trees spaced far apart with no branches for the first 15 - 20 feet of trunk. Look for signs of old mines along the trail, as there was a lot of mining activity in this area. The trail ends in a large dirt parking lot that serves the gated dirt bike, ATV, and UTV trailhead. Dispersed camping is permitted in the area of the parking lot, according to the Forest Service. A few flat areas to set up a tent were observed, but no fire rings or proper campsites were present.

Bear Gulch Road is an easy point-to-point connector road that takes you through Montana's Garnet Mining Region. Accessible May through December, it will take you through historical markers and long-abandoned reminders of its early mining history, beginning as early as the 1860s.

Private property and active mining claims prevent camping along this stretch of trail.

Two main dirt roads cross through the Red Rock Lake National Wildlife Refuge, with North Valley Road being less traveled. The road offers several connecting trails to extend the time away from blacktop and "civilization" as long as one would like.  While North Valley Road is most often used as a connector trail, the endless views make it a great drive on its own.  

Camping is prohibited along this trail, but many campsites and Forest Service cabins are available on connecting trails. On the east side are campsites along Elk Lake and Elk Lake Road. To the north are endless camping possibilities once atop Gravelly Range Drive.

Cave Gulch Road is a narrow, steep point to point connector shelf road accessible May into December. If you have an oversized vehicle, proceed with caution. It is also part of Montana's Historic Garnet Mining Region. Rocky with small washouts in places, watch for sharp switchbacks and limited turnouts. Camping is allowed but challenging along this trail due to the shelf road. There is one nice camp spot with tremendous views in a large turn out with several existing fire rings.

Ultimately this trail ends in Garnet, Montana's best preserved Ghost Town also on the National Register of Historic Places. It is maintained by the Bureau of Land Management so there will be a small fee to explore if you choose to do so.

Deer Mountain Trail takes you through lush green fields adorned with seasonal wildflowers and intermittent sections of eerie forests before ascending to the summit at an elevation of 8399 feet. Offering offroaders fantastic vistas, this trail provides the highest viewpoint looking south and west towards the Centennial Mountains and Valley. A short hike off the main trail leads to Deer Mountain Peak, where visitors are greeted with postcard-worthy views of the towering Centennial Mountains against the backdrop of a brilliant blue sky. In the northern ravines, snow lingers throughout the year, adding to the allure of the landscape.

Looking westward, the trail offers excellent views of the Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge. The tranquil lakes mirror the sky and fluffy clouds, harmoniously set amidst grassy fields and meandering streams that wind through the valley.

While dispersed camping is allowed on USFS Lands, it's important to note that no obvious campsites are found along this trail. Half of the trail lies within Montana State Land, where camping regulations are not clearly posted. For the best camping options in the area, consider Waypoint 9 on Conklin Lake Trail or along Elk Lake in the valley below.

Lima Dam Road takes you through the picturesque Centennial Valley, stretching from Lima on I-15 to the junction of North Valley Road and Blacktail Road. This easy trail offers pleasant scenery. Although the water in Lima Reservoir may not be suitable for swimming, remnants of cabins built around the same time as the dam in 1934, transport you back in time and ignite curiosity about life in this area a century ago. While camping is not available along this road, it serves as a gateway to numerous fantastic getaways along the Gravelly Range Road.

1700 is an out-and-back trail running 13 miles south of West Yellowstone along the western edge of Yellowstone National Park. The northern half has about a dozen campsites, all easy to access from the road. Most sites are suitable for one or two vehicles, with a larger one farther south that's perfect for a big group.

Near the southern end of the trail is the Yellowstone Obsidian Outcrop, a neat little geological spot.

About two-thirds down the trail, at the western end of the only meadow this trail overlooks, you'll find Whitman's Cabin. There isn't any info on this place besides a mention on a 1960s topo map.

Overall, 1700 is an easy trail for those looking for camping access, cool geology, and a touch of history.

Little Bear B Road runs 1 mile into the Gallatin Mountain Range connecting to Little Bear Road. The trail is moderately difficult. However, the trail becomes more difficult after significant rain. The trail is bumpy, with deep ruts requiring high ground clearance.

This trail has nice views and a large meadow full of flowers with several campsites, one of which is near a small pond. There's plenty of wildlife in the wooded area of the trail, where there are two additional campsites, one at the end of the trail right next to a large stream with a small waterfall.

Overall this trail is good for someone willing to take a harder route for nice views or a quieter camping location.

Garnet Range Road takes you to historic Garnet, Montana's best-preserved ghost town listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It is accessible by vehicle from May through December. On this simple, dusty gravel trail, you will encounter historical markers and viewpoints as you make your way up the mountain. There is no camping along this trail.

Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of this must-see trail connecting Highway 87 and Highway 287. 932 offers a brief but unforgettable journey through nature's splendor and echoes of the past. The trails highlights include the historic Three Dollar Bridge crossing over the Madison River, intriguing remnants of the ghost town of Wade, breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, vibrant green fields in spring, and remarkable wildlife encounters, including bald eagles, osprey and elk herds.

The area surrounding the trail is almost all private property with no spots to camp. There are, however, many campsites near the lakes, including Wade Lake Campground, Cliff Point Campground, and Hilltop Campground. There is also lodging at Wade Lake Resort and Wilderness Edge on the southern half of Cliff Lake. In addition, there is a day-use area with a restroom at Three Dollar Bridge for those that want to stop and see the Madison River.

There is little to no cell service along the trail. Weather can change the trail conditions instantly.

The South Fork Madison Trail is part of the 4,455-mile Great Western Trail and connects West Yellowstone, Montana, to Island Park, Idaho, via Reas Pass. This beautiful trail is an easy drive, following a section of the historic Union Pacific Rail Line, which began bringing passengers by steam locomotive to West Yellowstone and Yellowstone National Park in 1906. The tracks and sleepers were removed in 1981, leaving only the elevated path above the South Fork Madison River and the cut alongside the mountainside. In the fall of 2023, the Yellowstone Shortline Trail, a non-motorized hiking and biking trail, was completed, closing the upper portion of the original route of the South Fork Madison Trail. Now, bicyclists silently zip by along the paved 9 miles of the old train bed from West Yellowstone to the Idaho border, paralleling this trail across the river.

As you travel, it's incredible to imagine a steam train chugging through these canyons, with passengers gazing at the tall pines and enjoying views of the crystal-clear waters of the South Fork Madison River. The steep canyons amplify the sounds of the river, and the occasional crunch of loose rocks beneath your tires echoes through the landscape, enhancing the sense of adventure.

Due to frequent bear activity, camping in the West Yellowstone area is mainly limited to designated dispersed sites. There are no designated sites directly along this trail. For those looking to camp near Yellowstone National Park, the Forest Service lists designated camping areas at this link.

Embark on a scenic adventure along the trail to Wade and Cliff Lakes, where natural beauty awaits at every turn. Immerse yourself in the serenity of whispering pines while enjoying panoramic views of the mountains and the tranquil, spring-fed blue waters of the lakes below. Wade Lake boasts the state record for a massive 29-pound brown trout, making it a paradise for fishing enthusiasts. The area offers a range of amenities, including campsites, a boat launch, paddleboard, kayak rentals, and hiking trails. Or, find a spot along the shoreline nestled under the shade of the pines and watch a bobber...or not.

Centennial Divide is a well-traveled route that provides access to numerous trails and activities in the area. This road connects to several spurs and trails, leading east into the Gravelly Range, west into the Ruby Range, and south into the Red Rocks Wilderness area. Whether you're interested in prospecting and exploring gold mining history, fishing, hunting, camping, or simply soaking in the natural beauty, this road offers a gateway to countless outdoor adventures. It's a great starting point for exploring the diverse landscapes and opportunities that the Centennial Divide offers. The road is generally well-maintained, except for the section just south of the Eureka Basin intersection, which is rutted and can be slippery, like a slot car track when wet.

The southernmost 13 miles of the road do not have campsites. Once north of Eureka Basin 347, however, there are many dispersed campsites, such as Cottonwood Campground, which has a vault toilet, and Vigilante Cabin, built in the early 1920s and available for rent.

Tucked just inside the Montana border, Lionhead Road is an easy, packed-dirt trail providing alternate access to the Lionhead hiking trail and the FS 1791 ATV trail. The trail has no significant obstacles, but minor washouts are common with the passing afternoon thunderstorms. The trail has a few campsites, although none of which are overly large or attractive compared to other campsites in the neighboring forests.

Upper Ruby Road primarily passes through private property while offering options for exploration to the east and west. While the road may not be the destination, it is often a key route on your adventure. Whether you're delving into the mining history around Virginia City, exploring the Gravelly and Ruby Mountain Ranges, or heading south to the Red Rock Lakes Wildlife Refuge, I-15, or Henrys Lake, Upper Ruby Road will likely be a part of your journey.

There is no camping along this trail, but south on Centennial Divide is a campground, several campsites, and many trails with dispersed camping opportunities.

Corrette Ridge Road was reopened in 2022 after a section of the 478 South Fork Madison trail was repurposed for a hike and bike trail. This allowed those of us in vehicles over 50 inches wide to connect Island Park and West Yellowstone by dirt. This dusty dirt road is an easy connector trail with only a few ruts and rocks along the way. It travels through a forest of conifer trees with grassy undergrowth. Be aware of oncoming traffic. There are blind turns, and the road is not much more than one lane.

Due to bear activity, camping is restricted to designated sites, and no designated sites are along this trail. For those looking to camp, check out Madison Arm, which offers camping near the shore of Hebgen Lake.

Cooper Pass, officially known as National Forest Road 7623, is a scenic mountain backroad that winds its way through thick forest, climbing steadily along a series of narrow, twisting switchbacks. As you gain elevation, the trees begin to part, revealing sweeping views of the surrounding peaks and valleys, a classic Idaho-Montana panorama that never gets old.

Though the road is considered easy by backroad standards and suitable for most 2WD vehicles with decent clearance, it’s not without its quirks. The Idaho side, in particular, throws in some rough patches and exposed rock, so it’s best to take your time and enjoy the ride.

While there aren't any campsites directly off the main route, numerous spur roads and trails branch off, offering tucked-away spots perfect for dispersed camping. Whether you're chasing solitude, starry skies, or a peaceful forest retreat, you'll find a place to pull over and settle in.

You can approach Cooper Pass from either end, via I-90 through Wallace, Idaho, or off Thompson Pass Road from Montana. Both directions serve up a laid-back, character-filled drive through beautiful high-country terrain. And at the end of the journey lies Burke, Idaho: a hauntingly cool, long-abandoned mining town steeped in history and perched in a narrow canyon, its buildings still whispering stories of a bygone era.

Keep in mind that snow and ice can linger well into June, so the pass typically doesn’t open until early to mid-summer. But once it does, Cooper Pass is a rewarding adventure for those craving forested climbs, ghost town exploration, and a slice of wild Idaho-Montana borderland beauty.

Discover Cliff Lake, a hidden gem that has captivated visitors in recent years. Enjoy its crystal-clear, spring-fed waters, offering mesmerizing views of the vibrant green and white hues created by the unique soils and sediments below. The campground features a few exclusive spaces, offering an unparalleled camping experience in the area. With a convenient boat ramp, you can explore the expansive 3.5-mile-long lake, indulging in incredible fishing opportunities. Please note that starting this year, day-use fees will be implemented, so remember to bring cash for the iron ranger and relish the chance to enjoy this once-hidden treasure.

Stone Creek Road and Cottonwood Creek Road make for a beautiful drive over the Ruby Range. Easily accessible off Highway 41 just outside Dillon, the road starts by winding through grassy fields dotted with a few old homestead cabins. It's easy to get lost in thought, imagining what life was like when these cabins were occupied while enjoying the surrounding scenery.

Stone Creek Road is a straightforward, easy trail that eventually turns into Cottonwood Creek Road. While Stone Creek Road doesn't have many spurs, once you reach Cottonwood Creek Road, there are multiple connecting spurs to explore for those looking for a bit more adventure. If you're traveling between Dillon and the Ruby Valley near Alder, these roads offer an excellent alternative to pavement, allowing you to enjoy the landscape at your own pace.

Most of Stone Creek Road is bordered by private property, so views are mostly enjoyed from the vehicle, and camping spots are limited. However, once you reach the top of the mountain, you'll find better opportunities for camping, along with fantastic views that make the drive worthwhile.

This is an easy, short, curving dirt road that winds its way from Lemhi Pass to a parking lot with several picnic areas, informative signage, a vault toilet, and a hiking trail leading to a spring named "The Most Distant Fountain." This spring is part of a small memorial to Sacajawea, the Shoshone woman who was instrumental in the success of the Lewis and Clark expedition.

Although there are picnic tables and fire rings, this is a day-use-only area.

As history recalls, the Lewis and Clark expedition had followed the mighty Missouri River for months. On August 11, 1805, Lewis led a small advance party towards Lemhi Pass following the ever-diminishing water flow. He recorded in his journal, "The road took us to the most distant fountain of the waters of the mighty Missouri in search of which we have spent so many toilsome days and wristless nights. Thus far, I had accomplished one of those great objects on which my mind has been unalterably fixed for many years, judge then of the pleasure I felt in allying my thirst with this pure and ice cold water." Hugh McNeal, a member of the advance party, stood with one foot on each side of the run-off of the spring and "thanked his god that he had lived to bestride the mighty and heretofore deemed endless Missouri."

Visitors can still "bestride" the Missouri headwaters by standing on two large stones at the end of the hike.

Cottonwood Creek Road and Stone Creek Road are scenic dirt roads connecting the Ruby Valley with Dillon. While campsites along these roads are few, the incredible views and the many connecting trails will surely provide that perfect campsite. Along the trail are great views of the Treasure Mine, a talc strip mine. Plus, there are great views of distant mountain ranges, grassy fields, and tall trees while passing over the Ruby Range just shy of 8,000 feet. Near the top are several spurs and trails winding around the higher elevations of the mountain range that are worth exploring.

South Bench is located in the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, the largest of the national forests in Montana, covering 3.35 million acres. This trail is less than an hour's drive from Ennis or West Yellowstone and just under 2 hours from Big Sky Montana. The road is a little overgrown, with only glimpses of the towering mountains in the distance and a very secluded campsite at the trail's end. Tall green grass covers the ground with wildflowers and butterflies through August. A flat half-mile hike from Waypoint 2 is a cliff overlooking Hidden, Goose, and Otter Lakes. South Bench trail is for anyone looking for a secluded campsite surrounded by tall, dense trees, offering an excellent windbreak as the wind in the trees whispers everyone to sleep.

Running from Lionhead Road to West Fork Denny Creek, Denny Lionhead Road is an easy, winding, packed-dirt road providing a short but wonderful drive through the Gallatin National Forest. No obstacles exist, but ruts and washouts may occur with the passing afternoon thunderstorms. There are no campsites on this trail.

South Medicine Lodge Road offers a fun and scenic trail experience featuring old cabins that provide a glimpse into the area's history. The route is also surrounded by fantastic landscapes. Combined with Medicine Lodge Road and Bannack Pass in Idaho and Medicine Lodge Road and Bannack Bench Road in Montana, this trail forms part of a 100-mile stretch of dirt road. This alternative route offers a quieter and remote path between Bannack and Dubois, avoiding the busy interstate. Additionally, these trails provide numerous opportunities to extend your adventure further into the remote backcountry.

A short trail, Targhee Creek is a bumpy half-mile dirt road dead-ending at the Lionhead hiking trail. This also provides access to the Continental Divide Trail.

There is a short hill climb, but 2WD high clearance vehicles should be fine in completing the trail. While no campsites are on this trail, there is endless camping in the nearby Gallatin and Targhee National Forests.