Thompson Ridge Road to Bear Creek Pass
Ghost town gateway through mining country
Thompson Ridge Road winds through the Garnet Mountains east of Missoula, following old mining claims and lumber roads that date back to the 1860s gold rush. The route climbs steadily through dense lodgepole pine forests before breaking into open meadows where the ghost town of Garnet sits frozen in time — one of Montana’s best-preserved mining camps with over 30 structures still standing. Past Garnet, the road becomes increasingly technical as it approaches Bear Creek Pass, requiring careful navigation through multiple creek crossings and around massive granite outcrops left by glacial action.
Moderate difficulty requiring high-clearance 4WD and good ground clearance for rocky sections. The creek crossings can be challenging during spring runoff (avoid May-June), but summer and fall offer excellent conditions. No permits needed, though Garnet Ghost Town charges a small fee for tours. Stock up on fuel in Drummond — it’s nearly 40 miles of backcountry with no services. The payoff is authentic Montana mining history, excellent dispersed camping along Bear Creek, and some of the state’s best fall color when the aspens turn in late September.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Backcountry |
| Surface | Dirt |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Scenic, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 35 mi / 56.3 km |
| Duration | 6-8 hours |
| Max elevation (ft) | 6420 ft |
| Best season | June-October |
| Minimum vehicle | Stock 4WD high-clearance |
| Nearest town | Drummond, Montana |
| Land manager | Lolo National Forest |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Official sources | fs.usda.gov |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock 4Runner or Wrangler handle Thompson Ridge Road to Bear Creek Pass without modifications?
Yes, a stock 4WD high-clearance vehicle is the minimum and will get you through under normal conditions. The creek crossings and rutted sections are the main challenges — skid plates are a good idea but not required.
When does this trail typically open in spring and is it passable through fall?
June through October is the reliable window. Snow lingers on the upper sections into late May most years, and fall storms can close it early — check with Lolo National Forest before heading out after mid-October.
Do I need a permit or is there a fee to run this trail?
No permit required and no fee to drive the trail. It's Lolo National Forest land, so standard dispersed camping rules apply — no fee, 14-day stay limit, leave no trace.
What's the hardest section and what should I actually be ready for?
The creek crossings in the lower sections are the crux — water depth varies significantly with snowmelt, and early-season crossings can push axle-deep. Rock the trail in 4L through the worst of them and scout on foot first if the water looks fast.
There's zero cell service — how far is the nearest gas and should I carry extra fuel for the full 35 miles?
Drummond is your last fuel stop before heading in. The trail itself is 35 miles but factor in your approach and exit — carrying an extra 2-5 gallons is smart given there's no bailout option and no service anywhere on route.
Trail track
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