Big Hole Valley Pioneer Mountains Loop

The Pioneer Mountains above Big Hole Valley hide a network of mining roads that connected boom towns like Elkhorn, Coolidge, and Polaris during Montana’s silver rush. This loop starts near Wise River and climbs through granite outcrops and dense lodgepole to the Elkhorn ghost town, then drops into Bear Creek drainage before hitting the technical climb to Coolidge—where rusted mining machinery still dots the mountainside. The final leg over Badger Pass requires careful navigation through loose rock and tight switchbacks carved into steep granite faces.

Difficult rating due to steep grades, loose surfaces, and technical rock sections that demand low-range 4WD with good ground clearance and skid plates. Summer only—June through September—with afternoon thunderstorms common above timberline. No permits required but respect private mining claims. Fuel and supplies in Wisdom, 25 miles from the trailhead. Dispersed camping available but water sources are seasonal. This is serious backcountry with real consequences for breakdowns, but the mining history and Pioneer Range views reward those willing to commit to the granite.