Centennial Valley to West Yellowstone Historic Route
Railroad grade through Montana's most remote valley
This route traces the abandoned rails of the Gilmore & Pittsburgh Railroad through Montana’s most isolated valley, where trumpeter swans nest in Red Rock Lakes and antelope scatter across endless sagebrush flats. The track runs 45 miles from Red Rock Pass to Lima, threading between the Centennial Mountains and Gravelly Range through working ranches that haven’t changed since the 1920s. You’ll cross Odell Creek on the original railroad trestle and navigate several cattleguards where the grade intersects modern ranch roads.
Easy to moderate difficulty depending on recent weather—spring mud can trap even experienced drivers. Any high-clearance vehicle handles dry conditions, but 4WD helps in wet spots around the creek crossings. Best run May through October when ranchers allow access; respect private property and close all gates. Fuel up in Lima or Monida before starting, and bring extra water since services are 50+ miles apart. This is Montana ranching country at its most authentic, with views stretching to the Tetons on clear days.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Overland Route |
| Surface | Dirt |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Remote, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 45 mi / 72.4 km |
| Duration | 1 day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 6900 ft |
| Best season | May-October |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 2WD |
| Nearest town | Lima, Montana |
| Land manager | Private ranches and BLM |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a high-clearance 2WD truck handle this route, or do I need 4WD?
A high-clearance 2WD is the listed minimum and can manage the route in dry conditions. After rain, the dirt surface gets slick and rutted enough that 4WD becomes a real advantage, not a luxury.
When does the route typically open in spring and close in fall?
Best window is May through October. Early May can still have soft, muddy ground from snowmelt, and the valley sits high enough that early or late snowstorms outside that window can close things fast.
Do I need any permits to drive through here, and who controls access?
The route crosses a mix of BLM land and private ranch property. No formal permit is required for the BLM sections, but stay on the established road — do not cut fences or leave the corridor on private land.
What's the hardest section and what should I actually expect?
The trickiest stretches are the water crossings, which vary by season and recent rainfall — no bridges, just low-water fords. The old railroad grade is generally straightforward, but some sections have eroded enough to require careful line selection.
Is there any place to resupply fuel or water along the 45-mile route?
There is nothing along the route itself — no gas, no services, no cell service. Lima, Montana is your last reliable fuel stop before you start; fill up there and carry extra water since surface sources should be treated before drinking.
Trail track
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