Centennial Valley to West Yellowstone Historic Route

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.