Elkhorn Mountains Loop
Technical tour through mining ghost country
This 45-mile loop through the Elkhorn Mountains strings together some of Montana’s most authentic mining ruins via a network of rough Forest Service roads. Starting from Boulder, the route climbs past Elkhorn’s weathered buildings — including the two-story Fraternity Hall that’s somehow still standing after 130 Montana winters. The track continues through Radersburg and past the massive Bullion Mine headframe before dropping into Crow Creek Canyon. Granite outcrops and talus slopes make for slow going, but every switchback reveals another piece of Montana’s mining heritage.
This is legitimate 4WD country — high clearance mandatory, low range recommended for the steeper pitches. Loose rock, off-camber sections, and seasonal stream crossings keep things interesting. Best tackled June through September when snowpack clears, but afternoon thunderstorms can make things slick fast. Bring recovery gear, extra fuel, and plan on camping — the nearest services are back in Boulder. The reward is solitude in country that looks exactly like it did when hard-rock miners were still blasting holes in these hills.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Difficult |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Technical 4x4 |
| Surface | Rock |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Remote, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 45 mi / 72.4 km |
| Duration | 2 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 7400 ft |
| Best season | June-September |
| Minimum vehicle | Modified 4WD with low range |
| Nearest town | Boulder, Montana |
| Land manager | Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
What kind of vehicle modifications do I need for Elkhorn Mountains Loop?
You'll need a modified 4WD with low range, aggressive tread tires, and skid plates minimum. Rock sliders and differential protection are highly recommended for the granite ledges and boulder fields.
Is the trail accessible in early June or late September?
Early June can have snow at higher elevations above 6,500 feet, and late September brings risk of early storms. Mid-June through mid-September offers the most reliable access.
Do I need permits to camp or drive the Elkhorn Mountains Loop?
No permits required for the trail or dispersed camping. It's Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest land with standard forest service camping rules - 14 day limit and camp 200 feet from water sources.
What's the hardest section of the trail?
The granite ledge climbs between Elkhorn and Crow Creek ghost towns are the most technical, requiring precise wheel placement and low-range crawling over exposed bedrock shelves.
How should I plan for water crossings on this loop?
Multiple creek crossings are typically shallow in summer but can be swift during snowmelt or after storms. Scout each crossing on foot and avoid during heavy runoff periods.