Gravelly Range Road (Forest Road 290)
Ridge-running through Big Sky's high country
The Gravelly Range Road delivers what its name promises — miles of loose gravel winding along 9,000-foot ridgelines with unobstructed views across southwestern Montana’s basin and range country. This maintained forest road connects Ennis to the Madison River Valley via Sphinx Creek, passing weathered foundations of forgotten mining camps and offering glimpses of the distant Tetons. The highlight comes at Baldy Mountain overlook, where you can see three mountain ranges and understand why early settlers called this Big Sky Country.
Easy to moderate difficulty on well-maintained gravel suitable for high-clearance vehicles, though washboard sections will rattle your fillings loose. Best driven June through October before snow closes the high passes. Stock up in Ennis — it’s 45 miles to the next services with limited cell coverage throughout. The reward is classic Montana high country with excellent dispersed camping, fishing access to pristine streams, and the kind of big views that make you understand why people move to Montana.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Scenic Drive |
| Surface | Gravel |
| Features | Camping, High Altitude, Historic, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 45 mi / 72.4 km |
| Duration | Full day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 9400 ft |
| Best season | June-October |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 2WD |
| Nearest town | Ennis, Montana |
| Land manager | Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | No |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can my stock pickup truck handle Forest Road 290?
Yes, any high-clearance 2WD vehicle can run this trail. The gravel surface is well-maintained, though you'll want decent ground clearance for some rougher sections at higher elevations.
Is Gravelly Range Road open in winter?
No, the road is typically closed from November through May due to heavy snow at elevation. Best access is June through October when the high country is clear.
Do I need any permits to drive the Gravelly Range Road?
No permits required. This is a designated Forest Service road through Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, free to access for day use and camping.
What's the hardest part of this 45-mile route?
The steepest climbs and rockiest sections are in the middle third as you gain elevation toward the 9,400-foot high point. Nothing technical, just sustained climbing on loose gravel.
Can I camp along the trail and is there cell service?
Yes, dispersed camping is allowed throughout the national forest. Cell service is spotty to nonexistent once you leave the valley, so download maps offline and let someone know your plans.