Pioneer Mountains Scenic Route (Forest Road 484)
Mining ghosts and mountain solitude in one route.
Forest Road 484 threads through the ghost towns and abandoned mines of the Pioneer Mountains, following routes first carved by ox teams hauling silver ore to the railroad in the 1880s. The road climbs steadily from Wise River through Coolidge and past the ruins of Elkhorn Hot Springs before dropping into the Big Hole Valley near Jackson. Along the way you’ll pass weathered headframes, collapsed mine shafts, and the remnants of Bannack’s satellite camps that once housed thousands of prospectors chasing Montana’s mineral wealth.
This moderate route requires high-clearance 2WD minimum, though 4WD is recommended for the steeper sections near Bloody Dick Creek and when conditions are wet. July through September offers the best travel window, though the road typically stays open through October for hunting season. Bring extra fuel since the nearest services are in Dillon, and pack camping gear to take advantage of excellent dispersed sites throughout the range. The combination of mining history, mountain scenery, and genuine isolation makes this one of southwestern Montana’s hidden gems.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Overland Route |
| Surface | Dirt, Gravel |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Remote, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 38 mi / 61.2 km |
| Duration | 1-2 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 7400 ft |
| Best season | July-September |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 2WD minimum, 4WD recommended |
| Nearest town | Wise River, Montana |
| Land manager | Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest |
| 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 stock Jeep Grand Cherokee make it through this trail?
Yes, with careful driving. High-clearance 2WD minimum is required, but 4WD is recommended for the rocky sections and potential mud after rain.
Is the trail accessible in early June or late October?
No. Best season is July through September due to snow at higher elevations - you'll hit 7,400 feet and early/late season snow can close the route.
Do I need permits to drive Forest Road 484?
No permits required. It's managed by Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest as a public forest road with free access.
What's the toughest section I'll encounter?
The rocky climbs approaching maximum elevation around 7,400 feet get rough with loose rock and potential washouts. Take your time and pick your lines carefully.
Are there water crossings I need to worry about?
Yes, there are stream crossings but they're typically shallow. After heavy rains or snowmelt they can get deeper, so check conditions before heading out.