Wolf Creek Road (Forest Road 138)
Continental Divide access through Scapegoat country
Forest Road 138 climbs from the Blackfoot River valley into the heart of the Scapegoat country, delivering you to some of Montana’s most spectacular alpine terrain. The route starts innocently enough near Ovando but quickly becomes a legitimate high-clearance challenge as it winds through dense timber toward the Continental Divide. You’ll pass the historic Wolf Creek cabin and cross multiple tributaries before reaching the alpine zone where grizzly tracks in the mud are more common than tire tracks.
This is moderate to difficult territory depending on conditions, requiring high-clearance 4WD and good ground clearance for rocky sections above treeline. Weather changes fast at 7,000+ feet, so pack layers and be prepared to turn back if storms roll in. Best accessed July through September when snow clears the high passes. The reward is access to some of the most remote country in the lower 48, with excellent dispersed camping and trailheads into the Scapegoat Wilderness.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Backcountry |
| Surface | Dirt, Rock |
| Features | Camping, High Altitude, Historic, Remote, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 28 mi / 45.1 km |
| Duration | 1-2 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 7400 ft |
| Best season | July-September |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 4WD |
| Nearest town | Ovando, 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 | |
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Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Jeep Wrangler handle Wolf Creek Road?
Yes, but you'll need good ground clearance and careful line choice through the rocky sections above 6,000 feet. Stock tires will work but all-terrains are better for the loose rock.
Is Wolf Creek Road open in winter?
No, the road is typically snowed in from October through June due to high elevation. Best access is July through September when snow has cleared from the upper sections.
Do I need permits to drive Wolf Creek Road?
No permits required for the road itself, but if you plan to hike into the adjacent Scapegoat Wilderness, you'll need to follow wilderness regulations. Dispersed camping along the road is free.
What's the hardest part of Wolf Creek Road?
The final 8 miles to the Continental Divide get progressively rockier with loose talus sections and steep grades. Take your time and watch for washouts after spring snowmelt.
How many water crossings are there and how deep?
Expect 3-4 creek crossings, mostly shallow (under 12 inches) but can be deeper during spring runoff or after heavy rains. All are rocky-bottomed and passable with care.