Pioneer Mountains
The Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway, located within the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, offers travelers a captivating journey through the rugged beauty of the Pioneer Mountain Range. Stretching along the length of the range, the byway showcases granite peaks soaring over 10,000 feet in elevation to the east, while to the west, verdant forests and gentle terrain unfold.
As you traverse the byway, you'll encounter a diverse array of landscapes, from mountain meadows and lodgepole pine forests to broad willow bottoms. The road gradually ascends a 7,800-foot divide between Wise River and Grasshopper Creek, providing sweeping views of the surrounding wilderness.
Along the route, interpretive sites offer insights into the natural wonders and intriguing history of the Pioneer Mountains. Travelers can explore the ghost town of Coolidge and visit the abandoned Elkhorn silver mine, delving into the region's rich mining heritage.
For fishing enthusiasts, the nearby Big Hole River offers some of the best blue-ribbon trout fishing in the state, with opportunities to reel in brook trout, rainbow trout, and cutthroat trout. High-elevation lakes tucked away in the mountains also provide excellent fishing spots for those willing to explore.
Numerous trails branching off from the byway beckon hikers and backpackers to embark on adventures into the heart of the Pioneer Mountains. These trails offer opportunities to follow in the footsteps of early trappers, traders, and mountain men, providing a rewarding experience for outdoor enthusiasts.
After a day of exploration, visitors can unwind and relax their muscles at Elkhorn Hot Springs, where natural thermal waters offer soothing relief. In the winter months, the Pioneer Mountains transform into a snowy wonderland, inviting cross-country skiers, downhill skiers, and snowmobilers to enjoy the pristine winter landscape.
Whether you're seeking scenic drives, outdoor adventures, or historical exploration, the Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway offers a memorable experience for all who venture along its captivating route.
The Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway, located within the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, offers travelers a captivating journey through the rugged beauty of the Pioneer Mountain Range. Stretching along the length of the range, the byway showcases granite peaks soaring over 10,000 feet in elevation to the east, while to the west, verdant forests and gentle terrain unfold.
As you traverse the byway, you'll encounter a diverse array of landscapes, from mountain meadows and lodgepole pine forests to broad willow bottoms. The road gradually ascends a 7,800-foot divide between Wise River and Grasshopper Creek, providing sweeping views of the surrounding wilderness.
Along the route, interpretive sites offer insights into the natural wonders and intriguing history of the Pioneer Mountains. Travelers can explore the ghost town of Coolidge and visit the abandoned Elkhorn silver mine, delving into the region's rich mining heritage.
For fishing enthusiasts, the nearby Big Hole River offers some of the best blue-ribbon trout fishing in the state, with opportunities to reel in brook trout, rainbow trout, and cutthroat trout. High-elevation lakes tucked away in the mountains also provide excellent fishing spots for those willing to explore.
Numerous trails branching off from the byway beckon hikers and backpackers to embark on adventures into the heart of the Pioneer Mountains. These trails offer opportunities to follow in the footsteps of early trappers, traders, and mountain men, providing a rewarding experience for outdoor enthusiasts.
After a day of exploration, visitors can unwind and relax their muscles at Elkhorn Hot Springs, where natural thermal waters offer soothing relief. In the winter months, the Pioneer Mountains transform into a snowy wonderland, inviting cross-country skiers, downhill skiers, and snowmobilers to enjoy the pristine winter landscape.
Whether you're seeking scenic drives, outdoor adventures, or historical exploration, the Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway offers a memorable experience for all who venture along its captivating route.
