Where is Priest Pass?
Usa, north-america
13.35 km
1,832 m
hard
Year-round
Wanna escape to Montana? Priest Pass is calling your name! This high-altitude beauty sits at 6,010 feet on the Continental Divide, straddling Powell and Lewis and Clark counties, west of Helena.
The pass got its name from Valentine Priest, a road-building legend who knew how to carve a route through these mountains. Back in the gold rush days, Priest Pass Road was one of the first toll roads in Montana, a wild west adventure in itself!
Speaking of the road, it's about 8.3 miles of pure, unadulterated off-road fun. Be warned, though, this isn't your average Sunday drive. The road, known as Priest Pass Road, is entirely unpaved and can get seriously steep, with grades hitting almost 14% in spots. The western side is a bit rough and rocky, so make sure your rig is up to the challenge. The eastern side is smoother, with hard-packed dirt perfect for letting loose.
Keep in mind, you're up in the Rockies, so winter brings a whole lotta snow. Priest Pass becomes a different beast entirely when the snow flies. But if you're looking for stunning views, a bit of history, and a thrilling drive, Priest Pass is a Montana must-do. Plus, it's right near the Continental Divide Trail!
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 13.35 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,832 m
- Difficulty
- hard
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