Where is the Clear Creek Trail?

Deep in southwestern Montana, at the base of the Anaconda Range, lies Clear Creek Trail, a serious off-road adventure. This isn't your Sunday drive! Starting from paved Mill Creek Road, you're immediately thrown into a steep, rugged mountain environment.

This unpaved track is 11 kilometers of gravel and big rocks, with ruts and loose stones ready to challenge your traction. A 4x4 is a must to conquer the steep sections and uneven terrain, and stick to dry conditions – rain turns this mountain dirt into a slippery nightmare on those 8% grades.

Don't be fooled by the short distance! You'll climb 910 meters to a peak elevation of over 2,600 meters. That's a relentless 8.31% average gradient that will test your engine and your nerves. Expect to spend a lot of time in low gear, carefully picking your way through rocky obstacles while maintaining momentum.

Up at that altitude, the weather is a real factor. Conditions in the Anaconda Range are known to change in a flash, turning a sunny morning into a blizzard or thunderstorm. Road closures are common, especially when snow lingers at higher elevations. Even in summer, temperatures can plummet. Always check the Deer Lodge County forecast, and never underestimate the potential for a sudden storm!