Blackfoot Mine Loop

Trail Overview

Sometimes it's not about the trail, but the exploration! Montana has a rich and illustrious history of mining, dating back hundreds of years. This loop, accessed off of Nevada-Ogden Road (FS 1163), is a prime example of what's out there that you could easily drive by and never see unless you know it's there. Origins of the property date back to the 1800s, with gold mining intermittently occurring as late as the 1950s. The trail itself, for the most part, is smooth two-track, with the only real obstacle being a steep rocky area that frequently washes out on the 0.5-mile section at the south end of the trail. Terrain is a pine forest with steep sides, with just enough clearance to pass two vehicles with care. There is one rickety, unlocked gate. Please be sure to leave as found when passing through, as there are some open range cattle from a private inholding to the National Forest nearby. The mine grounds itself is a collection of buildings that are slowly being reclaimed by nature, including what's left of the ore tramway and stamp mill. Community buildings and miners' sheds still exist in various states of decay. The mine adits have been filled, but be advised that the small stream in the area originates from the mine and is probably unsafe to drink for people and pets. Please be careful on the property due to loose/collapsing structures, and understand that this is a USFS-marked historic area, so taking anything is expressly unlawful.

Photos of Blackfoot Mine Loop

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Difficulty

This trail is generally easy but is rated slightly higher due to a narrow, loose, and steep section on the southern half.

Technical Rating

Blackfoot Mine Loop can be accessed by the following ride types:

• High-Clearance 4x4
• SUV
• SxS (60")
• ATV (50")
• Dirt Bike