Granite Creek Road (161/49)

Total Miles 11
Technical Rating
1 Easy
Best Time Spring, Summer, Fall
Trail Type Full-Width Road
Accessible By
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Trail Overview

This is a regularly maintained Forest Service Road that takes you from the Tobacco Mountains down to Highway 287, approximately 3 miles southwest of Nevada City, Montana. The route takes you to some very interesting viewpoints. A waypoint is included with this track that you don't want to miss. It is easily identifiable as there is a gate across the road and what appears to be a greenhouse-like building on the west side of the road. Look over the building to see a very beautiful house. Upon closer examination, nearby you will see the underground power and data boxes that go to the house. You will also pass by some very old ranch buildings. Be careful as there are often lots of cows on or near the road. This is just a fun drive and if you need a little break from exploring, definitely take the opportunity to visit Virginia City and Nevada City. Most of the action is in Virginia City. This makes for a great family outing and you can easily fill a day on this adventure. The road is maintained year-round but it could become challenging during the winter. Also, most of the stores and shops in Virginia City are closed except for weekends during the offseason.

Photos of Granite Creek Road (161/49)

Difficulty

This is a well-maintained road with few washouts or other obstructions. There is a lot of Forest Service, ranch, and farm vehicles that use the road. There are also lots of cows taking advantage of the grass and water from the beautiful stream that is along parts of the road.

Technical Rating

1

Status Reports

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Border Collies
Sep 05, 2025
Open
There is a stretch where you drive a while through private property. I saw at least 20 horses grazing the land so make sure you chain both gates after you drive through!
Dave Ohhhh
Aug 10, 2025
Open
Coming from the south at US 287 the road is largely a county maintained gravel road in good condition all the way to the final couple miles. At the gate to the Spanish Q ranches property, the county maintenance seems to end. The road becomes rutted in places. Until the maintenance ends, the road could easily be traveled by most any car. Once on the ranch property, high clearance is appropriate, and required if conditions are anything but dry. The next section heading into Ennis, Virginia Creek road is much rougher until reaching the county maintained section at the border of the NFS.
Dave H
Sep 01, 2024
Open
Encountered a few vehicles and ATVs. Ruts in a few places from runoff but manageable. Nice views. A couple of gates to open/close to keep animals fenced in. We took the route all the way to Ennis/Meadow Lake recreation area and back. All in all a nice afternoon ride.
Rick Nickolaus
Aug 07, 2024
Open

Granite Creek Road (161/49) Trail can be accessed by the following ride types:

  • Single Track
  • 50 Inch
  • 60 Inch
  • High Clearance
  • Full Width

Granite Creek Road (161/49) Map

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