Trail Overview

The route begins on a gravel road that is plenty wide for two vehicles to pass. The route will make a gradual climb from 4800'-6400'. Some areas of the route have been recently logged with large areas of new growth. There is a large flora of Bear Grass in the higher elevations in the early summer. The route is very scenic looking into the Northern and Eastern parts of the Lolo National Forest. A late spring snow melt could stop you from completing the route. Offline Maps will need to be loaded, as a lack of cell service in some areas.

Photos of Johnson-First Creek Road-W.Side Ninemile Road

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Difficulty

Some of the route has high ledges and loose sharp rock. A spare tire or a Flat Repair Kit could come in handy.

Technical Rating

Spencer McNamara

Jun 20, 2026

Open

Clear of snow and getting dusty Trail is passable after all the trees that came down are cut out

Spencer McNamara

May 22, 2026

Open

Many downed trees on the side of the trail that have been cut to allow passage on the trail. Snow stopped us from going any farther from around the 5860' elevation close to the Upper First Spur1 hiking trail.

Spencer McNamara

May 27, 2024

Open

Trail was wide open and clear all the way till the 6100' level where we ran into to much snow to proceed. The snow is on the shady side of the mountain trail so will more than likely remain for another week or two till we get some good warm weather.