South Fork Madison Road (478)

Total Miles 8.7
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 well-maintained Forest Service Road that joins Highway 20 just west of West Yellowstone and runs to the Idaho Border. At Reas Pass, you can explore Two Tops if your machine is 50 inches or less. There is also a restroom facility at this point. For those who enjoy biking or hiking, there is access to the new paved path being constructed between Big Springs and West Yellowstone. Along the road, you will run along the Madison River headwaters. This is an extremely beautiful stream with opportunities to pull off for a picnic or short hike. This area does have a bear population, so be sure you take precautions to keep everyone safe.

Photos of South Fork Madison Road (478)

Difficulty

This is a well maintained Forest Service road with minimal issues for most vehicles up to Reas Pass. Beyond that point, you will want to use Black Canyon Road on the Idaho side to complete the journey to Big Springs if you have a vehicle over 70 inches wide.

Technical Rating

1

Status Reports

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Clemens Felix Kopecky
Sep 28, 2025
Open
Alexander Rorrer Warren
Aug 29, 2025
Open
Trail was gorgeous but muddy, deep puddles and ruts in a few spots. Majority of the trail was open but the portion right next to West Yellowstone was closed, but had a well marked alternate route
Nathan Carreto
Aug 21, 2025
Open
michael stamatien
Jul 19, 2025
Open
Thomas Waite
Jun 20, 2025
Open
northern end of trail is closed, but you can take the "snowmobile" trail that runs along the west side of this trail to get through
David Day
Jun 08, 2025
Open
Gate across the road with chain and lock. Sign says closed until June 16, 2025.
G Garcia
Sep 10, 2024
Open
Looks like a new gate, chain and lock.
Calvin McAllister
Aug 24, 2024
Open
Ethan Linden
Aug 11, 2024
Open
Gate is closed and no camping spots that I can see like app says. Day use only occording to signs
Joe parts
Jul 08, 2024
Open
It’s still closed. The detour gets you around and to West Yellowstone still (we came from Idaho). Just not as scenic because you’re not beside the creek.
Kyle Rasmussen
May 30, 2024
Open
Phil Murphy
May 14, 2024
Open

South Fork Madison Road (478) Trail can be accessed by the following ride types:

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

South Fork Madison Road (478) Map

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