Southside Road

Southside Road is a scenic, beginner-friendly 21.9-mile backroad running along the Clark Fork River in western Montana, perfect for families, sightseers, and offroaders looking for a relaxed dirt route through lush forests. This easy-going route offers a technical rating of 1, making it accessible to almost any vehicle, though high-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicles or SxSs are recommended for a comfortable ride. The trail features gentle elevation changes with a maximum elevation of 3,352 feet and a total climbing gain of around 1,482 feet. As the trail winds along the river corridor, travelers will enjoy outstanding views of the water, vibrant seasonal wildflowers, and frequent wildlife sightings. While the primary surface consists of well-maintained dirt, drivers should remain alert for occasional single-vehicle-width sections where fallen rocks or minor debris may restrict passage. The route has a maximum gradient of 28 degrees on brief pitches, but the average gradient remains a very gentle 2 degrees, making for a smooth and predictable drive. The trail has no major hurdles, though spring snowmelt or heavy rain can create mud or localized ruts. There are several scenic pullouts along the Clark Fork River to stop, take photos, or enjoy a picnic. This trail is best run from late spring through fall when the road is free of snow and the forest is at its most vibrant.