The Good, the Bad and the Ugly

The Good, the Bad and the Ugly is a challenging 5.5-mile off-road trail near Boulder, Montana, designed for experienced drivers seeking a technical mountain climb with rewarding ridge views. Starting at an elevation of 5,794 feet and topping out near Sullivan Mountain at 7,592 feet, this route features a demanding climb of 2,445 vertical feet over a rugged, unpaved surface. The terrain is highly dynamic, characterized by steep grades, deep ruts, and significant off-camber sections that require a high-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicle or a capable SxS. Drivers should be prepared for narrow passages, as the trail tightly accommodates wider rigs up to 75 inches. Additionally, downed timber is common along the route, making it highly advisable to pack a chainsaw or hand saw to clear low-hanging branches and fallen logs that frequently block the path. With a solid 6-out-of-10 technical rating, the trail tests your line choice with several obstacles, including a prominent three-foot-tall boulder embedded directly in the track and various loose rock gardens. Heavy erosion from spring runoff creates washouts, some of which feature strategically placed logs at the bottom to assist vehicles in navigating the deep depressions. While the trail is generally dry and navigable by late July, summer rainstorms can rapidly turn the dirt path into a slick, muddy, and far more hazardous route. There is virtually no room to turn around until reaching the flat summit, where expansive, panoramic views await. Because the route connects to a vast network of backcountry trails from the top, bringing extra fuel is essential for those planning to extend their exploration of this remote Montana wilderness.