Trail Overview
Wickes Tunnel: Basin to Corbin is a historic and thrilling 18.8-mile off-road point-to-point route through the Helena National Forest that offers moderate challenges and stunning Boulder Mountain scenery for four-wheel-drive vehicles, OHVs, and SxSs. Starting near the small town of Basin, the trail climbs through pine-covered ridges and old mining areas, reaching elevations over 7,000 feet. The route's main draw is the historic Wickes Tunnel (also known as the Boulder Tunnel), a 6,145-foot-long abandoned railroad tunnel constructed in the late 1880s. While traversing this dark, eerie passage is a legendary rite of passage, offroaders must exercise extreme caution as the tunnel is prone to deep, vehicle-damaging water accumulation, hidden debris, and structural deterioration.
This route is rated as a moderate 5 out of 10, meaning a stock high-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicle with underbody protection and a confident driver can handle most of the trail, though a winch and recovery gear are highly recommended if attempting the tunnel itself. The dirt and gravel surface can become muddy and slick during wet seasons, and snow often blocks the higher elevation sections from late fall through early summer. Those who prefer to avoid the hazardous, flooded tunnel can find bypass routes over the mountain, which still offer spectacular panoramic views of Sugarloaf Mountain and Alta Mountain. Whether you are exploring the rich mining history of the Corbin and Wickes areas or testing your rig's water-fording capabilities, this trail delivers a memorable Montana backcountry adventure.
History
The Wickes Tunnel, also known as the Boulder Tunnel, was constructed between 1887 and 1888 by the Montana Central Railway (later part of the Great Northern Railway) to transport ore from the rich mines of Wickes and Corbin. Spanning 6,145 feet in length, it was an engineering marvel of its time but was eventually abandoned, leaving behind a dark, flooded relic of Montana's mining boom.
Access Description
The route is located within the Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest. High clearance and four-wheel-drive are required. The Wickes Tunnel itself is often deeply flooded with water levels that can exceed several feet, posing a severe risk of engine hydrolock. Traveling through the tunnel is done at your own risk; bypass routes are recommended for standard vehicles. Seasonal snow closures typically affect the higher elevations from late autumn through late spring.
