Baldy Mountain Ride (Shuttle)

Dogs Unknown

E-Bikes Unknown

This ride offers a unique variety of terrain over a relatively steep and quick descent.

As always when riding in northwest Montana, bring your bear spray and make lots of noise.

To avoid a long grind uphill, it's easiest to shuttle 6-7 miles up the Forest Service Road 591 (FR 591). Leave a vehicle at the pull-off immediately as you turn onto FR 591. Begin the shuttle up and park just after the bridge that crosses Hellroaring Creek. From the bridge ride approximately 2 miles up the road to the Baldy-Buckhorn Trail. The trail begins with a traverse of a flat decommissioned road. After approximately 1 mile, the road ends and intersects the singletrack. Turn right to begin the descent.

The descent is comprised of several distinct sections, starting with a slightly brushy cruise through open meadows. The trail quickly transitions into a fast, flowy, and soft ride through dark timber. Approximately half-way down, the trail becomes steeper with several tight, rocky sections that are moderately technical. The trail eventually pops out onto MT state highway 508 (Yaak River Rd). Turn right for a short 1-mile road ride back to the shuttle vehicle.

Several alternate routes are possible. This can be done as a full loop starting from the pull-off at the beginning of FR 591. Also, the singletrack extends up to the Baldy Mountain lookout. You can ride or shuttle to the lookout and ride the trail down to Yaak River Rd. This option involves a more difficult ride including extremely rocky, technical sections near the lookout.