CDT: Fairy Trail

Dogs Leashed

E-Bikes Not Allowed

Features Views

This trail is part of the Continental Divide Trail (CDT) and traverses across Butte's iconic East Ridge. Out of all the sections of CDT close to Butte, the Fairy Trail is simultaneously the most remote and the most difficult, and for these reasons it is seldom ridden. It can also be prone to a lot of dead-fall across the trail, especially in the early season before the forest service has had a chance to clear it. Those that dare to venture on this trail will be rewarded with a wilderness-like experience and some amazing views looking West towards Elk Park, or East towards the Pipestone Area and Delmoe Lake.

The trail is mostly forested, and the surface is a mixture of hard granite sand, and dirt, both having plenty of rocks. This trail is 100% ride-able, but it is slow going and has few places to relax as there are constant rocks, ups and downs and switchbacks.

There are 2 main ways to access this trail: from the North Via CDT- Nez Perce Trail, or from the South via CDT - Our Lady Trail, and unless you do an out-and-back you are going to end up riding both of these. This can be done as either a big loop or a shuttle.

As a shuttle, the best way would be to get dropped off at Nez Perce Trailhead, then get picked up at either the Maud-S Trailhead, or the Homestake Pass Trailhead if you want to traverse the whole East Ridge.