Garnet Back Country Byway climbs 12 miles and 2,000 feet through Montana‘s Garnet Range, ending at the remarkably preserved Garnet Ghost Town. This BLM-managed route offers a mix of history and backcountry recreation, with 30 original buildings dating to 1895 standing as one of Montana’s best-preserved mining towns.

The byway supports dispersed camping on adjacent BLM lands, allowing visitors to set up camp in undeveloped areas along the route. OHV trails and hiking paths branch into the surrounding mountains, while nearby waterways provide fishing access. The terrain suits mountain biking, horseback riding, and rock climbing for those seeking more active pursuits.

Access requires a high-clearance vehicle, particularly in spring when roads are rough. The Visitor Center at Garnet Ghost Town operates daily from late May through September, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with limited winter weekend hours. Summer and early fall offer the best conditions for camping and exploring, though winter visitors can access the ghost town via snowmobile or cross-country skis when the road closes to vehicles.

Explore Nearby

• Travelers’ Rest State Park — State Park in Montana
• Milltown State Park — State Park in Montana
• Bitterroot National Forest — National Forest in Montana, Idaho
• Nez Perce–Clearwater National Forests — National Forest in Idaho