How to drive the 14 hairpins of Eddy Peak Road in Montana?
Eddy Peak is a high mountain peak at an elevation of 2,093m (6,866ft) above sea level, located in Sanders County, Montana. Situated in the northern part of the Lolo National Forest, the drive to the summit via Eddy Peak Road is a demanding high-altitude transit that requires specialized 4x4 equipment and technical driving skills.
| Road facts: Eddy Peak (Montana) | |
|---|---|
| Location | Sanders County, Montana (USA) |
| Elevation | 2,093 m (6,866 ft) |
| Length | 18 km (11.2 miles) from Thompson Falls |
| Average Gradient | 7.47% |
| Surface | Unpaved (One-lane dirt road) |
Where is Eddy Peak?
The peak is located west of Eddy, in the northern part of Montana within the Lolo National Forest. For those driving this route, the closest point of assistance and logistical support is the city of Thompson Falls. The area is remote, making mechanical self-sufficiency a priority.
What’s at the summit of Eddy Peak?
At the summit there’s a fire lookout tower built in 1982, which replaced the previous historical structure. The tower provides views for hundreds of miles around and is typically staffed during the summer season. Technically, the tower marks the end of the high-altitude transit.
Is the road to Eddy Peak unpaved?
Yes, the road to the summit is totally unpaved and known as Eddy Peak Road. A high-clearance 4x4 vehicle is mandatory to manage the ruts and loose soil. Logistically, it is important to know that the road does not reach the actual peak; it was gated 0.7 miles below the summit, requiring a final ascent on foot.
How long is the road to Eddy Peak?
Starting from Thompson Falls, the road to the summit is 18 km (11.2 miles) long. Over this distance, the elevation gain is a significant 1,345m (4,416 ft), which results in a sustained average gradient of 7.47%.
How challenging is the road to Eddy Peak?
It’s a rugged one-lane dirt road, featuring 14 sharp hairpin turns. The route includes technical sections of narrow shelf roads with no passing room. While the road is generally in good condition, inclement weather and snow can make the 7.47% gradient much more treacherous, requiring precise throttle and traction management.
Is the road to Eddy Peak open in winter?
No. The road is usually impassable from October to June due to snow accumulation. Technically, the 18 km descent back to Thompson Falls puts a high thermal load on the braking system, so using engine braking is essential to maintain vehicle control on the steep, unpaved ramps.
Pic&more info: http://www.realty-northwest.com/ExploringMontana/Eddy-Peak.htm