Bitterroot-Big Hole Road is a very scenic drive in Montana
Located on the boundary between Beaverhead and Ravalli counties, in the southwestern part of the U.S. state of Montana, Bitterroot-Big Hole Road (Forest Road 106) is a very exciting journey through history. It is a narrow one-lane road.
How long is the Bitterroot-Big Hole Road?
The Bitterroot-Big Hole Road (Forest Road 106) is totally unpaved. It’s 26.55km (16.5 miles) long. It’s a steep, winding and narrow road with few turnouts and is not suitable for vehicles over 25 feet, trailers, or those with low clearance. The drive will take some skill, some patience, and some tolerance for vertigo. It’s locally known as Gibbons Pass Road. Watch for soft shoulders (especially near those 100 ft drop-offs), falling rocks, and fallen trees or rocks on the road. In places the side hill drops off several hundred feet, and driving can be nerve-wracking. Take along a good spare tire, not just a temporary one. It shouldn’t be attempted by those who don't know how to reverse. If you meet oncoming traffic, be prepared to back up for some distance.
When was the Bitterroot-Big Hole Road built?
Tucked away in the Rocky Mountains, within the Bitterroot National Forest, the road was built in 1914. It was used by part of the Lewis and Clark Expedition on their return trip. It’s a mountain road, topping out at 2.246m (7,368ft) above the sea level. Remember that vehicles traveling uphill have the right-of-way. The road climbs up to Gibbons Pass, at an elevation of 2.117m (6,945ft) above the sea level. Named for Colonel John Gibbon, it’s said to be one of the most historic passes in Montana.