- The Byway winds through the lovely Garnet Mountains.
- Stop in Garnet Ghost Town and tour the old mining buildings.
- Other stops along the way include Sand Park Cemetery, Fairview Mine, and Secret Gulch.
- During winter, snowmobile, cross-country ski, and snowshoe around Garnet Ghost Town.
- Enjoy year-round recreation in Blackfoot River Valley.
Overview
Garnet Back Country Byway begins 30 miles east of Missoula, off MT-200, and traverses the Garnet Mountain Range to its termination point at the junction of Garnet Range Road and the BLM service road at Elk Creek. Garnet Ghost Town is one of several must-see stops along the byway, featuring camping and lodging areas and a chance to explore the town’s old mining buildings.
Driving Directions
To reach Garnet Back Country Byway from Missoula, travel 5 miles east on I-90 toward Butte and then take exit 109 for MT-200 E toward Bonner and Great Falls. Travel 23 miles on MT-200 E before turning right onto Garnet Range Road. The road stretches approximately 13 miles.
Garnet Ghost Town is located approximately 11 miles down Garnet Range Road.
Time/Distance
The drive from Missoula to the end of Garnet Back Country Byway takes roughly 1.25 hours, not counting stops in Garnet Ghost Town or at other sites.
Highlights
- Enjoy gorgeous terrain in the Garnet Mountains and be sure to stop for panoramic views at the Blackfoot Valley Overlook.
- Stop at the Barite Mining Overlook, Sand Park Cemetery, Fairview Mine, Secret Gulch, and more.
- Camp or lodge in a rented cabin in Garnet Ghost Town and tour the old buildings and sites.
- During summer, recreate in the Blackfoot River Valley and the Bob Marshall Wilderness.
- During winter, snowmobile, cross-country ski and snowshoe on over 100 miles of groomed trails around Garnet Ghost Town.
