VIRGINIA CITY TO BUTTE – 139 miles

An optional harder route ascends Alder Gulch and descends Barton Gulch, featuring tight switchbacks and loose rocks. The main route then follows wide gravel roads through farm and ranch land in the Ruby River valley before reaching Highway 41. Wide dirt roads through the picturesque Big Hole River valley lead to paved roads into Melrose where you can get food and fuel. Beyond Melrose the track climbs into the East Pioneer Mountains. The historic Glendale smelter site and beehive-shaped charcoal kilns are a must see. After descending from the Pioneers, an optional harder section follows rugged roads in the Moose Creek (“Crick”) drainage and ascends into the Highland Mountains. This road is primitive, rocky and has a large water crossing that can be challenging during spring runoff. Finally, the route descends from the Highlands into Butte, the largest city on the route and one of the most historic. Consider visiting the Berkeley Pit viewing area or other sites near the Old Town.