Overlanding in Montana: Big Sky, Bigger Adventures
The Treasure State offers scenic vistas, rugged mountains, and hundreds of miles of off-road routes to explore
Image Caption: Photo Credit: Montana Tourism
As overlanding destinations go, it’s tough to top Montana. America’s fourth-largest state is home to thousands of miles of off-road trail, covering some of the most epic and diverse landscapes on the planet. That makes it a must-visit, bucket-list destination for any overlander looking to escape civilization for a while and put their skills to the test in a truly remote setting.
With so many amazing off-road routes to choose from, it’s hard to decide which ones to explore first. But we have the intel on some of the best options that Montana has to offer, giving you a starting point for your Big Sky adventure.
Note: Overlanding and off-roading on public lands in Montana is restricted to designated trails. Be sure to remain on the proper routes while driving in the backcountry and avoid driving on private property without permission from the owner.
Photo Credit: Montana Department of Commerce
Hungry Horse Reservoir (Glacier Country)
Located a short drive from Glacier National Park, this 112-mile loop trail takes overlanders into the heart of Flathead National Forest. The route passes through steep mountain terrain and thickly wooded forest while circling around Hungry Horse Reservoir itself. Dispersed camping is free and allowed throughout the area, providing travelers plenty of solitude and seclusion.
Pryor Mountains (Southeast Montana)
Head south out of Billings and make your way to the Pryor Mountains, one of the most rugged and unique landscapes Montana has to offer. The Pryors rise dramatically above the surrounding plains, beckoning to overlanders and outdoor adventurers on the horizon. Here, you’ll find a number of off-road trails, with options for beginner and veteran drivers alike. Dispersed camping is free on Forest Service and BLM land.
Photo Credit: Montana Department of Commerce
Missouri Breaks Backcountry Byway (Central Montana)
Remote, wild, and oh-so beautiful, this 80-mile route takes off-roaders deep into the Montana backcountry, closely following the Missouri River en route. A 4×4 is required to navigate this challenging course through a wilderness area first visited by Lewis and Clark on their historic journey west. Camping is allowed along the byway, and cooling off with a float in the river is highly encouraged.
Fort Peck Lake (Missouri River Country)
Montana’s largest lake is best known for its outstanding fishing and boating opportunities, but the more than 1,520 miles of shoreline also feature excellent off-road routes, too. Those 4×4 trails grant access to scenic dispersed campsites along the shores of this massive body of water. Be sure to pack your rod and reel, as there are more than 50 species of fish swimming beneath the surface.
Photo Credit: Montana Department of Commerce
Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway (Southwest Montana)
This 49-mile seasonal route takes overlanders into the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, following along the length of the Pioneer Mountains Range. Here, towering granite peaks meet lush pine and willow forests, with mountain-fed rivers and streams flowing freely. Highlights include a visit to the ghost town of Coolidge, exploring the abandoned Elkhorn silver mine, and trying your luck at trout fishing on the Big Hole River.
Looking for more detailed intel on these or any other overlanding routes in Montana and beyond? Download the onX app to your smartphone, tablet, or laptop to help guide you on your off-road journey.
For more information about these routes, regions, and other attractions in the state, check out the Visit Montana website.
Kraig Becker is a writer in the RV, outdoors, and adventure travel space. Over the course of his career he has contributed to such outlets as Popular Mechanics, Outside Online, Business Insider, TripSavvy, Digital Trends, GearJunkie, The Adventure Blog, and countless others. An avid runner and cyclist, he enjoys camping, hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, and just about any other outdoor activity. His travels have taken him to seven continents and on many amazing adventures.
