CDT: Nez Perce North

Dogs Leashed

E-Bikes Allowed

Directions to Trailhead: Take exit 138 from I-15 North. Take a right on Elk Park Rd, then a left on Nez Perce Rd and follow it 2.5 miles to the Trailhead. Trailhead is primitive with no facilities.

Rocky motorised singletrack provides northern access to Butte's Iconic East Ridge
This North section of the Nez Perce Trail is part of the Continental Divide Trail (CDT) and connects from the Nez Perce Trailhead to a junction where the CDT continues on across the East Ridge as the Fairy Trail. Unlike most sections of the CDT nearby, this section is motorised and open to dirt bikes. Dirt bikes must stay on the Nez Perce Trail and are not permitted to continue onto the Fairy Trail. Sharing the trail with dirt bikers means that the trail can get a little rough and "chewed up" in places, but they do a pretty good job of keeping the trail clear of deadfall.

Ascending the trail on a mountain bike can be quite slow, as it is moderately steep and very rocky. Fortunately there is plenty of tree cover, and if you are returning the same way it can be a fun descent. Going downhill the rocks aren't too difficult if you take it slow, but take your fingers off the brakes and it becomes a different story.