Big Sheep Creek Back Country Byway | Montana

Tucked into the secluded southern reaches of Montana near Dell, the Big Sheep Creek Back Country Byway offers a quiet, rugged drive through part of the untamed Rockies. From Interstate 15, just north of the Montana–Idaho border, the rugged Tendoy Mountains may look impenetrable — but the Dell exit leads to a nearly hidden opening into this remote landscape (the byway is also accessible from Montana Highway 324). The route offers the opportunity to peer down into the depths of Big Sheep Creek and up into the heights of Big Sheep Canyon, passing through three distinct geological landscapes along the way: the narrow, rocky walls of Big Sheep Canyon, a broad valley framed by mountains along the Continental Divide, and — farther north — the lush, winding Medicine Lodge valley shaped by a meandering creek beneath the peak that gives it its name.

Though many years have passed, the landscape is largely unchanged from the days of early Native Americans and mountain men, offering a rare chance to experience Montana's backcountry in near-pristine condition. Stretching more than 50 miles, the route is usually passable for all types of vehicles during the summer. Plan for a relaxing three-hour drive — or take two or three days if you'd like to enjoy fishing, hiking, wildlife watching, or simply exploring the area.

Plan Ahead

The Big Sheep Creek Byway is a remote, low-traffic gravel route, and preparation is essential:

• No services are available along the byway, and there is no potable water — bring everything you'll need
• Rain can make gravel and dirt surfaces challenging — drive slowly and defensively, especially in wet weather, which can create slippery or hazardous conditions
• Gasoline is available along the route, but plan your fuel stops in advance
• Consider camping at Deadwood Campground, about 14 miles southwest of Dell, which offers several BLM sites equipped with picnic tables, campfire rings, and a vault toilet

Features and Amenities

• Scenic views of mountains, streams, valley bottoms, and unique rock formations lining several canyons
• Marked and unmarked hiking trails accessible from the byway
• Wildlife viewing opportunities, including bighorn sheep, elk, and deer
• Fishing access in clear mountain streams and lakes accessible from the road
• Camping areas available along the route
• Bicycle/pedestrian facilities
• Gasoline available along the route

Byway Designation

The Big Sheep Creek BCB is designated as a Type I BLM Back Country Byway, established in 1989. It follows a low-traffic, two-lane gravel route through remote public lands.