Big Sheep Creek Back Country Byway

Discover one of southwest Montana’s hidden gems along the Big Sheep Creek Back Country Byway. From Interstate 15, just north of the Montana–Idaho border, the rugged Tendoy Mountains may look impenetrable. But if you take the Dell exit and follow the signs toward Big Sheep Creek, you’ll come upon a nearly hidden opening that leads into this beautiful and remote landscape. The Byway is also accessible from Montana Highway 324. Stretching more than 50 miles, the route is usually passable for all types of vehicles during the summer. Be aware that rain can make the gravel and dirt surfaces challenging. 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. About 14 miles southwest of Dell, you’ll find the Bureau of Land Management’s Deadwood Campground. This quiet spot offers several campsites equipped with picnic tables, campfire rings, and a vault toilet. As you travel the Byway, you’ll pass through three distinct geological landscapes. Big Sheep Canyon greets you first with its narrow, rocky walls. The canyon eventually opens into a broad valley framed by mountains along the Continental Divide. Farther north, the scenery shifts again into a lush, winding valley shaped by a meandering creek. The towering peak above this area gives it its name—Medicine Lodge. Keep in mind that services are not available along the Byway, and there is no potable water. Visitors should drive slowly and defensively, especially in wet weather, which can create slippery or hazardous conditions.