Chestnut 11.94 mi (up and back)

Overview: Heavily treed single track until the open meadow at the top. Brief view of MSU area from the upper part of the single track. These tracks stop at the summit but riders could continue and access Goose Creek and the Bear Canyon Loop Trail. At the summit is a view down Trail Creek to the Absarokas. Steep trail rising over 2500 feet over approximately 6 miles up. Up the whole way in and down the whole way back! Watch for mountain bikes on this trail. Downed trees likely after a storm but trail is well traveled and maintained.

Map and GPS Tracks: Click trail name to open map. GPS tracks can be uploaded from the View Details link on the map below

Distance: 11.94 miles

Elevation Gain: 2524 feet

Technicality: Easy other than a lot of climbing

Difficulty: Nothing tricky but it’s a workout

Parking: Easy parking alongside Trail Creek Rd just off the exit. A pullout on the left can be used for turning around when leaving. Room for multiple trailers.

Shared Use: Popular mountain bike trail. Narrow with switchbacks so use caution. Best to go when you don’t see lots of vehicles with bike racks. Seems to be a popular after-work ride.

Facilities: None

Directions: I-90 to exit 316 Trail Creek Rd. Cross the tracks, proceed about 1/4 mile and park on the right.

Trail Navigation: *** ALL MILEAGE IS APPROXIMATE. YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR OWN NAVIGATING ***

Water: Small Creek crossing maybe 1/3 of the way up. May be seasonal.

Season: Impassable in winter. VERY slick and slimy when wet (clay) – avoid if rain is forecast. Dangerous trail in high winds due to many trees.

Timing: 4.5 hours at a very slow walk (2.6 mph)

Notables: Not a fast ride, mostly steep singletrack.

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