Toll Canyon Trail: The Roller Coaster of Butte, Montana

Quick Overview: A Thrilling 9-Mile Ride With a Little of Everything

Calling all intermediate riders! The Toll Canyon Trail near Butte, Montana, is a nine-mile loop that promises varied terrains, panoramic views, and a thrilling descent back to the highway. Strap on your helmets and prepare for an adrenaline-pumping roller coaster ride!

Key Trail Specs

• Distance: 9 miles
• Level: Intermediate
• Route Type: Loop
• City: Butte, Montana
• Highlights: Panoramic vistas, thrilling descents, and refreshing creek stops.

Getting There: Easy Access to a Grand Adventure

Head south on Highway 2 from Butte to reach the summit of Pipestone Pass. A parking area will be visible on the right just before the summit. For those coming from the Whitehall direction, it's about a mile before the Beaver Pond trailhead.

The Ride: Breakdown of an Exhilarating Adventure

Starting Out: The Ascent

• This ride starts off with a moderate climb. Don't skip the short spurs to lookout points; first on the right, then on the left.
• After conquering the climb, the trail tops out and leads into some superb singletrack.

High-Speed Descents: Thrills & Chills

• Next comes an exhilarating downhill stretch, adorned with switchbacks, that takes you back to the highway.
• Prepare for some loose dirt and a little exposure during the descent, but rest assured—it's a thrill worth experiencing.

Looping Back: The Home Stretch

• Finally, the trail features a three-mile gradual climb back to the summit of the pass. For those looking to extend their adventure, the Beaver Ponds loop can be combined for a comprehensive 15-mile figure-eight circuit.

User Impressions: Thoughts from Fellow Cyclists

• The uphill climbs are described as engaging, offering scenic views of Butte.
• Many compared the terrain and views to those of the Colorado Front Range, adding a familiar touch for those who have ridden there.
• Caution is advised on the downhill segments due to loose sand and rocks. Early in the season, riders should watch for fallen trees obstructing the trail.

Pro Tips

• At the three-mile mark, an intersection splits the trail into Toll Canyon and CDT. Choose your path wisely based on your thrill-seeking level.
• To avoid riding back on the highway, opt for the old railroad bed by making a left turn before descending the last section of the hill.

Final Thoughts: Why Toll Canyon Is a Must-Ride

For cyclists who love a ride that includes both uphill challenges and downhill thrills, the Toll Canyon Trail should be on the must-ride list. Its natural obstacles, outstanding vistas, and loop design make it a versatile choice for riders seeking a day-long cycling expedition or a quick, invigorating jaunt.