McCart Johnson Peak Trail # 435
The McCart–Johnson Peak Trail #435 spans 6.9 miles, beginning at Road 5765 and ending at Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest Trail 9. The route climbs steadily along a sidehill with grades of 28–30%. From the lookout, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Martin Creek drainage, the Sleeping Child burn area, and the Anaconda Pintler Wilderness.
The trail passes through dense timber. Douglas-fir dominate the first quarter mile, transitioning to lodgepole pine farther along. Ground vegetation includes beargrass, lupine, and buffalo berry. Typical wildlife sightings include pine squirrels, chipmunks, grouse, and various small bird species.
Trailhead parking accommodates up to six vehicles. A stock ramp and hitch rack are available, though forage along the trail is limited.
The trail is open for the following uses:
- Hiking
- Horseback Riding
Specific Trail Information
Trail Type
General Information
Food Storage Required: Food Storage Order Bitterroot National Forest
Camping is limited to 16 consecutive days: Camping Restrictions Regional Order
Practice Leave No Trace principles when visiting forest lands.
Pack it in, Pack it out, no garbage service provided.
Weed Seed Free feed is required on all national forest land: Weed Free Forage & Mulch Products Regional Order
Campfires allowed, dependent upon seasonal fire restrictions.
Practice good trail etiquette by staying on designated paths, yielding to uphill users, and giving space to others.
Pets must be under control. Leashes are recommended to avoid user and wildlife conflicts. Properly dispose of animal waste bags. Do not put animal waste bags in vault toilets
Open year round, snow dependent.
Snowmobiles, ATV's and Mountain Bikes are not permitted on the McCart-Johnson Peak Trail # 435.
Contact Name: Darby-Sula Ranger Station
Contact Phone: 406-821-3913
Address: 712 N. Main Darby, MT 59829
Phone: 406-821-3913
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (Closed on federal holidays)
Getting There
Directions
From Sula, MT head northwest 0.2 miles on Highway 93. Turn northeast (right) onto East Fork Rd. (county road #472). Go approximately 15 miles and turn south (right) onto Forest Service Road #435 (Johnson Peak Trail). Travel 5.5 miles to the trailhead.
