West Fork Ranger District

Experience the West Fork Ranger District—where rugged wilderness, world‑class fishing, and unforgettable backcountry adventure come together. Located 18 miles south of Darby, Montana, along the scenic West Fork of the Bitterroot River, this district is a top destination for anglers and river enthusiasts. Spring brings lively insect hatches and swift, snowmelt‑driven flows, while summer offers calmer waters perfect for fishing and scenic rafting.

While the river draws you in, the district’s true character lies in its expansive wild landscapes. More than half of the West Fork Ranger District is designated wilderness, making it one of the rare places where you can drive between two vast, untouched backcountry areas.

From Magruder Crossing, travel the historic road built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. This narrow, rugged route climbs through subalpine larch and remote terrain, offering sweeping views of both the 2.3‑million‑acre Frank Church–River of No Return Wilderness and the 1.2‑million‑acre Selway–Bitterroot Wilderness. With few amenities and miles of unspoiled scenery, it’s a journey defined by clear streams, big views, and quiet solitude.

Follow the route along the Selway River to its end at Paradise—the launch point for the legendary Selway River rafting experience. This 47‑mile Class IV stretch is one of the nation’s premier wilderness whitewater trips. During the May 15 to July 31 permit season, only one group is allowed to launch per day, ensuring a remote and pristine experience. Permits are available through Recreation.gov.

For those seeking overnight stays, the district offers campgrounds at Slate Creek, Alta, Rombo, Fales Flat, and Sam Billings. Each site includes basic amenities and easy access to streams, lakes, or trails. Sam Billings Campground sits just steps from the Boulder Creek Trail, a popular gateway into the Selway–Bitterroot Wilderness.