Great Divide Mountain Bike Route: Big Springs Loop

This section of the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route is considered difficult. While not primarily technical, the GDMBR as a whole is a significant test of endurance due to its scale. You'll encounter varied surfaces from good gravel to unmaintained tracks, and while there are gradual descents, some steeper climbs are present as the route traverses the Continental Divide.

The route features a diverse mix of surfaces, including pavement, dirt roads, and singletrack trails. A notable part is the Yellowstone Branch Line Trail, a rail-to-trail conversion, which can be soft and rutted in places. You'll ride through river valleys, mountain forests, and open grasslands, with views of blue-ribbon fishing streams.

As a segment of the extensive Great Divide Mountain Bike Route, there isn't one single designated trailhead parking lot for the entire 'Big Springs Loop' section. Access points would typically be found in towns or established recreation areas along the GDMBR in the vicinity of Big Springs, Idaho, or where the route crosses into Montana or Wyoming. Specific parking details may vary, so planning your entry and exit points in advance is recommended.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on the route, which passes through the Caribou-Targhee National Forest. However, it's crucial to keep them on a leash at all times due to the presence of wildlife, including bear, deer, and various birds. Always practice Leave No Trace principles and pack out all waste.

The best time to ride this segment of the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route is typically during the summer months, from late June through early September, when snow has melted and weather conditions are most favorable for mountain biking. Spring and fall can bring unpredictable weather, including early or late season snow.

Riding this section of the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route, which passes through the Caribou-Targhee National Forest, generally does not require specific permits for individual recreational use. There are no entrance fees for the National Forest itself. However, always check with the local Forest Service office for any current regulations or fire restrictions before your trip.

This section of the route offers spectacular scenery, including views of rivers and blue-ribbon fishing streams. A key natural feature is Big Springs itself. The route also showcases diverse landscapes as it transitions from Montana into Idaho and then into Wyoming, with opportunities for wildlife viewing.

Yes, this route is primarily a segment of the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route. It also utilizes sections of other official trails and roads, such as Warm River Butte Road, National Forest Development Road 158, Trude Snowmobile Trail Road, and Eccles Road Snowmobile Trail, among others.

Yes, water sources can be limited, particularly between Big Springs and Fish Creek. Riders should plan to carry sufficient water supplies to cover these stretches. Always be prepared for remote conditions and potential long distances between resupply points.

It's important to distinguish this segment of the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route from other local trails also named 'Big Springs Loop.' This route is part of the world's longest off-pavement cycling route, offering a varied mountain biking experience across state lines. Other trails, like a 0.8-mile loop in Boise, Idaho, or the 'Scenic Mountain Loop' in Big Spring, Texas, are entirely different in length, difficulty, and location.

Due to the remote nature of the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route, you have opportunities for wildlife viewing. Common sightings include deer, various birds, and potentially bear. Riders should be bear-aware and carry appropriate deterrents.