Potosi Trail

Potosi Trail (303) climbs through several steep switchbacks for the first mile. Once on top of the ridge looking down into the South Willow Creek drainage, it flattens out, passing through a large open area. A mile before intersecting with the Rock Creek Trail 304, the Potosi Trail begins gradually to climb again. Just past here, it shoots up at a consistently steep grade until it terminates on a ridge top, connecting with Trail 351. Trail 351 is a very short trail, which serves to join Potosi Trail with the Albro Lake and North Willow Creek systems.

The possibilities for day and extended hikes or rides abound with this trail. Following Rock Creek Trail 304 brings you back down to the South Willow Creek Road about a mile from Potosi Campground. This is a great day hike or bike loop, 6 miles round trip.

Nearby Potosi Campground, which makes an excellent base for forays into the Tobacco Roots. The campground offers 15 campsites, drinking water, and toilets. Anglers will want to take advantage of the chance to fish South Willow Creek, which runs through the campground. Also, hike up to one of the several lakes (Hollowtop, Deep, Skytop, and Albro) accessed by the trail. The trail itself passes through open country with breathtaking views.

Length: 6.2 miles round trip. Moderate difficulty

Trail Begins: Near Potosi Campground.Trail Ends: Junction with Trail 351

USGS Map: Potosi Peak

Directions: Follow US Highway 287 north from Ennis to Harrison. Turn left at Harrison and drive 5 miles down the road to Pony. Just before Pony, make a left at the sign for South Willow Creek Road for 8 miles, past Potosi Hot Springs Resort, to Potosi Campground. The trailhead starts at the South Willow Creek Recreation Area sign, just outside of the campground. You can park in or near the campground.

Potosi Trail
Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, Ennis, MT 59729

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