The Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest is horse country. Hundreds of miles of trail wind through meadows, mountain passes, and alpine wilderness that are best explored on horseback. The property sits right at the forest boundary — you can load the trailer, drive a few minutes, and be on trail.
On the Trail
Trail Opportunities Near Wisdom
Big Hole Valley Meadow Rides
Flat, open meadow rides along the valley floor. Ideal for families and trail horses new to the area. Easy access from the property with stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
Pioneer Mountains
The Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway area offers mountain trail loops with elevation gain and spectacular views. Multiple day-ride options with varying difficulty levels.
Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness
For experienced riders. Wilderness trails through the Pintler range with pristine high-country terrain. Requires a wilderness self-issue permit (free) at trailheads.
Upper Big Hole Drainages
Remote canyon country with deep forests and rugged terrain. Multi-day pack trips possible with a base camp at the cabin for supplies and rest.
National Forest Rules for Stock
Weed-Free Feed Required
You MUST feed your horses certified weed-seed-free hay and grain for a minimum of 48 hours (2 full days) BEFORE entering the national forest. This prevents invasive weed spread. Weed-free feed is available locally — ask us for suppliers.
Stay 200 Feet from Water
Never tie or picket horses within 200 feet of any lake, stream, spring, or other water source. This protects riparian areas from erosion and contamination.
Highline or Picket Only
In wilderness areas and dispersed camping, use a highline between trees or a portable electric fence. Never tie directly to trees.
Stay on Designated Trails
Horses are permitted on all multiple-use trails. Stay on the trail to prevent erosion and widening. Yield to no one — all other users yield to stock.
Wilderness Permit
For Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness travel, a self-issue permit is required. Pick one up at the trailhead registration box. It's free and takes one minute to complete.
Group Size Limits
In wilderness areas, combined party and stock size is limited. Check specific wilderness regulations for exact limits before planning your trip.
Leave No Trace
Pack out all manure from campsites. Scatter manure on trails (not at water sources) to minimize impact and follow Leave No Trace principles.
Bringing Your Horses
- Health Requirements: Montana has no entry permit required for horses from most states — but a current Coggins test (EIA) and health certificate may be required depending on your home state and transport route. Check with your vet before you leave.
- On-Property Facilities: The property has trailer parking and space to set up a highline or temporary pen while you're getting oriented.
- Veterinary Care: Nearest large animal vet is in Dillon, MT (approximately 45 miles away) — get the number before you leave home in case of emergency.
- Water Access: Water is available on the property for your horses during setup and breakdown.
- Trailhead Staging: Multiple trailheads are within 10-30 minutes of the property, depending on which drainage you want to explore.
Trail Etiquette on Shared Trails
Horses Have Right of Way
Stock has the right of way over all other users on shared trails. This is national forest policy.
Hikers
Step off trail, speak calmly to the horse, and let stock pass safely. Quick, confident movement is best.
Mountain Bikers
Stop, step off trail on the downhill side, and let stock pass. Don't make sudden movements.
OHV/ATV Users
Stop engine if possible, or reduce to idle. Pull over and wait for horses to pass completely.
Other Stock
Ask the other rider if it's safe to pass. Stallions should yield to mares; pack stock should yield to saddle horses.
Official Resources
Beaverhead-Deerlodge Horse & Stock Riding
Visit USFS BDNF Horse Riding GuideShare the Trails Guidelines
View Trail Etiquette GuidelinesBDNF Recreation Opportunities
Browse All Recreation OptionsUSFS Visitor Maps & Guides
Download Maps and Trail GuidesBDNF Ranger Station – Dillon
(406) 683-3900
Contact for questions about permits, trail conditions, and regulations.
Local Tips From Wisdom
Saddle Up and Head to the Big Hole
Experience the Big Hole Valley and Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest from horseback. Book the cabin and start planning your backcountry adventure.
Book the Cabin