Originally Posted by Cruise

I have done some of the Montana portion between Missoula and Ennis three times since 2011, with some exceptional detours. Here is the route I did this past June:

https://ridewithgps.com/routes/14890942

I left the TransAm around mile 159 of the map and rode the Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway. It's much more scenic than staying on the route. If you have the capability of doing rough gravel I highly recommend it. At mile 226.5, the road between Melrose and Twin Bridges is unpaved for 20 miles and rough in many places, but it's like being on the moon with free range cattle. The other alternative is to stay on the paved frontage road. That takes puts you back on route at Dillion. Another thing I like about this option with the unpaved road is that it eliminates the shoulderless stretch of highway between Dillon and Twin Bridges. I did an out and back on that road during my rest day in Twin Bridges. A good amount of fast traffic. Send me a PM if you want to do this option and I can give you details on services.