Once you reach the beginning of the singletrack on Woods Gulch Rd, start climbing then take your first right. Continue climbing. Take your first left. Continue climbing. At the next intersection, you may take a right for an amazing overlook view or continue straight on the trail. Eventually you'll reach a saddle and see Sheep Mountain in front of you. Continue riding and hang a left to reach the top of Sheep Mtn or continue straight on the trail. Once you reach the gravel road, it's a quick 8 miles back to your vehicle. It's mostly downhill though.
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Challenging ride with gorgeous views Missoula, and surrounding valleys. The 5.13 takes right off on a moderately steep ascent. The climbing grade is sustained most of the 8 miles to Sheep Mountain. The exception being a short/fast/fun two-track through the second to last saddle to the top. The descent (5.14) starts with more views, rocks, and switchbacks. The trail gets skinny from here and is variable and it goes in and out of the creek bottom. Once you reach the 5.15 it's all pedaling fast is last gear to home base.
Thank |What a backcountry ride! The first few miles average over 10% incline so bring your climbing legs. There are also a few hike-a-bike sections depending on legs, lungs and gearing. That said, the climbing really isn't that bad if you just take your time getting to the top.
Thank |The descents are a ton of fun with the first few switchbacks being pretty tight/steep/loose. After those it really opens up, especially once you hit the wooded areas.
Even more impressive than the descents are the views. SIMPLY AMAZING. If you've ridden Bangtail Divide, you have to ride Sheep Mtn. I think the views are even better on this ride.