Pipestone Slab Ride

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Pipestone, Montana

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Route Overview

John in Butte

Sweet Gravel and MTB Rides around Montana (and Mexico!)

6 mi.

845 ft.

The Slab Ride is a classic Pipestone thriller perfect for a post-work spin. Named for its challenging geologic features, the route features several black diamond sections that will test your brakes and your nerves.

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Route Details

The [**Pipestone Off-Highway Vehicle Area**](https://www.blm.gov/visit/pipestone-th) is a vast area of Forest Service and BLM land in Southwest MT with a maze of trails that could take a lifetime to explore. The Slab Ride presents a short sampler of Pipestone's network, including wide gravel roads, flowy singletrack, and hair-raising technical sections with slabs of granite that give the route its name. Bring your favorite mountain bike for this quick ride, hardtail or full-suspension.

## The Route
The Slab Ride begins at the @poi[lower parking lot](72595295) and @slice[climbs 1.4 miles](d,0,2247.75) before reaching a @slice[flat pleateau](d,2215.95,4431) with stunning views of @poi[Spire Rock](72595307). Take a hard left into the @slice[first downhill](d,4431,4807.94) for a sampling of the namesake slabs.

Over the next couple miles the route undulates through a series of @slice[short climbs and descents](d,4850.79,8792.85) including @slice[The Gauntlet](d,7613.79,7805.08), a technical section of clavicle-crushing slabs and rock waterfalls that are the crux of the ride.

Take a right at the last junction to begin the @slice[Spin Cycle](d,8912.17,9681.89), a rollicking section of berms and rollers that will have you giggling. Watch the final road crossing as you return to the parking lot where post-ride refreshments await.

Note that numerous side trails exist throughout this area, however, major junctions and road crossings are marked as POIs. The route as shown represents the original Slab Ride that has been a popular route for more than 25 years. Pipestone has endless opportunities for riding beyond this segment, so explore to your heart's content.

## Local Area
Pipestone sits in the middle of the Boulder Batholith, a large region of granitic rock charachterized by its stunning spires, rounded boulders, and coarse sand that drains exceptionally well. The area lies in a rain shadow that allows riding almost year-round, and most trails can be ridden immediately following rain events due to excellent drainage. In addition to mountain biking, the area has spires and boulders for rock climbing and endless camping opportunities. You can also visit @poi[Ringing Rocks](72595306), a unique geologic feature that makes bell sounds when struck with a hammer.

Pipestone is a popular area for motorized recreation, including UTVs, four-wheelers, and motorcycles. The area can be heavily populated with motorized traffic and campers during weekends, beginning as soon as weather becomes favorable in spring. To avoid crowds and motorized traffic, this route is ideal as a post-work ride on weekdays. Motorized traffic also tapers in fall once hunting season starts, so try to catch it during  autumn colors.

Camping is available almost anywhere that isn't occupied, but to avoid weekend crowds you may want to bring bikepacking gear and escape the main roads. My favorite spots are near @poi[Spire Rock](72595308) or along @poi[Halfway Creek](72595310) if you need a water source. [Pipestone Village and Hot Springs](https://pipestonehotsprings.com/) is just down the road with cabins and domes for rent with naturally heated baths. Food and lodging is also  available in Whitehall or Butte if you want to stick around and explore for a few days.

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Pipestone Slab Ride

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