Discover the Vibrant Beauty of Painted Rocks State Park

Getting There

• Car

  From the center of Bitterroot National Forest, head south on US-93 S. Continue on US-93 S for about 15 miles until you reach the junction with MT-43. Turn left onto MT-43 E and follow it for about 14 miles. Then, turn right onto W Fork Rd and continue for approximately 3 miles. Painted Rocks State Park will be located on your left at 8809 W Fork Rd, Darby, MT 59829. There are no entry fees for the park, but make sure to check for parking availability.

• Public Transportation

  While public transportation options are limited in rural Montana, you can take a local bus service or shuttle from nearby towns like Darby or Hamilton to reach Painted Rocks State Park. Confirm the schedule in advance, as services may be infrequent. From the bus stop in Darby, it is about a 10-minute taxi ride to the park. Ensure you have cash for the taxi fare, which may vary but usually costs around $10-$15.

• Bicycle

  If you're an avid cyclist, you can bike to Painted Rocks State Park. From the Bitterroot National Forest, take US-93 S for approximately 15 miles and then turn onto MT-43 E. The ride is scenic but be prepared for some traffic on the highway. Ensure your bike is in good condition and bring water and snacks for the journey. Check the weather beforehand, as conditions can change rapidly in the area.

• Hiking

  For the adventurous, there are hiking trails that lead to Painted Rocks State Park from various points within Bitterroot National Forest. However, this requires planning as the trails can be strenuous and may take several hours to reach the park. Ensure you have a detailed map, adequate supplies, and inform someone of your hiking plan. The closest trailhead can typically be accessed via Forest Service roads. Be aware of possible fees for parking at trailheads.