Shields Big Elk
3.4 mi
Distance
1,299 ft
Elev. Gain
1h 47m
Est. Time
Moderate
Difficulty
About This Trail
Shields Big Elk is a trail in Lewis & Clark National Forest, managed by the United States Forest Service, in Montana. It is 3.4 miles long and gains 1,299 feet. The surface is dirt. Per USDA Forest Service, it is open to bikes and horses. The nearest town is Martinsdale, Montana, about 15 miles away in a straight line.
From the trail data on this page. For conditions and closures, see official sources.
Trail Conditions
Trail Conditions
We have no current condition data for this trail. Check with the operator before you go, and submit a report below if you've been recently.
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Elevation Profile
| Point | Distance from start | Elevation |
|---|---|---|
| Start | 0.0 mi | 2,025 ft |
| High point | 3.3 mi | 2,392 ft |
| End | 3.4 mi | 2,380 ft |
Trail Details
Bike and horse access: USDA Forest Service, checked 2026-10-14. Rules change, so confirm with the land manager before you go.
- Surface
- Dirt
Official sources & verification
Managed by United States Forest Service
Managing agency
- United States Forest Service
Find offices, alerts, and current orders for this agency.
Where it is
- Nearest town:
- Martinsdale, MT · about 15 mi away
- Jurisdiction:
- Lewis & Clark National Forest · United States Forest Service
Nearest town and county from U.S. Census Bureau place records and county boundaries.
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Imported route
In this park
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Campgrounds near this trail

Custer Gallatin Dispersed Campsite TURKEYCR-04
3.9 mi awayCuster Gallatin National Forest
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Custer Gallatin Dispersed Campsite SHIELDSLOOP14
3.9 mi awayCuster Gallatin National Forest
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Custer Gallatin Dispersed Campsite SHIELDSLOOP13
4 mi awayCuster Gallatin National Forest
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Custer Gallatin Dispersed Campsite SHIELDSLOOP15
4.1 mi awayCuster Gallatin National Forest
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Custer Gallatin Dispersed Campsite TURKEYCR-03
4.3 mi awayCuster Gallatin National Forest
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Custer Gallatin Dispersed Campsite SHIELDSLOOPL7
4.4 mi awayCuster Gallatin National Forest
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