Continue south through the town of Montezuma. You'll return via Forest Road 275 that goes right about halfway through town.

Pass through large parking area. Unlicensed vehicles can unload here.

After a steep climb through the forest, you climb above timberline. Deer Creek continues straight, but we recommend an easy side trip to left on Forest Road 286, which goes to great views at top of Radical Hill. We often see mountain goats at the top. Come back to this point and continue south.

Turn right on Forest Road 279 and head west. You'll soon encounter several short steep sections. Left here goes to Middle Fork of the Swan River Trail, described in FunTreks book, "Guide to Colorado Backroads & 4-Wheel Drive Trails."

Before you turn right towards Glacier Ridge, get out of your vehicle and walk left to cliff edges. You'll often see mountain goats along the steep walls. Straight here goes to the North Fork of the Swan River trail.

This is the spot that gets everyone's attention. A long, very steep climb ascends to the top of Glacier Ridge. Novice drivers may be intimidated.

Main trail continues straight. Right is side trip that deadends.

Park here and walk right to see remains of General Teller Mine. Great views and a wonderful lunch spot.

Main trail continues left steeply downhill. Right deadends at great overlook in half mile.

After last steep switchback, you'll pass through tailing from the Wild Irishman Mine. Look right for old mining cabins in the trees.

Trail zigzags right then left through ruins of Saints John Townsite. After townsite continue downhill and return to town of Montezuma where you started.