Sheridan to Whitehall
MT · Sheridan → Whitehall
The Northern Pacific's branch into the Ruby Valley, named for the gold rush that started it all.
The Gaylord & Ruby Valley Railway was incorporated in 1897 and sold to the Northern Pacific in 1899. The NP finished the line south from the Whitehall area through Twin Bridges and Sheridan and reached Alder in 1902. Alder was founded as the end of the line and named after Alder Gulch, where the 1863 gold strike created Virginia City, Montana's first territorial capital.
The branch carried cattle, hay and ore from the Ruby and Beaverhead valleys for much of the 20th century before it was abandoned. The grade follows the Ruby River, and the middle stretch is still in decent shape if you can get to it.
⚠️ Before you go: every railroad on this map is private property. A line that looks abandoned may still be owned by a railroad, used to store rail cars, or put back into service at any time — sometimes with no warning. Before going near any track, make sure it's truly abandoned (no recent use, rails not polished, no signals or cars stored on it) and that you're allowed to be there. Never assume a track is dead.
📷 Photos & stories from riders
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