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Pugsley Bridge

Chester, Idaho · Liberty County · Facility

The Marias River starts in Glacier County at the confluence of the Two Medicine River and Cut Bank Creek. It flows generally southeastward from this point and is impounded by the Tiber Dam to form Lake Elwell. About 50 miles downstream of the dam, it receives its principal tributary, the Teton River, shortly before ent…

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48.29056, -111.04806
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About Pugsley Bridge

The Marias River starts in Glacier County at the confluence of the Two Medicine River and Cut Bank Creek. It flows generally southeastward from this point and is impounded by the Tiber Dam to form Lake Elwell. About 50 miles downstream of the dam, it receives its principal tributary, the Teton River, shortly before entering the Missouri River at Loma. T he Marias River was named in 1804 by Meriwether Lewis for his cousin, Maria Wood. There are three BLM river access sites: Sullivan Bridge launch site, Pugsley Bridge Recreation Area, and Moffat Bridge Recreation Area. The Pugsley Bridge Recreation Area is located about 4.5 miles downstream of Tiber Dam. Drive across the historic cable suspension bridge to reach the river access site on the south side of the river.

How to Get There

From US Hwy 2, on the west side of Chester, turn south onto Moffat Bridge Road, go about 13 miles, then turn right (west) onto MT Hwy 366; go about two miles then turn left (south) onto Pugsley Road. The recreation site is on the south side of the river after crossing Pugsley Bridge. Roads within the site may be impassable when wet.

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

Plan Your Visit to Pugsley Bridge

Heading to Pugsley Bridge? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Pugsley Bridge?

No central reservation system listed for Pugsley Bridge. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/262757) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Pugsley Bridge?

From US Hwy 2, on the west side of Chester, turn south onto Moffat Bridge Road, go about 13 miles, then turn right (west) onto MT Hwy 366; go about two miles then turn left (south) onto Pugsley Road. The recreation site is on the south side of the river after crossing Pugsley Bridge. Roads within the site may be impassable when wet.