The region is sparsely settled, with small communities economically dependent on a mixture of logging and tourism.

MT 83 passes through mostly forest landscape, and wildlife crossings should be expected at all times.

Elk herds crossing near Clearwater Junction can be hard to see at night.

[3] Since 1978, a small segment of S-209 survives under its original designation, between Bigfork and a junction with the current MT 83 near Ferndale.

[4] (The S-326 designation was later reused on an unrelated highway in southeastern Carter County, Montana.)