Following
Lewis and Clark Through Idaho
Clearwater National Forest
Which Route Is For You?
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Following
Lewis and Clark Through Idaho Which Route Is For You? |
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The
Lolo Trail holds a wealth of treasures. It was the site of many historical
events and carries the memories of hundreds of years of American Indian
uses.
Besides stunning river views, Highway 12 provides access to trails into the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness and trails up to the Lolo Motorway. Unlike the Lolo Motorway, which is often blocked by snow from October through June, Highway 12 is drivable all year long. |
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There are two routes to chose when planning your Lewis and Clark adventure through Idaho.
The other route winds along the spectacular Lochsa and Clearwater Rivers as they rage through deep canyons. Each
route is beautiful and offers unique experiences for travelers. |
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If you prefer a comfortable ride with a few luxuries along the way, the scenic Lewis & Clark Highway (U. S. Highway 12) is for you. Winding along the spectacular Lochsa and Middle Fork of the Clearwater Wild and Scenic Rivers, Highway 12 is dotted with several nicely developed campgrounds, bed and breakfasts, and small, full- service communities. The rivers
offer fantastic rafting, kayaking, fishing and swimming opportunities.
Highway travelers frequently spot elk, bear, moose, deer,otters, wood
ducks, and a multitude of other woodland critters along this route. |
Travelers
can find many beautiful places to |
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Many
beautiful campsites and picnic areas along the Middle Fork of the Clearwater
and Lochsa Rivers invite travelers to stop and stay awhile. |
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The Rugged Lolo Motorway
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Are you an adventurer who would like to closely follow Lewis and Clark's tracks across the ridgetops? The Lolo Trail, the general route used by the Corps of Discovery as well as Indian tribes, offers a rugged trip for the hardy traveler. |
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The high elevation Lolo Motor-way dips and rises from saddles to ridgetops as it winds its way through this historic, primitive area. The
Motorway is a narrow, one- lane road with nothing |
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A getaway
for those seeking solitude, the Lolo Trail offers views that are little
changed from what the Corps witnessed two centuries ago. The narrow and
rocky Forest Service Road 500, known as the Lolo Motorway, now winds along
much of the original route. Although full- sized vehicles can drive it,
this is not a typical road. Not only is it rough to travel; it is also
far from services such as food, fuel and lodging. Travelers should pack plenty of food and water, as well as extra fuel. They should also be prepared for a slow and bumpy ride! |
The "western portal" - 17 miles of the western section of Road 500 - is easily accessed by a paved and wide gravel road 30 miles east of Kamiah, Idaho. Travelers can stay in developed campgrounds and hike maintained portions of the Lewis and Clark Trail. If you
would like to travel the Lolo Trail, but do not have the proper vehicle
or equipment such as camping gear or a pickup, there are several professional
outfitters and guides who can help you. Out-fitters and guides can also
arrange unique adventures such as interpretive tours and horse pack trips.
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Need
Help with Your Trip? Service
Providers Clearwater
Connections Lewis
& Clark Trail Adventures Lost
Lakes Outfitters Triple
"O" Outfitters Weitas
Creek Outfitters Western
Spirit Cycling |
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