|
 Bitterroot
National Forest
Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Foreset
Determined to find a better route over the Continental Divide,
Lewis and Clark parted company at Traveler's Rest near Lolo, Montana
on July 3, 1806. Lewis headed northeast through Hellgate Canyon
and over Lewis and Clark Pass while
Clark followed the Bitterroot River southeast to near present-day
Sula. Clark's party then followed an ancient Indian route that rose
from the valley floor to what is now Gibbons Pass and descended
into the Big Hole Valley. Chief Joseph and other non-treaty Nez
Perce would traverse this same route to reach the Big Hole Valley
during the Nez Perce War of 1877.
Today
Trace this ancient Indian route by driving The Bitterroot-Big Hole
Road. See for yourself the spectacular views of the Bitterroot Mountains
and Valley, and experience a primitive backcountry mountain road.
Location
Gibbon's Pass is located on the Bitterroot-Big Hole Rd (FS Road
106) between Trail Creek on Hwy 43 and Sula Ranger Station on Hwy
93.
Facilities
Present facilities include interpretive signs along the Bitterroot-Big
Hole Road and a toilet at the top of Gibbon's Pass. Hiking
Opportunity: The Continental Divide National Scenic Trail,
Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail, and Nee-Me-Poo National
Historic Trail can all be accessed from Gibbons Pass.
Use Requirements or Restrictions:
Road Advisory: The Bitterroot-Big
Hole Road (Forest Road 106) from the Sula Ranger Station to the
top of Gibbons Pass is a steep, winding and narrow road with few
turnouts and is not suitable for vehicles
over 25 feet.
Outfitters and Guides
Outfitter and Guides or Van and Tour Bus Companies who wish to explore
the Lost Trail or Gibbons Pass area off the main highway will need
a Forest Service Special
Use Permit. | 
