Lemhi Pass
National Historic Landmark

Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, MT
Salmon-Challis National Forest, ID

In August 1805, the Lewis and Clark expedition reached Lemhi Pass, the western edge of the Louisiana Territory and the United States. For months, they had fought their way up the Missouri river to reach its headwaters. Now, climbing to the Continental Divide, the men must have shuddered at the sight of "immence ranges of mountains still to the west of us, with their tops partially covered with snow." The Expedition knew they would have to push over those mountains before winter set in. There would be no easy portage to the Columbia River after all.

Today

Lemhi Pass National Historic Landmark is a remote, primitive site at 7,323 feet elevation, accessible only by steep, winding backcountry roads. Visitors have the opportunity to follow the route Lewis and Clark took up to the Continental Divide and see the rough peaks and rolling foothills of the Rocky Mountains much as they were 200 years ago.

Location

On the border between Montana and Idaho, 52 miles southwest of Dillon, Montana and, depending on the route you take, 32-45 miles southeast from Salmon, Idaho.

Facilities

Lemhi Pass National Historic Landmark is open for day use only.

Use Requirements or Restrictions

Road Advisory: You are strongly advised to check with a local Ranger Station for specific directions and road conditions.Be aware the single-lane gravel roads both sides of Lemhi Pass may not be passable when wet or snow-covered.
" Be aware the single lane gravel roads both sides of Lemhi Pass may not be passable when wet.

	Snow free season is usually June 15 through November 1.
	Due to the steepness and high elevation, engines sometimes overheat. Water is limited.
	The closest towing service is in Salmon, Idaho 30 miles away.
	Cellular telephone service is limited.

Bus Restrictions

Due to the grade and narrowness of the road, there are restrictions in place concerning the use of busses up and over Lemhi Pass. Contact either Forest Service office for current information on travel restrictions.

Outfitters and Guides

A Special Use Permit is required for using any of the facilities at Lemhi Pass. No permit is needed for staying in the vehicle and driving through.

For those wanting to hire a guide to visit Lemhi Pass, contact any of these offices:

Dillon Ranger District, Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest
420 Barrett St.
Dillon, MT 59725
(406) 683-3900
http://www.fs.fed.us/r1/b-d

Salmon-Challis National Forest
50 U.S. Highway 93 South
Salmon, ID 83467
(208) 756-5100
http://www.fs.fed.us/r4/sc

Leadore Ranger District
176 North Railroad St.
P.O. Box 180 Hwy 28
Leadore, ID 83464
(208) 768-2500
http://www.fs.fed.us/r4/sc/leadore/index.shtml

Salmon Field Office, Bureau of Land Management
50 U.S. Highway 93 South
Salmon, ID 83467
(208) 756-5400
http://www.id.blm.gov/offices/salmon/index.htm

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