Clearwater National
Forest, Idaho
On September 13th, 1805, the Lewis and Clark expedition, following
the Lolo Trail, spilled out of the thick woods and came upon a series
of lush meadows near what is now Lolo Pass. Clark writes, they "proceeded
down this creek about 2 miles to where the mountains Closed on either
Side crossing the Creek Several times & Encamped." This
spot is now known as Glade Creek Camp. On their return trip on June
28th, 1806, the expedition again crossed these meadows, but this
time did not stop to camp. They were anxious to proceed down Lolo
Creek to Lolo Hot Springs and enjoy the hot baths they had no time
for in 1805.
Location
Lolo Pass is located on the border of Montana and Idaho along
U.S. Highway 12. It is approximately 45 miles west of Missoula,
Montana, 100 miles east of Kooskia, and 175 miles east of Lewiston,
Idaho.
Facilities
This facility hosts interpretive displays describing the Lewis
and Clark Expedition through the Bitterroot Mountains, the Nez Perce
War of 1877, and geologic features of the area. There are 24-hour
restrooms, an interpretive walking path and nearby access to the
Lolo Trail. A short drive to Packer Meadows allows visitors to picture
the expedition as they waded through this lush, deep grass two hundred
years ago. Don't miss the Camas bloom in late June!
Use Requirements or Restrictions
| State-provided rest area facility |
| Requirements and restrictions associated with
state highway provided rest areas are in effect. |
| No overnight camping. |
A parking permit is required in the winter
for recreational use of the area. |
| Interpretive Center |
Advance notice by large groups is requested
to provide better visitor services and avoid congestion. The
voice-mail number for Lolo Pass is 208-942-1234 |
| Outfitters and Guides |
A special use permit is not specifically required
to use the Lolo Pass Visitor Center unless also visiting other
National Forest sites. See Special
Use Permit Information. Please contact the Center to reduce
the opportunity for congestion and to schedule special programs. |
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