Forest Road 568 – Lolo Pass to Powell Ranger Station
Lewis and Clark's historic mountain crossing
Forest Road 568 follows the ancient Nez Perce trail through the Bitterroot Mountains, winding 35 miles from Lolo Pass to Powell Ranger Station. The route traces Lolo Creek through dense cedar and fir forests, crossing the waterway multiple times while passing remnants of early 20th-century logging operations. The trail’s most challenging section comes at mile 18 where Eldorado Creek requires a careful ford during spring runoff.
This moderate route demands high-clearance 4WD for the creek crossings and loose rock sections, though stock vehicles handle it fine outside of spring melt. Best tackled June through October when water levels drop and snow clears the higher elevations around 5,200 feet. No permits required, but bring recovery gear and extra fuel – gas is 60 miles away in either direction. The payoff is pristine dispersed camping along Lolo Creek and stepping into Lewis and Clark’s footsteps on one of Idaho’s most historically significant backcountry routes.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Overland Route |
| Surface | Dirt |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Remote, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 35 mi / 56.3 km |
| Duration | Full day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 5235 ft |
| Best season | June-October |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 4WD |
| Nearest town | Kooskia, ID |
| Land manager | Clearwater National Forest |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Jeep Wrangler handle Forest Road 568?
Yes, a stock Wrangler with high clearance will do fine on this moderate dirt road. The main challenges are creek crossings and occasional rocky sections, not extreme technical terrain.
Is Forest Road 568 open in early spring or late fall?
Best season is June through October due to snow at higher elevations. Spring snowmelt can make creek crossings deeper and more challenging.
Do I need permits to drive Forest Road 568?
No permits required for driving the trail. It's a public forest road managed by Clearwater National Forest with free dispersed camping allowed.
What's the hardest part of this trail?
The creek crossings are the most challenging sections, especially after heavy rain or snowmelt when water levels rise. Scout each crossing before committing your vehicle.
How many miles can I go without cell service on Forest Road 568?
Expect zero cell service for the entire 35-mile route. Download offline maps and inform someone of your travel plans before heading out.