Nez Perce National Historic Trail – Lolo Pass to Weippe
Lewis & Clark's near-death mountain crossing route
The Nez Perce Trail traces the exact route where Lewis & Clark nearly starved crossing the Bitterroot Mountains in 1805, descending from Lolo Pass through dense timber and steep ridgelines to the Weippe Prairie where the Nez Perce tribe saved the expedition. This 60-mile route follows primitive Forest Service roads and pack trails through the Clearwater National Forest, crossing Eldorado Creek and navigating the notorious Wendover Ridge section where snow can linger into July.
Moderate to difficult depending on conditions — stock high-clearance 4WD minimum, but experienced drivers with lockers and recovery gear fare better on the steeper descents and creek crossings. Best tackled June through September when snowpack clears; carry extra fuel, water, and emergency supplies as cell service is nonexistent for most of the route. You’ll earn solitude in country that looks identical to what the Corps of Discovery saw, plus dispersed camping opportunities along Eldorado Creek and spectacular views from Wendover Ridge.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Overland Route |
| Surface | Dirt |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Remote, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 60 mi / 96.6 km |
| Duration | 2-3 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 5233 ft |
| Best season | June-September |
| Minimum vehicle | Stock 4WD high-clearance |
| Nearest town | Kamiah, Idaho |
| 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
No recent condition reports. Be the first to post one.
Log in to post a condition report.
Frequently asked questions
Can a stock 4Runner or Wrangler run this without modifications?
Yes, a stock 4WD high-clearance vehicle handles this trail. You don't need a lift, but decent all-terrain tires and solid ground clearance are non-negotiable on the rutted dirt sections.
When does this trail actually open after winter, and is June safe?
Early June can still have snow at elevation near Lolo Pass — the trail sits above 5,200 ft at its high point. Late June through September is the reliable window; call Clearwater National Forest before an early-season run.
Do I need a permit or is there a fee to drive this route?
No permit required and no fee to drive the route through Clearwater National Forest. Dispersed camping is free; just follow standard 14-day stay limits and Leave No Trace rules.
What's the hardest section and what should I actually expect there?
The stretch descending from the Lolo Pass ridge into the Clearwater drainage throws the worst combination of loose dirt, steep grades, and embedded rocks. It's not a white-knuckle moment, but one sloppy line on a wet day will have you in the trees — take it slow and read the trail.
There's zero cell service — how far is the nearest gas and how do I plan water on the route?
Fill up in Kamiah or Kooskia before you head out; there's no gas on this 60-mile stretch. Water crossings exist along the route, but filter everything — carry at least 2 gallons per person as backup and pack a satellite communicator since you're completely off-grid for the full 2-3 days.
Trail track
No GPX track for this trail yet. If you've driven it and have a track, contribute below.
Log in to contribute a GPX track.