Forest Road 568 – Lolo Pass to Powell Ranger Station

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.