Lolo Pass Historic Route

The Lolo Pass route traces the same treacherous path Lewis and Clark carved through the Bitterroot Mountains in 1805, where they nearly starved crossing what they called the most difficult part of their entire expedition. This 47-mile mountain crossing between Missoula, Montana and Kooskia, Idaho follows Forest Service roads that parallel portions of the original Lolo Trail, climbing through dense lodgepole pine and crossing multiple creek drainages. The route includes the notorious Wendover Ridge section, where loose rock and steep grades challenge even experienced drivers.

This is solid intermediate 4WD territory requiring high-clearance vehicles with low-range capability and recovery gear. Sharp rocks can shred tires, and weather changes fast above 6,000 feet elevation. Best tackled June through September when snow clears, though creek crossings can run high during spring melt. No permits required, but fuel up before starting — it’s remote country with excellent dispersed camping along Lolo Creek. You’ll earn genuine appreciation for what those early explorers endured crossing this unforgiving landscape.