Lolo Trail, Idaho

Lolo Pass, pictured here in 2015.

USFS Northern Region

Quick Facts

Location:

US-12 Lolo Pass Rest Area, Forest Rd 1602, Kooskia, ID 83539

Significance:

Shoshone and Nez Perce people guided Meriwether Lewis and William Clark over this pass in 1805 and 1806.

Designation:

Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail, Lolo Trail National Historic Landmark, Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests

Amenities

14 listed

Food/Drink - Coffee, Gifts/Souvenirs/Books, Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Information - Maps Available, Information - Ranger/Staff Member Present, Parking - Auto, Parking - Bus/RV, Picnic Table, Restroom, Restroom - Accessible, Scenic View/Photo Spot, Trailhead, Trash/Litter Receptacles, Wheelchair Accessible

The Lolo Trail was one of the only segments of the Lewis and Clark Expedition that the members traveled on land, rather than by boat.  

Shoshone people told Meriwether Lewis and William Clark about this route over the Rocky Mountains, which would bring them to the headwaters of the great river (Columbia River) that wound its way to the ocean. Pikee Queenah (Swooping Eagle), a Shoshone man, guided the members this pass.  

This trail was used most frequently by Nez Perce people. Lewis and Clark’s party traveled along it in September, a time when the snows had already begun. Nez Perce people knew that September was too late in the season to attempt a journey over the high passes. 

It was clear to the expedition members that this trail was well-traveled. Clark called parts of it “a good road” and mentioned several forks in the path that led to many places. The visitors passed areas they recognized as camping sites, seasonal housing, and fishing spots. They also passed streams for watering and hot springs for bathing. All of these places were well used by the many travelers who utilized this trail.  

Think of a road trip you have been on. Do you stop for gas? For somewhere to stay the night? For a place to pick up some food? This trail had all of that.  

But it was easiest to traverse in the summertime. Nez Perce people knew this trail was best traveled when the snow was melted and when the food—whether camas or animals—were again abundant.  

Once they crossed the trail, the travelers met Nez Perce people at Weippe Praire. On the return journey, after attempting to go too early in the spring—against the advice of Nez Perce people—Lewis and Clark turned back, waited, and then hired a local man to guide them along the route.  

Lewis and Clark and their party were fortunate that Shoshone and Nez Perce people were willing to share knowledge of their homelands and assist these travelers on their journey.  

About this article: This article is part of a series called “Pivotal Places: Stories from the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail.”

Lewis and Clark NHT Visitor Centers and Museums

Visitor Centers (shown in orange), High Potential Historic Sites (shown in black), and Pivotal Places (shown in green) along the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail