Follow Lewis and Clark’s Trail Over Lemhi Pass
On August 12, 1805, Meriwether Lewis led three members of the Lewis and Clark Expedition over the Continental Divide. He had discovered a “large and plain Indian road” that took his group over the Lemhi Pass, from which he first saw the Columbia River.
Today, you can hop on your motorcycle and follow in Lewis’ footsteps to scale the pass yourself.
The Lemhi Pass, which for decades marked the westernmost border of the U.S., sits in the Salmon-Challis National Forest on the Montana-Idaho border. Rising to 7,323 feet, it crosses the Beaverhead Mountains portion of the Bitterroot Range.
The landscape from the top looks much like it did more than 200 years ago when Lewis scanned the horizon from the pass. Foothills of the Rocky Mountains roll toward high mountains in the west, covered in flowing grass, sagebrush, and small patches of trees. This remote mountain is a true time machine to a fascinating period in our country’s history.
There is a vault toilet at the pass, though, which we’re sure Lewis’ group would’ve appreciated.
Although your motorcycle will make the climb up the pass less arduous than Lewis and Clarke’s hike, you still shouldn’t underestimate the undertaking. If you’re on a street bike, getting to the pass is out of the question.
The roads leading to Lemhi Pass are all gravel tracks with occasional narrow and rutted or rocky sections. On the Idaho side, the road is titled the Lewis and Clark Hwy (CR 013), while on the Montana side it’s the Lemhi Pass Rd.
Due to the challenges of the road, you will need a capable dual sport or—ideally—ADV bike. Local authorities also recommend those on the road to have a spare tire and the skills to use it. I would heed their advice.
Despite (or perhaps because of) its remoteness, the Lemhi Pass is popular among off-road riders and drivers. Keep an eye out for oncoming traffic and be prepared to let larger vehicles pass.
Additionally, apart from the aforementioned vault toilet, there is nothing along the road up and down the pass. Ensure you have plentiful water, food, and gas before you attempt to scale the mountains. With no cell phone reception, I’d also recommend having an emergency communicator, such as Garmin InReach, with you.
Scaling the Lemhi Pass on an off-road bike isn’t easy, but it shouldn’t be. If Lewis and Clark could make it up there, so can you—and the preserved view into America’s past will be well worth the effort.
Points of Interest
Camp Fortunate Overlook
The Camp Fortunate Overlook gives you a view over what was, in 1805, the Lewis and Clark Expedition’s campsite before they began the hike up the Lemhi Pass. It was a fortunate place to camp indeed, as the group’s Native American interpreter Sacagawea reunited with her brother, who had become the chief of the Lemhi Shoshone. With her help, Lewis and Clark traded for horses and additional guides to take them over the Rocky Mountains.
The original campsite is now likely under the Clark Canyon Reservoir, which covered the area after the construction of the Clark Canyon Dam in the 1960s. At the lookout, there are interpretive signs, toilets, and a covered picnic table.
Sacajawea Interpretive, Cultural & Educational Center
Located in Salmon, north of the western Idaho end of the Lemhi Pass trail, the Sacajawea Interpretive, Cultural & Educational Center. It lifts the curtain on the enigmatic personality of Sacagawea (using an alternative spelling of her name).
The museum’s exhibits shed light on who Sacagawea was, explaining the history, culture, and customs of her people. They detail how she came to join the Lewis and Clark Expedition and how the undertaking was viewed from a Native American perspective.
In addition, the center has walking trails that offer a great chance to get blood flowing back into your legs. Entrance fee is $5 at the time of writing.
Salmon-Challis National Forest
At more than four million acres, the Salmon-Challis National Forest is one of the largest national forests in America (not counting Alaska, that’d be unfair). The forest covers two wilderness areas: the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness and the Jim McClure-Jerry Peak Wilderness.
With such a vast area, you can engage in any outdoor activities you wish, from hiking and mountain climbing to hunting, fishing, horse riding, water and winter sports, and more. There are also many vehicle-approved trails in addition to the Lemhi Pass to keep ADV riders occupied.
Facts & Info
Recommended Lodging
Horse Prairie Campground
The Horse Prairie Campground is located just by the Camp Fortunate Overlook on the shores of the Clark Canyon Reservoir. It’s an excellent launching point to the Salmon-Challis National Forest’s trails for adventure riders who like sleeping outdoors. The site has tent and trailer sites, restrooms, and drinking water available. You can find grocery stores and other supplies in nearby Dillon up I-15.
Angler Village Inn
For motorcyclists who prefer indoor accommodations, the Angler Village Inn in Dillon is a great option not far from the campground. This local- and veteran-owned boutique lodge offers 13 comfortable studio rooms with kitchens/kitchenettes. There are varying room sizes available to suit your needs. Breakfast and lunch are served at the on-site cafe, and Dillon’s restaurants are within a brisk walk.
Sacajawea Inn
The Sacajawea Inn in Salmon offers both multi-bedroom rental suites and single rooms, providing an option whether you’re planning to climb the Lemhi Pass in a group or alone. The rooms are modern and renovated, making for a comfortable stay with easy access to both Salmon’s conveniences and the off-road trails. You can even book a glamping tent if you’d like to feel more connected to the outdoors without giving up modern comforts.
Food & Dining
There are many restaurants for you to choose from in Dillon and Salmon, but I’d like to highlight a couple that are off the beaten path.
The first is the Horse Prairie Stage Stop Restaurant, located west of the Camp Fortunate Overlook and Horse Prairie Campground along SR 324. This place serves delicious Montana-style steaks, and they even have rooms in case you want to sample the bar’s offerings. Find it at 11800 SR 324, Grant, MT.
On the Idaho side of the pass, you’ll find the 28 Club along SR 28 on the Lemhi River. This local spot prepares mouthwatering home cooked meals, served by the nicest staff you’ll find. Find it at 533 SR 28, Salmon, ID.
Best Time to Travel
Summer is your one chance to ride over the Lemhi Pass. However, although the temperatures are cool and make for comfortable riding, you should be prepared for unpredictable weather.
It can rain or snow at any moment all year round. Summer months up on the pass are also prone to sudden and, at times, violent thunder- and windstorms. Make sure to pack warm gear and respect Mother Nature’s outbursts.