Lolo Pass

A ride through a section of the Lolo Pass on the border of Montana and Idaho was beautiful. This was the route over the Bitterroot Mountains used by the Nez Percent Indians long before Lewis and Clark arrived. In Sept. 1805 Lewis and Clark struggled over the pass. It was thought to be a five day journey, but turned into an arduous eleven days over snow covered hill and ridges. This expedition was led by a Shoshone guide known as "Old Toby".  

They started Sep 12 and by the 16 and 17 they were hit by severe storms. There was a scarcity of game on the ridges, forcing the to eat some of the ponies and emergency rations. As they reached the southern end of the trail, Clark took a small party of hunters ahead of the rest to search for game and make contact with the Nez Perce on Sept 20.

The Nez Perce saved  the expeditin from starvation and formed a bond of friendship. Clark and Lewis crossed their territory in 1805 and again in 1806.

Visitors Center

Real nature lovers.

This is how clear the Lochsa River is. These are all under water.

Huge Cedar trees all around.

We found this great restaurant tucked away in the woods.