Overall Route Rating
speedo-meter speedo-arrow
speedo-meter-grey
4.64 out of 5 Rider Rating 4.64
45 Reviews

Motorcycle Route Author

profile Image
By Guest (0 McR Points) on Aug 31, 2004

Rider Reviews

No Image Found
Waigirl
December 27, 2014
After 5 years of yearly road trips I can still…
Thumbsup
StarRider
2 McR Points
September 1, 2014
Very accurate description of the Hwy. 12 ride. I'…
Thumbsup

Written Directions

The directions for this route are very straightforward. Simply start in Lewiston, Idaho on US Highway 12 and take it east all the way to Missoula, Montana (or in the reverse if you want to start in Montana). You'll basically be cutting across the entire width of Idaho.

Scenery

This route covers one of the most beautiful sections of the Lewis & Clark Trail as it winds through the Rocky Mountains of Idaho and Montana. As you ride through the Lolo national forest, look for whitewater rafts on the Locsha and Selway rivers. You'll also see numerous steaming hot springs flowing down the hills along the way. Watch out for deer and mountain goats crossing the highway at random intervals.

Drive Enjoyment

You have all seen the photos of the sign that says "Curves next 67 miles...This is the road! One of the best motorcycle roads in the country with lots of sweeping curves and a few tight ones. There is little traffic and excellent road surfaces. A rock solid 5 ... 5 plus is more like it!

Tourism Opportunities

Sorry... The same sign that says Curves ahead says no services next 75 miles. Make sure you fill up in Kooskia or in Lolo before entering this highway because there's nothing but trees, rivers and twisty roads for lots of miles! At the eastern end of the road, try KT's Hayloft in Lolo, MT (Intersection of Hwy 12 and Hwy 93) for breakfast!

Motorcycle Road Additional info

- View the weather forecast for this area from Yahoo weather .
 

Top Images

Share Your Comments ( 45 )
  Earn McR Points
No Image Found
Waigirl
December 27, 2014
0 McR Points
Motorcycle Type : Touring
After 5 years of yearly road trips I can still say this is my ultimate favorite road, especially if you can do it without having to deal with an 18 wheeler. It trumps Beartooth Pass and The Million Dollar Hwy because of its 45-50 mph / multiple curves. Once you get in your groove, you will be in heaven. Watch for wild life and enjoy the Clearwater River!
Was this road review helpful?
Thumbsup
13 riders found this road review useful
StarRider
September 1, 2014
2 McR Points
Motorcycle Type : Cruiser
Very accurate description of the Hwy. 12 ride. I've ridden it twice now. The "No Seervices for 75 miles" reference is TRUE, except that there is AT LEAST ONE gas stop (that I'm aware of) on that route. Lochsa Lodge, 43 miles west of Lolo at Powell, has GAS, a FANTASTIC restaurant, a small convenience store and lodging, albeit a bit expensive. That's all I wanted to add. GREAT RIDE though!!
Was this road review helpful?
Thumbsup
8 riders found this road review useful
No Image Found
Guest
June 20, 2010
0 McR Points
Motorcycle Type : Sport - Touring
The road teases you, starting with gentle sweeping turn, building you confidence and urging you faster. The scenery, the curves, and good road surface continue relentlessly. As your endurance wanes some turns have closing a radius. I had the time of my life riding Lolo pass. A stop at Lodge near the top of the pass is great to a quick bite and fuel before heading back down. Everybody rider should have the joy of riding Lolo pass at least once in their life. Go early in the day before the revenuers (law enforcement) give you a performance award.
Was this road review helpful?
Thumbsup
7 riders found this road review useful