Overall Route Rating
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4.64 out of 5 Rider Rating 4.64
45 Reviews

The Lolo Pass

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

Rider Reviews

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Waigirl
December 27, 2014
After 5 years of yearly road trips I can still…
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StarRider
2 McR Points
September 1, 2014
Very accurate description of the Hwy. 12 ride. I'…
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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 .
 

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rider1973
March 15, 2020
22 McR Points
Motorcycle Type : Adventure Touring
In my top 5 roads (so far). Good curves, incredible scenery, not too much traffic although you will have to do a little overtaking at times. Didn't see any law enforcement on it any of the times I rode it. Road is in pretty good condition, a few spots are a little rough. One restaurant tip: in the town of Lolo, there is a good restaurant/brewery - Lolo Peak Brewery. Definitely worth stopping by at.
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nate6966
July 6, 2017
0 McR Points
Motorcycle Type : Cruiser
This is on my annual list of rides! Where else can you see DOT roadside signs that say "Winding Road Next 99 Miles"!?! Not only will you enjoy carving these mountains with your motorcycle, but the views are tremendous! I've seen wildlife and I always enjoy the river and mountain views.
Every little town I pass through, whether it's Orofino, Kooskia, or Lolo, is extremely welcoming to motorcyclists and I've found excellent food at every stop!
If you're riding on a particularly hot day, be sure to stop basically anywhere to slip down to the river and dip your feet in the crystal clear mountain water!
DON'T forget your camera or GoPro!
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Guest
February 10, 2011
0 McR Points
Motorcycle Type : Sport
I'm lucky enough to live in Missoula Montana, which is just 10 miles from the head of Hwy 12. I can't think of a better sportbike road to ride on anywhere within 500 miles of here. If you're looking for a road with never-ending twisty's, straightaways, scenery, everything desirable in a motorcycle centered highway...this is the road for you. Definitely a "must ride" highway to ride on if you're near by on a motorcycle.
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