Lolo Trail Commemorative Trek

Sept 15-19, 2022

Trek across the Bitterroots in the foot steps that Lewis and Clark blazed 200 years ago. This unique Lewis and Clark Adventure will retrace the original route over the Lolo Trail on the exact dates as the Lewis & Clark expedition. This trip begins with ascending Wendover Ridge from the Lochsa River to Snowbank Camp, traveling the same route as the expedition with stops at camps like Sinque Hole, Lonesome Cove, Bear’s Oil & Roots, Dry Camp, Spirit Revival Ridge and more. Guest Speakers TBA

What to expect at Camp

We provide a quality outfitted camp with canvas tents for doubles and dome tents for singles, cots, deluxe sleeping pads with 2″ foam core, chairs and commercial outfitter kitchen. We provide hearty & healthy food prepared fresh on the trail, gourmet camp cuisine. We practice leave no trace camp ethics, our toilet is set up at each camp. It’s clean, convenient and discreet. Due to the lack of water along the route, we haul all drinking water and enough for washing up hands and face. Please feel free to ask questions regarding camp or personal hygiene.

Wendover Ridge is a pivotal point in the journey across the rugged Bitterroot Mountains. Instead of staying high on the ridgelines at Lolo Pass, they mistakenly followed a fishing trail to the Kooskooskee (Lochsa River) meaning rough water in Nez Perce. After a cold night along the banks of the Lochsa River, Lewis & Clark awoke to the realization that they needed to climb up and out of the river canyon to the ridgelines above.

The trail begins with a 2 miles of switchbacks then follows the ridgeline for 6 miles. It climbs approximately 3000 vertical feet from the Lochsa River to Snowbank Camp. This trail climbs steadily and really gives you a feel for the difficulties the expedition faced. This trip does not require any technical skills but we recommend you are in good physical condition, have previous hiking experience climbing in elevation and the desire and determination to reach the top! If others in your group want to see the Lolo Trail but not climb Wendover Ridge an alternative itinerary can be planned with historical interpretations and both groups will meet at camp to share their stories of the day.

This trip continues walking and hiking on or near the Lolo Trail (USFS Road 500)

Lewis & Clark Trail Adventures on the Lolo Trail

Wayne Fairchild, founder of Lewis & Clark Trail Adventures (LCTA) started exploring this area during the early 1980’s while working at the Lochsa Lodge and attending the University of Montana School of Forestry. Upon graduating he started LCTA and ran biking and hiking trips on the Lolo Trail. Through his extensive knowledge of the area and its history you will find rarely visited sites, learn the historical significance, and participate in thought provoking dialogue. We invite you to explore the Lolo Trail with us!

Lolo Trail Commemorative Trek Details

Trips meet from Lochsa Lodge in Powell, ID. Our stops focus on Lewis & Clark campsites and other significant sites mention in their journals. Some thickly wooded near watering holes and some are along the open ridge line with mountain views for miles. Every stop includes full historical interpretations plus discussions during hiking/walking breaks.  This is the extended itinerary allowing for comprehensive stops at all L&C historically significant sites, weather and conditions permitting. There is single-track/off-road hiking. See sample itinerary for complete list of sites.

Trip and stops are subject to change based on weather or road conditions and a group’s ability and expectations.

Sept 15-19 Lolo Trail Itinerary

Gear

The gear is designed with your comfort in mind. The following items are provided on our standard trips.

• Guided, Hiking and Camping with historical Interpretations
• Camping Equipment to include tents, cots, sleeping pad and Camp Chair
• All meals starting from first day’s lunch to last day’s lunch – complete outfitter kitchen provided
• Beverages including drinking water, Gatorade or sparkling water and/or soda. Beer & wine in moderation 2 per person.
• Emergency equipment – first aid kit and satellite phone
• Shuttle Transportation based out of Lochsa Lodge, Powell, ID (50 miles west of Missoula, MT via Hwy 12)

Hiking & Biking trips are vehicle supported. However, trips can be planned according to a custom schedule as long as we have availability.

Lochsa Lodge 208-942-3405 is the recommended lodging location for Lolo Trail trips.

Trip Planning Resources:

Gear Lists & Recommended Reading

Frequently Asked Questions

Trip Cancellation Policy & Guest Responsibility 

Need trip insurance?  For your convenience, we offer travel protection through Travelex Insurance Services.  For more information on the available plans or to enroll, got to www.travelexinsurance.com or contact Travelex Insurance Services at 800-228-9792 and reference location number 26-0048.

Travel Insurance is underwritten by, Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Company, NAIC #22276. 55Y