Where:
Missoula is located along Interstate 90 just east of the Idaho-Montana border.
What Lewis & Clark Experienced:
The Lewis and Clark Expedition made camp along Lolo Creek on September 9, 1805. Lewis named the site "Travelers Rest." They spent two days making preparations to cross the Bitterroot Mountains via what is now called the Lolo Trail. Their route took them through Lolo Pass, proceeding west-southwest over terrain just north of US Highway 12. Along the way they passed Lolo Hot Springs, which both Clark and Gass noted in their respective journals.
On their 1806 return journey, the Lewis and Clark Expedition returned to the springs, taking the time to stop for a soak on June 29. The Corps took advantage of Travelers' Rest camp again, stopping for 4 days. It was here the party split for their return journey through modern-day Montana, with the Clark party following a southern route and the Lewis party exploring the lands northwest of Great Falls before returning to the Missouri River.
Since Lewis & Clark:
The Missoula Mills settlement was established in 1860 to take advantage of the Clark Fork River's hydropower. Two major changes came in 1883: the official town name became Missoula and the Northern Pacific Railway arrived. Fort Missoula was established as a military fort in 1877, assuming a variety of roles and functions over the years until it was decommissioned in 2001. Missoula is also the home of the University of Montana. As the second largest city in Montana, it is a hub of commerce for the region.
What You Can See & Do:
Missoula is a vibrant community and a fun place to visit, offering a wealth of outdoor recreation as well as arts and cultural events and attractions. The local Lewis and Clark sites are located just southwest of Missoula, roughly along Highway 12.
Travelers' Rest State Park
Located along Lolo Creek just south of Missoula, this land was used as a seasonal camp and meeting place by various Native American tribes long before Lewis and Clark's visit. One exciting thing about Travelers' Rest is that it is the only place along the Lewis and Clark Trail where archeological evidence not only confirmed their presence but revealed the exact location of their camp. During your visit to this state park you can learn more about the location through exhibits and programs at the Travelers' Rest Visitor Center. An interpretive trail allows you to stretch your legs as you learn more about the site's rich history. Other popular Travelers' Rest State Park activities include birding, picnicking, and fishing.
Lolo Hot Springs
It will come as no surprise that, after serving the local tribes and explorers for years, this enticing hot mineral springs were turned into a vacation resort in 1885. Today, Lolo Hot Springs is a full-service resort, complete with lodging, campsites, restaurant, bar, and casino. The mineral pools are open to resort guests and day visitors throughout the year.
Hike the Lolo National Historic Trail
If you want to simulate Lewis and Clark's Bitterroots experience in an up close and personal manner, hiking the 14-mile Lolo National Historic Trail will come close (minus the snow, hunger, and dehydration, hopefully). Located within Lolo National Forest, this foot trail passes through the eastern section of the Lolo Trail. During your hike you'll see interpretive signs addressing not only Lewis and Clark's journey, but the flight of the Nez Perce and other stories of local historic interest.
Lolo Pass Visitor Center
Lolo Pass is just on the Montana side of the Idaho-Montana border, on US Highway 12. The visitor center, on the Idaho side, has exhibits covering both the Lewis and Clark and Nez Perce Trails, a book and gift store, and restrooms. An interpretive trail can be accessed from the visitor center. The Lolo Pass Visitor Center is open daily only during the summer season, roughly from Memorial Day through Labor Day, with limited hours of operation the rest of the year.
