Lolo Pass wilderness guide
Mountain Pass · ID, MT
Scenic%20Drives Guide

Lolo Pass

Lolo Pass is a scenic mountain pass in the Bitterroot Range, serving as a gateway between Idaho and Montana and offering outstanding outdoor recreational opportunities.

Mountain PassN/A3+ Trails
DesignationMountain Pass
Total Wilderness AreaN/A
Elevation / TerrainDiverse Wilderness
Field Editorial Guide

About Lolo Pass

Lolo Pass is a scenic mountain pass in the Bitterroot Range, serving as a gateway between Idaho and Montana and offering outstanding outdoor recreational opportunities.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Lolo Pass, straddling the Montana-Idaho border, is a significant mountain passage in the northern Rocky Mountains' Bitterroot Range. The pass reaches an elevation of 5,225 feet and is most famously associated with the Lewis and Clark Expedition. The surrounding landscape offers lush forests, sweeping valleys, and abundant wildlife, making it an attractive location for outdoor recreation. Visitors can explore the extensive trail systems for hiking and biking, and in the winter, the area transforms into a popular destination for snow sports enthusiasts. The pass also serves as a historical landmark, with interpretive signs and a visitor center highlighting its rich heritage as followed by the Nez Perce and Lewis and Clark. Its awe-inspiring natural beauty and accessible location offer stellar experiences for nature lovers and history buffs alike.

Field Guide · Mountain Pass
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Lolo Pass

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center✦ Lochsa River✦ Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing Paths✦ Access to Clearwater and Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Lolo Pass

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Lolo Pass.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No fee for access, donations accepted at visitor center

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Lolo Pass

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Lolo Hot Springs Campground

Located near the hot springs with access to basic amenities and scenic views.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Lolo Pass

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Stevensville, Montana
⌖ 24.98 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Stevensville, Montana

Stevensville is your gateway to the Bitterroot Mountains. With impressive hiking, biking, and fishing options, it's a haven for outdoor lovers seeking tranquility and adventure in Montana.

Summer and Fall
Explore Town
Lolo, Montana
⌖ 25.41 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Lolo, Montana

Lolo, Montana is a friendly gateway town to the forests and mountains of western Montana. Outdoor adventurers will find excellent hiking, mountain biking, paddling, and skiing opportunities amid scenic wilderness close by.

Late Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
Victor, Montana
⌖ 25.93 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Victor, Montana

Victor, Montana is a peaceful mountain town offering excellent hiking, fly fishing, and paddling along the Bitterroot River. A great basecamp for exploring nearby wilderness with fewer crowds and stunning scenery year-round.

Late spring to early fall for warm weather activities; winter for snow sports
Explore Town
Alberton, Montana
⌖ 26.00 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Alberton, Montana

Alberton is a quiet Montana town that serves as a doorway to Bitterroot National Forest and the Clark Fork River. It’s ideal for hiking, paddling, snowmobiling, and exploring vast wilderness areas year-round.

Late Spring to Early Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for snowmobiling
Explore Town
Pinesdale, Montana
⌖ 27.49 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Pinesdale, Montana

Pinesdale offers quiet access to Montana’s Bitterroot Valley outdoors with peaceful hiking, fishing, and biking options near forested mountains and the Clark Fork River. Ideal for travelers wanting an uncrowded, nature-focused experience.

Late Spring through Early Fall
Explore Town
Corvallis, Montana
⌖ 31.63 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Corvallis, Montana

Corvallis, Montana is a peaceful gateway to the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness. With top hiking, fishing, paddling, and camping opportunities, it’s perfect for outdoor lovers seeking quiet mountain adventures.

Late Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Lolo Pass

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

A Quiet Pull-Through in the Pines: Camp Site 38, Missoula
ADVEXPEDITION
Missoula, Montana
LodgingADV Bookable

A Quiet Pull-Through in the Pines: Camp Site 38, Missoula

A premium, forested campsite in Missoula with pull-through parking and accessible amenities; this guide summarizes the site features, dimensions, and nightly rates for Camp Site 38.

LodgingPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Polaris RZR XP 4 1000
ADVEXPEDITION
Missoula, Montana
ATV/UTVADV Bookable

Polaris RZR XP 4 1000

Gear up for an exhilarating off-road journey through Montana’s rugged terrain with Peak Rentals of Montana. Discover why this adventure stands out and how you can join in the action—a must-try for thrill-seekers.

ATV/UTVAges 21+ to Rent • 5 Hours- 7 Days • Delivery AvailableCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
3 Day Camping Rentals
ADVEXPEDITION
Missoula, Montana
RentalsADV Bookable

3 Day Camping Rentals

Discover the thrill of exploring Montana's rugged terrain with a 3-day UTV camping adventure in Missoula. Experience scenic trails, cozy campsites, and unforgettable outdoor moments all in one trip.

RentalsCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Camp Site 37
ADVEXPEDITION
Missoula, Montana
LodgingADV Bookable

Camp Site 37

Discover the perfect blend of accessibility and wilderness at Montana Creek Campground. This spacious site in Montana offers a comfortable base for exploring forest trails, observing wildlife, and enjoying peaceful outdoor moments.

Lodging$40/Night | Pull Through Parking | Premium CampsiteCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Camp Site 53
ADVEXPEDITION
Missoula, Montana
LodgingADV Bookable

Camp Site 53

Discover tranquility at Montana Creek Campground’s Site 53, a secluded retreat nestled in lush forests. Perfect for relaxing evenings and nature adventures, it’s an ideal base for exploring Montana’s wilderness.

Lodging$45/NightCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Camp Site 39
ADVEXPEDITION
Missoula, Montana
LodgingADV Bookable

Camp Site 39

Discover the peaceful retreat of Montana Creek Campground, where lush forests and tranquil creekside settings create the perfect backdrop for camping in Montana. Learn why this site is a top pick for outdoor lovers seeking relaxation and natural beauty.

Lodging$50/Night | Pull Through Parking | Premium CampsiteCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Camp Site 2
ADVEXPEDITION
Missoula, Montana
LodgingADV Bookable

Camp Site 2

Discover the welcoming Montana Creek Campground, where spacious sites and scenic views create the perfect outdoor retreat. Ideal for tents and RVs, it offers a simple yet fulfilling camping experience.

Lodging$35/NightCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
2 Day Camping Rentals
ADVEXPEDITION
Missoula, Montana
RentalsADV Bookable

2 Day Camping Rentals

Discover the thrill of off-road adventure with a 2-day camping rental in Missoula, Montana. Explore scenic trails, enjoy comfortable camping setups, and immerse yourself in the stunning Montana outdoors in this exciting UTV experience.

RentalsCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip