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Embark on the Salmon Bitterroot Road Trip, a scenic drive through Idaho and Montana’s rugged landscapes. Discover historic sites, mountain passes, and adventure opportunities, following paths once traveled by pioneers and native tribes.
The Salmon-Bitterroot Country road trip through Idaho and Montana invites travelers to explore a region where breathtaking landscapes and rich history intersect. Beginning in the small mountain town of Stanley, Idaho, and winding up through Missoula, Montana, this journey traces portions of the Lewis and Clark Trail, taking you past swift rivers, alpine lakes, and jagged peaks, all while revealing stories from centuries past. Long before mountain men, ranchers, and prospectors arrived in the 1800s, this rugged territory was the ancestral home of the Shoshone, Flathead, and Salish tribes, whose deep-rooted connections to the land remain an integral part of the area’s cultural tapestry.
The road trip includes ten memorable stops, each offering a unique glimpse into the wild heart of the Rocky Mountains. In Stanley, outdoor enthusiasts can launch into the Sawtooth Wilderness, while Sunbeam offers a look back at Idaho’s mining history along the Salmon River. Continuing through Challis, Salmon, and Lost Trail Pass, visitors can immerse themselves in the region’s blend of Old West lore and natural beauty, exploring ghost towns, historic sites, and riverside hot springs. From the scenic Bitterroot Range, where expansive wilderness beckons adventurers, to the charming small towns along the East Side Highway, each stop enhances the trip’s allure.
The journey culminates in Missoula, Montana—a dynamic city known for its vibrant arts scene, riverfront trails, and deep-rooted heritage. With its bustling downtown, craft breweries, and abundant outdoor activities, Missoula serves as both a destination and gateway to further explore Western Montana’s scenic wonders.
As you navigate this historic route, let the rugged landscapes, cultural heritage, and unmatched adventure opportunities inspire you to forge your own memories in this remote and awe-inspiring region of the American West.
A stunning overlook along the Sawtooth Scenic Byway reveals sweeping views of jagged peaks and endless wilderness, capturing Idaho’s untamed beauty.
Stanley
Stanley, Idaho, a small but lively town nestled in the heart of the Sawtooth Mountains, is the perfect place to start this epic journey. The town sits near the Salmon River, known as the “River of No Return,” which has long been a lifeline for the people of this region. Stanley’s history includes centuries of indigenous use and a frontier chapter marked by fur trappers and prospectors. Today, it’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts drawn by world-class hiking, fishing, and rafting opportunities.
The nearby Sawtooth Wilderness Area offers numerous trails leading to high alpine lakes and panoramic mountain views, ideal for both day hikes and multi-day excursions. The Redfish Lake area, just outside of Stanley, is a favorite destination for hiking, boating, and camping, with trails that wind up into the mountains or along the shore. The Salmon River itself is a top destination for rafting, offering everything from calm stretches suitable for families to thrilling rapids for seasoned adventurers.
A fishing boat drifts on the serene waters of Little Redfish Lake, Idaho, as the sunset paints the Sawtooth Mountains in golden hues.
In Stanley, visitors will find a handful of charming eateries. The Stanley Baking Co. & Café is a local favorite for breakfast, offering hearty, homemade fare that’s perfect fuel for a day of outdoor activities. Later in the day, Mountain Village Restaurant provides a cozy, rustic setting for enjoying local flavors and hearty meals after a long day on the river or trails.
Accommodations in Stanley include a range of options, from the rustic charm of Mountain Village Resort to the more secluded Redfish Lake Lodge, where visitors can relax with stunning lake and mountain views. With its welcoming community and unparalleled access to the great outdoors, Stanley is an inspiring start to any journey through the Salmon-Bitterroot Country.
Stanley Lake mirrors the rugged peaks of Idaho’s Sawtooth Mountains, creating a breathtaking reflection against a backdrop of pristine wilderness.
See our complete travel and adventure guide to Stanley, Idaho
Sunbeam
Continuing along the Salmon River Scenic Byway, the next stop is Sunbeam, a small, historic location with remnants of Idaho’s mining past. Sunbeam is home to Idaho’s only hydroelectric dam, which once powered the operations of gold mines in the early 20th century. Though the dam is now partially dismantled, it stands as a relic of the gold rush era that lured so many to these remote mountains.
Beyond the dam lies the Sunbeam Hot Springs, a natural, riverside hot spring where visitors can enjoy a soak in warm, mineral-rich waters with a view of the rushing river. This scenic setting is perfect for unwinding and connecting with the surrounding landscape. For the adventurous, the nearby Salmon River offers excellent fishing and some of Idaho’s best rafting. The river’s famed Middle Fork is accessible from Sunbeam and presents challenging rapids, making it an exciting option for whitewater enthusiasts.
While Sunbeam itself is small, nearby Stanley provides additional dining and accommodation options, just a short drive away. For a historical perspective on the region’s mining heritage, visitors can explore the remnants of old mining equipment near the dam. Sunbeam’s natural beauty and historic charm make it a worthy stop on this journey through Idaho’s rugged heart.
Challis
Challis, Idaho, serves as a gateway to the Salmon River Valley’s mining history and offers a blend of old-west heritage and outdoor adventure. Established as a mining town in the late 1800s, Challis attracted prospectors and fortune seekers to the nearby Bayhorse mining district. The remnants of this past, including abandoned mines and ghost towns, can still be explored, giving visitors a glimpse into Idaho’s storied past.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find much to do in Challis. The Land of the Yankee Fork State Park offers hiking and historical tours through old mining areas, and the Bayhorse Ghost Town is one of the best-preserved historic mining sites in the region. Nearby, the Salmon River flows, inviting visitors to fish, raft, or simply relax by its banks.
For dining, Challis offers a handful of casual spots. The Village Inn is a local institution, serving hearty meals with a homestyle flair, while the Tea Cup Café offers lighter fare, including fresh salads and sandwiches. After a day of exploring, the Challis Hot Springs is an excellent place to relax, with naturally heated pools set along the banks of the river.
Challis provides a range of accommodations, from rustic lodges to charming bed-and-breakfasts. The Challis Hot Springs Resort offers the unique opportunity to stay by the hot springs, with cabin rentals and campsites available. For those seeking history and outdoor adventure, Challis is an ideal stop.
The Salmon River winds past towering rocky cliffs in Challis, Idaho, showcasing the rugged beauty of the region’s dramatic landscapes.
Cronks Canyon
The drive from Challis to Cronks Canyon takes travelers through some of Idaho’s most scenic wilderness, where the landscape transitions from rugged mountains to wide, rolling plains. Cronks Canyon, a lesser-known gem, offers a peaceful retreat for those seeking solitude and unspoiled nature. The canyon’s rocky cliffs and sagebrush-covered hillsides create a striking contrast against the expansive Idaho sky.
Though relatively remote, Cronks Canyon offers some of the region’s best hiking and wildlife-watching opportunities. Trails wind through the canyon, offering access to secluded spots perfect for picnics or birdwatching. The area is home to various species of wildlife, including mule deer, elk, and a range of bird species.
While dining options are limited within the canyon, picnicking is a popular choice, allowing visitors to enjoy the natural beauty at their own pace. For overnight stays, camping is the best option, with several established sites that provide basic amenities. Cronks Canyon is a hidden treasure for those looking to escape the crowds and experience Idaho’s wild side.
Salmon
Salmon, Idaho, is both a historic town and an outdoor adventure hub. Situated along the Salmon River, the town has roots in fur trapping and trade, and it later became a significant site along the Lewis and Clark Trail. Salmon is deeply connected to the Shoshone people, including Sacagawea, the famed Shoshone woman who assisted Lewis and Clark. A visit to the Sacajawea Interpretive, Cultural, and Education Center offers insights into her legacy and the role of the Shoshone in the region.
In Salmon, the river is the main attraction, with fishing and rafting opportunities that draw enthusiasts from around the world. For a unique perspective, guided float trips are available, offering a blend of relaxation and adventure as visitors take in the scenic surroundings. Additionally, the nearby Bitterroot Range offers excellent hiking, with trails that climb into the mountains and provide panoramic views of the valley below.
The Shady Nook is a popular local restaurant known for its classic American fare, while Bertram’s Brewery offers a relaxed atmosphere and locally brewed beers. Accommodations in Salmon range from riverside cabins to family-friendly lodges, with the Riverfront Motel providing a comfortable and scenic option. Salmon’s combination of history and outdoor appeal makes it a memorable stop on this route.
Lost Trail Pass
Lost Trail Pass, a high mountain pass on the Idaho-Montana border, offers spectacular views and a sense of awe as travelers ascend through the Bitterroot Range. This pass played a significant role in the journey of Lewis and Clark, who crossed here in 1805. The pass is also close to several Nez Perce and Shoshone historic sites, adding layers of history to this scenic area.
Lost Trail Powder Mountain, a local ski resort, offers winter sports activities, while the pass itself is a popular spot for hiking and snowshoeing during the warmer months. For those interested in a scenic drive, the nearby Big Hole National Battlefield commemorates the 1877 battle between the U.S. Army and the Nez Perce tribe.
Dining and lodging options are limited at the pass, but nearby towns like Salmon and Darby offer additional choices. Travelers will find a few rustic lodges and guest ranches, including the Bitterroot Ranch, which provides comfortable accommodations and opportunities for horseback riding and fly fishing.
Bitterroot Range
The Bitterroot Range is a rugged stretch of mountains forming the natural boundary between Idaho and Montana, with landscapes ranging from alpine forests to high, rocky peaks. This range was significant for the indigenous tribes and the Lewis and Clark Expedition, which braved its challenging terrain. The Bitterroot Range is a paradise for hikers, climbers, and wildlife enthusiasts.
The Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness offers endless trails and camping spots, from easy day hikes to strenuous multi-day backpacking routes. The Kootenai Creek Trail is a popular choice, providing beautiful views, waterfalls, and glimpses of wildlife. For those looking to fish, the Bitterroot River flows nearby, offering opportunities for fly fishing in one of the region’s most picturesque settings.
Local dining options include small-town cafes and diners, where hearty meals are the norm. For lodging, the Bitterroot Valley is dotted with cozy cabins and guest ranches, such as the Triple Creek Ranch, a luxurious retreat with log cabins and access to outdoor activities.
East Side Highway
Traveling north along Montana’s East Side Highway through the Bitterroot Valley, you’ll experience the picturesque small towns that line this scenic route. Towns like Stevensville, Victor, and Hamilton offer a charming glimpse into Montana’s rural life, with each town offering unique attractions and a distinct character. Stevensville is particularly historic, home to Montana’s first permanent settlement and St. Mary’s Mission, founded by Jesuit priests.
Outdoor activities are abundant, with trails leading into the Bitterroot Mountains and the Sapphire Range. Fly fishing on the Bitterroot River is a local favorite, and several outfitters in the area offer guided trips. Local restaurants include Hamilton’s Spice of Life, known for its farm-to-table fare, and the Mission Bistro in Stevensville, offering fine dining with a Montana twist.
Lodging options range from bed-and-breakfasts to rustic lodges. In Hamilton, the Bitterroot River Inn provides a comfortable stay with modern amenities, making it an ideal base for exploring the valley’s natural beauty and small-town charm.
Travelers’ Rest Historic Site
Concluding the journey at Travelers’ Rest Historic Site in Lolo, Montana, visitors can walk in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark, who camped here in 1805 and 1806. This National Historic Landmark preserves the only archaeologically verified campsite of the expedition and provides a fascinating insight into their journey through the Bitterroot Valley. The site also holds cultural significance for the Salish and other tribes, as it was a traditional resting place along trade routes.
Travelers’ Rest offers interpretive trails, a visitor center, and educational programs that bring to life the stories of Lewis and Clark, as well as the native peoples they encountered. The nearby Lolo Hot Springs provides a relaxing retreat, allowing travelers to unwind in naturally heated pools after a long journey.
For dining, the town of Lolo offers a few casual restaurants, such as The Jack Saloon, known for its rustic setting and hearty food. Lodging options in the area include Lolo Hot Springs Resort and nearby hotels in Missoula, offering both comfort and proximity to the historic site. Travelers’ Rest serves as a fitting end to this journey, connecting past and present in a place steeped in history.
Missoula
Missoula, Montana, is a vibrant town where the charm of the Rocky Mountains meets a thriving arts and culinary scene. Known as the cultural hub of Western Montana, Missoula is nestled along the banks of the Clark Fork River, with the Bitterroot Mountains forming a scenic backdrop. Founded in the mid-1800s as a trading post, Missoula became a critical waypoint for traders, ranchers, and settlers moving westward. The town’s history includes stories of the indigenous Salish people, who have called this region home for generations, as well as Lewis and Clark, who passed through during their famous expedition.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find Missoula brimming with adventure opportunities. The Clark Fork River, which flows right through downtown, offers superb kayaking and fishing, while nearby Mount Sentinel provides hiking trails with breathtaking views over the valley. For a scenic experience within city limits, the Riverfront Trail System is perfect for a leisurely bike ride or walk. A bit farther afield, Rattlesnake National Recreation Area offers miles of trails for hiking, biking, and wildlife spotting.
Missoula’s food scene is as diverse as its landscape. For local flavors, the Notorious P.I.G. BBQ is known for its smoked meats and comforting sides, while The Catalyst Café is a downtown favorite offering fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The town’s brewery scene is also thriving, with Big Sky Brewing and Draught Works serving a variety of craft beers inspired by Montana’s wild spirit.
Visitors can choose from various accommodations, from the elegant rooms at the historic Florence Hotel to more modern options like the Residence Inn Downtown. For a unique stay, the Blue Mountain Bed and Breakfast offers stunning views and a secluded feel, just a short drive from downtown. With its mix of culture, history, and outdoor activities, Missoula is a memorable addition to any Salmon-Bitterroot Country road trip.
View of Missoula from Mount Sentinel, in Missoula, Montana.
See our complete Missoula travel and adventure guide.
Conclusion
Concluding the Salmon-Bitterroot Country road trip in Missoula brings this journey full circle, from Stanley’s alpine wilderness to the vibrant cultural hub of Western Montana. Along the way, travelers have encountered the rugged heart of the Rocky Mountains, a region where history, wilderness, and adventure intersect. Each stop, from the tranquil waters of Stanley Lake to the sweeping valleys of the Bitterroot Range, offers a unique chapter in the story of this land, revealing layers of natural beauty and human history that continue to shape its character.
Missoula adds a lively urban contrast to the remote stretches of Idaho and Montana. As a historic crossroads, Missoula embodies the spirit of exploration, with the Clark Fork River running through the city and the Bitterroot Mountains on the horizon. Here, travelers can reflect on their journey with a final day of outdoor activities, local dining, and relaxation, savoring the blend of adventure and culture that Missoula offers.
This road trip is a journey through some of the most captivating landscapes in the American West. From high mountain passes and roaring rivers to quiet towns steeped in history, the Salmon-Bitterroot route offers a memorable experience that captures the essence of these mountains and valleys. Embrace each stop as a chance to connect with the land and its stories, creating memories that will linger long after you leave the rugged beauty of Salmon-Bitterroot Country.
What to Read Next:
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