Lima
Getting There
Lima is located in southwest Montana along Interstate 15, just north of the Idaho border. The community is approximately 45 miles south of Dillon and serves as one of the southernmost Montana access points to the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail.
Travelers can reach Lima by car via I-15, with access from Exit 15. The nearest regional airport is Bert Mooney Airport in Butte, about 90 miles north. The area is also a convenient stop for visitors traveling between Yellowstone National Park and southern Montana communities.
Getting Around
Lima is a small, walkable downtown community, though most recreation sites and trail access points are reached by personal vehicle. The primary access to the CDT is at Monida Pass, about 15 miles south of town via paved highway.
Visitors exploring the surrounding area may also drive to Lima Reservoir, Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge, and the Big Sheep Creek Backcountry Byway. Services in town are centrally located, making Lima a convenient resupply stop for CDT hikers and road travelers.
Lima sits approximately 15 miles from Monida Pass, making it one of the easiest southern Montana access points to the CDT. The trail in this area traverses expansive sagebrush basins, rolling ridgelines, and the wild Centennial Mountains, offering long views and abundant wildlife sightings. This section of trail is especially known for its solitude. Hikers often experience broad open country with views stretching into the Beaverhead Range and Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.
Lima’s appeal comes from its rural charm and hospitality. CDT hikers often stop here to resupply, rest, and connect with local businesses that support trail users. The town maintains its ranching roots while embracing outdoor recreation as a growing part of its identity.
The community is situated in the Centennial Valley, one of the broadest intermountain valleys in the Rockies, known for sweeping grasslands, wildlife migration corridors, and spectacular night skies.
Getting To The Continental Divide Trail
Lima sits approximately 15 miles from Monida Pass, making it one of the easiest southern Montana access points to the CDT. The trail in this area traverses expansive sagebrush basins, rolling ridgelines, and the wild Centennial Mountains, offering long views and abundant wildlife sightings.
This section of trail is especially known for its solitude. Hikers often experience broad open country with views stretching into the Beaverhead Range and Greater Yellowstone ecosystem.
Things to Do Around Lima
Explore the CDT at Monida Pass
Visit Red Rock Lakes
Fish Lima Reservoir
Drive Big Sheep Creek Byway
Stay in historic downtown Lima
Suggested Hike
Hiker Resources
- wifi
- camping/ lodging
- showers
- food
- laundry
- camp supplies
- Beaverhead Inn & RV Park
- 111 Bailey St
- Lima, MT, 59739
- +14062763535