Lemhi Pass Towards Goldstone Pass

Difficulty

Moderate

Maps

USGS 7.5 quadrangles: Lemhi Pass; USFS: Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, Dillon. CDTC Map Set: Map 323, Section MT08.

Length

Variable (2 miles – 8 miles)

Directions

Directions from Dillon, MT: Travel 17.6 miles on I-15 S and take exit 44 for MT 324. Continue for 22 miles before turning right onto Lemhi Pass. Drive for 12.2 miles and turn left onto Warm Springs Rd for parking.

Closest Town

Tendoy, ID; Dillon, MT

For More Information

Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, Dillon Ranger District: (406)-683-3900.

In 1805, the Lewis & Clark Expedition crossed the Continental Divide at Lemhi Pass. At the present-day National Historic Landmark, the CDT intersects with the Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail. Hike north, climbing upward back and forth across the Montana-Idaho border and through pine forests with panoramic views. There is no pre-determined turn around point; for a moderate hike, turn around after 2-3 miles and head back toward Lemhi Pass. At the trailhead, enjoy a picnic lunch at the Sacajawea Memorial Area, which honors the countless contributions of the Native interpreter and mother who served in Lewis and Clark’s expedition. Directions from Tendoy, ID: Take Tendoy Ln west for 0.2 miles then turn right onto State Rd 28 S. Continue for 0.2 miles, turn left onto Agency Creek Rd/Chief Tendoy Rd and continue for 8.2 miles. Continue onto Lewis and Clark Hwy for 3.5 miles. Turn right onto Warm Springs Rd to find the trailhead. Agency Creek Rd is not suitable for trailers or vehicles over 26ft. However, Lemhi Pass is accessible from the Montana side and has trailer parking if this impacts you.

Photo by Thomas Gathman