Lewis and Clark Pass (#440) via Alice Creek

For those looking for an epic adventure, this loop trail offers wildflower meadows, sweeping ridgeline views, and a taste of history rolled into one unforgettable day hike. This long hike consists of three different trails: Alice Creek, the Continental Divide Trail, and Lewis and Clark Pass. Starting from the Alice Creek Trailhead, the loop begins along the Alice Creek trail, cutting through valley meadows and up through burned forest to a mountain saddle, 4.5 miles and nearly 2,000 feet above the start of the trail. The trail also includes breathtaking views of ancient limestone cliffs that tower over the surrounding landscape. At the junction with the Continental Divide Trail, turn right and continue onwards. For a good picnic spot, follow the trail for about a quarter of a mile to an open alpine meadow, filled to bursting with wildflowers all through the spring and summer. The CDT follows an open ridgeline over top of the cliffs, which offer some of the best views of the hike, before descending and then climbing back up to the top of the lesser Red Mountain. From there, the trail winds downwards through burned forest to Lewis and Clark Pass, where Merriweather Lewis crossed the Rocky Mountains on his return trip back east and Native American tribes would descend into the plains of Eastern Montana. The trail finally cuts down through open meadows and pine stands, before finally ending back at the Alice Creek Trailhead. Though this route is able to be done in either direction, it is recommended to take Alice Creek first, which gets the major climb of the day out of the way fairly early in the hike. All in all, this is the perfect hike for anyone looking for a taste of adventure, and offers some of the best views in the Lincoln area.