Lewis and Clark Pass Trail

A perfect hike for families and experienced hikers alike, the Lewis and Clark Pass Trail is a 2.4 mile trail of moderate difficulty. Starting from the Alice Creek Trailhead, this extra-wide trail follows an old road that was the most popular way of crossing the Continental Divide in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Hikers begin in a recently burned conifer forest at the base of the trail, filled with Heartleaf Arnica flowers that bloom during the summer. The trail begins to climb after roughly 1/3 of a mile into grasslands and sparse pine trees, with beautiful views of the valley floor below. Ground squirrel nests greet you as you walk along, as well as deer and elk that graze in the area. A small spring crosses the trail about halfway up, before hikers reach a bend and continue climbing. Hikers once again enter a burned stand of trees, before climbing up into a grassy area on slope of the valley. In the late spring and early summer, these grasslands host abundant wildflowers in a huge array of colors. Common species to see are Howard’s Alpine Forget-Me-Not, Larkspur, Sagebrush Buttercup, Pussytoes, and Milkvetches, and be on the lookout for small light-blue flowers of Missoula Phlox, a rare treat for flower enthusiasts. When hikers reach the top of the rise, they are greeted with spectacular vistas of the Rocky Mountain Front, and a large sign proclaiming the historical significance of the site; Meriwether Lewis crossed the Continental Divide at this spot on his return journey from the Pacific Coast to the East in 1806. Beyond the sign is an open meadow that is the perfect spot to have a picnic and appreciate the scenery. The trail does continue for an additional mile or so down the other side of the valley to a private property, though most people turn around and head back down from here. If you’re looking for a longer hike, the Pass crosses the Continental Divide Trail within the meadow, and hikers can choose to hike North towards Red Mountain or South towards Green Mountain along the ridgeline in either direction.