Hiawatha Trail now open!
Photo courtesy of LOOKOUT PASS SKI AND RECREATION AREA The Hiawatha Trail.
Bicycle riders and hikers, rejoice!
One of the most iconic biking/ hiking trails in the county is now open to ride and explore.
The “Hall of Fame” Hiawatha Trail is a 15 mile rail-to-trail mountain bike ride or hike that utilizes the abandoned Milwaukee Railroad grade between the old town site of Taft, Mont. and the North Fork of the St. Joe River near Avery, Idaho.
The Hiawatha includes ten tunnels and seven trestles as high as 230 feet within the Loop Creek canyon at the crest of the beautiful Bitterroot Mountains.
One of these 10 tunnels is the St. Paul Pass Tunnel, which is 1.66 miles in length.
Considered the “Crown Jewel” of all rail-to-trail projects in the country, the Hiawatha delivers a one-of–a-kind adventure for riders from around the world.
The best part is that the entire trail is downhill with a gentle 1.6 percent average grade that drops 1,000 feet over the 15-mile length.
Not to mention shuttle buses being available to transport you and your bike back to the top.
A wide variety of ability levels from young children to super seniors can enjoy the trail and its numerous historical and interpretive signs.
Wildlife sightings of moose, elk, and deer are also a frequent treat.
With all of these features and attractions, its no wonder that the Hiawatha has been described as “one of the most scenic stretches of railroad in the country.”
Trail passes, shuttle tickets, mountain bike rentals, souvenirs, and picnic lunches are available at Lookout Pass Ski Area located adjacent to I-90, Exit 0 at the Idaho/Montana state line 12 miles east of Wallace.
Call (208) 744-1301 or visit www.ridethehiawatha.com for trail information.
Equipment reservations are recommended.
The Hiawatha Trail is open daily from May 27 through Sept. 24 from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.