TwoTravelers

In late May or early June I will be driving from Minneapolis to Portland by myself almost all of which is interstate (I-94, 90 & 84). However, I would like to make a couple stops to see where Lewis & Clark traveled in 1804-06. An alternative route through Idaho known as The Lewis & Clark Hwy is state route 12 from Missoula (MT) to Lowell, Orofino and Lewiston, a distance of about 200 miles. I am concerned this may be lots of steep grades, turning and twisting and little traffic all of which I wish to avoid driving by myself. I may wish to spend the night in this area. CAN ANYONE COMMENT ON THE ROAD CONDITIONS OF THIS ROUTE COMPARED TO I-90 FARTHER TO THE NORTH?

tomboy

Hey, if you can tolerate the horrible thump-bumps on I-90 in Minnesota, you can handle anything.

happytrailstoyou

The Lewis & Clark Highway is well maintained and it is one of the most scenic drives in the NW. I don't recall anything about the grades. It "twists and turns," but so does I-90 through this area. I-90 is, of course, much more heavily traveled, but Route 12 is not deserted.

Route 12 would be my choice, and it would likely be the highlight of your Minneapolis-Portland trip if you chose it.

HTTY

RedRock

Take highway US-12, we have driven it several times as late as last summer.. As has been said its good road. There are several stops along the way that may be of some interest. There is a visitors center on top of the mountain when you cross over into ID.

Several years ago we drove the Lolo Motorway, Forest Road 500. If interested you will need a high clearance vehicle, 4WD is the best. You would need to ask at the visitors center for road conditions..

http://www.lewisandclarktrail.com/se...trail/find.htm

http://edbrenegar.typepad.com/photos...gns/index.html

http://www.fs.fed.us/r1/clearwater/L...l_corridor.pdf