Route of the Hiawatha – a “Hall of Fame” trail

The Route of the Hiawatha is a popular and scenic recreational trail located in the Bitterroot Mountains of northern Idaho and western Montana, United States. It follows the path of the former Milwaukee Road railway line, which was once an important transportation route in the early 20th century.

The trail spans approximately 15 miles (24 kilometers) and is known for its breathtaking natural beauty and rich history. It starts at the East Portal of the St. Paul Pass Tunnel near the small town of East Portal, Idaho, and continues through the magnificent Taft Tunnel before reaching its endpoint at the Pearson Trailhead in Montana.

The highlight of the Route of the Hiawatha is undoubtedly the two big tunnels along the trail (9 tunnels in total). The first is the St. Paul Pass Tunnel, which stretches for nearly 1.7 miles (2.7 kilometers) and passes under the Bitterroot Mountains. This tunnel is a remarkable engineering feat, considering it was constructed by hand and completed in 1908. It provides a thrilling experience as visitors pedal or walk through its dimly lit interior, adorned with stalactites and a constant cool temperature.

The second tunnel, known as the Taft Tunnel, is shorter but equally captivating. With a length of 0.66 miles (1.06 kilometers), it offers scenic views of the surrounding mountainous landscapes. Outside the tunnels, the trail meanders through dense forests, across bridges, and along steep cliffs, offering panoramic vistas of valleys, rivers, and waterfalls.

The Route of the Hiawatha boasts an impressive collection of trestles that add to its allure and scenic appeal. These towering wooden structures, remnants of the historic Milwaukee Road railway, traverse deep canyons and picturesque valleys, creating a sense of awe and wonder. As visitors traverse the trail, they are treated to breathtaking views from atop the trestles, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding natural beauty. The trestles, varying in height and length, provide a thrilling experience as hikers and bikers make their way across these elevated platforms, often with glistening rivers and dense forests flowing beneath.

The Route of the Hiawatha is accessible to people of various ages and fitness levels, as it is primarily a downhill ride or hike. It is best known as a mountain biking destination, but walkers and families with children can also enjoy the trail.

Visitors can obtain trail passes, shuttle tickets, and mountain bike rentals equipped with lights at Lookout Pass Ski Area. Lookout Pass Ski Area, conveniently situated alongside Interstate 90 at the Idaho-Montana state line, offers a range of services for those interested in exploring the Route of the Hiawatha. The trail’s starting point is a mere 7-mile drive from Lookout Pass, which itself is located just 12 miles east of the charming and historic town of Wallace, Idaho.

The trail is well-maintained and features several rest areas with picnic tables and restroom facilities. Interpretive signs along the route provide information about the history, wildlife, and natural features of the area, adding educational value to the experience. It’s advisable to bring water and snacks, as well as appropriate clothing and gear, as weather conditions can change quickly in the mountains.

Overall, the Route of the Hiawatha offers a unique and memorable outdoor adventure for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and those seeking an exhilarating biking or hiking experience. Its combination of stunning scenery, historic tunnels, and easy accessibility make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the beautiful region of northern Idaho and western Montana.

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