Take the Clark Fork River Route
Communities: Frenchtown, Huson, Alberton, Superior, St. Regis, De Borgia, Haugan, Saltese
This scenic corridor along the Clark Fork River sits between the Lolo and Coeur d’Alene national forests in the Bitterroot Range and offers plenty of opportunities to pull over and enjoy an authentic Montana experience. From skiing fresh powder to riding wild whitewater to biking the crown jewel of America’s Rails to Trails, recreation is not hard to find here.
Lookout Pass ski area straddles the Montana/Idaho border, and its best-kept secret is some of the deepest annual snowfall in Montana—up to 400 inches. Plus, the on-slope views of the St. Regis Basin are incredible.
In the warmer months, Lookout Pass operates Montana’s Route of the Hiawatha in Saltese. Bicyclists ride 15 miles through 10 tunnels and over seven sky-high trestles. This family-favorite in the Bitterroot Mountains was named a “Top 10 Pick” by USA Today.
An I-90 Corridor trip isn’t complete without a visit to the unique 50,000 Silver Dollar Bar in Haugan, where you’ll find an inn, two bars and casinos, and a delicious trout dinner. In addition, you’ll learn how this Montana icon got its name. Also don’t miss the chance to fuel up at the St. Regis Travel Center. In addition to gas and food, you’ll find a live trout aquarium, huckleberry milkshakes and one of Montana’s best gift shops.
Vista Trail Scenic Overlook in Superior is a big draw for hikers, wild whitewater enthusiasts can be found navigating the Alberton Gorge by raft or kayak, and bibliophiles flock to the Montana Valley Book Store in Alberton to pore over a collection of 10,000+ used books.
Highlights: Alberton Gorge; Fish Creek State Park; Montana Valley Bookstore; St. Regis Travel Center, 50,000 Silver Dollar Bar, Lookout Pass; Route of the Hiawatha; skiing; fishing; biking; golf; souvenirs; breweries; snowmobiling.
Length: 84 miles
Travel time: 1 1/2 hours
