Major highway routes leading to the Forest include U.S. 12, which crosses the Forest traveling east and west, and U.S. 95 which travels north and south on the west side of the Forest. Nearby cities and towns include Lewiston, Orofino, Kamiah, Kooskia, and Moscow, Idaho and Missoula, Montana. Several interpretive stops, the Lochsa Historical Ranger Station, Lolo Pass Visitor Center, and camp and picnic areas along the way add to the appeal of this scenic drive. The Lochsa and Middle Fork of the Clearwater River are part of the National Wild and Scenic River System. The Lochsa is popular among kayakers and rafters during peak spring runoff from about May 15 through the first week in July.
Motorists can watch experienced whitewater enthusiasts from turnouts along the highway.
Sightings of elk, deer and moose are common along this route. In many places paths are still evident, worn into the earth, and one can walk in the steps of early travelers. North Fork Drive - The gravel road along the North Fork of the Clearwater River between Canyon and Kelly Forks Work Centers is another scenic drive which provides opportunities for camping, fishing and picnicking. No commercial services are available along this 160-mile route so visitors need to be sure they have adequate gas before setting out. This route also connects into Superior, Montana and makes a nice two-day scenic trip from Missoula, along Highway 12 to Orofino, then into the North Fork country and then back to Missoula via Superior.