From Lolo, Montana, to a few miles west of Lolo Pass, the trail closely follows U.S. Highway 12. It then follows the high mountain ridges north of the highway for more than 80 miles, eventually descending to the Weippe Prairie near Weippe, Idaho. The corridor of this trail and pass contain significant ethnographic, archeological, and historic resources associated with Nez Perce use during buffalo hunts as well as during the Nez Perce War of 1877. In addition, Lewis and Clark followed this pathway during their expedition. Recreational opportunities, natural quiet, and high air quality are important resources along this trail.
Wildlife is also abundant.
The Lolo Trail is a national historic landmark. National Historic Trail and the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail. Known as the Buffalo Trail in ancient times, this trail was used by the Nez Perce and the U.S. Cavalry in the 1877 war. The Clearwater National Forest manages the historic trails. From the headwaters of the Missouri they had crossed the mountains to the Salmon River.