Motorcycle Routes: US Highway 12 from Lolo, MT to Powell, ID |
US Highway 12 between Lolo, MT and Powell, ID is one of the most spectacular motorcycle routes in the Northwest. This road contains everything from nice straightaways to some of the best twisties in the area. Leaving Lolo, travel west on Highway 12 towards Lolo Pass and the Idaho border. The first few miles provide some decent straightaways that allow you to get a little speed, while gently working into the twisties. There are several sets of nice marked corners ranging from 35-45 MPH before you begin the ascent up Lolo Pass.
At the top of the pass you will find a nice visitor center with restrooms, picnic benches, and lots of trails to hike. This is a nice place to pull off and stretch if you feel the need. Just past this rest area, you will see the famed "Windy Road Next 77 Miles" sign (update: I think the sign got taken out by a snowplow this past winter as I have not seen it this season). This sign marks the beginning of one of the most incredible motorcycle roads around.
Descending Lolo Pass on the Idaho side makes for a very thrilling ride. The corners are much tighter and more frequent than on the Montana side of the pass, although the roads are definitely not in as nice of shape. The posted speed limit on Highway 12 in Idaho is 50 MPH, with marked twisties anywhere from 35-45 MPH. To be honest, there are more of the marked twisties than there are straightaways, which lends itself to the quality of this ride. The fact that you are riding through splendid mountain terrain right alongside the Lochsa river (fabulous whitewater) makes this an unmatched ride.
Approximately 12 miles from the top of Lolo Pass, you will come to an intersection leading to the Lochsa Lodge and the Powell Ranger Station. The Lodge is a popular bike hangout as it is one of the few stops in either direction. They have an incredible back deck where you can sit and eat, and the food is pretty delicious. If you plan to travel farther west along US Highway 12, they are also the last gas stop for nearly 65 miles!
At this point in the ride, you can either turn back and head back towards Lolo and enjoy the same spectacular ride in reverse, or you can continue west along Highway 12 and revel in the tight twisties and spectacular scenery. Heading west will eventually take you to Lewiston, ID near the Idaho/Washington border. If you have the time, this is an incredible ride and well worth taking.
