Hwy 93 south from Polson MT and Salmon ID.

[Not_a_Clue]

Later in the week we are headed out of Polson Mt to Salmon ID. on hwy 93. How bad are the climbs on that hwy? I took it many years ago but don't remember any details. Thanks!

[ReneeG]

In addition, beyond Wisdom is Wise and south of there is the Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway and Crystal Park. A lot of nice FS CG's a long the way with a ghost town to explore on foot and crystals to dig for in Crystal Park. I equate this byway to Yellowstone without the crowds. There are scenic overlooks that compare with parking lots to boot, but no crowds.

[Islandman]

The climb up and the descent down Lost Trail Pass is no problem, just take your time and use lower gears. US 93 from Lolo south through the Bitterroot Valley to Darby has a lot of traffic during the commute hours, just watch for speeders and traffic at the intersections. Used to be a beautiful drive, but that was before all the people moved to the Bitterroot; now it's not a relaxing drive looking at the mountains and ranches along the way. Take a short trip towards Wisdom when you get to Lost Trail Pass and visit the Big Hole Battlefield about 12 miles to the east. Very famous area and bad mark on how terrible the military and some locals brought terror onto the NezPerce people who were camped and suffered badly. Not a piece of history that the military can be proud of. Have a good trip, you will be in one of our favorite parts of the west.

[Not_a_Clue]

Thanks all! I think I will be fine. I just came up the coast on the 101 and through Coeur D"Alene with rig in signature.

[ReneeG]

pfidahospud wrote:
Lost Trail Pass is the only significant grade. It levels out at ~7000’. I don’t recall it being particularly steep on either side though. It’s mainly all two-lane as you go further down the Bitterroot Valley. Slow down for all of the small towns. They make good speed traps.

Correct. The climb up to Lost Trail Pass from the valley can be considered steep for some, but it's gradual and winds around to control the ascent angle. Same coming down the other side. If you don't have the power to make it up or down, this will make you nervous, otherwise, it's a beautiful pass.

I always check out passes in my Mountain Directory West and on YouTube. Here's a link to a video on Lost Trail Pass, but there are others.

[pfidahospud]

Lost Trail Pass is the only significant grade. It levels out at ~7000’. I don’t recall it being particularly steep on either side though. It’s mainly all two-lane as you go further down the Bitterroot Valley. Slow down for all of the small towns. They make good speed traps.

[ramyankee]

I have only been on the portion of 93 north of I90 at St Regis and it it 2 lane but nothing out of the ordinary I can remember. Hopefully others will chime in the have traveled the entire route..