The drive from Lewiston to Missoula on hwy 12

US 12 is an excellent highway, not much traffic after you go east from Orofino; pull over on the big pullouts to stop and rest if you like. Two places to enjoy are the DeVoto Memorial Cedar Grove and then the visitor center at Lolo Pass. This is a highway to enjoy the outdoors, especially the Lochsa River which is truly beautiful. Have a good trip!

Hwy 12 runs along the river and there are 77 miles of curves. There is one 'climb' - Lolo Pass at 5235' EL. You will have 5% grade down for 4 miles. It's not bad.

This road is popular with RVers and bikers and the two don't mix well. Be alert. It's a beautiful drive.

From Lewiston you'll have a climb for 6 miles. No problem. Uphill isn't bad... just slow. It's southbound downhill that's a doozy!

Pretty hard to avoid grades in Idaho and western Montana. Highway 12 is very scenic and worth the drive. When are you planning to travel?

There are places online to see grades.. I can post if you wish.

If you go I90 you will still have a pass (lookout pass 6 percent grade) that is about the same as Lolo Pass.

The drive on highway 12 is a very beautiful drive but is a little curvy.

If you go north from Lewiston there is also a good climb called Lewiston Hill. 3miles of 6 percent grade plus 4 miles of 7 percent grade. Much worse than than Lolo pass which has a maximum grade of 5.5 percent. I90 also has forth of July grade at 5 percent.

So from Lewiston going over I 90 you have three significant grades and highway 12 only one grade.

Check weather as snow is possible in October on all Idaho mountain passes.

Yes, there is a good sized grade west of Lolo Pass. It isn't too bad. You are no going to do the speed limit. Will be in lower gears.
Use the pull outs!
Great scenery all the way!
Just as many grades on other routes!