This is not just a motorcycle ride, but a historical odyssey through the western United States. Our Trail of Lewis and Clark motorcycle tour takes you to visit the actual sites of the Lewis and Clark expedition. Learn in depth about the route and challenges of the Corps of Discovery. Become part of the tale of the opening of the west. We chose the most scenic back roads to arrive at our destinations. We invite you to stand where these great explorers actually stood. This is an education that makes one reflect on the cultures of the west – before, during and after the expedition. Oh, and did we tell you how great the riding is?
ROAD CONDITIONS:
This is a paved itinerary with one day of dirt surface road (optional).Â
TRAIL OF LEWIS AND CLARK ADVENTURE
Starting Price: $6,900
Total Miles:Â 2,500
Difficulty: Is this tour right for me?
Contact us with any questions
<Initial Registration form goes here>
THE ITINERARY
Day 1 - Arrival in Portland, Oregon
Get checked into your hotel by mid afternoon. Meet the group and staff of MotoQuest for an excellent Welcome Dinner this evening. Talk about the route and get to know your new riding companions. Stay in Portland.
Day 2 - Portland to Maupin 130 miles
Motorcycle west on some fantastic back roads on your way through to Mt. Hood and Timberline Lodge for lunch. We will ride into the arid eastern side of the Cascade Mountains, and ride along the Deschutes River basin to our lodge. Stay in Maupin, Oregon.
Day 3 - Maupin to Joseph 300 miles
The motorcycle adventure continues on the back roads of eastern Oregon. Ride through Shaniko, Antelope, Fossil, Spray and Long Creek. An exceptional motorcycle ride, filled with open country with old west appeal. Stay in Joseph, Oregon.
Day 4 - Joseph to McCall 170 miles
Take a back road to the rim of Hell's Canyon through an impossibly forested paradise. Picnic at the shores of the Snake River and climb to McCall, Idaho through Ponderosa Pine country. Stay in McCall, Idaho
Day 5 - McCall to Salmon 275 miles
Get ready to ride one scenic byway after another through mountainous and rugged Idaho. Follow the Payetter River branches all the way to the Salmon River on to Salmon, Idaho. The day is filles with curves, endless wilderness and wild rivers. Stay in Salmon, Idaho
Day 6 - Lemhi Pass up to 150 miles
Cross the continental divide at Lemhi Pass, where Lewis and Clark first set foot in the country where rivers flowed west. Visit the Sacajawea Interpretive Center, ride Lemhi Valley, straddle the very head waters of the Missouri River. Stay in Salmon, Idaho.
Day 7 - Salmon to Butte 180 miles
Ride along the Salmon River and climb into Montana. Visit the Big Hole Battle Interpretive Center and stand in the footsteps of the famed explorer at Clark's Lookout. Experience big sky country in Montana. Stay in Butte, Montana
Day 8 - Butte to Great Falls 160 miles
Visit Three Forks, and the start of the Missouri River. Lunch at White Sulfur Springs. Ride through The Lewis and Clark National Forest to Great Falls. Check out Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center at Great Falls. Stay in Great Falls, Montana
Day 9 - Great Falls to Lolo Pass 210 miles
Follow the Missouri River to Travelers' Rest - a place that Lewis and Clark used for rest and relaxation on their way west and east. Ride the beginning of Lolo Pass, with its spectacular 99 miles of curves along the Lochsa River. Stay in Lolo Pass area
Day 10 - Lolo Pass to Waitsburg
Ride one of the best roads in North America at Lolo Pass. Check out the town of Weippe - the place where the Nez Perce hosted and saved the Lewis and Clark expedition. Motor through the palouse of eastern Washington. Stay in Waitsburg
Day 11 - Waitsburg to Hood River 200 miles
Ride the Columbia River Gorge. Get ready for the awesome power of the Columbia River. Stop at the Columbia River Discovery Center and learn more about the Corps of Discover and the region surrounding the Columbia River. Stay in Hood River, Oregon
Day 12 - Hood River to Astoria 200 miles
Ride through the Gifford-Pinchot National Forest. Get a chance to see Mt. St. Helens and ride along the lower Columbia River. Stay in Astoria, Oregon.
Day 13 - Astoria - Portland 90 miles
Check out Fort Clatsop where the Corps of Discovery stayed for the winter. Ride Highway 1 down the coast of Oregon and discover backroads to Portland. Farewell dinner this evening. Stay in Portland, Oregon
Day 14 - Fly Home or keep the dream alive.
The next motorcycle adventure vacation awaits.
THE GEAR TO BRING
MotoQuest guides wear KLIM helmets, jackets, pants and gloves, and we outfit our motorcycles with luggage and accessories from Revzilla. You can view and download our complete MotoQuest packing list here.
Included with the tour:
Hotel Accommodations
Premiere Welcome and Farewell Dinners
Professional MotoQuest Guide(s)
Support Vehicle
Support Vehicle Driver
Staff Trained in First Aid with Satellite Phone
MotoQuest Swag Bag
Photos Taken on the Trip
Automatic Enrollment in Global Rescue
Not Included:
Airfare
Meals on the Road
Gas
Alcohol
Alternative Tours
Travel Insurance
Gratuities
National Park Entrance Fees
MotoQuest Staff on Tour:
Landmarks And Attractions
Lemhi Pass
Lemhi Pass is a mountain pass located in the Rocky Mountains, specifically in the state of Montana. It holds historical importance as it was traversed by the Lewis and Clark Expedition during their journey to explore the western territories of the United States. During their expedition, Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, along with their Corps of Discovery, reached Lemhi Pass in late September. It was here that Lewis stood and declared that he had finally found the source of the Missouri River. This discovery marked a significant milestone for the expedition, as it meant they were entering the waterways that would eventually lead them to the Pacific Ocean. Lemhi Pass sits at an elevation of about 7,600 feet and provided the Corps of Discovery with a challenging passage through the Rockies. Due to the approaching colder weather and the need to cross the mountains before the snowfall, there was a sense of urgency and even desperation for Lewis and his team. It's worth noting that the Corps of Discovery had to abandon their boats and carry all their gear as they made their way through Lemhi Pass. The pass offered breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, and it served as a crucial point in their journey towards the Pacific.
Great Falls, Montana
Great Falls is a city in Montana that holds historical importance due to its connection to the expedition. During their journey, Lewis and Clark encountered a series of waterfalls on the Missouri River, which they named the "Great Falls." These falls posed a significant obstacle for the expedition, as they had to find a way to navigate around them and continue their westward journey. The Great Falls of the Missouri River are a majestic sight, with powerful cascades and rugged terrain. Lewis and Clark had to portage their boats and equipment around the falls, which was a laborious and challenging task. They had to exert extreme physical effort to overcome this natural barrier. Today, the Great Falls area is home to the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Interpretive Center, where visitors can learn more about the expedition and its impact on the region. The center provides educational exhibits and information about the challenges faced by Lewis and Clark as they made their way through this area. It's fascinating to think about the hardships and determination displayed by the Corps of Discovery as they encountered the Great Falls in their quest for exploration.
Lolo Pass
Lolo Pass is a mountain pass located in the Bitterroot Range of the Rocky Mountains, straddling the border between the states of Montana and Idaho. During their expedition, Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, along with their Corps of Discovery, encountered Lolo Pass as they made their way westward. The pass presented a formidable challenge for the expedition due to its rugged terrain and harsh weather conditions. Lewis and Clark, much like the modern-day travelers, experienced winter-like conditions during their journey. They braved a snowstorm and had to navigate their way through the challenging landscape of Lolo Pass. Guided by an Indian guide, they climbed out of the Lochsa River Valley and made their way to the tops of the ridges. The pass served as a crucial point in their journey, as it marked their transition from the Bitterroot Mountains to the Nez Perce territory and the abundant plains beyond. It was a significant milestone for the expedition, as they were getting closer to their ultimate goal of reaching the Pacific Ocean. The road that passes through Lolo Pass, Highway 12, is well-known for its winding and curvy nature, stretching for over 100 miles. It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, including small farms, clear streams, cows, and forests, much like what Lewis and Clark would have encountered during their time. It's remarkable to think about the challenges faced by Lewis and Clark as they traversed Lolo Pass, especially considering the adverse weather conditions and the need to navigate through unfamiliar territory.
Columbia River Gorge
The Columbia River Gorge is a scenic canyon carved by the mighty Columbia River, spanning the border between the states of Oregon and Washington. During their expedition, Meriwether Lewis and William Clark ventured through the Columbia River Gorge as they made their way towards the Pacific Ocean. The gorge presented the Corps of Discovery with breathtaking views, towering cliffs, and the majestic presence of Mount Hood. As Lewis and Clark traveled along the Columbia River, they encountered various challenges and obstacles. They had to navigate the treacherous rapids and cascades of the river, including the famous Celilo Falls, which required them to portage their boats and equipment. The Columbia River Gorge provided the expedition with a unique and awe-inspiring landscape. The towering cliffs and rugged terrain must have left a lasting impression on Lewis, Clark, and their team as they made their way through this remarkable natural wonder. Today, the Columbia River Gorge remains a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for hiking, scenic drives, and breathtaking views of the river and surrounding landscapes. Visitors can still witness the beauty that captivated Lewis and Clark during their historic journey. It's fascinating to think about the experiences and challenges faced by Lewis and Clark as they traveled through the Columbia River Gorge, forging a path towards the Pacific Ocean.
Fort Clatsop
Fort Clatsop is a historical site located near Astoria, Oregon, where Meriwether Lewis and William Clark and their Corps of Discovery spent the winter of 1805-1806. After their long and arduous journey to the Pacific Ocean, Lewis and Clark sought a place to establish a winter camp. They selected a site near the mouth of the Columbia River and built Fort Clatsop as their shelter and base of operations during the winter months. Fort Clatsop was a small, log structure that provided shelter for the members of the expedition. It was designed to withstand the harsh weather conditions of the Pacific Northwest. The fort consisted of several rooms, each serving different purposes such as sleeping quarters, storage, and a common area. During their time at Fort Clatsop, Lewis and Clark and their team engaged in various activities. They conducted scientific observations, repaired equipment, and interacted with the local Native American tribes, including the Clatsop and Chinook peoples. The winter at Fort Clatsop was challenging for the expedition. The conditions were often wet, dark, and damp, making daily life difficult. However, the Corps of Discovery persevered and used their time at the fort to prepare for their return journey back east. Today, Fort Clatsop is a National Historic Park, preserving the replica of the original fort and offering visitors a glimpse into the lives of Lewis and Clark during their winter stay. The park features exhibits, interpretive programs, and hiking trails that allow visitors to explore the area and learn about the expedition's experiences. It's remarkable to think about the resilience and resourcefulness displayed by Lewis, Clark, and their team during their time at Fort Clatsop.