Lewis and Clark Backcountry Byway
Take a drive on the breathtaking Lewis and Clark Backcountry Byway. This remote route recognizes the area where Meriwether Lewis and William Clark began their explorations of the Pacific Northwest. Visitors will find that many of the forests and meadows on this drive look much the same as when these explorers journeyed to the area in 1805.
Length
35.9 miles
58.16 km
Time
1 hour,
33 minutes
Region
Central Idaho
When to Visit
Spring, Summer, Fall
31 Byways. 31 Ways to Be Inspired.
A variety of scenic, natural, historic, recreational, archeological and cultural experiences can be found on Idaho’s 31 scenic byways. View the video to get a taste of the adventures that await you, and start planning your next road trip.
Road Trip Tips
Turn-by-Turn Direction: 20 miles southeast of Salmon off of Idaho 28. Turn east from Idaho 28 at the Tendoy store.
Road Conditions: This byway is a single-lane gravel road with pullouts. Buses, RVs, and trailers are not recommended on sections of the byway.
Full Services in: Salmon
Partial services in: Tendoy, Lemhi and Leadore
Full services: When gas, food and lodging are available
Partial services: When gas and a few other facilities are available
Nearby Adventures
Enjoy the beauty of the byway on foot via the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail, discover historical connections and overlook the Lemhi Pass from your Lewis and Clark Backcountry Byway drive.
Lemhi County Historical Museum
Download Before You Hit the Road
Start planning your epic Idaho road trip with the help of these free travel publications.
Scenic Byways Brochure
State Highway Map
Travel Tips
Need some ideas for your next Idaho road trip? Check out these travel tips and start planning your adventure.