Trail

Route of the Hiawatha

Ride 15 miles gently downhill on the Old Milwaukee Rail Road. Enjoy 10 dark tunnels, cross 7 sky-high trestles offering incredible views of the Bitterroot Mountains.

Listed under Hiking trails · Bike trails

Open official page

Shuttle schedule sign over a lush green forest with a mountain backdrop. — Photo from ridethehiawatha.com

About this place

Follow the route of the Milwaukee Road railway through 10 tunnels and over 7 sky-high trestles. The trail descends gently from the Montana-Idaho border, making it accessible for riders of all skill levels. Start at the East Portal trailhead, ride through the famous 1.66-mile St. Paul Pass Tunnel, and take in views of the Bitterroot Mountains that few people ever get to see.

Practical information

Town: Other towns
Arrival: From east or west off I-90, take Taft Exit 5 in Montana, cross the bridge to Route 506, and head uphill for 2 miles to the East Portal trailhead.
Parking: The East Portal trailhead has a large parking area; parking there is limited to smaller RVs.
Distance: 15 miles
Route surface: Unpaved gravel road
Difficulty: Very easy 1.6% downhill grade
Fees: Adult Trail Pass, ages 13 and up: $20 / person Mon–Thu and $40 / person Fri–Sun or holidays.
Hours: 2026 Season: May 22 through September 20; open 7 days a week, rain or shine; facilities open at 8:00 AM and the trailhead opens at 8:30 AM PST.
Dogs: No dogs or other pets are allowed except trained service animals; service animals are not allowed in the long Taft Tunnel under US Forest Service rules.
Use rules: Lights are mandatory; helmets are required for riders under 18; adult supervision is required for children under 14; all trail users must purchase and display a ticket.
Managed by: Federal agency, Private owner
Phone: 208-744-1301
Email: info@skilookout.com