Travelers' Rest State Park

Traveler's Rest Visitor Center

MT State Parks

Quick Facts

Location:

Located 1/2 mile west of Lolo on Hwy 12

Significance:

Located at the crossroads of culture, this is the only archaeologicaly verified campsite of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, as well as the traditional homeland of the Selis Qlispe people.

Designation:

National Historic Landmark

Amenities

26 listed

Bicycle - Rack, Entrance Passes for Sale, Fire Extinguisher, First Aid Kit Available, First Aid/Medical Care Available, Food/Drink - Snacks, Gifts/Souvenirs/Books, Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Information, Information - Ranger/Staff Member Present, Information Kiosk/Bulletin Board, Parking - Auto, Parking - Boat Trailer, Parking - Bus/RV, Picnic Table, Recycling, Restroom, Scenic View/Photo Spot, Tactile Exhibit, Telephone, Toilet - Flush, Trailhead, Trailhead/Hiker Register, Trash/Litter Receptacles, Water - Bottle-Filling Station, Water - Drinking/Potable

Located at an historic and contemporary crossroads, Travelers' Rest State Park and National Historic Landmark is a place where visitors can say with certainty that they are walking in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark. The Park is at the core of a campsite used by the Corps of Discovery from September 9 - 11, 1805 and again from June 30 - July 3, 1806. In the summer of 2002, archaeologists uncovered evidence of the Corps of Discovery's visit to the area, including a trench latrine tainted with mercury, fire hearths, and lead used in the repair and manufacture of firearms. The discovery makes Travelers' Rest the only campsite on the Lewis and Clark Trail with physical evidence of the expedition. For centuries Native Americans also used the area as a campsite and trail junction. Salish, Pend d'Oreille and Nez Perce peoples were among those who traditionally occupied the area. Native American storytellers bring their history, culture and society to life as part of the programming at Travelers' Rest State Park.With Lolo Creek running through the park, Travelers' Rest is an idyllic spot for strolling the park's trails, and offers a rich bird habitat, with more than 115 species recorded within the park boundaries. Be sure to stop at the Visitor's Center and Museum for a fascinating look at Lewis & Clark Expedition replicas, Salish culture, Native American hand crafts, a frontier Main Street, and more. The park also has a pavilion available for rent. Contact the park to make a reservation.