Historic site and natural area preserving a verified Lewis and Clark Expedition campsite with interpretive trails and cultural exhibits.
General Information
Reduced hours in winter; closed on major holidays
Non-residents: $8 per vehicle
From Missoula (10 mi): Take US-93 S to Lolo, turn west onto US-12 W, and the park entrance is on the left.
Overview
The Travelers' Rest State Park is a rare archaeological site that preserves the only scientifically verified campsite of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Located at the confluence of Lolo Creek and the Bitterroot River, the park offers a unique blend of history and nature. Visitors can walk interpretive trails, view exhibits in the visitor center, and learn about the expedition’s interactions with the Salish people who once inhabited the area.
Beyond its historical significance, the park is a peaceful natural retreat with cottonwood groves, birdwatching opportunities, and seasonal educational programs. It serves as a cultural crossroads, honoring both Indigenous heritage and early American exploration. Whether you're a history buff or a nature lover, Travelers' Rest offers a meaningful and scenic stop in western Montana.
Things to Do
Visit the Only Archaeologically Verified Lewis and Clark Campsite
Travelers' Rest State Park, located near Lolo, Montana, preserves the only archaeologically verified campsite used by both the westbound and eastbound journeys of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. The park provides visitors with a unique opportunity to explore a location directly connected to one of the most important expeditions in American history.
Explore the Visitor Center and Museum Exhibits
The visitor center features exhibits on the Lewis and Clark Expedition, the Salish people, archaeology, and the natural history of the Bitterroot Valley. Interactive displays and educational programs help visitors better understand the significance of the site.
Learn About Indigenous History
Long before the arrival of Lewis and Clark, the area served as an important gathering place for the Salish people. Interpretive exhibits and programs provide insight into Native American culture, trade routes, and the long history of human use of the region.
Take a Self-Guided Walking Tour
Visitors can explore interpretive trails that wind through the historic campsite and surrounding landscape. Informational signs explain archaeological discoveries, expedition history, native plant communities, and important cultural resources.
Experience Living History and Educational Programs
Throughout the year, the park hosts special events, living history demonstrations, archaeological presentations, and educational activities that bring the stories of the Lewis and Clark Expedition to life.
Enjoy Wildlife Viewing and Birdwatching
The park's cottonwood forests, grasslands, and wetlands provide habitat for numerous bird species and other wildlife. Visitors frequently enjoy birdwatching, photography, and nature observation while exploring the park.
Picnic and Relax Along Lolo Creek
Picnic areas and open green spaces near Lolo Creek provide a peaceful setting for visitors to relax while enjoying views of the surrounding Bitterroot Valley and nearby mountain ranges.
Top Trails
Travelers' Rest Discovery Trail
Length: Approximately 1 mile loop
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Difficulty: Easy
This interpretive trail guides visitors through the historic campsite area and highlights archaeological discoveries, Lewis and Clark history, native plants, and cultural resources. It is the park's primary educational walking route.
Lolo Creek Trail
Length: Approximately 0.5 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Difficulty: Easy
A short scenic walk along Lolo Creek that provides opportunities for birdwatching, wildlife observation, and enjoying the natural beauty of the Bitterroot Valley.
Interpretive Archaeology Trail
Length: Short walking route
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Difficulty: Easy
This trail focuses on the archaeological investigations that verified the Lewis and Clark campsite. Interpretive exhibits explain how researchers uncovered evidence of the expedition's presence at Travelers' Rest.
Historic Campsite Walking Route
Length: Varies
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Difficulty: Easy
Visitors can combine the park's pathways and interpretive areas into a leisurely walking experience that explores the historic campsite, visitor center grounds, and natural areas surrounding the park.
Sources: Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks official Travelers' Rest State Park information covering Lewis and Clark history, archaeological discoveries, interpretive exhibits, visitor amenities, educational programs, and recreational opportunities. https://fwp.mt.gov/stateparks/travelers-restTravelers' Rest State Park - Montana FWP
Additional information regarding the Lewis and Clark Expedition, the Salish people, archaeological research, visitor center exhibits, and park programming. https://travelersrest.org/Travelers' Rest State Park Visitor Information
Supplemental visitor information covering trails, self-guided tours, educational activities, cultural history, and natural features of the park. https://www.visitmt.com/listing/travelers-rest-state-park-3112Visit Montana - Travelers' Rest State Park
This article uses material from the Wikipedia articles and official tourism pages for the Travelers' Rest State Park, which are released under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share-Alike License 3.0.
