Lolo

The present day community of Lolo is situated at an ancient crossroads and located just 8 miles south of Missoula in the northern end of the Bitterroot Valley. Called Tmsmli (Place of No Salmon) by the Salish people, the area is important in creation stories of the Salish and Pend d’Oreille tribes. In 1805 and 1806, the Lewis and Clark Expedition stayed and made critical decisions at the place they called “Travellers’ Rest” on the banks of Lolo Creek.

Today, Lolo continues to be a crossroads as the trails that led people across the landscape have become highways – and U.S. Highway 12 and U.S. Highway 93 converge in Lolo. Largely a bedroom community to Missoula, Lolo is a gateway to many of western Montana’s recreational opportunities with access to hiking, biking, fishing, snowmobiling, Nordic skiing and camping. U.S. Highway travels west over Lolo Pass, following the rugged route traversed by native people for thousands of years, as well as early Euro-American explorers.

Travelers’ Rest State Park preserves the only archeologically verified Lewis and Clark campsite in the nation, and is open year round with interactive exhibits, programming, and opportunities to view diverse birds and other wildlife. Strategically situated along the Bitterroot Bike Trail, Lolo is also home to Lolo Peak Brewery, several restaurants and lodging options.