Route of The Hiawatha Trail
Route of The Hiawatha Trail
4.5
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jeffinsearchoffun
Boise, ID101 contributions
Jun 2020
Tickets are purchased about 10 miles from the starting point trail head. They don’t tell you two important facts.
1. Weather is everything; just don’t go on a cold day.
2. A mountain bike with fenders is a must; not because it can’t be done with a road or gravel bike, but because the tunnels are almost always wet and the trail is dirt and rocks the entire distance.
We have rain gear and all the proper equipment, but why subject yourself to getting soaked in just above freezing temps? Remember that after the trip, you will be covered in mud and will need a change of clothes.
Once you’ve ridden the 14.5 miles; there is a bus that you could have have to wait 30 minutes for like us. One of the employees subjects you to his smoking while waiting and there is no shelter if it’s raining, windy, and cold. The lookout pass ski company runs the operation, so it is rather surprising that they don’t understand good customer service, but there you go. It is possible to have a good time, but the temps should should really be approaching 80.
Note that the bus takes you back to the wrong side of the 1.6 mile, wet tunnel, so be prepared to ride back through. For what you get for your money, this is not worth it.
1. Weather is everything; just don’t go on a cold day.
2. A mountain bike with fenders is a must; not because it can’t be done with a road or gravel bike, but because the tunnels are almost always wet and the trail is dirt and rocks the entire distance.
We have rain gear and all the proper equipment, but why subject yourself to getting soaked in just above freezing temps? Remember that after the trip, you will be covered in mud and will need a change of clothes.
Once you’ve ridden the 14.5 miles; there is a bus that you could have have to wait 30 minutes for like us. One of the employees subjects you to his smoking while waiting and there is no shelter if it’s raining, windy, and cold. The lookout pass ski company runs the operation, so it is rather surprising that they don’t understand good customer service, but there you go. It is possible to have a good time, but the temps should should really be approaching 80.
Note that the bus takes you back to the wrong side of the 1.6 mile, wet tunnel, so be prepared to ride back through. For what you get for your money, this is not worth it.
Written 7 June 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Tony K
Moreno Valley, CA948 contributions
Jun 2021 • Couples
We brought our own E-Bikes to ride but were totally surprised that on the Fri/Sat/Sun they charge you for the Shuttle even if you don’t use it. I just don’t get that at all but I guess it’s their way of gouging you for more money is the only way that makes any sense. Also if I did use Shuttle they said it cost $5 more per Bike Bike to load ?? It might take 5 seconds longer…Imagine if they charged you more to handle a Gallon of Milk instead of quart…All that being said we rode to the bottom and turned around and rode back to top. The ride/views , tunnels & trestles were cool.
Written 21 June 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Bill K
Mantorville, MN6 856 contributions
Jun 2020
This trail provides not only breathtaking views, but a casual (nearly all downhill) ride that people of all ages can handle (we rode the shuttle with a 2 month old baby that rode the trail in a bike trailer). Here are some recommendations to make your experience better:
1. Pack drinks/snacks. There are items for sale at various spots but you are better off bringing your own.
2. Dress for the weather. Dress in layers if it is at all cold. The tunnels, especially the one at the trailhead are frequently wet. You will get wet and muddy, and will need a change of clothes afterward. Light colored clothes are hard to get clean afterwards.
3. Allow plenty of time (3-5 hours). The line for the shuttle at the bottom can be long. Also, since the ride is nearly all downhill, there is a tendency to ride too fast. Take your time, stop frequently, and soak up the beauty around you. The smell of the pines alone is a wonderful treat.
4. If you are a strong rider and are looking for a great workout, then skip the shuttle ride to the top and ride instead.
1. Pack drinks/snacks. There are items for sale at various spots but you are better off bringing your own.
2. Dress for the weather. Dress in layers if it is at all cold. The tunnels, especially the one at the trailhead are frequently wet. You will get wet and muddy, and will need a change of clothes afterward. Light colored clothes are hard to get clean afterwards.
3. Allow plenty of time (3-5 hours). The line for the shuttle at the bottom can be long. Also, since the ride is nearly all downhill, there is a tendency to ride too fast. Take your time, stop frequently, and soak up the beauty around you. The smell of the pines alone is a wonderful treat.
4. If you are a strong rider and are looking for a great workout, then skip the shuttle ride to the top and ride instead.
Written 23 June 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Halcyontraveler
Idaho15 contributions
Jul 2021
Riding the Hiawatha Trial was the whole purpose of our trip to North Idaho and it was worth it, but our ride on the Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes was far more satisfying. Unfortunately, the smoke from western wildfires had settled down into the valleys and it was stifling at times . Fortunately, I had a buff to cover my nose and mouth as a filter. The smoke haze also impacted the usual stellar views from the trestles. Otherwise it was an easy, pretty, mountain downhill ride and the trailside interpretive signs provided interesting historical perspective about the original railroad. We went on a Monday so the crowds were manageable. Our wait for the shuttle was about 30-45 minutes.
Our rental bikes from Lookout Pass were barely adequate. Fortunately there was little need to change gears because my bike seemed to like only one gear and the brakes were a bit sketchy. Also, the customer service was less than satisfying. After trying to call for two days with questions that weren't answered on the website, I finally left a message that was never returned. I've become less critical of customer service these days because I know so many businesses are struggling with employee shortages, but I wouldn't encourage people to leave messages if there's no intention of returning the call.
All in all, we'd like to do the Hiawatha Trail again on better bikes and hopefully on a day with clearer skies. Perhaps earlier in the season?
A Note to Parents: Even though we didn't have kids, we saw children of all ages riding with their families and even though the ride is almost all down hill, it's not an easy ride for young children. Unless your child is highly bike competent and able to endure 3 hours on their own bike, I'd recommend a tag along, bike trailer or leave the youngin's at home. We saw a mom trying to coax her young daughter into the first 100 feet of the dark 1.66 mile East Portal tunnel, and a father carrying a small bike on his back with his young son riding on the cross bar of his bike. I'm guessing this wasn't a pleasant experience for any of them.
Our rental bikes from Lookout Pass were barely adequate. Fortunately there was little need to change gears because my bike seemed to like only one gear and the brakes were a bit sketchy. Also, the customer service was less than satisfying. After trying to call for two days with questions that weren't answered on the website, I finally left a message that was never returned. I've become less critical of customer service these days because I know so many businesses are struggling with employee shortages, but I wouldn't encourage people to leave messages if there's no intention of returning the call.
All in all, we'd like to do the Hiawatha Trail again on better bikes and hopefully on a day with clearer skies. Perhaps earlier in the season?
A Note to Parents: Even though we didn't have kids, we saw children of all ages riding with their families and even though the ride is almost all down hill, it's not an easy ride for young children. Unless your child is highly bike competent and able to endure 3 hours on their own bike, I'd recommend a tag along, bike trailer or leave the youngin's at home. We saw a mom trying to coax her young daughter into the first 100 feet of the dark 1.66 mile East Portal tunnel, and a father carrying a small bike on his back with his young son riding on the cross bar of his bike. I'm guessing this wasn't a pleasant experience for any of them.
Written 30 July 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
AmosRedux
Oshkosh, WI532 contributions
Sept 2021
This 15 mile trail has nine tunnels and seven trestles. The longest tunnel is almost 8,000 feet and the highest trestle is 230 feet. You begin biking in Western Montana and finish in eastern Idaho. The Montana start is 4,000 feet of elevation. The Idaho finish is 3,000 feet. If you begin in Montana you go downhill the entire distance. If you do not want to bike back uphill, you can ride a shuttle bus for a fee. The grade is slight. This trail was once a railroad bed. The surface is packed gravel and is easily handled by a mountain bike. You get terrific views of mountains and valleys. You can stop to read signage about the railroad that was once here. Restrooms are available as are spots to eat snacks or lunch you brought with you.
Written 23 September 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
TerryBuchen
Eagle, ID7 contributions
Sept 2023 • Friends
Very bumpy gravel all the way on the bike trail, without any pavement.
The trail starts at the 1.6 mile long tunnel, which has water leaking from the roof in many places, causing lots of puddles on the very bumpy gravel bike path. There are drainage ditches on each side of this tunnel that are full of water. This tunnel is extremely dark even with strong headlights.
It cost $106 for my wife and I for the trail pass plus the bus ride back to the 1.6 mile long tunnel, which has to be ridden back up to the parking lot.
We had to wait 1.5 hours for a bus to take us back to the 1.6 mile long tunnel. There was only 1 outhouse-type bathroom at the bus station that was filthy and it smelled like raw sewage.
The only good thing about this experience was the staff, who were trying to do a good job.
The trail starts at the 1.6 mile long tunnel, which has water leaking from the roof in many places, causing lots of puddles on the very bumpy gravel bike path. There are drainage ditches on each side of this tunnel that are full of water. This tunnel is extremely dark even with strong headlights.
It cost $106 for my wife and I for the trail pass plus the bus ride back to the 1.6 mile long tunnel, which has to be ridden back up to the parking lot.
We had to wait 1.5 hours for a bus to take us back to the 1.6 mile long tunnel. There was only 1 outhouse-type bathroom at the bus station that was filthy and it smelled like raw sewage.
The only good thing about this experience was the staff, who were trying to do a good job.
Written 18 September 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Nelson M
Cleveland, OH61 contributions
Sept 2021
I went on this Bike ride today September 8, 2021 and really enjoyed it. This is an approximately 14 mile trail bike ride which goes down an old railroad line. IT is a gravel road/trail and goes through several tunnels and over several trestles. There are beautiful views of steep mountainsides densely covered with evergreens. At times you are in a very dark damp, tunnel, and at other times suspended above a chasm on a trestle. Lookout Pass Ski area has the set up to rent you a bike. IN my case, since I arranged things in advance and drove from Missoula to the EAst Trailhead, I picked up my rented bike the East Trailhead (where you start) and after I finished the ride, a shuttle took me back up to the Trailhead where I turned in my bike and got back in my car. IT was about 50 degrees at 9 am the day I went and I needed a few layers to be warm. By the time it was over it was 86 degrees. So, particularly if you go in the morning, bring layers.
It was a 100 mile each way drive from MIssoula (under 2 hours) but a beautiful car ride and worth it.
When you get your rented bike, I advise checking it to be sure the gears and brakes work properly. The first one they gave me didn't shift well and the second shifted with the rear sprocket but not the front, but since the ride is either level or downhill all the way, this was ok. We got packed in to the shuttle bus so wear a mask! The quietness and beauty were delightful. However, there were plenty of people on the trail.
Anyway, I recommend this trip.
It was a 100 mile each way drive from MIssoula (under 2 hours) but a beautiful car ride and worth it.
When you get your rented bike, I advise checking it to be sure the gears and brakes work properly. The first one they gave me didn't shift well and the second shifted with the rear sprocket but not the front, but since the ride is either level or downhill all the way, this was ok. We got packed in to the shuttle bus so wear a mask! The quietness and beauty were delightful. However, there were plenty of people on the trail.
Anyway, I recommend this trip.
Written 8 September 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Lillygrrl
Bonney Lake, WA46 contributions
Jun 2021
If you love to bike trails this is definitely a must do. We rode our bikes the 15 miles starting at the top and down to Pearson trailhead. It was hot the day we went out we knew we would need to start early. The official opening time for the trail is 8:30am but we started out just before 8am. The route is gorgeous but do bring a good bike light and extra batteries and prepare yourself from some loose gravel and rocky terrain. You do not need to be an expert biker to do this trail but you should be confident on a bike! Be sure your bike is in good working order! The rangers are wonderful and can help. They travel the trail frequently. My husband and I finished the Hiawatha early and did the extra 9 mile ride to Avery, ID along the St. Joe river. The view was wonderful BUT the ride back was misery. The road is extremely loose dirt and gravel/rocks with some very difficult portions. We walked a good part of it back because it was so difficult (and we are in good shape). I would NOT recommend this part of the ride for children or anyone who does not have a good constitution, and who doesn't have a lot of experience on that kind of terrain. There is an actual trail (Trail 300) that we could have also rode home but our chat with some folks in Avery made us rethink that as an option. Watch your time, we missed the last bus back to the trailhead (it leaves at 4:15pm) because it took us so long to get back. The rangers at Pearson were very kind and gave us the ride back!
Written 30 June 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
threetravelers285
Kennewick, WA65 contributions
Jul 2021
Our third time riding this wonderful trail. Always a great adventure! The staff were wonderful. Very organized and everyone seemed to be genuinely enjoying their jobs. A special thanks to Larry, our shuttle bus driver. He encountered lots of traffic on our ride but kept his composure and continued to give us information about the trail and surrounding area!. Collin and his sidekick were especially helpful getting our bikes fitted for us. Just a first class operation!
Written 11 July 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
redredles
Helena, MT350 contributions
Sept 2020
My husband and I are not bikers. We found the 15 miles very easy to do. However, as this was our first time on the trail we believe we owe it to our selves to try it again on a clear day. It rained hard and then a fine mist which was almost worse. The mud went all over us and inside my clothes. Even though we couldn't see much it still was beautiful and smelled amazing. An experience we won't soon forget.
When we got to the end we were so cold but for some reason nothing was set up. By the time they had some hot drinks, 20 minutes had gone by and the shuttle had arrived. Not sure why the delay there.
The hardest part was after the shuttle drops you off you have to ride through that first tunnel again. Since we were so cold and tired that was actually a really hard part of the ride.
Things to note: a lot of people don't have a back bike light so in a crowded tunnel be careful, stick together. If you are slow wait at the entrance and let most of the people pass you.
* You can skip the shuttle and park on the other side of that first tunnel so you don't have to ride through it.
*After you exit to get to the Lookout Pass Ski Area it is not 2 miles. You exit and take a right and the Ski pass area is right there. We were following the 2 mile instructions and continued right past it on a dirt road that quickly turns into just a dirt path not suitable for a vehicle. More signs would be helpful at the ski pass area to direct you above it to where the bike rentals and café are.
* We biked 15 miles in about 2 1/2 hours. They brought the bigger bus so I think everyone was able to make it on. If you miss that first shuttle you have to wait 2 hrs. which is probably not bad if it is a sunny day.
* There are two bathrooms at the beginning one at the very first tunnel and one a few miles down but after there is nothing for about another 13 miles.
*The water bottle they provided me sprung a leak some where along the trail so a back up water would be a good idea. I did not see any place to fill empty water bottles except at the 2nd bathroom.
We are happy we tried out this trail and didn't let the smoke or rain stop us. We had fun making memories and can't wait to see it again on a sunny day.
When we got to the end we were so cold but for some reason nothing was set up. By the time they had some hot drinks, 20 minutes had gone by and the shuttle had arrived. Not sure why the delay there.
The hardest part was after the shuttle drops you off you have to ride through that first tunnel again. Since we were so cold and tired that was actually a really hard part of the ride.
Things to note: a lot of people don't have a back bike light so in a crowded tunnel be careful, stick together. If you are slow wait at the entrance and let most of the people pass you.
* You can skip the shuttle and park on the other side of that first tunnel so you don't have to ride through it.
*After you exit to get to the Lookout Pass Ski Area it is not 2 miles. You exit and take a right and the Ski pass area is right there. We were following the 2 mile instructions and continued right past it on a dirt road that quickly turns into just a dirt path not suitable for a vehicle. More signs would be helpful at the ski pass area to direct you above it to where the bike rentals and café are.
* We biked 15 miles in about 2 1/2 hours. They brought the bigger bus so I think everyone was able to make it on. If you miss that first shuttle you have to wait 2 hrs. which is probably not bad if it is a sunny day.
* There are two bathrooms at the beginning one at the very first tunnel and one a few miles down but after there is nothing for about another 13 miles.
*The water bottle they provided me sprung a leak some where along the trail so a back up water would be a good idea. I did not see any place to fill empty water bottles except at the 2nd bathroom.
We are happy we tried out this trail and didn't let the smoke or rain stop us. We had fun making memories and can't wait to see it again on a sunny day.
Written 28 September 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We will be heading out to ride the trail in a couple of weeks. We have rented e-bikes in Wallace and was wondering about a few things on the trail:
I bought passes on-line. Can I pick those up the day before our ride? (we are paying the rental shop to drop us off at Exit 5 and we will ride to the trailhead). Or - are the tickets available for pick-up where we will be dropped off or at the trailhead?
Are there any facilities along the trail? (restroom, water. concessions?)
We are riding back to Wallace via Moon Pass - I presume this is a "regular" road - is it paved?
Appreciate any details you can share. We are excited to get a bit out of our comfort zone but want to make sure we plan accordingly.
Written 9 June 2021
I understand that one may avoid the Taft tunnel by starting at the Roland Pass Trailhead. Doing so, how many more tunnels will one go through continuing downhill? How long are the remaining tunnels? We have a couple of little ones and so want to be clear on what to expect. Thank you
Written 12 November 2019
That is the only real long tunnel. But there were families, with little kids, small bikes and bike trailers. Get good lights and align then to light the area in front
Written 5 February 2020
We are going to this bike ride next week. Wondering if two of our party can go through St. Pauls tunnel, while other two move car to Roland Pass Parking lot so the second two can skip the tunnel and meet the first two at Roland Pass Parking lot after the first two have done the first tunnel. Then when we bring shuttle back to Roland Pass Parking lot, all four will use car from Roland Pass parking to return rental bikes.
Written 10 September 2019
Yes, I agree with Canadian Kid. Make sure who ever rides through the St. Paul Tunnel has a really good head lamp and they might want to change clothes at Roland if they don't have fenders. With out fenders you will be muddy for the rest of the ride. Have fun you will love it.
Written 10 September 2019
Is there a way to avoid the long tunnel if you rent bikes? And if not, do you have to go through the tunnel two times? That tunnel looks scary for older, not all that athletic but adventuresome seniors.
Written 8 August 2019
YES absolutely! You can avoid the tunnel whether you rent bikes or bring your own.
Here are the directions:
Take Interstate 90 Exit 5 in Montana (Taft exit) and go south on Forest Road 506 (Rainy Creek Road). Follow Forest Road 506 for about 2 miles to the East Portal Tralhead of the St. Paul Pass Tunnel. For those who do not want to ride through the 1.8 mile tunnel go approximately 2.5 miles further on FR 506 over Roland Pass to the Roland Trailhead
****Drive past the East portal parking lot trailhead by staying on FR 506 forest road until you get to Roland Parking lot.
Written 8 August 2019
If you ride just in one direction and take the bus back, allow around 2 hours for the ride, maybe a little more if you want to stop for lunch or take a lot of photos. If you cycle round trip it is slightly uphill on the way back so will take longer. If you take the bus back (extra cost) the wait for the bus can also be quite long. We saw people waiting about 30 minutes for the first bus, and it could be more later on.
Written 22 June 2019
"The trestles are very high and those with vertigo will feel exposed." No one else ever mentioned that in reviews but how much of an issue do you think it is? My friend is somewhat afraid of heights. are there railings throughout? THANKS
Written 4 January 2018
For most of the passes you can just stay in the middle and do not need to look over. You can stay on the inside of the dirt track which is wide and avoid the sides. Really depends how bad of an issue it is for them.
Written 8 February 2018
The website says only 4-5 times for shuttes, do they fill up and might I need to wait a long time?
Written 4 August 2016
only possibly on the last trip of the day, so plan a 10 a.m. trip if possible.
Written 5 January 2018
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