Author Topic: lewis and Clarke route Lewiston to Kaimah  (Read 3405 times)

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Offline smm7144

lewis and Clarke route Lewiston to Kaimah
« on: July 05, 2020, 05:52:53 pm »
How bad is the situation on Highway 12? Would it says it’s “discouraged” but is it just little shoulder and a lot of traffic. Trying to shave some miles for the day and this looks like an easy way to do so.

Offline John Nettles

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Re: lewis and Clarke route Lewiston to Kaimah
« Reply #1 on: July 05, 2020, 05:59:54 pm »
I have not ridden it but went a slightly modified route that did the non-US-12 route and then took in the US-12.  The traffic was very heavy. I strongly recommend you do not take the option except possibly early on a Sunday morning when traffic is lightest.  Even then.  And note that I have 40+ years of riding so am not timid when it comes to traffic. 

Cut a day by not going into Missoula (if eastbound) or just riding an extra 10 miles or so on some day or two when you have a decent tailwind.

Tailwinds, John

Offline jamawani

Re: lewis and Clarke route Lewiston to Kaimah
« Reply #2 on: July 05, 2020, 06:56:25 pm »
I did the US 12 route many years ago and it was pretty hairy.
Sometimes there's a little sholder, other times absolutely zero.
Plus they have those cement Jersey barriers so you are trapped.
Traffic is moderate plus, including quite a few big trucks.

I can't speak for the alternate.
I know it is more miles and a lot more climbing.
Traffic may be a little less on US 12 this year because of Covid-19,
But that would probably make it like I had years back. No fun.