Idaho Route 12

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Can anyone tell me what services to expect in Idaho along Route 12 between Kooskia and Missoula, looks awfully remote there. Clearwater Nat'l Forest.

Thanks

[judyrans]

Read asked:

Can anyone tell me what services to expect in Idaho along Route 12 between Kooskia and Missoula, looks awfully remote there. Clearwater Nat'l Forest.

The most logical place to stop is at Powell Junction, which consists of a Ranger Station, Powell Campground (US Forest Service) and the private Lochsa Lodge, (208) 942-3113. The campground is pleasant, but rustic. The toilets flushed and the sinks had cold water only. There were no showers. You can use the sink for a cold "spit bath." Please don't put soap in the river or a stream.

If you want a hot shower you have to either take a trail or the road to the Lochsa Lodge. Hmm, I think the shower required stuffing quarters into a machine, but it also might have also required paying at the Lodge for a token for the machine. The Lochsa Lodge also has a restaurant, cabins, and motel rooms. The cabins do not have bathrooms, or at least ours didn't.

There are other USFS campgrounds

Powell Junction is about 56 miles west of Missoula over LOlo Pass, and 87 miles east of Kooskia.

It's a beautiful ride. "Granny gears" recommended for the Pass.

This message was edited by judyrans on 4-17-06 @ 8:09 PM

[DGoodrich]

I've ridden a bit, and this is the most amazing ride I've had.  It is indeed remote.  Outside Lowell, there is a sign that says "Winding Road Next 77 Miles," and that's about right. No towns, or buildings really, until Powell. A steady, but not killer, climb for most of the way up to Lolo Pass, then a bit steep at the end.  I did it with a granny and a trailer.  At the Jerry Johnson campground after 60 miles of uphill, I was putting up my tent, and someone asked me if I knew about the hot springs. ??  Sure enough, about a mile into the woods (well marked), I come across a large steaming spring with about 8 naked people.  Quite a memorable day.  You should do this.