The Route of the Hiawatha invites adventurers to engage with a landscape fiercely itself, where abandoned railroads chart through steep mountain gorges and dark tunnels. Stretching 15 miles from the summit near Lookout Pass in Montana and Idaho to the town of Pearson, this trail follows the path once carved by the Milwaukee Road railway. It’s a mix of rail-to-trail terrain and forested corridors that challenge and thrill, with an elevation gain of approximately 1,300 feet, mostly at the start, rewarding hikers and bikers with sweeping vistas and enclosed moments in dim tunnels.

The ride or hike begins at the summit, where towering pines lean close as if to whisper tales of the past. You traverse wide, crushed gravel paths along bridges that overlook roaring rivers daring you to look down, while mountain currents push forward beneath. The trail’s gentle grade owes to its railroading origins, providing a steady rhythm suited for both casual walkers and seasoned riders. Still, tunnels—some exceeding a mile long—offer a sudden shift in atmosphere: shadows pool thick, cool and moist, requiring a reliable headlamp or flashlight and a hint of caution.

Preparation is key here. Footwear with firm traction protects against the gravel surface, and hydration is crucial since services along the route are minimal. Opt for early morning starts or late afternoons to skirt midday heat especially in summer months. The trail runs through heavily forested zones that hum with birdcalls and the rustle of wildlife; spotting deer or an elusive raptor is common if you keep your senses sharp.

A highlight is the Taft Tunnel, a 1.6-mile dark passage that tests your focus and adds an element of adventure—don’t rush through; pause to feel the tunnel breathe around you. Daypacks should carry layers for quick weather changes and practical gear, as the environment here is dynamic, with wind boldly sweeping through open bridges and cooler air lurking inside the tunnels.

For those planning a trip, consider renting a bike at the trailhead for an invigorating ride downhill, or choose to hike for a more intimate encounter with the route's fierce and patient landscape. The Route of the Hiawatha isn’t about conquering but cooperating with a trail that commands respect and curiosity, offering a clear window into rugged Northern Rockies terrain shaped by industry and nature alike.