Stretching 15 miles through the rugged Bitterroot Mountains near Wallace, Idaho, the Route of the Hiawatha offers a mountain biking experience like no other. This bike trail follows an old railroad corridor, inviting you to coast through dark, cool tunnels and over towering trestle bridges that arch above rushing mountain streams. Starting at the historic Lookout Pass, the route descends gently, making it accessible for riders of varying skill levels while rewarding them with breathtaking views carved by time and tides of water.

The journey takes you through 10 tunnels, including the impressive St. Paul Pass Tunnel, nearly a mile long, where your headlamp cuts through the canyon of granite walls around you. Outside, the trail skirts alongside dense cedar forests and opens up at trestle bridges that challenge your nerve as they hover hundreds of feet above creek beds daring you to cross. The air here is alive, with winds pushing forward and streams whispering below, pulling you deeper into the landscape.

Covering 1,200 feet of elevation loss, the route is mostly downhill — a practical plus for bikers aiming to complete the ride in a single day. The crushed limestone path is well-maintained and wide, providing stability but requiring a reliable hybrid or mountain bike with solid tires. Hydrate often; the mountain air, dry and brisk, draws moisture quickly. Layering your clothing prepares you for the temperature swings inside tunnels and out in the open.

Practicality is part of the adventure. Plan ahead by renting bikes and gear from Wallace or nearby towns. Helmet use is mandatory, and lights are essential inside the pitch-black tunnels. The best months to visit stretch from late spring through early fall, when snow no longer blocks the corridor, and the trail is clear. Avoid riding after heavy rains—the limestone can become slippery, and flash floods are a hazard in the narrow sections.

The Route of the Hiawatha doesn’t just challenge your legs — it demands respect from those ready to engage with a land fiercely shaped by natural forces and human history. Approaching the abandoned rail beds, you’re crossing a path where miners, timber workers, and railroad crews once thrived. It’s a ride that connects you to Idaho’s rugged past while immersing you in its present beauty.

If you seek a mountain biking adventure fed by history, scenic contrasts, and a steady thrill of discovery, the Route of the Hiawatha near Wallace is a practical and inspiring choice. Pack wisely, ride prepared, and let the wilderness welcome you with open trails and the echo of steel wheels on old rails.