Located about a mile south of Lolo, Montana is one of the only archaeologically verified campsites utilized by Lewis and Clark during their historic expedition. Travelers’ Rest State Park is at the heart of this historic landmark that was used by the Corps of Discovery in 1805 and again in 1806. With Lolo Creek running right through the park, Travelers’ Rest is the perfect place to take a stroll through Montana’s history.
Since the park was opened to the public in 2002, it has easily seen more than 35,000 visitors each year. Thousands of school children have had the great fortune of experiencing all the park has to offer during school field trips and community members, serving as guides and interpreters, have logged innumerable volunteer hours during their time there. Additionally, Travelers’ Rest is also a vibrant bird habitat, with over 100 different species recorded within the boundaries of this 65-acre park.
Every bit as significant as Lewis and Clark’s trek through the Bitterroot Mountains is the rich Native American history of the Salish, Pend d’Oreille, and Nez Pearce tribes that, for centuries, used Travelers’ Rest as a cultural crossroads. The programming at the park provides these groups an important opportunity to share their tales.
In partnership with Montana State Parks, the Travelers’ Rest Preservation and Heritage Association is the park’s managing organization. Together, they provide the highest level of visitor services. To find out more about the special events and programs offered throughout the year, stop by the Travelers’ Rest Visitor’s Center, call the park manager at 406.273.4253, or visit the Travelers’ Rest Connection. www.TravelersRest.org