The Route of the Hiawatha – Scenic Bike Trail is one of the Northwest’s most memorable outdoor adventures, offering a rare combination of stunning scenery and history, all on an easy downhill ride. Stretching 15 miles through the Bitterroot Mountains, this gentle, downhill trail takes riders across 7 sky-high trestles and through 10 dark tunnels, creating an unforgettable adventure.
Originally part of the Milwaukee Railroad, the trail now gives visitors a chance to travel through a landscape shaped by both nature and history. Along the route, 50 interpretive signs share stories about the railroad era, engineering feats, avalanches and the devastating Big Burn fire of 1910, adding depth to the experience without slowing down the fun. It is the kind of rail-trail that lets you enjoy the ride while also appreciating the depth of the story beneath it.Â
One of the most unforgettable parts of the journey is the 1.661-mile St. Paul Pass Tunnel (AKA Taft Tunnel), where riders switch on their lights and glide through near-total darkness before emerging back into bright mountain air. That contrast is part of what makes the Hiawatha feel so unique. Add in sweeping views, cool forest air and a gentle downhill grade with an optional shuttle bus that brings you back to the top. It is easy to see why the trail has become a favorite summer outing for people across the country.
The trail operates from May 22 through September 22 for the 2026 season, with shuttle buses that transport you from the bottom of the trail up to the back end of the Taft Tunnel. The shuttle service runs every day during the biking season. Riders can reserve tickets, shuttles and rentals in advance, which helps save time and money. Helmets and lights are included with all bicycle rentals, and class 1 pedal-assist e-bikes or class 2 with the throttle cable disengaged are welcome, making the experience accessible to a wide range of riders.
Whether you are looking for a scenic day trip, a unique adventure or just a chance to do something memorable in the mountains, The Route of the Hiawatha – Scenic Bike Trail delivers. Forget the roller coasters — this is the ride you’ll actually remember.Â
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