Lincoln is settled in the picturesque Blackfoot Valley. The town is surrounded by National Forest land, providing the perfect backdrop for camping, lhiking, fishing and ATVing. Just north of the community, and visible from Highway 200 sits the Scapegoat Wilderness Area. With such wild and untouched wilderness, it's not uncommon for visitors to spot a wide range of wildlife, including black bears, grizzly bears, moose, coyotes and a variety of birds of prey.
Norman Maclean's "A River Runs Through It" gave the Blackfoot River international attention as one of the best blue-ribbon trout rivers in the country. The Blackfoot River flows between Lincoln and Missoula offering 75 miles of that blue-ribbon fishing in addition to other recreation opportunities. In 2014, Blackfoot Pathways: Sculpture in the Wild was established. With the installation of this sculpture park, Lincoln gained another claim to fame that has drawn thousands to the community.
Lincoln has a rich history ranging from serving as a hunting ground for a number of Native American tribes, a part of the route Meriwether Lewis took when returning from the Pacific in 1806. The town may have been established as a mining outpost, but it was the timber industry that kept the community alive. When you visit Lincoln, there is plenty to explore!
How to Access the Continental Divide Trail From Lincoln
As one of the four Montana Gateway Communities on the Continental Divide, Lincoln offers a variety of amenities of interest to hikers as well as easy access to the CDT. Each of the gateway communities provides easy access to the CDT whether that is for thru-hikers looking for respite from their demanding hike or for visitors to the community interested in exploring a section of the trail. Learn more about the different access below.
Gateway Community
Access Point
Trailheads
Alice Creek to Lewis and Clark Pass
From Lincoln, Montana take MT-200 E/Main St for 10.2 miles. Turn left onto Alice Creek Rd and continue for 8.6 miles until you reach the trailhead. Unless full, the trailhead has parking and turn around space for trailers.
Lincoln to Rogers Pass
Access is well marked for both Rogers and Flesher Pass. Rogers Pass is on Highway 200 and Flesher Pass is on Highway 279.
Lincoln to Stemple Pass
Stemple Pass Road, maintained year-round, offers direct access to the CDT east of Lincoln. The trailhead has a bathroom, picnic tables, fire rings, and informational kiosks. Overnight parking is permitted.
Visiting Lincoln, Montana
As you plan your trip to and through Lincoln, Montana get to know the community. Lincoln is a mecca for outdoor recreation and provides incredible opportunity for fishing, hiking and ATVing. Learn more about the available accommodations in town!
Things to do While Visiting Lincoln, Montana
Nestled in the Blackfoot Valley, Lincoln is a basecamp for incredible outdoor recreation. In the area, you'll find opportunity for camping, hiking, fishing, ATVing, and more. The small community has a number of lodging options, bars, restaurants, and shops./ Favorites among visitors include the Hi-Country Trading Post, Upper Blackfoot Valley Historical Museum, and Sculpture in the Wild.
Lincoln Weather
Lincoln Information for Thru Hikers
Thru-hikers on the Continental Divide will find that Lincoln, although small, offers everything they need. There is opportunity for package pickup, resupplying, accommodations, wifi and showers. Here's a brief rundown of the amenities available in Lincoln, Montana.
Where to Resupply
Grizzly Hardware
628 Main St.
406-362-4995
Where to Send Packages
US Post Office
237 Main St., 59639
406-362-4523
Places to Stay
Hooper Park Campground
948 Main St
406-362-4550
Three Bears Motel of Lincoln
203 Main St. MT Hwy 200
threebearsmotel@gmail.com
The Wheel Inn Tavern
123 Main St
406-362-9261
Other Useful Information
For Internet
Lewis & Clark Library
102 9th St
406-362-4300
