The Saint Regis to Paradise scenic byway is located in western Montana about 70 miles northwest of Missoula. It is 22 miles long and follows MT 135 from Saint Regis to the junction with MT 200. The state highway is a two-lane paved road safe for travel by all types of vehicles. It usually remains open year-round but winter driving requires extra caution.

Originally a meandering trail used by homesteaders in the late 1800s, the Saint Regis to Paradise scenic byway is now a pleasurable drive along the scenic Clark Fork River. It travels through the flat, forested Dolan Flats into the canyon walls of the Clark Fork River, which divides the Coeur d'Alene and Cabinet Mountain ranges. Elk, deer, and bighorn sheep inhabit the canyon region and the heavily forested mountains surrounding the route. Bald eagles are occasionally seen, especially during fall and winter months.

Clark Fork River provides excellent opportunities for those interested in fishing or rafting. The river rapids are of varying levels of difficulty, offering a challenging float trip for all skill levels. If you're not interested in rafting, there are numerous spots where you can enjoy a lunch while watching others float on the river.

Those interested in camping will find only one national forest campground along the byway. Cascade Campground has ten sites that can accommodate recreational vehicles up to 22 feet long. The campground is open from mid-May to the end of October. Other facilities available include drinking water, restrooms, a boat ramp, and hiking trail.

About 25 miles east of the northern end of the byway is the 19,000-acre National Bison Range. This natural grassland area was established in 1908 to protect one of the most important remaining herds of American bison. About 400 of these shaggy animals roam the land. Self-guided auto tours are available year-round. A visitor center provides more information on the bison and the area. Other wildlife in the area includes white-tailed deer, mule deer, bighorn sheep, and pronghorn.

Information: Lolo National Forest, Plains Ranger District, PO Box 429, Plains MT 59859 / 406-826-3821