Description
The Oregon Trail Big Hill Monument overlooks one of the most difficult sections of the historic Oregon Trail, where pioneers had to lower wagons down a steep descent into the Bear Lake Valley near Montpelier, Idaho. Today the site offers a quiet overlook with wide views of the valley and surrounding mountains, and the road up to the monument makes for a nice short detour if you’re riding through the Bear Lake or Montpelier area. It’s an easy stop with historical significance, good scenery, and a peaceful spot to take a break before continuing on toward Bear Lake, Soda Springs, or Wyoming backroads.
More Information
Oregon Trail Center (Montpelier): https://history.idaho.gov/oregon-trail-center/
Bear Lake North Beach: https://parksandrecreation.idaho.gov/parks/bear-lake/
Caribou National Forest roads & maps: https://www.fs.usda.gov/ctnf
Montpelier, Idaho visitor info: https://www.montpelieridaho.info/
Coordinates: 42.235872, -111.233095
Elevation: 6070 ft
Difficulty: 1
What to Expect:
Check In
Use the form below to check in. Check-ins must include a photo of you or your bike at the challenge site with the 2026 bandanna. All participants must be registered IAMC Challenge Members. Leave a description of your ride and share road conditions — snow, water, obstacles, and tips for future riders are all appreciated.
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9 Check-Ins
One of those nice little roadside history stops just down US-30 from the Oregon Trail Center.
Unfortunately some ass tagged the signs...
Right on the hwy with interesting stories from the wagon trains.
Fortunately the snow is only on the mountains to the West and not falling down here in the valley today.
