About Us

Team Lochsa is a family on and off the mountain
Protecting the environment and lands is our priority, enjoying the environment and lands is our passion. Winter use of that environment and lands is our primary season, and motorized sleds have, for over 40 years, enabled our valuable access.

Mission Statement
Our Mission is to support, create positive awareness and provide an accurate representation of backcountry sports through responsible recreational riding, professional, “Hill Climb” racing, facilitating safety training, charitable assist/contributions, search and rescue, government agency collaboration, vendor communication and interlock with other related clubs and organizations globally.

General Info
Team Lochsa LLC is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization focused on promoting safe, responsible, family enjoyment of mountain sports with an emphasis on winter snowmobiling, both professional and recreational for men, women and children, all ages.

Our club represents over 500 public stewards of our beautiful Northwest lands…all of which are avid outdoor sports enthusiasts.  We are based near Missoula, Montana, but our membership spans across 15 states in the Union. Our club not only represents and promotes recreational mountain sports but also sponsors member athletes in professional winter sports such as National Hill Climb Snowmobile Racing.

About the Lochsa
The Lochsa River drainage is one of the most remarkable and pristine watersheds in the northwestern United States. Located in north-central Idaho, the Lochsa River flows through rugged mountainous terrain, forming a vital tributary of the Middle Fork of the Clearwater River. Its drainage system encompasses vast wilderness areas, diverse ecosystems, and a rich history that includes Native American heritage, early exploration, and modern conservation efforts. 

Geographical Features
The Lochsa River originates in the Bitterroot Mountains, near the Montana-Idaho border, at elevations exceeding 7,000 feet. The river runs westward for approximately 70 miles before joining the Selway River to form the Middle Fork of the Clearwater River. The watershed covers an area of roughly 1,200 square miles, consisting of steep, forested slopes, narrow valleys, and fast-flowing streams.

One of the most defining characteristics of the Lochsa River is its wild, untamed nature. Unlike many rivers in the United States, the Lochsa remains undammed-thanks to its Wild and Scenic designation, allowing it to maintain its natural hydrology. This contributes to its reputation as a premier whitewater rafting destination, with Class III and IV rapids that attract adventure enthusiasts from around the world.

The climate within the Lochsa River drainage is characterized by cold, snowy winters and warm, dry summers. Snowmelt from the Bitterroot Mountains plays a crucial role in feeding the river, resulting in high water levels during the spring and early summer. Precipitation in the form of rain and snow sustains the dense forests and diverse plant life within the watershed.

Ecological Significance
The Lochsa River drainage is a haven for biodiversity. It is home to a variety of plant and animal species, many of which rely on the river’s cold, clear waters for survival. The river provides critical habitat for several fish species, including wild steelhead, Chinook salmon, and bull trout, all of which require pristine aquatic conditions to thrive.

The surrounding forests, primarily composed of western red cedar, Douglas fir, and lodgepole pine, support a wide range of wildlife. Elk, mule deer, black bears, mountain lions, and gray wolves inhabit the area, benefiting from the relatively undisturbed wilderness. Additionally, numerous bird species, including bald eagles, osprey, and great gray owls, rely on the watershed for nesting and foraging.

In recognition of its ecological importance, much of the Lochsa River drainage falls within the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness and the Clearwater National Forest. These protected lands help preserve the watershed’s integrity, ensuring that its natural resources remain available for future generations.

Historical Importance
The Lochsa River drainage has a deep-rooted history that extends back thousands of years. Indigenous groups, particularly the Nez Perce people, have long inhabited the region, relying on its abundant resources for sustenance. The Nez Perce utilized the river’s fish populations, hunted game in the surrounding forests, and followed ancient trails through the Bitterroot Mountains for trade and travel.

One of the most historically significant routes in the Lochsa River drainage is the Lolo Trail. Used by the Nez Perce for centuries, this rugged pathway later became a critical route for explorers and settlers. In 1805 and 1806, the Lewis and Clark Expedition traversed the Lolo Trail during their journey to the Pacific and back. Their crossing through the Bitterroot Mountains was one of the most challenging segments of their expedition, as they faced harsh weather, difficult terrain, and scarce food supplies. This trail is now followed by the 500 road- allowing adventurers of all kinds to walk/drive in the footsteps of the Nez Perce and early settlers.

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the region saw increased settlement and resource extraction. Logging operations expanded, taking advantage of the vast timber reserves within the Clearwater National Forest. Although early logging practices were sometimes unsustainable, modern conservation efforts have helped balance economic activities with environmental preservation.

Modern Conservation and Recreation
Today, the Lochsa River drainage is highly valued for both conservation and recreation. The river’s designation as a Wild and Scenic River under the National Wild and Scenic Rivers Act helps protect its free-flowing nature, ensuring that development does not interfere with its ecological and recreational qualities.

Outdoor enthusiasts flock to the region to experience its unspoiled beauty. Whitewater rafting and kayaking are among the most popular activities, with the Lochsa offering some of the most thrilling rapids in the Pacific Northwest. Anglers also visit the river in pursuit of native trout and steelhead, while hikers and backpackers explore the numerous trails within the surrounding wilderness areas. The vast logging road systems allow for seemingly endless offroad/overland exploration and access to pristine views and camp sites. 

Efforts to maintain the watershed’s ecological health include habitat restoration projects, fish conservation programs, and policies aimed at reducing human impact. Organizations such as the U.S. Forest Service, local conservation groups like Team Lochsa, and tribal entities work collaboratively to monitor and protect the river and its tributaries.

Contact
For sponsorship or general information, please email TeamLochsa@msn.com.