For more information Please remember to always buckle up ... · Brochure Credits: Pauline Davis..... Graphic Design, ITD Division of Highways ... an easy climb up the Greer Grade,

Panhandle Region Page

West & Central Region Page

Gold Rush Historic Byway................................2Lake Coeur d'Alene Scenic Byway ...................3Northwest Passage National Scenic Byway .....4Panhandle Historic Rivers Passage ..................5Pend Oreille National Scenic Byway................6St. Joe River Scenic Byway...............................7White Pine Scenic Byway ................................8Wild Horse Trail Scenic Byway........................9

City of Rocks Back Country Byway...............10Hells Canyon Scenic Byway ............................11Owyhee Uplands Back Country Byway..........12Payette River National Scenic Byway ............13Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway........................14Salmon River Scenic Byway............................15Sawtooth Scenic Byway...................................16Thousand Springs Scenic Byway.....................17Western Heritage Historic Byway ..................18Wildlife Canyon Scenic Byway........................19

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BonnersFerry

Sandpoint

Moscow

OrofinoLewiston

Pierce

Kamiah

Grangeville

Riggins

McCall

Cascade

Lowman

Weiser

Emmett Idaho City

Stanley

Challis

Salmon

Caldwell

Nampa

Fairfield

Mountain Home

Bruneau

Sun ValleyKetchum

Hailey

Shoshone

Arco

Buhl BurleyTwinFalls

AmericanFalls

Malad CityPreston

SodaSprings

Pocatello

Blackfoot

IdahoFalls

DriggsRexburg

AshtonDubois

Coeur d’Alene

New Meadows

Bliss

Payette

Cambridge

Carey

Horseshoe

Bend

McCammon

Lewisand ClarkBackCountryByway

OwyheeUplandsBackCountryByway

PayetteRiver

NationalScenicByway

Gold RushHistoric Byway

Northwest PassageNational Scenic

Byway

Lost GoldTrails Loop

Fort HenryHistoric Byway

SacajaweaHistoric Byway

Pend Oreille NationalScenic Byway

East Region Page

Fort Henry Historic Byway ..............................20Lewis and Clark Back Country Byway............21Lost Gold Trails Loop.......................................22Mesa Falls Scenic Byway ..................................23Oregon Trail-Bear Lake Scenic Byway.............24Pioneer Historic Byway ....................................25Sacajawea Historic Byway ................................26Teton Scenic Byway ..........................................27

St. Maries

Montpelier

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Brochure Credits:Pauline Davis........ Graphic Design, ITD Division of HighwaysTom Marks............. Maps, ITD Division of Planning & Programming

This publication is a glovebox guide to Idaho’s scenic, historic and back countrybyways and the natural attractions through which they pass. Each byway is referredto by name and location, with the number of miles and amount of time needed totravel it listed for your reference. A description of the byway’s surface and grade, andthe availability of roadside services including rest stops, campgrounds, and specialattractions, also are provided. Services are listed as “full” when gas, food, and lodgingare available. “Partial” services include gas and a few other facilities. Rest areasgenerally offer only restrooms, telephones, vending machines, and a place to relax.

Please remember to always buckle up and observe posted speed limits.

For more informationabout Idaho’s recreationopportunities, call 1-800 VISIT-IDor visit us on the web atwww.visitid.org.

For information specific to Idaho’sScenic Byways Program contactGarry Young, Idaho TransportationDepartment (ITD) Scenic BywaysCoordinator, at (208) 334-8214or e-mail [email protected].

As you flip through this brochure,use the region’s background colorshown here to quickly identify theregion of the state. The matchingregion color appear on the rightside of each byway’s page. Bywaysare organized together by regionand then listed in alphabetical order.

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Rich in scenery, history, and wildlife, the route along Idaho 11 begins in Greer at the junction of U.S. 12 withan easy climb up the Greer Grade, providing a breathtaking, panoramic view of the Clearwater Valley. At thecrest of the mountain lie the beautiful rolling fields of grains and grasses cultivated by local farmers. Justdown the road is the historic town of Weippe, not far from where members of the Nez Perce Tribe met andfed starving members of Lewis and Clark’s Corps of Discovery in 1805.

Gold Rush Historic Byway


LocationBegins at the junction of U.S. 12 and Idaho 11 onthe Clearwater River at Greer.

Length42.5 miles. Allow 2.5 hours round trip.

RoadwayIdaho 11 is a two-lane road with some passing lanes.It is well maintained with several turnouts for scenicviewing. It can be icy during winter months.

When to see itYear around. Summer offers camping, fishing, riding, andhiking areas. Winter provides skiing andsnowmobiling on 350 miles of groomed and opentrails, maintained weekly.

Special attractionsLewis and Clark historical sites; Weippe Discovery Center;Idaho’s first county courthouse; Bradbury LoggingMuseum; Pierce City Library and historic downtownarea; a Chinese cemetery; Bald Mountain Ski Area; andthe Clearwater National Forest.

CampingThree RV parks in Pierce, two in Weippe; campgroundsin Fraser Park and both Hollywood and Campbell’sPond. There are many camping areas in the surroundingClearwater National Forest and the North Fork of theClearwater River recreational area.

ServicesFull services in Weippe and Pierce; partial services inGreer. Headquarters has no services.

ContactsPierce-Weippe Chamber of Commerce: (800) 538-1754;City of Pierce: (208) 464-2323; www.pierceidaho.com;www.weippe.com; www.ohwy.com/id/p/pierce.htm.

Minutes later, the scenery changes again, as thevast fields transform into a lush forest thickwith wildlife. Nestled among the trees is thetown of Pierce, where early pioneers discoveredgold in Idaho for the first time. It also boaststhe state’s inaugural government building, theold Shoshone County Courthouse. Other attractionsinclude a logging museum, the city library’sartifact collection from the adventures of Chineseminers in the area, and five more historicalsites featured along the byway.

Twelve miles north of Pierce is the village ofHeadquarters, marking the end of the GoldRush Historic Byway and the beginning of thearea’s other “gold mine” – the majestic andseemingly endless Clearwater National Forest.

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Lake Coeur d’Alene Scenic BywayThe Lake Coeur d’Alene (cör-da-lane) Scenic Byway travels an area where the lakes, mountains, andbeautiful summer weather have made it one of the most famous summer playgrounds and resortdestinations in the Pacific Northwest. It’s also home to a variety of wildlife, including moose, deer,elk, bear and several bird species, still roaming the pristine forests of northern Idaho.

Beginning at the junction of Interstate90 and Idaho 97, the route travelssouth along the eastern shoreline ofLake Coeur d’Alene, home to bald eaglesand the largest population of nestingosprey in the Western states. Take abreak and stretch your legs on theMineral Ridge Trail, which offers panoramicviews of the lake, as well as severallearning stations describing the area’sbotany and animal life.

The route continues through gentlehills and dense forests to the charmingtown of Harrison. This byway endsat Idaho 3, where it meets the WhitePine Scenic Byway and its southernroute to the Palouse.

LocationBegins at the junction of Interstate 90 andIdaho 97 and follows Idaho 97 south and east alongLake Coeur d’Alene to Idaho 3.

Length35.8 miles. Allow 1.5 hours.

RoadwayIdaho 97 is a two-lane, winding road with fewpassing lanes.

When to see itYear around. Eagle watching is great in December andJanuary between Wolf Lodge Bay and Beauty Bay.

Special attractionsLake Coeur d’Alene; Mineral Ridge Trail at Beauty Bay;Caribou Ridge National Recreation Trail; Blackwell Islandboat launch/recreation site; Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes.

CampingBeauty Creek east of Beauty Bay, Bell Bay near Harrison,city of Harrison.

ServicesPartial services in Carlin Bay and Squaw Bay. FullServices in Harrison and Coeur d’Alene.

ContactsCoeur d’Alene Area Chamber of Commerce:(208) 664-3194 or (877) 782-9232,[email protected], www.coeurdalene.org; St. MariesChamber of Commerce: (208) 245-3563,www.stmarieschamber.org; Harrison Chamber of Commerce:(208) 689-3669, www. harrisonidaho.com; Idaho PanhandleNational Forest: (208) 765-7223.

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In 1803, President Jefferson commissioned Meriwether Lewis and William Clark to find the Northwest Passage, the linkbetween the Missouri River and the Columbia River through the unexplored Rocky Mountains. This 202-mile byway,stretching across north-central Idaho, follows the explorers’ route through the ancestral homeland of the Nez Perce people.

From the west, this beautiful route begins on U.S. 12 at Lewiston, and traverses the winding Clearwater RiverCanyon, passing through the Nez Perce National Historical Park areas of Spalding and Kamiah and the towns ofOrofino and Kooskia. At Kamiah is the Heart of the Monster, a geologic formation and legendary Nez Perce site.

At Kooskia the byway splits. One segment turns south on Idaho Highway 13 toward the Camas Prairie and thetown of Grangeville. Another segment continues east on U.S. 12 along the Middle Fork of the Clearwater River,and the Lochsa Wild and Scenic River, through a magnificent wilderness culminating at the Lolo Pass Visitor Center.

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LocationBegins in Lewiston and follows U.S. 12 northeast to theIdaho–Montana border; also follows Idaho 13 from Kooskiato Grangeville and the junction of U.S. 95.

Length202 miles. Lewiston to Montana, 175 miles, allow 4 hours.Kooskia to Grangeville, 27 miles, allow 40 minutes.

RoadwayIdaho 13 and U.S. 12 are winding, two-lane roads withoccasional passing lanes and slow vehicle turnouts. Winterdriving conditions may include black ice in the canyons andsnow-covered roads at higher elevations.

When to see itBoating, fishing, heritage sites, and wildlife viewing year-round.Whitewater opportunities in spring and summer.

Special attractionsU.S. 12 parallels the Lewis & Clark and Nez Perce nationalhistoric trails. Sites include Tsceminicum sculpture, Lewiston;Nez Perce National Historical Park Visitor Center, Spalding;Canoe Camp, Orofino; Heart of the Monster, Kamiah; mammothexhibit, Grangeville; Fenn & Lochsa historic ranger stations;DeVoto Grove; and Lolo Pass Visitor Center. Other attractionsinclude summer community festivals and powwows.

CampingCampgrounds at Lewiston, Myrtle, Orofino, Kamiah, Kooskia,Grangeville, and Lowell. Forest Service and BLM campsites alongthe Clearwater and Lochsa rivers.

ServicesFull services in Lewiston, Orofino, Kamiah, Kooskia, Grangeville;partial services at Stites, Syringa, Lowell, and Powell. Rest areasat Lenore and Lolo Pass.

ContactsNorth Central Idaho Travel Association (877) 364-3246 orwww.northcentralidaho.info; Nez Perce National HistoricalPark (208) 843-2261 or www.nps.gov/nepe; Chambers ofCommerce: Lewiston (208) 743-3531; Orofino (208) 476-4335; Kamiah (208) 935-2290; Kooskia (208) 926-4362;Grangeville (208) 983-0460; Clearwater National Forest (208)476-4541; Nez Perce National Forest (208) 983-1950; NezPerce Tribe (208) 843-2253 or www.nezperce.org.

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NorthwestPassageNationalScenic Byway

Northwest Passage National Scenic Byway

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The Panhandle Historic Rivers Passage begins at the Washington state line and follows the northernshore of the Pend Oreille River through Oldtown, Priest River, and ends in Sandpoint. This byway isthe southern leg of the International Selkirk Loop which extends into Washington on the west andheads into British Columbia on the Wild Horse Trail Scenic Byway from Sandpoint on the east.

Enjoy driving along miles of soothing river scenery that reflects the pastoral beauty of surroundingforests and farms. Pull over and be entertained by varying seasonal wildlife, birds of prey, and waterfowl;or stop and absorb the history of northern Idaho in three different museums along the byway. Thishistory extends back to the ice age and the Great Missoula Floods. Convenient access to the PendOreille River at four recreation areas provides opportunities to swim or boat along spacious, gently-flowing waters. Winter recreation includes snow sports on state and federal lands, ice fishing when itis cold enough,and downhillskiing atSchweitzer.

Panhandle Historic Rivers Passage

LocationBegins at the Washington state line and follows U.S. 2to Sandpoint.

Length28.5 miles. Allow 40 minutes.

RoadwayU.S. 2 is a two-lane road with no passing lanes. It canbe icy during winter months.

When to see itYear around. Eagles in the winter, osprey in the summer,waterfowl in the spring and fall. Nature’s palette ofvegetation colors are particularly abundant in springand fall.

Special attractionsPend Oreille and Priest Rivers; Panhandle National Forest;Seneacquoteen Interpretive Site; Rotary Park in Oldtown;Priest River Wildlife Area; Albeni Falls Dam Visitor Center;three historical museums; and Priest River’s historic downtown.

Camping“Mudhole” Recreation Area at Priest River and Riley CreekRecreation Area eight miles further west at Laclede;numerous other camping sites within area includingbeautiful Priest Lake.

ServicesFull services in Priest River and Sandpoint; partial servicesin Oldtown.

ContactsPriest River Chamber of Commerce: (208) 448-2721,www.priestriver.org; Sandpoint Visitors Center: (800) 800-2106; Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce: (208) 263-0887,www.sandpointonline.com, www.sandpointchamber.com;Albeni Falls Dam Visitors Center: (208) 437-3133; USFSRanger Station in Sandpoint: (208) 263-5111; USFS RangerStation at Priest Lake (208) 443-2562; InternationalSelkirk Loop: (888) 823-2626, www.selkirkloop.org.

Wild Horse TrailScenic Byway

Pend OreilleNational

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The Pend Oreille (pon-der-ay) Scenic Byway offers travelers some of Idaho’s most spectacular water views.Beginning at the intersection with U.S. 95, Idaho 200 meanders eastward to the Montana state line acrossfarmlands, through river deltas, and along the rocky northern shores of Lake Pend Oreille, all sculptedby the massive force of glaciers and the floodwaters of Glacial Lake Missoula. Pullouts along the bywayallow visitors to stop and enjoy breathtaking vistas of mountainous horizons framing miles of open water.

Four-season recreational opportunities begin along the shores of the lake and reach across the vast regionsof national forest overlooking the Pend Oreille Scenic Byway. Whether you are inclined to swim or fish,boat or golf, hunt or hike mountain trails, alpine ski or snowmobile, water ski or bird watch – each ofour distinctive four seasons offers an outstanding recreational opportunity for almost every person who

Pend Oreille NationalScenic Byway

Pend Oreille National Scenic Byway

LocationBegins at U.S. 95 north of Sandpoint and follows Idaho200 to the Montana state line.

Length33.4 miles. Allow 1.5 hours to enjoy the scenery andinterpretive information.

RoadwayIdaho 200 is a two-lane road with no passing lanes,but numerous scenic turnouts. Winter driving conditionsrequire drivers to pay attention.

When to see itYear around. Winter scenes can be magnificent, springand fall colors are dramatic.

Special attractionsLake Pend Oreille; Clark Fork River and delta; roadsideinterpretive exhibits; Schweitzer Ski Area; PanhandleNational Forests’ seasonal trails and roads; and fourseasons of recreational opportunities.

CampingSamowen Campground on the lake, maintained andprimitive spots in the Panhandle National Forest, andnumerous private spots in the area.

ServicesFull services in Clark Fork, Ponderay, and Sandpoint;partial services in Hope.

ContactsHope-Clark Fork Chamber of Commerce: (208)266-1552, www.pobyway.org, [email protected];Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce: (800) 800-2106;Sandpoint Ranger District: (208) 263-5111.

enjoys the outdoors.Visitors can find varyingaccommodations fromunimproved mountaincampsites to maintainedshoreline campgroundsto recreational vehiclesparks along the wateror choose from lakefrontresorts or motels.

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LocationFrom St. Maries at the junction of Idaho 3 and ForestHwy 50 (FS 50), east along the St. Joe River for 75miles. At the junction with Road 218, FS 50 heads north(left) and climbs 14 miles to the Idaho-Montana border.

Length89 miles. Allow 2.5 to 3 hours one way.

RoadwayTwo-lane paved road with numerous pull-outs and pointsof interest along the way.

When to see itYear around from St. Maries to Avery (47 miles). The42 miles from Avery to the Idaho border is usuallyopen from May through November. During the winter,this section is a snowmobile route.

Special attractionsFalls Creek waterfall; Marble Creek historic site and picnicarea; Avery Ranger Station; Avery Museum; Upper LandingPicnic area; Idaho Panhandle National Forest; St. Joe Wildand Scenic River; breathtaking scenery; blue ribbon fishery;white water rafting; and the Hiawatha Rails to Trails isnear by.

CampingPrivate facilities are available in and around St. Mariesand Avery; Shadowy St. Joe Campground and HuckleberryCampground are located along the lower, slower movingSt. Joe River; Pack Saddle; Turner Tin Can and ConradCrossings campgrounds are upstream from Avery alongthe Wild and Scenic St. Joe; and numerous undevelopedcampsites along the river.

ServicesFull services are available in St Maries and Avery, andpartial services in Calder.

ContactsSt. Maries Chamber of Commerce: (208) 245-3563,www.stmarieschamber.org; St. Joe Ranger District, St. MariesOffice: (208) 245-2531, Avery Office: (208) 245-4517,www.fs.fed.us; Bureau of Land Management: www.blm.gov.

Wildlife aboundsalong the river’sedge, wheredeer, elk, mooseand bear can beseen. The St. JoeRiver ScenicByway is truly arecreationaltreasure, withsomething foreveryone.

LakeCoeur d’AleneScenic Byway

White PineScenic Byway

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St. Joe RiverScenic Byway

Your journey begins at the town of St. Maries where tug boats still ply the water. East you travel alongthe shadowy St. Joe River so named for the towering Cottonwoods which adorn the shore lines. Among thesetrees are bald eagles and osprey, which use the trees as nesting sites and perches where they launchthemselves to pick up dinner from the feast provided by “The Joe.” As you travel the first half of the bywaythe river is deep and still with picturesque mountain landscapes that are captured on the watery canvas.

At St. Joe City “The Joe” becomes shallower and starts to talk to you as it flows through rapids. The wateris faster here and clear, so clear that you can see the trout that call it home. “The Joe” is one of Idaho’spremier blue ribbon trout fisheries where you can catch Dolly Vardins, rainbow, cutthroat and other speciesof trout. All along the river adventure awaits you, at Marble Creek interpretive center tour the logging display,in Avery stop in and see the trout pond, where rainbow trout rise to your offerings. Visit the historic railroaddepot and the refurbished sleeper/dining car.

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LocationFrom the junction of Interstate 90 and Idaho 3,south on Idaho 3 to Idaho 6, then southwest toU.S. 95 at Potlatch.

Length82.8 miles. Allow 2 hours.

RoadwayIdaho 3 and Idaho 6 are both two-lane roads withno passing lanes.

When to see itYear around.

Special attractionsOld Mission State Park; Coeur d’Alene River WildlifeManagement Area; St. Joe National Forest; Palouse DivideNordic Ski Area (“Park and Ski” cross country area);Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes; Potlatch historic walkingtours; Mullan Trail Park, Steam Donkey, 1910 FireMemorial and historical murals in St. Maries.

CampingLaird Park, Giant White Pine Park north of Harvard,Pines RV and Camping in Harvard; Scenic 6 RV Parkin Potlatch; Heyburn State Park, Benewah CountyFairgrounds, Shady River RV Park in or near St. Maries.

ServicesFull services in St. Maries; partial services in Potlatch.

ContactsSt. Maries Chamber of Commerce: (208) 245-3563,www.stmarieschamber.org; Idaho Panhandle NationalForest: (208) 245-2531; Old Mission State Park: (208)682-3814; Potlatch City Hall: (208) 875-0708,potlatchidaho.org; Coeur d’Alene Area Chamber ofCommerce: (208) 664-3194 or (877) 782-9232,[email protected], www.coeurdalene.org.

The White Pine Scenic Byway begins on Idaho 3 at Interstate 90 near Cataldo, home to Old Mission ofthe Sacred Heart. Built in the mid-1800’s, the mission itself is the oldest building still standing in Idaho;travelers can also visit the nearby Parish House and two historic cemeteries on the grounds, and enjoythe visitor center, walking trails, and picnic areas.

From Cataldo, the White Pine ScenicByway passes through the lush forestsof Idaho’s timber country and thenumerous lakes and marshlands of thelower Coeur d’Alene River to the townof St. Maries, the Hughes House Museum,and other attractions. The byway thencrosses the picturesque St. Maries andSt. Joe rivers, the latter of which is thehighest navigable river in the world.

The route continues on Idaho 6,meandering south through the town ofEmida, and the St. Joe National Forestwhich boasts the largest stand of WhitePine in the country. The byway windsthrough rolling hills of the Palouse regionto the historic town of Potlatch, oncesite of the largest white pine lumbermill in the world.

White Pine Scenic Byway

Lake Coeur d’AleneScenic Byway


Lake Coeur d’AleneScenic Byway


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Wild Horse Trail Scenic BywayThe Wild Horse Trail Scenic Byway, part of the International Selkirk Loop, starts on the northwestern shores of LakePend Oreille in the resort community of Sandpoint. Heading north along the eastern side of the Selkirk Mountainsthe roadway follows the Kootenai Tribe’s historic path to fishing grounds at Lake Pend Oreille. In 1808 the first whiteexplorer David Thompson also utilized this trail. The “Wild Horse Trail” became more than a path in 1863 when goldwas discovered in “Wild Horse Creek,” 120 miles to the north of Bonners Ferry Idaho in British Columbia. There wasa large movement of men and pack animals along the “Wild Horse Trail” until the gold rush ceased circa 1880.

LocationBegins on U.S. 95 in downtown Sandpoint and follows U.S. 95north through Bonners Ferry to the junction of U.S. 95 andIdaho 1, then proceeds north on Idaho 1 to the InternationalBorder at Porthill.

Length48.2 miles from Sandpoint to junction of U.S. 95/Idaho 1,11 miles to the International Border at Porthill. Allow 1.5 hours.

RoadwayU.S. 95 is predominantly a 2-lane road with 4 lanes starting2 miles north of Sandpoint for 5 miles. There is a half-milepassing lane north of McArthur Lake traveling north, a 1-milepassing lane northbound south of Bonners Ferry, a 2-milesouthbound passing lane south of Bonners Ferry, and a 4-lanebypass at Bonners Ferry continues north for 3 miles.

When to see itYear around. Four full, distinct seasons with activities and eventsavailable every month. Fall colors are especially dramatic.

Special attractionsLake Pend Oreille; Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge; PanhandleNational Forest; McArthur Lake Wildlife Corridor; Kootenai SturgeonHatchery; Historic Bonners Ferry and Kootenai River.

CampingPrivately owned campgrounds in and around Sandpoint andBonners Ferry. USFS camping at Smith Lake, 5 miles north ofBonners Ferry, seven sites, no fee. Other USFS camping near byat Meadow Creek, Robinson Lake, Copper Creek and Samowen.

ServicesFull services in Sandpoint and Bonners Ferry.

ContactsSandpoint Visitor Center: (800) 800-2106; Greater SandpointChamber of Commerce: (208) 263-0887, www.sandpointchamber.org;Greater Bonners Ferry Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Center:(208) 267-5922, www.bonnersferrychamber.com; International SelkirkLoop: (888) 823-2626, www.selkirkloop.org; Sandpoint RangerDistrict: (208) 263-5111; Bonners Ferry Ranger District: (208) 267-5561, www.fs.fed.us/ipnf; US Customs at Porthill: (208) 267-5309;Idaho Department of Lands: (208) 267-5577 or (208) 263-5104.

Upon arrival of the Northern Pacific railroad to thisregion David Thompson’s old route became a mainfreight line for the railroad.

Just south of Bonners Ferry a stunning wide glacialvalley comes into view. The rich soil deposits leftbehind as the glaciers receded formed fertile landswhich even today support a wide variety of agriculturethroughout the Kootenai Valley.

The Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge west of BonnersFerry and the McArthur Lake Wildlife Managementarea offers a wealth of recreational opportunitiesincluding wildlife viewing, bird watching and hikingtrails. There are six major access roads leading intothe Selkirk Mountains onto Panhandle National Forestlands where recreational opportunities for hiking,fishing, camping, Nordic skiing and snowmobiling canbe enjoyed.

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LocationThe route begins along Idaho 77 at Albion south to theConnor Creek Junction, and continues south through Elbaand Almo and the scenic City of Rocks National Reserve.From the Reserve, the route follows Birch Creek to the Cityof Oakley and the Oakley Historic District where it joinsIdaho 27.

Length49 miles. Allow 1.5 hours.

RoadwayPaved secondary highway from Albion to Connor CreekJunction. Connor Creek to Almo is a narrow winding pavedroad, and from Almo to Oakley the road is graveled untilit joins Idaho 27 at Oakley.

When to see itBest weather to travel is April to November. Call (208)824-5519 for road conditions.

Special attractionsThe beautiful Albion Valley, including Pomerelle Ski Area andLake Cleveland Recreation Area; Castle Rocks State Park;City of Rocks National Reserve; Oakley Historic District.

CampingHowell Canyon and City of Rocks with R.V. parks in Oakley,and at the 1-84 Interchange at the Snake River.

ServicesFull services in Burley; food and lodging in Albion; partialservices in Oakley and Almo.

ContactsCity of Rocks National Reserve: (208) 824-5519; SawtoothNational Forest: (208) 678-0430; Mini-Cassia Chamber ofCommerce: (208) 679-4793, [email protected] [email protected], www.minicassiachamber.org;www.rideidaho.com; or www.nps.gov/ciro.

Forming a 49-mile necklace around the Albion Mountain Range, the City of Rocks Back Country Bywaytraces a rural landscape steeped in history and geological significance.

Beginning in Albion on Idaho 77, the byway traverses the outskirts of the Pomerelle Ski Area and LakeCleveland Recreation Area as it heads south.

At the base of the byway’s necklace lies itsjewel, the City of Rocks National Reserve,where more than 700 challenging climbs rivalYosemite National Park and make it a favoritespot among technical rock climbers worldwide.The visitor center in Almo provides travelinformation, and a series of wayside exhibitsthrough the park interpret the historic CaliforniaTrail migration from 1843 through 1869.

Heading north, the last leg of the byway endsin historic Oakley; the entire town, in fact,is on the National Register of Historic Placesand features the state’s largest concentrationof old stone and wood-framed buildings.

City of Rocks Back Country Byway

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Hells Canyon Scenic BywayThe Hells Canyon Scenic Byway winds its way along the east side of this massive rift that separatesIdaho from neighboring Oregon. While the view from the road is breathtaking, a guided float tripor jet boat tour of the Hells Canyon National Recreation Area is a must. Towering cliffs of blackand green basalt hang so high above the Snake River and its sandy beaches that boaters straintheir necks to see these places. Outfitters offer one-to six-day trips.

Look for wildlife including mountain goats,Big Horn sheep, bald eagles and greatfishing. During the summer months, visitthe Hells Canyon Creek Visitors Center justbelow Hells Canyon Dam, the entrance tothe wild and scenic part of the Snake River.

Today, walls of the canyon are like amuseum, where pictographs and petroglyphsdisplay evidence of the Indians’ earlysettlements. The surrounding area was thehome of Chief Joseph’s band of Nez PerceIndians. Other tribes, including the Shoshone,Bannock, North Paiute and Cayuse Indians,were frequent visitors to the area. Thesetribes were drawn to the region byrelatively mild winters, lush foliage andplentiful wildlife.

LocationHells Canyon Road from Oxbow Bridge near Copperfield,Oregon, north along the Idaho side of the SnakeRiver to Hells Canyon Dam.

Length22 miles. Allow 3 hours round trip from Cambridge.

RoadwayHells Canyon Road is a narrow, winding road withseveral steep grades. It is owned and maintainedall year by Idaho Power Corporation.


Special attractionsHells Canyon National Recreation Area; guidedfloat and jet boat trips on the Snake River; guidedtours of Hells Canyon Dam; Hells Canyon CreekVisitors Center.

CampingCopperfield Park, Hells Canyon Park, Big Bar.

ServicesPartial services 2.5 miles west of Copperfield. Fullservices in Cambridge.

ContactsPayette National Forest: (208) 549-4200; IdahoPower Company: (800) 422-3143; Hells CanyonNational Recreation Area: (208) 628-3916,www.tcfn.org/tctour/parks/HellsCanyon; Hells CanyonCreek Visitor Center: (541) 785-3395 (Available duringsummer months).

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Payette RiverScenic Byway

Starting through hay meadows, rolling hills and the winding course of Jordan Creek, you’ll soon climbinto the mountains and gnarled stands of juniper woodlands. Numerous mountain ranges framethe picturesque desert, with Idaho’s Owyhees rising to the north. From expanses of sagebrush andwildflowers, to rough, rock-walled rivers and streams, the Owyhee Uplands represent what many peoplebelieve the real West is all about.

Owyhee Uplands Back Country Byway

LocationThe loop begins 80 miles southwest of Boise. Itcan be reached from the west through Jordan Valley,Oregon, and from the east, on Idaho 78 near GrandView, Idaho.

Length101 miles. From Boise, it is an all-day trip.

RoadwayMostly one and one-half lanes of graveled road.

When to see itThe byway is usually impassable from late Novemberthrough March because of snow. Also, precipitation canmake the road treacherously slick. The best times ofyear to drive the byway are early summer and fall.

Special attractionsPhotographers can’t resist shooting from an overlookpoint above the North Fork gorge. The mahoganywoodlands offer sweeping views, with the OwyheeMountains as a backdrop.

CampingBureau of Land Management (BLM) has one primitivecampground, the North Fork Recreation Site, about 30miles east of Jordan Valley.

ServicesLimited services in Jordan Valley, Grand View andBruneau; no services along the byway.

ContactsLower Snake River District, Bureau of Land Management:(208) 384-3300.

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From the junction of Idaho 44 and Idaho 55 west of Idaho’s capital city of Boise, this byway heads northon Idaho 55 to Horseshoe Bend where it meets the Payette River. From there, it passes through the Boiseand Payette National Forests and the popular resort towns of Cascade and McCall before reaching thenorthern end of the byway at New Meadows.

For motorists, it can be a distracting drive as theriver crashes and tumbles its way over the rocksthrough this narrow river valley. Depending on whereyou are on the river, it can be a mild ripple or awild torrent. There are occasional pull-offs whereyou can view the wilder parts and treat your sensesto the sight, sound, smell, and rhythm of Idaho’sfamous whitewater.

Along this byway are some great locations forcamping, hiking, boating, fishing, and guided floattrips. Outfitters offer river excursions that rangefrom half-day to three-day outings in rafts or kayaks.

The mountain resort town of McCall sits next toPayette Lake and is a great year-round getaway. Itis particularly famous for the annual Winter Carnival,when the streets are lined with ice sculptures.

PayetteRiverNationalScenicByway

Payette River National Scenic Byway

LocationFrom the junction of U.S. 95 at New Meadows alongIdaho 55 south to Idaho 44 west of Boise.

Length111.7 miles. Allow 2 hours, 15 minutes.

RoadwayNarrow, winding, two-lane road with occasional passinglanes and slow vehicle turnouts.

When to see itYear around. The McCall Winter Carnival takes placein late January or early February.

Special attractionsGuided float trips on the Payette River; CascadeReservoir; snowmobiling and cross-country skiing atSmiths Ferry; Ponderosa State Park on Payette Lake;Brundage Mountain Ski Area; Boise and PayetteNational Forests.

CampingPonderosa State Park, Cascade Reservoir, several campsitesnorth of Banks area and north of McCall area.

ServicesFull services in Boise, Cascade, McCall; partial servicesin Horseshoe Bend, Donnelly, New Meadows.

ContactsBoise National Forest: (208) 373-4007; Payette NationalForest: (208) 634-0700, www.mccall.net/pnf/; McCallVisitors Bureau: (208) 634-7631; Ponderosa State Park:(208) 634-2164. For more byway information go to:[email protected].

Wildlife CanyonScenic Byway

Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway

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The Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway starts in Boise. It follows Idaho 21 north to the historic miningtown of Idaho City, where you can still pan for gold in a nearby stream bed. Campgrounds and fishingopportunities dot the route from Idaho City to Lowman along the South Fork of the Payette River,as you slowly climb along the byway’s northeasterly route.

At the cutoff road to Grandjean, the roadway leaves the Payette River and squeezes between two ofIdaho’s wilderness areas. On the right, the Sawtooth Wilderness and its 217,000 pristine acres ofconiferous forest lands and wilderness lakes. To the left, the Salmon-Challis National Forest, entrywayto the 2.3-million-acre Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness, with more contiguous acres ofroadless wilderness than anywhere else in the lower 48 states.

From Banner Summit,one of Idaho’s highestat 7,056 feet, you begina descent into the townof Stanley. As the roadwaygrooves through the steepfoothills and thick forest,you can catch glimpsesof the SawtoothMountains ahead; finally,as you drop into Stanley,they come into full,magnificent view.

Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway

LocationFrom Boise on Idaho 21 northeast to the junctionof Idaho 75 at Stanley.


RoadwayA narrow, winding road with some steep grades. Twolanes with some passing lanes. There usually is asnow floor north of Lowman during winter. Severeavalanche conditions exist in the Banner Summit areaand road closures can be frequent. Check conditionsbefore traveling in winter!

When to see itYear around. May be closed in winter.

Special attractionsLucky Peak and Arrow Rock Reservoirs; Lucky PeakState Park; Idaho City; Sawtooth Wilderness; GraniteCreek Interpretive Trail; Lowman Fire Interpretive Signs;Kirkham Hot Springs; Stanley Lake; Boise, Salmon-Challis and Sawtooth National Forests; Forest Service/BLMVisitor Information Center in Boise, and the IdahoCity, Lowman, and Stanley Ranger Stations.

CampingThere are five campgrounds between the Idaho Cityarea and Crooked River Road turn off (Milepost 57);four campgrounds between Lowman and the Grandjeanturn off (Milepost 94); and five campgrounds betweenBanner Summit (Milepost 105) and Stanley.

ServicesFull services in Boise, Idaho City, Lowman and Stanley.

ContactsStanley-Sawtooth Chamber of Commerce: (208) 774-3411, www.stanleycc.org; Boise National Forest: (208)373-4007; www.fs.fed.us/r4/boise; [email protected]; StanleyRanger Station: (208) 774-3000; Sawtooth NRA: (208)727-5013; audio tape tours available from IdahoDepartment of Parks & Recreation: (208) 334-4199.

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Salmon RiverScenic Byway

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The northern end of the Salmon River Scenic Byway begins on the Montana border at the Lost TrailPass (elevation 6,995 feet). Lewis and Clark came this way in 1805, and the spectacular view fromthis vantage point has changed little since that famous exploration of the West two centuries ago.The route follows the Salmon River – also called the River of No Return – through the Salmon-ChallisNational Forest through the historiccity of Salmon. The river and its forksserve as important natural pathwaysinto Idaho’s rugged back country. Thedeer, elk, and moose that often grazealong the hills and meadows that linethis road provide a glimpse of thewild country beyond.

Along the way, the town of Challisand the Land of the Yankee ForkHistoric Area are just two points ofinterest, the latter being among Idaho’smost famous mining areas. And as youhead southwest along Idaho 75 towardStanley, you’ll begin to see glimpsesof the majestic Sawtooth Mountainsahead before beholding their fullsplendor as you drop into town.

Salmon River Scenic Byway

LocationFrom the Montana state line south on U.S. 93 to Challis,then west to Stanley on Idaho 75.


RoadwayTwo-lane road with no passing lanes and some25-mph curves.

When to see itBest weather for travel is April to November, althoughaccess to the back country is best from July to October.

Special attractionsSacajawea Interpretive Center; Salmon spawning beds atIndian Riffles; Land of the Yankee Fork Interpretive Center;Tower Rock; Continental Divide National Scenic Trail; Lewisand Clark National Historic Trail; Nez Perce (Nee MeePoo) National Historic Trail; Salmon Wild & Scenic River;Middle Fork Salmon Wild & Scenic River; Frank ChurchRiver of No Return Wilderness; Salmon-Challis and SawtoothNational Forests; natural hot springs and ghost towns.

CampingSalmon River, Riverside, Mormon Bend, Basin Creek, Upperand Lower O’Brien, Holman Creek, East Fork, Bayhorse,Spring Gulch, Cottonwood, Shoup Bridge, Tower Rock,Twin Creek.

ServicesFull services in Stanley, Challis, Salmon, North Fork; partialservices in Clayton, Gibbonsville.

ContactsSalmon Valley Chamber of Commerce: (800) 727-2540,[email protected], www.salmonbyway.com; Stanley-Sawtooth Chamber of Commerce: (208) 774-3411,www.stanleycc.org; Stanley Ranger Station: (208) 774-3000; Sawtooth National Recreation Area: (208) 727-5013; Salmon-Challis National Forests: (208) 756-5100;www.fs.fed.us/r4/sc; Yankee Fork Ranger District: (208)838-3300; Challis Ranger District: (208) 879-4100; NorthFork Ranger District: (208) 865-2700; Salmon DistrictBureau of Land Management: (208) 756-5400; Audio tapetours available for Stanley to Challis & Challis to Salmon.

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Ponderosa PineScenic Byway

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The Sawtooth Scenic Byway has the distinction of being the 100th National Forest Scenic Byway.Beginning in Shoshone, the southern leg of the byway features the new Black Magic Canyon geologicalattraction. The route then rolls north through fertile agricultural land to the resort towns of Hailey,Ketchum, and Sun Valley.

From there, the road carves its way through the Boulder Mountains to Galena Pass, showcasing theridge of the Sawtooth Mountains. Beyond, the rocks and woodlands of the rugged Sawtooth NationalRecreation Area are packed with rivers,streams, and 300 alpine lakes, providingtop-notch venues for a variety of year-round activities. Wildlife watchersshould stay alert; the 756,000-acrerecreational area is home to manyspecies of wildlife, including pronghornantelope, deer, elk, bear and wolves.

The northern tip of the bywayterminates in Stanley, where theSawtooth meets the Ponderosa Pineand Salmon River Scenic Byways. Sono matter which way you drive in orout, you’re in for a treat.

Sawtooth Scenic Byway

LocationIdaho 75 north to Stanley from Shoshone.


RoadwayTwo-lane road with some passing lanes. The 15-milesection over Galena Summit is winding with 5 to 6percent grades. Winter weather can be severe. Checkconditions before traveling.


Special attractionsSawtooth National Recreation Area; Redfish Lake; world-famous Sun Valley resort.

CampingWood River, Easley Hot Springs, Alturas Lake andRedfish Lake.

ServicesFull services in Shoshone, Hailey, Ketchum, Sun Valley,Stanley; partial services in Obsidian; rest area onU.S. 20 at the junction with Idaho 75.

ContactsSawtooth NRA Headquarters: (208) 727-5013, audiotape tour available for Stanley to Ketchum route;Stanley-Sawtooth Chamber of Commerce: (208)774-3411, www.stanleycc.org; Sun Valley/Ketchum Chamberof Commerce: (800) 634-3347, www.visitsunvalley.com;Sawtooth National Forest: (208) 737-3200,www.fs.fed.us/r4/sawtooth/; Stanley Ranger Station:(208)774-3000; Redfish Lake Visitor Center (summer only):(208) 774-3376.

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From the Snake River Plain Aquifer, an abundance of natural springs gush from the steep canyon wallsand cascade into the river below. In fact, the aquifer creeps through an area of several thousandsquare miles under southern Idaho’s porous volcanic rock before emerging from the springs in thecliffs of the Snake River Canyon. This pure, clean, oxygenated water maintains a constant temperatureof 58 degrees F., ideal conditions for trout. The hatcheries located along the 30-mile stretch of theSnake River in the Hagerman Valley raise about 70 percent of the trout produced in the United States.

Today, hydroelectric and irrigation projects divert some of the water. So while you won’t see literallya “thousand springs” along the route, it is nevertheless an impressive sight. Boat tours and dinnercruises available in the Hagerman area allow visitors to get up-close-and-personal with some of theThousand Springs along a beautiful stretch of the Snake River.

In Twin Falls visit Shoshone Falls. Surrounded by amazing canyon vistas, Shoshone Falls tumbles212 feet to the mighty Snake River below. Shoshone Falls is best viewed in the early spring of highrun-off years beforewater is put to workirrigating the area’sfertile farmland. Takeadvantage of thenew Centennial Trailthat will take youto the Evel Knieveljumpsite or enjoyboating, water-skiing,fishing, and swimmingin neighboringDierkes Lake.

LocationBegins at Interstate 84 near Bliss and follows U.S. 30 southeastthrough Twin Falls to Idaho 50, then north on Idaho 50to I-84. Also U.S. 93 from Twin Falls north to I-84.


RoadwayU.S. 30 and Idaho 50 are two-lane roads with somepassing lanes.

When to see itYear around. The Hagerman Valley is known for its verymild winters. The best time to see Shoshone Falls and TwinFalls is in early spring.

Special attractionsThousand Springs State Park Complex–a series of five parks;Hagerman Valley; the Snake River; Hagerman Fossil BedsNational Monument; Thousand Springs; National & State FishHatcheries; Wildlife Management Areas; Hot Springs; HistoricalMuseums; Fish, Waterfowl & Bird viewing; Herrett CenterPlanetarium, Museum & Observatory in Twin Falls;Buhl’s 8th Street Arts Center; Perrine Bridge & Canyon RimTrail System; Shoshone Falls; and historic downtown Twin Falls.

CampingMany private campgrounds along entire route.

ServicesFull services in Bliss, Hagerman, Buhl, Kimberly, Twin Falls;partial services in Filer; rest areas south of Hagerman andvisitor services at U.S. 93 at south end of Perrine Bridge.

ContactsSouth Central Idaho Tourism: (800) 255-8946,www.visitsouthidaho.com; Hagerman Chamber of Commerce:(208) 837-9131, www.hagermanchamber.com; HagermanFossil Beds National Monument: (208) 837-4793,www.nps.gov/hafo/home.htm; Thousand Springs Parks:(208) 837-4505, www.idahoparks.org; Buhl Chamber ofCommerce: (208) 543-6682, www.buhlidaho.us; Twin FallsChamber of Commerce: (208) 733-3974,www.twinfallschamber.com; Twin Falls County Parks andRecreation: (208) 734-9491, www.twinfallscounty.org.

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When President Lincoln turned his attention from the Civil War to proclaim Idaho a U.S. Territory, migrationsouth from Fort Boise had already begun. Huge silver and gold discoveries had been made in the Owyhees.Emigrants trudged trails south and twenty-horse teams moved mine machinery over rattlesnake-infestedvolcanic rifts and down the steep sides of the Snake River Canyon.

Today, where trails once existed, a broadnew highway passes through farmlands toIndian Creek and the town of Kuna. Thishistoric place was first an Indian crossing—then a traveler’s way-station—then theShortline railhead, and finally, the growingfarm community it is today.

Here, the byway turns south down SwanFalls Road. Just a few miles past Kuna,the scene moves abruptly from gold andgreen fields stitched together by silverirrigation canals, to rugged terrainunchanged since wild horse herds roamedand the great hordes of jack rabbits madesettlers’ lives miserable.

Now, thousands of folks visit the Birds ofPrey National Conservation Area, InitialPoint, Snake River Canyon, Dedication Point,and Swan Falls Dam each year.

LocationFrom Meridian, Idaho Highway 69 begins on the southboundroad from exit 44 of I-84 and runs for 8 miles to EastAvalon Avenue in Kuna. Turn south on Swan Falls Roadand continue for 21 miles through the National ConservationArea (NCA) Birds of Prey to Swan Falls Dam.

Length30 miles. Allow 1 hour for travel.

RoadwayIdaho 69 is a new 5-lane roadway to Kuna. Swan Falls Roadis a 2-lane highway to the Swan Falls Dam. The final mileis a steep grade from the Snake River canyon rim to thedam site. Ice patches occur infrequently during winter weather.

When to see itYear around. Birds of prey migrate in and are active Marchto late June.

Special AttractionsKuna Visitor Center; Silver Trail at Indian Creek; PioneerCemetery; Initial Point; Snake River Birds of Prey NationalConservation Area; Dedication Point; Snake River CanyonRim; Celebration Park; Swan Falls Dam Museum.

CampingCamping is permitted downstream of Swan Falls Dam.Fishermen catch and release the mighty White Sturgeon.Channel Cat, Trout and Small Mouth Bass are plentifulas well.

ServicesFull services in Kuna and Meridian. Kuna has a largegrocery store and a variety of restaurants. Gasoline, fullservice mechanics and an auto parts store are also available.

ContactsKuna Futures: (208) 922-5158 or on the web atwww.kunafutures.com. Kuna City Hall: (208) 922-5546;Kuna Chamber of Commerce: (208) 922-925; Bureau ofLand Management: (208) 384-3300,www.id.blm.gov/bopnca/index.html; Peregrine Fund: (208)362-3716, www.peregrinefund.org, [email protected].

Western Heritage Historic Byway

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Herds of elk numbering near one hundred are not an unusual sight along the Wildlife Canyon Scenic Byway,especially near the Danskin river access. Along with elk are mule deer, whitetail deer, chukars, wild turkeys,eagles, ospreys, cougars, bears, and wolves. Several campgrounds along the byway have natural hot springsfor visitors to enjoy, as well as several trails for hiking and biking. Fishing and rafting are also enjoyableactivities afforded along the route. In winter months, summer hiking trails provide miles of snowmobile andskiing adventure. You will also find motels, bed and breakfasts, a musical theatre, and even a golf course.

Wildlife Canyon Scenic Byway joins two other scenic byways, forming a one-day drive from Boise. It can beaccessed either by the Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway on Idaho 21 or by the Payette River Scenic Byway onIdaho 55. Either route connects with this 33-mile trip through some of the most powerful canyon sceneryoffered in the state. A one day trip from Boise affords visitors a glimpse of the pioneering spirit of earlyIdaho and the awesome beauty of Idaho’s wildlife and whitewater.

WildlifeCanyonScenicByway

Wildlife Canyon Scenic Byway

LocationThe route travels along the Banks-Lowman road. It canbe accessed either at Banks along Idaho 55 or atLowman along Idaho 21. Either point of access bringsthe traveler back to a route leading to Boise.

Length33 miles. Allow one hour. Allow 3 hours for the loopfrom Boise and back.

RoadwayThis is a two-lane roadway with no passing lanes, butthere are several turnouts for scenic viewing. The pavedroadway is maintained year around, but often has asnow floor during winter months.

When to see itThere are year-round opportunities for wildlife viewingwith exceptional elk viewing in winter and spring. Insummer months this stretch of river is world renownedfor rafting and kayaking.

Special AttractionsThe winter range for elk is located within a five-milesection in the middle of the route near the Danskinriver-access point. In 2005 two turnouts with wildlifeviewing scopes were added. Visitors are treated to largeherds along this area during winter and spring months.The migratory and nesting route for Canada Geese islocated here also. The South Fork of the Payette Riveroffers world-class rafting and kayaking. Visitors aretreated to the acrobatics of kayakers in class IV conditionsalong several points of the river. Commercial raftingcompanies offer trips down the river.

CampingHot Springs Campground, Pine Flats Campground, RVparks in Crouch and Garden Valley.

ContactsBoise National Forest Garden Valley Ranger Station:(208) 462-3241; Garden Valley Chamber of Commerce:(208) 462-5003, www.gvchamber.org,[email protected].

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See the Fort Henry Monument that marks the first American settlement in Idaho, from which this bywaygets its name. A new monument replaces the old one. The old monument has been moved to theoriginal Fort Henry Site in the adjoining field. It can be viewed from the new monument via telescopemounted on the fence.

From the Monument the byway heads to the St. Anthony Sand Dunes. The dunes are part of the SandMountain Wilderness study area. This 20,000-acre area of sage and juniper is the winter range of 1,500deer and 2,500 elk.

The byway crosses Camas Creek, connectsto County Road A-2 in Clark County atthe “Y.” Sand Hill Cranes are early springvisitors in the Camas Meadows. Lusciousmountain streams are enticing for fisherman,hikers, bikers and campers. Beautiful fieldsof wild flowers include seasonal Camaswhich can be seen throughout the Caribou-Targhee National Forest and flat lands.

The heritage of Clark and Fremont countiesis very unique and full of early historyof mountain men, Indians, miners, stagecoachlines and ranching. This byway also includesthe Camas Meadow Battlefield which isthe site of a skirmish between the NezPerce and the army in their l877 flight.

Fort Henry Historic Byway

LocationBegins at North Rexburg U.S. 20 Exit, onto SalemHighway, to St. Anthony Sand Dunes on Red Road andon to A-2 Road Junction. Continue on A-2 north, theneast to Island Park and U.S. 20.

Length81 miles. Allow 2 hours.

RoadwayTwo-lane road, no mountain passes. North Rexburg exitto A-2 in Clark County to Kilgore Store exit paved.Only gravel road includes eleven miles Kilgore toFremont County line, then paved to U.S. 20.

When to see itMid-April to Mid-November. In winter roads becomesnowmobile trails. Year around County A-2 open toU.S. 20 and Rexburg Exit to St. Anthony Sand Dunes.

Special attractionsHenry’s Fork of the Snake River; Fort HenryMonument; St. Anthony Sand Dunes; wild game areas;historical ranches; old Idmon town site; Camas MeadowsBattle Grounds; Targhee-Caribou National Forest. Askabout summer/winter sports attractions throughoutthese areas.

CampingCampsites at St. Anthony Sand Dunes exit, Kilgore Storetown site, Eagle Ridge Ranch, Enchanted Forest inShotgun, all privately owned.

ServicesFull services: Rexburg, St. Anthony, and all communitieson U.S. 20; partial services Kilgore Store (no gas).

ContactsAshton Ranger District (208) 652-7442; St. AnthonyVisitor Center (208) 624-4870; St. Anthony City Offices(208) 624-3494; Island Park Ranger District (208)558-7301; St. Anthony Courthouse (208) 624-7332;Bureau of Land Management (208) 524-7500.

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Mesa Falls Scenic Byway

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FortHenryHistoricByway

Two hundred years ago, Meriwether Lewis and William Clark stood high on a ridge-line that dividescontinental waters, and began the discovery of the Pacific Northwest. Stands of fir and pine trees,high-mountain meadows and rolling, jade-colored hills look much the same today as when the famousexplorers journeyed to the crest of Lemhi Pass in 1805.

As you travel the Lewis and Clark Back Country Byway, you'll see where the expedition unfurledthe flag of the United States for the first time west of the Rocky Mountains, as well as spectacularvistas of the Lemhi Pass, Salmon River, Rocky and Lost River mountain ranges, rolling sagebrushand alpine meadows, wildlife, and carpets of wildflowers.

Lewis and Clark Back Country Byway

Lewisand ClarkBackCountryByway

LocationThe byway is located 20 miles southeast of Salmon offof Idaho 28. Turn east from Idaho 28 at theTendoy store.

Length39 miles. Allow 3 hours.

RoadwayRoads are mostly single lane with gravel surface andoccasional turnouts.

When to see itSnow usually closes the roads from November untilJune. Summer and early fall are the best times of theyear to make the journey. Beware of muddy roads inlate spring and early summer. The route is groomedin the winter months and is popular with snowmobilers.

Special attractionsBack Country Interpretive Kiosk; Sharkey Hot Springs;Lemhi Pass where the Lewis and Clark expedition firstcrossed the Continental Divide going west; 1st FlagUnfurling Site; Continental Divide National Scenic Trail.

CampingBLM Agency Creek recreation site at Milepost 33: Tentand trailer campsites, toilets, no potable water available.

ServicesFull services in Salmon; partial services in Tendoy, Lemhiand Leadore. To the south, the nearest full-servicecommunity is Idaho Falls, 140 miles away.

ContactsThe Bureau of Land Management’s Salmon FieldOffice: (208) 756-5400; Salmon-Challis National Forest:(208) 756-5100; Salmon Valley Chamber of Commerce:(208) 756-2100.

SalmonRiver

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Sacajawea Historic Byway

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Lost Gold Trails LoopThe Lost Gold Trails Loop ventures off the Fort Henry Historic Byway at the “Y” Junction onto CountyRoad A-2. The loop then travels southwest along the desert-lava rolling hill terrain where cattle andwild game peacefully share spring and fall months grazing. Crossing the railroad, which originatedthe town of “Dry Creek,” now Dubois, and traveling west through town over I-15 overpass on Idaho22, you connect with Old Highway 91. Turn north on Old Highway 91 and head to Spencer, passingnear the U.S. Sheep Experiment Station. This early-day Gold Trail closely follows Beaver Creek towardsthe Montana gold mines. At Spencer the Gold Trail of yesterday becomes the Opal Trails of todayand passes several high grade Opal Shops within the original Wood Live Stock town site. LeavingSpencer, the trail heads east to Idmon. This early day Nez Perce Trail has spurs off of its main roadwayto private opal mines, Caribou-Targhee Forest fishing and primitive camping areas, and an old cemetery,connectingagain to theFort HenryHistoricByway at theold Idmontown site.

LocationBegins on A-2 at the “Y” Junction, west of Dubois,routing to Old Highway 91 north of Dubois, to Spencer,and then trailing east on Spencer/Idmon road connectingto A-2 and the Fort Henry Historic Byway.


RoadwayTwo-lane roadway, no mountain passes. “Y” on A-2 toDubois and Old Highway 91 Dubois to Spencer paved.Spencer/Idmon 3 miles paved, 11 miles gravel.

When to see itDubois to Spencer open year around. HighwayA-2 “Y” to Dubois and Spencer/Idmon road closedthrough winter. Closed roads in winter becomesnowmobile trails.

Special attractionsHeritage Hall Museum; Historic Dubois Hotel; DuboisVisitors Center; U.S. Sheep Experiment Station; MedicineLodge travertine mines; Wood Live Stock Rock House;Beaver Canyon; Nez Perce Trail; China Point; Spenceropal shops and mines.

CampingStoddard Forest Service Campground, Stoddard Campground,Steel Creek campground (minimum facilities).

ServicesFull services in Dubois. Partial services in Spencer.

ContactsCity of Dubois: (208) 374-5241; Clark County Courthouse:(208) 374-5304; Dubois Ranger District: (208)374-5422; Byway Information: (208) 374-5330.

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LocationThe southern end is at Idaho 47 in Ashton, northeast12.4 miles to the old Bear Gulch Ski Area site, thennorthwest along Forest Service Route 294 to the northernend at U.S. 20.

Length28.7 miles. Allow 1 hour.

RoadwayIdaho 47 is a two-lane road. Forest Service Route 294is closed in winter and becomes a Forest Servicesnowmobile route.

When to see itIn the winter the Forest Service road becomes one ofmany snowmobile trails in the area. If you have asnowmobile or cross-country skis, winter is the time togo; if you don’t, there is no access. Spring through fallis great by car.

Special attractionsUpper Mesa Falls; Lower Mesa Falls; Harriman State Parkon U.S. 20; many trails for bikes, horses, cross-countryskiing, and snowmobiles.

CampingThe Warm River Forest Service Campground is approximately9 miles east of Ashton on the Warm River. The GrandView Forest Service Campground is located at the LowerMesa Falls turnout.

ServicesFull services in Ashton.

ContactsAshton Ranger District: (208) 652-7442; Island ParkRanger District: (208) 558-7301; Ashton Chamber ofCommerce: (208) 652-3987; Targhee National Forest:www.fs.fed.us/tnfmesafalls/welcome.htm.

Mesa Falls Scenic BywayThe Mesa Falls Scenic Byway begins where the Teton Scenic Byway reaches its northern end in Ashton, atthe junction of U.S. 20 and Idaho 47. From there, the route travels through the town of Warm River towardits main attractions: the Upper and Lower Mesa Falls.

The Mesa Falls are the only major falls inIdaho not used for irrigation or hydroelectricprojects, and as such maintain a look andfeel of nature undisturbed. At 110 feet and85 feet, respectively, the Upper and LowerMesa Falls offer equally spectacular views ina beautiful forest setting. Both falls can beviewed in full, with the area surrounding theupper waterfall enhanced with paths andviewing areas that make it easily accessibleto all. Though only about an hour’s drivingtime, the Mesa Falls Scenic Byway is oftena half-day’s journey, with travelers mesmerizedby the spectacular display in the midst ofa truly back-country setting. In addition, thehistoric Mesa Falls Lodge has been restoredto its original splendor and is now openseasonally for visitor information.

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Bear Lake straddles the Idaho-Utah border and boasts sandy beaches, great water sports, fishing, boating,and the famous Bear Lake State Park. This byway follows Bear Lake north on U.S. 89 to Montpelier,then north on U.S. 30, where you leave the Cache National Forest and enter the Caribou National Forest.

The intersection of U.S. 89 and U.S. 30 at Montpelier is the site of the attractive National Oregon-CaliforniaTrail Center dedicated to the history and scenic wonders of the 2,000-mile Oregon-California Trail, partof the largest voluntary migration ever.There, you can ride in computer-controlledcovered wagons, journey nearby trails withexperienced guides in period costume, andhandle the tools and other artifacts usedby the pioneers. There is also an expansivepark and playground to stretch your legs,as well as a general store and gift shopto help you remember your visit.

There are 13 Oregon-California Trail sitesidentified in the Soda Springs area. Thesesites are documented in diaries of theemigrants, in military records, by earlymountain men, and settlers. “Travel theOregon Trail in Caribou County” brochurecontains information and directions oneach site. The Morman ghost town ofChesterfield lies 25 miles northwest ofSoda Springs and is located right on theOregon-California Trail.

Oregon Trail-Bear Lake Scenic Byway

LocationBegins at the Utah state line and follows U.S. 89 northto U.S. 30, then north and west to Soda Springs, whereit meets the Pioneer Historic Byway.

Length54 miles. Allow 1 hour.

RoadwayThis section of U.S. 89 is a two-lane road. It can receiveheavy snowfall in winter. This section of U.S. 30 is atwo-lane road with passing lanes and one short, 5 to6 percent grade at Georgetown Summit.


Special attractionsBear Lake; Bear Lake State Park; Paris Museum;Minnetonka Cave; Caribou National Forest; Oregon Trail;National Oregon-California Trail Center in Montpelier;captive geyser in Soda Springs.

CampingSeveral areas in Caribou National Forest, Bear LakeState Park, Montpelier Canyon.

ServicesFull services in Montpelier, Soda Springs; partial servicesin Paris, Georgetown.

ContactsBear Lake State Park: (208) 945-2790; Bear LakeConvention and Visitors Bureau: (800) 448-2327,[email protected]; Montpelier Ranger District: (208) 847-0375; Soda Springs Ranger District: (208) 547-4356;The National Oregon-California Trail Center (Montpelier):(866) 847-3800, www.oregontrailcenter.org andwww.fs.fed.us/r4/curlew; Soda Springs Chamber ofCommerce: (888) 399-0888, [email protected].

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Pioneer Historic BywayOn this route, travelers can retrace some steps of Idaho’s early pioneers and follow the historicpath taken by early-day Yellowstone Park visitors. From Franklin, Idaho’s oldest settlement, this bywayheads north to Soda Springs and on to the Wyoming border. This route offers the shortest distanceand time between Salt Lake City and Yellowstone Park.

Along the way you can see the remnants of the first grist mill in Idaho, one of the original YellowstoneHighway markers, the 100+ year old MormonOneida Academy, the site of the massacreat Bear River, Devil’s Hand, the Niter IceCave, Last Chance Canal, cinder cones fromextinct volcanoes, a section of the Oregon-California Trail, and many other historicalpoints of interest, documenting early settlementin this portion of Idaho.

Soda Springs offers numerous opportunitiesfor visitors. Among a variety of historicattractions, the town features the world’sonly captive geyser, with a plume of almost100 feet. In addition, the nearby FormationSprings Nature Conservancy Area contains atravertine-formed cave and excellent waterfowland wildlife viewing.

LocationBegins at the Utah state line and follows U.S. 91,then Idaho 34, north to U.S. 30 and then east toSoda Springs where it meets the Oregon Trail-BearLake Scenic Byway. From there, north on Idaho 34toward the Wyoming state line.

Length127 miles. Allow 2.5 hours.

RoadwayU.S. 91 is a two-lane road with some passing lanes.Idaho 34 is a two-lane road with one moderatelysteep grade between Wayan and the Wyoming border.This is a heavy snowfall area with most winter travelbeing made on a snow floor. The section of Idaho34 between Soda Springs and the Wyoming bordermay occasionally be closed in the winter.


Special attractionsBear River Massacre Site; Red Rock Pass; Niter IceCave; Black Canyon Gorge; Last Chance Canal; FranklinHistoric District; Grays Lake National Wildlife Refuge;Oneida Stake Academy; Chesterfield townsite and theworld’s only captive geyser in Soda Springs.

CampingSeveral in the Caribou National Forest.

ServicesFull services in Preston, Grace, Soda Springs; partialservices in Franklin.

ContactsPreston Area Chamber of Commerce: (208) 852-2703,www.prestonidaho.org; Pioneer Country Travel Council:(800) 423-8597 or (888) 201-1063, www.seidaho.org;Soda Springs Chamber of Commerce: (208) 547-2600or (888) 399-0888, www.sodachamber.com; U.S. ForestService-Soda Springs Ranger District: (208) 547-4356;www.pioneerhistoricbyway.org; www.bywaysonline.org.

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LocationBegins at the intersection of Interstate 15 & Idaho 33 at Exit143, follows Idaho 33 about 12 miles west to its junction withIdaho 28, and follows Idaho 28 northwest for 120 miles toSalmon, Idaho.

Length132 miles. About 2.5 hours.

RoadwayIdaho 33 is a straight and flat road. Speed is limited throughthe towns of Terreton and Mud Lake. Idaho 28 is mostly straight,with some hills as you gradually make your way over GilmoreSummit, a low mountain pass at 7,186 feet. Watch for icyconditions and snow drifts in winter. Both are two lane roads,with areas for passing.When to see itYear around. Summer months afford easier travel, while spectacularautumn colors are best viewed late September through October.

Special attractionsIdaho 28 parallels the Continental Divide for almost 100 miles.Other attractions: Mud Lake Wildlife Management Area; PrehistoricMan; Charcoal Kilns; Birch Creek; Gilmore Town Site; MeadowLake; Leadore Ranger Station/Visitor Center; Sacajawea InterpretiveCenter; Lemhi County Historical Museum.CampingMud Lake Wildlife Management Area (Fish & Game), Birch CreekCampground (BLM), Kaufman Campground (BLM), Lone Pine,Smokey Cubs Campground (USFS), Leadore, Meadow LakeCampground (USFS), McFarland Campground (BLM), Salmon.

ServicesPartial services in Terreton, Mud Lake, Lone Pine, Leadore, Lemhiand Tendoy. Full services in Salmon.

ContactsSalmon Valley Chamber of Commerce: (800) 727-2540,www.salmonchamber.com; Sacajawea Interpretive Center (208)756-1188, www.sacajaweacenter.org; USFS Leadore Ranger District:(208) 768-2500; Bureau of Land Management, Public LandsOffice, Salmon: (208) 756-5400; Mud Lake Wildlife ManagementArea: (208) 663-4664; Lemhi County Historical Museum: (208)756-3342; Lone Pine Cafe: (208) 589-6507; Lemhi Mercantile:(208) 768-2680; Tendoy Store: (208) 756-3504.

Sacajawea, an “Agai Dika” Shoshone woman born around 1788, is known around the world as a trustedand valuable member of the famed Lewis and Clark Corps of Discovery. A lesser-known fact, however, is herhistorical tie to Idaho’s Lemhi Valley where she was born and raised until the age of twelve. Captured bythe Arikira Indians and forced to live among them in the Mandan Villages of North Dakota, Sacajawea wouldnot see her home again until becoming part of the Corps of Discovery in 1805. It was during this expeditionthat she would help Lewis and Clark find the Salmon River and revisit her people.

This passage through the high country ofeastern Idaho offers a wealth of engagingstories, many of them considered historicallegacies of Idaho and beyond. Found here arefossils of the extinct North American (orPleistocene) lion, Native American rock art,the compelling stories of the Lemhi-Shoshonepeople, the Lewis and Clark expedition’s passagethrough Sacajawea’s homeland, the flight ofthe Nez Perce, the Reverend Samuel Parker,Fort Lemhi, the legacy of Chief Tendoy, stageroutes and rail lines that served the miningboom of the late 1800’s, and much more.Come discover for yourself what makesSacajawea Historic Byway such a legacy.


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Teton Scenic BywayThe jagged teeth of the Teton Mountain Range are actually in Wyoming, but Idahoans prefer “the quietside” on the western slopes, along the Teton Scenic Byway.

At nearly 10 million years young, the Tetons are the newest mountains in the Rockies. In fact, theycontinue to grow today at the snail-like pace of about an inch every hundred years. In fact, the largestpeak on the range, Grand Teton, now stands at 13,772 feet.

Beginning at Swan Valley, this byway travelseast on Idaho 31 through the beautiful PineCreek pass to the town of Victor, and thennorth on Idaho 33, along the western sideof the Teton Range. The mountains sharplycontrast with the rolling agricultural fieldsto the north and west. In the towns of theTeton Valley, Victor, Driggs, and Tetonia, travelerscan enjoy small town hospitality, internationallyfamous resorts and festival events heldthroughout the year.

West of Tetonia, the byway turns north onIdaho 32, offering glimpses of the Tetons andthe Falls River until it reaches Ashton, wherethe Mesa Falls Scenic Byway begins.

LocationBegins on Idaho 31 at Swan Valley northeast to Idaho33 at Victor, then north on Idaho 33 to Idaho 32,north on Idaho 32 to Idaho 47, and west on Idaho47 to U.S. 20 at Ashton.


RoadwayPine Creek Pass has a two lane roadway with nopassing lanes. It has 6-percent grades, some 35-mphcurves, and often has a snow floor in winter. Idaho 33is a two lane roadway with ample passing opportunities.

When to see itYear around, but fall foliage is spectacular as are thewildflowers of late spring.

Special attractionsGreat views of the Teton Mountains; Targhee NationalForest; unlimited recreational activities; State HistoricMarkers; trails and pathways; Grand Targhee Ski andSummer Resort near Driggs.

CampingNumerous Forest Service and private campgroundsavailable throughout Teton Valley.

ServicesFull services in Swan Valley, Victor, Driggs, Tetonia,Ashton.

ContactsPalisades Ranger District: (208) 523-1412; AshtonChamber of Commerce: (208) 652-3987; Teton BasinRanger District: (208) 354-2312; Yellowstone TetonTerritory: (800) 634-3246, [email protected],www.yellowstoneteton.org; Targhee National Forest:www.fs.fed.us/tnf/; Teton Valley Chamber of Commerce:(208) 354-2500, www.tetonvalleychamber.com.

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For more information Please remember to always buckle up ... · Brochure Credits: Pauline Davis..... Graphic Design, ITD Division of Highways ... an easy climb up the Greer Grade,

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