Idaho Trails

Nestled within the remote and captivating landscapes of southern Idaho and southeastern Oregon lies the Owyhee Uplands Backcountry Byway, an extraordinary route that promises a journey through pristine beauty. Stretching approximately 103 miles, this offroad trail embarks on an enchanting path rarely explored by many, guiding travelers through the picturesque Owyhee County in Idaho.

Commencing at Jordan Valley, Oregon, the trailhead beckons adventurers on a mesmerizing voyage, where vast open ranges and scenic vistas unfold before their eyes. Along this captivating route, the region's geological formations, wildlife, and rich historical significance come to life, painting a fascinating picture of the area's past. The trail shows evidence of Native American cultures and early exploration, adding depth and context to the journey.

As explorers venture deeper into the backcountry, they encounter dramatic elevations inviting challenging and exhilarating descents. Amidst this untamed beauty, the vast open plains and the majestic rugged terrain create an awe-inspiring and emotionally profound connection with nature, leaving an indelible mark on the soul.

A prominent feature of this trail is the breathtaking views of the North Fork Owyhee River Rim, surrounded by a picturesque landscape of trees, rock formations, and awe-inspiring vistas. This idyllic spot offers a perfect haven for reflection amid nature's serene embrace, inviting travelers to pause and savor the moment's tranquility.

Moreover, the Owyhee Uplands Backcountry Byway provides access to five wilderness areas: Owyhee River, North Fork Owyhee River, Pole Creek, Little Jacks Creek, and Big Jacks Creek Wildernesses. Each of these areas offers its unique blend of natural wonders, contributing to the allure and diversity of this extraordinary trail.

For adventurers seeking a truly immersive experience in the wild and unspoiled beauty of the Owyhee Uplands, the Backcountry Byway awaits, promising an unforgettable expedition through a land of remarkable grandeur and timeless allure.

Located just minutes away from Stanley, Basin Butte Road is a stunning scenic trail that presents a myriad of captivating sights. Along the route, adventurers can find a historic fire lookout and an enchanting alpine lake perched at an impressive elevation exceeding 8,000 feet. The trail treats visitors to awe-inspiring vistas of the Sawtooth Mountains, with glimpses of Stanley Lake in the distance and the vast expanse of the Valley Creek plains. Once you arrive at the Historic Basin Butte Lookout, unobstructed panoramic views stretch for miles in all directions.

Continuing along the trail, Hindman Lake, an expansive 8-acre alpine lake, offers fishing, remote camping, and hiking amidst the pristine surroundings. Basin Butte Road truly showcases nature's beauty at its finest, making it a perfect choice for first-time offroaders seeking an experience beyond a flat forest service road. The blend of breathtaking scenery and various recreational options makes this trail an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

Formally known as Squaw Butte, Sehewoki'i Newenee'an Katete is a prominent feature of the Emmett Valley landscape. You can watch for quail, pheasant, and the greater sage-grouse, also known as a sagehen, while you travel through the lower elevations of this beautiful mountain with seasonal streams from the winter snows at the peak. There is a beautiful, steep-walled canyon where you gain 1100 feet in only 1.5 miles, where you might see deer, elk, and even bighorn sheep. Near the summit, there are quaking alders on either side of the more shallow canyon you are now in where black bears have been spotted. The views of the valley below are amazing from the summit, and even more so if you drive to the Lookout Tower.

Timber Flat 666A1/A2 is in the Boise National Forest and south of the area known as Sagehen Reservoir. A1 and A2 are actually spur trails from the main Timber Flat. It was decided to combine these two shorter trails into a nice 1.2-mile trail since it loops onto itself at the trail's end. This area is less than 2 hours from Boise, making it the perfect getaway spot for a few hours of offroad wheeling, camping in one of the dozens of dispersed campsites you can find on these trails, or being a bit more comfortable in one of four improved campsites at the lake. The rainbow trout fishing will be fantastic in 2021 since the campgrounds have been closed all of 2020 because of logging activities for fire management. Beautiful bull elk can be spotted along this trail, as well as much other wildlife.

Sagehen Spur 626BA is in the Boise National Forest, less than 2 hours north of Boise. The main road, Sagehen Reservoir Road, has lots of spur trails like this one where you will find dozens of dispersed camping sites. This trail has Tripod Meadow opposite the trailhead which has the Tripod Creek running through it. The meadow is a beautiful location to watch for the wildlife that calls this area home. Besides deer and elk, be aware of bear and mountain lion as well. Watch yourself, your children, and your pets accordingly.

This trail is in the Boise National Forest, two hours north of Boise, Idaho. Sagehen Dam and Reservoir are just 1.3 miles to the east. The reservoir has four improved campgrounds, some are first come, first served, and others require a reservation. The lake is well known for its rainbow trout, so bring a fishing pole. The trail and entire area are in Idaho's hunting unit 32A, where you will be sharing your space with deer, elk, black bear, mountain lions, and wolves, to name a few. This trail is one of many spurs along the main Sagehen Road and is best described as a dispersed camping paradise nestled among the pines, fir, and spruce. Shrubs and grasses dotted with wildflowers fill in the non-forested areas.