Cooper Pass

Cooper Pass, officially known as National Forest Road 7623, is a scenic mountain backroad that winds its way through thick forest, climbing steadily along a series of narrow, twisting switchbacks. As you gain elevation, the trees begin to part, revealing sweeping views of the surrounding peaks and valleys, a classic Idaho-Montana panorama that never gets old.

Though the road is considered easy by backroad standards and suitable for most 2WD vehicles with decent clearance, it’s not without its quirks. The Idaho side, in particular, throws in some rough patches and exposed rock, so it’s best to take your time and enjoy the ride.

While there aren't any campsites directly off the main route, numerous spur roads and trails branch off, offering tucked-away spots perfect for dispersed camping. Whether you're chasing solitude, starry skies, or a peaceful forest retreat, you'll find a place to pull over and settle in.

You can approach Cooper Pass from either end, via I-90 through Wallace, Idaho, or off Thompson Pass Road from Montana. Both directions serve up a laid-back, character-filled drive through beautiful high-country terrain. And at the end of the journey lies Burke, Idaho: a hauntingly cool, long-abandoned mining town steeped in history and perched in a narrow canyon, its buildings still whispering stories of a bygone era.

Keep in mind that snow and ice can linger well into June, so the pass typically doesn’t open until early to mid-summer. But once it does, Cooper Pass is a rewarding adventure for those craving forested climbs, ghost town exploration, and a slice of wild Idaho-Montana borderland beauty.