Pinyon Peak Loop

Nestled in the Salmon–Challis National Forest, the Pinyon Peak Loop (also known as Beaver Loon Creek) is a remote, rugged drive with sweeping views into the Frank Church–River of No Return Wilderness. The route rides airy ridgelines to 9,942-foot Pinyon Peak, where a historic fire lookout crowns a panorama of the Salmon River Mountains, alpine meadows, and basins that fall away toward the Middle Fork of the Salmon River. Along the drive, mining relics, old lookout sites, and abundant trails add rich history and options for exploration, with big-mountain scenery as a constant companion.