What if we told you that it’s possible to experience Idaho’s wild scenery without ever leaving your car? Although we definitely encourage exploring Idaho on foot whenever possible, there are some fantastic scenic highways that offer plenty of adventure, as well. The Elk River Back Country Byway is a lesser-known route that should definitely be on your radar. The 57-mile road trip takes you through an incredibly scenic region of the state, boasting some of the best windshield views possible along the way! Check it out below and then hit the road to see it for yourself.
For an all-natural, no-frills road trip through one of the most beautiful regions of the Gem State, check out the lesser-known Elk River Back Country Byway.
Stretching for 57 miles through North Central Idaho, this scenic route will definitely take you on an adventure to remember. The highway is big on natural scenery, making it the ideal excursion for nature lovers especially.
The byway can be accessed either from the Northwest Passage (US 12) at Orofino or from the west at Bovill at the junction of SH 8 and SH 3. You'll then be led on a fascinating journey complete with forests, wildlife, and tons of opportunity for backcountry adventure.
If you start in Orofino, one of the first notable sights you'll come across is the Dent Bridge. Completed 50 years ago, the suspension bridge spans for 1,550-feet across the Dworshak Reservoir, making it the longest bridge in all of Idaho!
Be sure to make some time to visit nearby Dworshak Dam. With a height of 717-feet, it's considered the third tallest dam in the U.S. and the tallest straight-axis concrete dam in the Western Hemisphere.
Also along the byway is the breathtaking Elk Creek Falls. Consisting of three separate cascades, seeking out the waterfall while traversing the Elk Creek Falls National Recreation Trail is a great way to spend a few hours in the pristine forest landscape.
Along the way, you can stop in the town of Elk River which lies in the heart of this beautiful region. The mountain community exudes small-town charm and is a great place to fuel up, grab a bite to eat, and hang out before hitting the road once again.
