Clearwater River Forest Service Road 247
Idaho's forgotten cedar cathedral route
Forest Service Road 247 follows the North Fork Clearwater River through some of Idaho’s last untouched cedar groves, where trees older than European settlement tower over a gravel track that loggers abandoned when the easy timber played out. The route parallels the rushing Clearwater for 45 miles through the heart of the Idaho Panhandle National Forest, crossing tributary creeks on single-lane bridges and climbing through forests so thick that noon feels like dusk. This is the country where the Nez Perce knew every creek and ridge, and where modern GPS signals disappear under the canopy.
Don’t let the moderate rating fool you — this route demands attention and preparation. High-clearance vehicles handle the maintained gravel easily, but creek crossings can surge with snowmelt and spring storms. Stock 4WD recommended for wet conditions, along with emergency supplies for potential isolation. Best accessed May through October, though early season means muddy approaches and late season brings hunting traffic. No permits required, but check current road conditions with the Clearwater National Forest office. The reward is pure Idaho wilderness: trophy steelhead fishing, massive old-growth, and camping spots where you won’t see another soul for days.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Overland Route |
| Surface | Dirt, Gravel |
| Features | Camping, Remote, Scenic, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 45 mi / 72.4 km |
| Duration | 1-2 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 4200 ft |
| Best season | May-October |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance recommended |
| Nearest town | Orofino, Idaho |
| Land manager | U.S. Forest Service |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Official sources | fs.usda.gov |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Tacoma or 4Runner run FS Road 247 without modifications?
A stock high-clearance 4WD like a Tacoma or 4Runner handles this fine under normal conditions. Lowered vehicles or anything without real clearance will have trouble on the rougher gravel sections and water crossing approaches.
When does FS Road 247 typically open in spring and close in fall?
The route is generally accessible May through October, but spring opening depends on snowmelt and mud conditions — late May is safer than early May. Check with the Clearwater National Forest office before heading out after any significant weather event.
Do I need a permit to drive or camp on FS Road 247?
No permit required to drive the route. Dispersed camping on National Forest land is free and no reservation is needed — standard 14-day stay limit applies, stay 200 feet from water sources and the road.
What's the hardest section of the trail and what should I actually expect?
The water crossings are the most committing part — crossing depths vary seasonally and can be thigh-deep on a bumper in early summer runoff. Rocky ledge sections near the mid-route ridgeline require some deliberate tire placement but nothing that'll stop a competent driver.
Is there any cell service on the trail, and how far is the nearest fuel from the trailhead?
There is zero cell service for the entire 45 miles — download offline maps and sort out your communication before you leave pavement. Orofino is the last reliable fuel stop; top off there, it's roughly 20–30 miles from the trailhead start depending on your approach.
Trail track
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