Bunker Creek to Pallette Lake Mining Road

This forgotten mining road climbs from Bunker Creek through dense timber into the high country of the Boise National Forest, ending at pristine Pallette Lake. The route follows old miners’ tracks past crumbling cabins and rusted equipment, with the road narrowing to a single track as you gain elevation. Expect several creek crossings and one particularly gnarly section where the trail hugs a steep hillside with no room for error.

Moderate difficulty requires high-clearance 4WD and careful line choice on the shelf sections. Best tackled June through October when snow clears. No permits needed, but bring recovery gear and plenty of water. The payoff is worth it — Pallette Lake sits in a granite bowl with excellent dispersed camping and some of the clearest water you’ll find in Idaho. This is real backcountry, so plan for no cell service and self-recovery.