Boise National Forest Scott Mountain Road
Remote mining district connector through Idaho timber
Scott Mountain Road winds through some of Idaho’s most remote timber country, connecting the historic Warren mining district with the backcountry around Brundage Mountain. The route climbs steadily through dense lodgepole pine and fir forests, crossing several creeks and passing abandoned mining claims from the 1900s gold rush. At Scott Mountain summit (7,200 feet), the road opens up to sweeping views of the Salmon River Mountains and the Frank Church Wilderness beyond.
Suitable for stock high-clearance vehicles during summer months, though 4WD is recommended for wet conditions and stream crossings. The road can be muddy and rutted in spring, and snow typically blocks access from November through May. No permits required, with excellent dispersed camping opportunities throughout. Fuel up in McCall or Cascade before heading out – this is genuine backcountry with no services for 60+ miles. The route offers solitude, fishing access, and a taste of Idaho’s mining heritage without the technical challenges of more extreme trails.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Overland Route |
| Surface | Dirt, Gravel |
| Features | Camping, High Altitude, Historic, Remote, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 42 mi / 67.6 km |
| Duration | 1-2 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 7200 ft |
| Best season | June-October |
| Minimum vehicle | Stock 4WD high-clearance |
| Nearest town | McCall, Idaho |
| Land manager | Boise National Forest |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | Yes |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Official sources | fs.usda.gov |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Tacoma or 4Runner handle Scott Mountain Road without modifications?
Yes, a stock 4WD high-clearance vehicle is the minimum and will get through under normal summer conditions. Lifted rigs have more margin on the water crossings and any rutted sections after rain, but bone-stock is doable if you're not pushing it in wet conditions.
When does Scott Mountain Road actually open after winter, and is October pushing it?
The road typically opens in June once snowpack clears at the 7,200-ft max elevation — early June can still have snow and soft mud. October is usually fine but an early storm can close it fast; check with Boise National Forest before heading out late season.
Do I need a permit or is there a fee to run this route?
No permit required and no fee to drive the route. Dispersed camping on Boise National Forest land is free; follow the 14-day stay limit and camp at least 200 feet from water sources.
What's the hardest section of the trail and what should I actually be prepared for?
The water crossings are the biggest variable — depth and flow depend entirely on snowmelt and recent rain, and they can go from trivial to axle-deep. The route is otherwise moderate dirt and gravel with some rutting, but a crossing that's too high to read from the cab can end your day fast.
How far is the nearest gas from the trailhead, and is 42 miles enough to drain a tank?
McCall is your last reliable fuel stop before the route — fill up there. Forty-two miles of dirt at elevation won't drain most tanks, but factor in the drive to and from McCall; if you're coming from farther out, top off in Cascade as well because there's zero fuel on-trail and cell service is nonexistent the entire way.
Trail track
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