Boise Ridge Road (Forest Road 268)
Technical ridgeline drive with Sawtooth views
Boise Ridge Road follows the spine of the Boise Mountains for 40 miles of high-country driving that showcases why Idaho earned its reputation for rugged beauty. Starting from Highway 21 near Idaho City, FR 268 climbs through dense timber before breaking onto exposed ridgelines where you can see clear to the Sawtooths on clear days. The notorious rocky section near Sunset Peak will have you picking lines carefully through loose granite and embedded boulders.
Don’t let the ‘road’ designation fool you – this is technical driving that demands 4WD, skid plates, and tire repair kit. Summer only access due to snow, typically July through September. The route connects multiple primitive camping areas and hunting camps, making it popular with locals who know to bring extra fuel and water. Those willing to tackle the rough stuff earn some of the best mountain vistas in central Idaho without the Sawtooth crowds.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Difficult |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Technical 4x4 |
| Surface | Rock |
| Features | Camping, High Altitude, Remote, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 40 mi / 64.4 km |
| Duration | Full day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 8200 ft |
| Best season | July-September |
| Minimum vehicle | Modified 4WD with skid plates |
| Nearest town | Idaho City, Idaho |
| Land manager | Boise National Forest |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | No |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
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