Deadwood Gulch to Silver City Historic Mining Loop

This challenging loop connects Silver City, one of Idaho’s best-preserved ghost towns, with the scattered remains of Deadwood Gulch’s mining camps through 31 miles of primitive mountain roads. Starting from the Jordan Valley Highway, you’ll climb through War Eagle Creek’s narrow canyon, negotiate the notorious Silver City Grade with its 18% grades and loose rock, then descend through Deadwood Gulch past rusted stamp mills and collapsed mine shafts. The route crosses War Eagle Mountain at 7,100 feet, offering commanding views of the Snake River Plain.

This is expert-level territory requiring low-range 4WD, aggressive tires, and solid recovery gear. The Silver City Grade alone has claimed transmissions and brake lines. Attempt only June through October when weather permits. Pack extra water, tools, and patience – cell service is nonexistent and the nearest tow truck is hours away in Mountain Home. What you get is access to two of Idaho’s most authentic ghost towns and some of the most challenging driving in the Northwest.