Forest Service Road 579 – Lowman to Stanley

Forest Service Road 579 follows an old mining supply route between Lowman and Stanley through the heart of Idaho’s Sawtooth National Forest, passing a dozen natural hot springs that miners used to soak their aches after long days in the diggings. The road climbs over Grandjean Summit at 7,000 feet before descending through the South Fork Payette drainage, where foundations and rusted equipment mark forgotten mining camps like Stibnite and Yellow Pine. The route offers constant views of Idaho’s signature granite peaks and access to some of the state’s best-kept hot spring secrets.

Moderate difficulty suitable for stock 4WD vehicles with decent ground clearance, though rocky sections after Grandjean require careful tire placement. Summer and early fall provide the best conditions, as snow blocks the high country from October through June. No permits needed, but fuel up in either Lowman or Stanley before starting. The road can get dusty in dry conditions and muddy after storms. Dispersed camping opportunities abound, and several developed hot springs along the route make perfect overnight stops for trail-weary overlanders.