Soldier Creek Road (Forest Road 568B)

Soldier Creek Road cuts a narrow path through some of the most remote timber in central Idaho, climbing steadily from the Payette River drainage toward Soldier Creek Meadows. The route follows an old logging track that hasn’t seen maintenance in years, with windfall across the trail and creek crossings that test your line choice. At mile 8, you’ll hit the infamous “Squeeze Play” — a rocky chute between two boulders that’ll scrape paint if you’re not careful.

This is moderate to difficult territory requiring high clearance and decent ground clearance for the rock gardens. Best tackled May through October when snow clears, but avoid it during spring runoff when Soldier Creek runs high. No permits needed, but fuel up in McCall — it’s 15 miles to the meadows and another 12 to connect with Forest Road 48. Multiple dispersed camping spots in the meadows reward those who make the climb with solitude and some of Idaho’s best stargazing.