Idaho's Salmon River Valley experiences sunlight illuminating the Lemhi Range.

Idaho's Salmon River Valley experiences sunlight illuminating the Lemhi Range.

A Scenic Journey Through Idaho's Heart

Traveling along the Salmon River Scenic Byway (Idaho 75) in Idaho offers a captivating voyage spanning nearly 184 miles from Stanley to Salmon. This historic route traces the footsteps of Lewis and Clark and showcases the region's diverse landscapes, mineral history, and cultural heritage.

The journey commences in Stanley, nestled in the Stanley Basin, amidst Idaho's most majestic peaks, the Sawtooth Range. A brief stop at the Stanley Museum provides insight into the mining and ranching past of the area, housed within a historic ranger station.

Following the Salmon River, the road descends into a forested gorge, adorned with granite outcroppings. The swift, pristine river thunders through rapids and past hot spring pools, such as the famed Sunbeam Hot Springs, located around 11 miles from Stanley. Alluding to the riverside charm, the Salmon River stalls out in deep pools of emerald green and turquoise at the bustling crossroads town of Sunbeam. A remnant of industrial history, the dynamited remains of the only dam ever built on the Salmon River can be seen from an overlook.

If you choose to explore the Yankee Fork region, approximately 10 miles up Yankee Fork Road, you will discover the ghost towns of Bonanza and Custer. Built during the 1870s gold rush, they are home to the Yankee Fork Gold Dredge, which operated from 1940 to 1952.

Continuing downstream, the river presents captivating sights as the terrain transitions from narrow canyons to expansive high desert hills. The Great Rift marks the area's volcanic origins, carved from ash and lava that spread across the region 50 million years ago from calderas lying northwest of Challis.

Entering the Bitterroot Valley, one can appreciate the region's reliance on logging, ranching, and river tourism. The Bison Jump Archaeological Site reflects the Native American heritage of the area, as it showcases the strategy of driving bison over cliffs. At the Land of the Yankee Fork Visitor Center, visitors can learn about the region's geology, history, and mining methods.

Leaving Challis – founded in 1878 to cater to the mining camps – travelers will find abundant wildlife, including pronghorn and hawks, and the rugged, colorful ramparts of the Lost River Range. As you cross the Pahsimeroi River, the journey passes through magnificent canyons surrounded by the Lemhi Range.

Salmon, an 1860s mining town, serves as the route's finale. It is now a pivot for ranchers, loggers, and river runners, offering the opportunity to pick up the Lewis and Clark Drive, paralleling the explorers’ route over Lemhi Pass.

The Scenic Byway, regarded as one of Idaho's most striking drives, extends beyond Salmon along the Salmon River, showcasing various wilderness and recreation opportunities for nature enthusiasts.

Tips and Side Attractions

• Early arrival at Sunbeam Hot Springs is advised to avoid the crowd.
• Famous writer Norman MacLean's semi-autobiographical novel "A River Runs Through It" eloquently captures the spirit of the Salmon River valley and its trout fishing traditions.
• Visitors wishing for a glimpse into the 3,600-square-mile Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness can follow Salmon River Road as it abruptly turns west at North Fork village.
• Be cautious as the river current may pose a risk of hypothermia, even during summer.
• While Idaho law does not mandate motorcycle helmets, it is suggested to wear one for safety.

1. The Salmon River Scenic Byway in Idaho is a historical expedition, tracing the path of explorers Lewis and Clark, offering adventure through diverse landscapes like forests, high desert hills, and the majestic Sawtooth Range.
2. Along the journey, travelers can visit Sunbeam Hot Springs, a captivating riverside charm offering pristine views of the swift Salmon River.
3. For a glimpse into the region's gold rush history, explorers can venture to the ghost towns of Bonanza and Custer in the Yankee Fork region.
4. As the terrain transitions from canyons to high desert hills, the Great Rift offers a glimpse into the area's volcanic origins, showcasing a part of Idaho's geological history.
5. In the Bitterroot Valley, the Bison Jump Archaeological Site offers insight into the native lifestyle, demonstrating the strategy of driving bison over cliffs.
6. Travelers can extend their journey beyond Salmon, exploring the Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness or following the Lewis and Clark Drive, paralleling the explorers’ original route through Idaho's heart.

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