
Galena Summit is one of the highest paved roads of Idaho
Usa, north-america
125 km
2,660 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, road trip fans, buckle up for Galena Summit in Idaho! This baby climbs to a whopping 8,727 feet, putting you right in the heart of the Sawtooth National Forest. You'll be cruising on State Highway 75 – also known as the Sawtooth Scenic Byway – on a fully paved road that winds its way for 78 miles between Stanley and Bellevue.
Heads up: this isn't a flat jaunt. Expect some steep sections and a few hairpin turns to keep things interesting. This route has serious history, dating back to 1881 when it served the bustling mines of the area. Keep an eye out, you might even spot remnants of the original road!
Generally, you can hit this summit year-round, but Mother Nature calls the shots in winter. Snow can get heavy up here, leading to closures, so check conditions before you go. This is the highest highway summit in the Northwest, so be prepared for those epic snowfalls.
But let's talk views! This drive is absolutely stunning, with panoramic vistas of the Boulder Mountains that'll leave you breathless. Don't miss the Bethine and Frank Church Overlook, just a mile west of the summit, for unforgettable sunset and sunrise moments. And keep your eyes peeled for wildlife – you never know what you might see around the next bend!
Where is it?
Galena Summit is one of the highest paved roads of Idaho is located in Usa (north-america). Coordinates: 38.1212, -94.5043
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 125 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,660 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 38.1212, -94.5043
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