Where is Pinyon Peak?
Usa, north-america
42 km
3,032 m
extreme
Year-round
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! Wanna tackle one of Idaho's highest peaks? Then Pinyon Peak is calling your name! Deep in the Salmon-Challis National Forest, smack-dab in central Idaho, this summit's a real gem.
Now, fair warning: getting to the top is no Sunday drive. We're talking Pinyon Peak Loop Road (NF-172), a full-on unpaved, 26.1-mile (42km) beast that demands respect (and a 4x4!). The last mile (1.7km) is particularly spicy, with eight super-tight hairpin turns that'll test your skills. Think steep switchbacks on the way up and a long, equally steep descent where low range is your best friend. Seriously, this is remote country, so pack smart and be prepared.
But the reward? Oh, it's worth it! At the summit sits the Pinyon Peak Fire Lookout Station, a cool piece of history dating back to 1930. And the views? Epic doesn't even begin to cover it. You'll be treated to massive, unobstructed panoramas of the Eastern Salmon River Mountains, including Mt. Baldy, Twin Peaks, the White Clouds, the Sawtooths, and even Borah Peak way off in the distance. Trust me, the bragging rights alone are worth the drive!
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 42 km
- Max Elevation
- 3,032 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
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