Where is Square Mountain?
Usa, north-america
62.6 km
2,435 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, adventurers, listen up! I've got a killer drive for you, way up in the Gospel-Hump Wilderness of Idaho's Nez Perce National Forest. We're talking about Square Mountain, smack-dab in the center of it all, chilling on the north side of the Clearwater/Salmon divide.
The peak itself clocks in at a cool 7,988 feet, and up top, you'll find the old Square Mountain Lookout—sadly, it's been out of service since the 70s. But hey, restoration efforts have been underway since '99, so there's hope for the future!
Now, about the road... Forest Road 444, a.k.a. the road to Square Mountain, is 38.9 miles of pure, unadulterated unpaved adventure. It's mostly narrow, and definitely requires a four-wheel-drive beast to tackle those washboards and seriously steep sections. Leave the passenger cars at home, trust me on this.
What's the payoff? Insane views! Plus, you might spot some wildlife along the way if you keep your eyes peeled. Keep in mind, though, this road is up in the mountains, so it's usually closed in the winter, weather permitting. Your best bet is to plan your trip for late spring, summer, or early fall. Happy trails!
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 62.6 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,435 m
- Difficulty
- hard
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