It is always fun to study maps and dream of where to go and what is there. In the middle of Idaho the Salmon River bisects the state running east to west, and most of the country is only accessible by boat, horse, foot or plane. So when you see a switchbacked road making its way down from the high forests to the river, well, if you are curious you just want to go and check it out. We waited until we thought the snow would allow us to pass through the high country above the river (about 6400 feet elevation) and still early enough that the temperatures down in the river canyon below (about 2400 feet) would still be bearable.
Video of the trip:
Our timing turned out alright, the flowers were blooming, the grass was green, there was almost nobody out and about, and we did encounter some snow up high and it was already plenty hot down below (95 degrees for the high, plenty hot for early June).
Our destination for the night was the campground at Mackay Bar. It’s a free campground, but only has 3 sites. Since it was such a long slow drive in we were hoping there would be space, but it turned out we didn’t need to worry as the only other camper in the area was someone who flew into the airstrip upstream.
The campground doesn’t appear to get a lot of use, but it is in a great location perched above the Salmon River. The steep rocky road may have something to do with that. For us this is a nearly “local” spot, and it still took us six hours of driving to get there.
Since it was so hot and was getting hotter the next day we did our looking around in the evening and decided to head out for some more exploring of the area the next day. A few elk talking to each other were about the only sounds of the campground besides the river which was brimming with spring runoff.
We had planned to circle back home on another route, exploring the old mining town of Orogrande on the way but we were blocked by snow banks and fallen trees, so back the way we came in we went. We found a nice site along the Red River outside of Elk City for a night and cooked up the most delicious Dutch oven carnitas I have ever eaten, check the video for that if you are interested.
Another quick trip on the books, and another spot of the map that is filled in with new memories.
Once again you have taken me where I will never go! Such a beautiful area with so much to see. My question is – who’s flying the drone? It makes for a really fantastic view of the area. Keep on exploring, I’m with you all the way!
Ed was flying the drone. It definitely gives you a good perspective on that country you can’t quite get from the ground!
Hi my husband and I are new to Idaho and we are falling in love with the state! We watched your video to the Mackay Bar. Would you mind sharing with us the trails traveled and where did you start. Also what App do you use to find these trails? Next spring we’d like to get equipped to do the off road exploring to experience what you and others have experienced.. I’d be happy to give my email. But not sure how to reach you otherwise. Thanks, Loretta
I’ll send you an email with some details. Thanks!