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Elk River Backcountry Byway

Elk River Backcountry Byway

Elk River Backcountry Byway is an off-the-beaten-path adventure. The route crosses Idaho’s tallest bridge–the Dent Bridge, spanning the Dworshak Reservoir–and winds its way through the vast evergreen forests of the Clearwater Mountains. Along the way, stop at Dworshak State Park for fishing, hiking, biking and camping. Keep an eye out for elk, bears and small woodland creatures as you continue on to the quaint community of Elk River.

Elk River Backcountry Byway

Length

54 miles
87 km

Time Icon

Time

2 hours one way

Elk River Backcountry Byway

Region

North Central

Elk River Backcountry Byway

When to Visit

Year-round

Elk River Backcountry Byway

31 Byways. 31 Ways to Be Inspired.

A variety of scenic, natural, historic, recreational, archeological and cultural experiences can be found on Idaho’s 31 scenic byways. View the video to get a taste of the adventures that await you, and start planning your next road trip.

Elk River Backcountry Byway

Road Trip Tips

Turn-by-Turn Direction: The byway begins in Orofino at Idaho 7 and the junction of Wells Bench Road, crosses the North Fork of the Clearwater at Dent Bridge, then to Elk River where it joins Idaho 8 to Bovill.

Road Conditions: Icy in the winter

Full Services in: Orofino and Elk River

Partial services in: Bovill

Full services: When gas, food and lodging are available

Partial services: When gas and a few other facilities are available

Elk River Backcountry Byway

Download Before You Hit the Road

Start planning your epic Idaho road trip with the help of these free travel publications.

Elk River Backcountry Byway

Scenic Byways Brochure

Elk River Backcountry Byway

State Highway Map

Elk River Backcountry Byway

Travel Tips

Need some ideas for your next Idaho road trip? Check out these travel tips and start planning your adventure.

Elk River Backcountry Byway
Elk River Backcountry Byway

Want to Explore More Scenic Byways?

Elk River Backcountry Byway

Wendy Liu