Accelerate your adventure in Idaho by off-roading on the Caribou Loop Trail (CLT). Located in southeast Idaho and western Wyoming, this 200-mile trail offers OHV & ATV riders, all-terrain enthusiasts and those who fall somewhere in between a memorable outdoor activity to explore.
A popular trail for OHV and ATV riders, Caribou Loop can be accessed in Idaho from either of two trailheads. Additionally, visitors can opt to explore 20 shorter paths leading to side trips at notable locations (like an old gold mining area) along the way. Even more forest and local roads connected to the CLT, which add both variety and hundreds of miles to the trip. Before embarking on a new route, riders should always verify that it falls on public land and that their machine meets the specifications of the section.
When off-roading in Idaho, the appeal of a giant loop is not only the convenience of it, but the joy of seeing new scenery as you round out the route. The areas in Idaho that this popular ATV trail passes through are filled with a wide variety of terrain and topography. The CLT is largely hardpack gravel, with occasional muddy sections or loose rock. However, it was designed to most often be a leisurely experience.
This route is accessible to ATVs, UTVs up to 66 inches, motorcycles, bicycles and other non-motorized modes of transportation. Riders may find it most convenient to transport their own vehicles to this loop when starting from Idaho, as rental options are limited.
Where ATV Riders Should Start on the Caribou Loop Trail in Idaho
Start your journey by choosing a trailhead: there are two trailheads found in Idaho, and both allow overnight parking for those interested in longer trips. The first option is at Tincup Road and Bridge Creek on Highway 34. The staging area is only a couple of miles down the road once you enter the Caribou–Targhee National Forest. Another popular starting point for ATV and OHV riders to consider is outside of the Caribou–Targhee National Forest on the northern part of the loop at Bone Road and McCoy Creek.
Popular ATV Stops along the Caribou Loop Trail
As riders rumble along the Caribou Loop Trail and choose their preferred pull-offs and route additions along the way, they will come across two notable ATV stops in Idaho before completing the loop: The Caribou Route Connector Trail (and its 70-foot bridge) and scenic Della’s Basin.
The Caribou Route Connector Trail
One favored point for ATV and OHV riders on the route is the connector trail and 70-foot bridge located by Highway 34. That connection is just under a mile long and stretches between two large trail networks.
The 66-inch wide bridge enables ATV and OHV riders to pass between the two systems without the risk of going onto the highway.
Della’s Basin
Della’s Basin is an ideal stop for a rest (and maybe a picnic, too) set in the rolling hills with great photo opportunities. There are several campgrounds available off the loop, making it simple to expand any time on the trail into a longer trip.
It is easy to locate national forest campgrounds using mappings tools like those found on the Caribou Trail official website.
Food and Fuel Around the Caribou Loop Trailheads
As the Caribou Loop takes ATV riders into remote areas where services are limited, it is vital to prepare ahead of time and bring plenty of necessities with you on the trail.
There are two towns that can be accessed en route to the trailheads that off-road riders can visit to gather supplies: Swan Valley on the way to the Bone Road and McCoy Creek trailhead and Soda Springs as you head to the Tincup Road and Bridge Creek trailhead.
ATV & Off-Roading Stops in Swan Valley
Swan Valley is a city with plenty to share. The Swan Valley General Store is a one-stop shop for gas, groceries, hardware and a bakery/deli with takeaway options for every meal. If you’re searching for a sit-down dinner, consider Snake River Roadhouse Bar & Grill. Head to Ray’s Place Coffee and Wine Shop for a morning brew or afternoon sip.
ATV & Off-Roading Stops in Soda Springs
You won’t have to look much further than the Soda Springs General Store and Deli to gather groceries, snacks, beer, wine, apparel and more. Several gas stations dot Soda Springs, as well as the Main Street Diner (for a hearty breakfast), the Coffee Mill (for a cup of joe), Caribou Jack’s BBQ (for house-smoked meats) and Porter’s Pub (for dinner and drinks).
When to Plan Your ATV Excursion in Southeast Idaho
The ATV trails that are part of and around the Caribou Loop Trail system shine in all four seasons as some routes are open year-round.
Spring ATV & Off-Road Trips
As spring takes flight, wildflowers bloom along the entirety of the route as the surrounding nature transitions to green. View the changing landscape at an overlook from Morgan Meadows on the southern border of Bonneville County.
Summer ATV & Off-Road Trips
In the summertime, stock up on groceries in Swan Valley and extend your explorations to appreciate hiking, wildlife viewing, fishing, swimming and more while camping at the McCoy Creek Campground.
Fall ATV & Off-Road Trips
As the weather begins to cool, scout out the colorful Idaho fall foliage at Palisades Reservoir found in the northern portion of the loop. During popular recreation periods, get an edge over the crowds by planning your trip during the week instead of over the weekend.
Winter ATV & Off-Road Trips
The temperature dropping in Idaho doesn’t slow down the off-roading fun. Even during the snowy season, Caribou Loop has opportunities for snowmobiling, snowbiking, riding side-by-sides with tracks and even non-motorized options like cross-country skiing. Explore groomed snowmobile trails online and route a path before your venture.
Checking the Weather Before Your ATV Trip
Checking conditions on the Caribou–Targhee National Forest website is a convenient way to find out what you can expect in the area near the time of your visit.
Ultimately, the choice of season falls to the planner and personal preference. Consider the pros and cons of each (and your own window of availability), and you’re sure to settle on a memorable season to experience the Caribou Loop.
Caribou Loop ATV: Know Before You Go
The Caribou Loop trail offers many ways to connect with additional trails to enhance your time. Check out this resource and make a mapping plan before you head out.
ATV and OHV rides off of the main loop vary in difficulty, so make sure to review trip details before branching off. Motorized vehicles must be plated to ride the route, and drivers on the main loop are required to have a valid driver’s license.
Since the Caribou Loop Trail spans across two states, you will need to obtain off-road stickers from Idaho and Wyoming before riding. To learn more about purchasing your Idaho registration sticker, visit Idaho State Parks online.
When you’re out on your ATV adventure, knowing where you are at all times is key. Staying on the designated path ensures that you don’t accidentally trespass onto private property. Take full advantage of shopping for goods and gas in town before taking off, as most sections of the CLT are not close to services for you or your vehicle.
As always, when enjoying your ATV ride on the Caribou Loop Trail, remember to drive over, not around, obstacles to prevent widening of the trail and, of course, follow Visit Idaho’s Travel With Care principles as you go.
Expand On Your Caribou Loop ATV Adventure
Depending on where you choose to set out on your CLT ride, consider adding the recreational stops below to enhance your trip.
Grays Lake National Wildlife Refuge
Consider extending your visit with a non-motorized side trip to the Grays Lake National Wildlife Refuge, a short distance from the parking lot. In the spring and fall, take your chance on spotting a sandhill crane as the unique birds make their way through the region.
Palisades Reservoir
When starting out from the Bone Road and McCoy Creek trailhead, ample recreation opportunities await in this area. The Palisades Reservoir is a stunning summer stop easily reached from your ride on the Caribou Loop Trail to elevate your plans.
Off-roading in Idaho is on the rise, and with locations like the Caribou Loop Trail, there is no great wonder why. With varied terrain, a refreshing loop-style trail and 20 side roads with even more to explore, the CLT is an outstanding undertaking for ATV enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers in southeast Idaho. Choose your own trip length, approach and level of activity to get started on this beautifully located route.
Looking for another route to experience off-roading in Idaho? Explore the Mackay Mine Hill Tour.
Featured image credited to Marvin Guzman.
Published on August 8, 2023
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