St. Joe River Scenic Byway

Tracing the cottonwood-lined St. Joe River, the St. Joe River Scenic Byway is a picturesque haven for birdwatchers and anglers. Bald eagles and osprey call the cottonwoods home and feast on fish from the waters below. Continuing along the byway, the crystal-clear waters become shallower and are ideal all sorts of trout species. Along the river’s edge, keep an eye out for deer, elk, moose and bear.

Length

87.3 miles
141 km

Time

2 hours,
21 minutes

Region

Northern

When to Visit

Spring, Summer, Fall

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.

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Road Trip Tips

Turn-by-Turn Directions: From St. Maries, at the junction of Idaho 3 and Forest Highway 50 (FS 50), head east along the St. Joe River for 75 miles. At the intersection with Road 218, FS 50 heads north (left) and climbs 14 miles to the Idaho-Montana border.

Road Conditions: N/A

Full Services in: St. Maries and Avery

Partial Services in: Calder

Motorcycle Route: Yes

Full Services: When gas, food and lodging are available

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

Nearby Adventures

Offering some of the best trout fishing in the region and an abundance of camping, picnicking and hiking opportunities, the St. Joe River Scenic Byway is the perfect place to unplug and recharge with nature.