Wild Horse Trail Scenic Byway

Part of the International Selkirk Loop, the Wild Horse Trail Scenic Byway begins in Sandpoint’s scenic downtown, located on the shores of Idaho’s largest lake, Lake Pend Oreille. With the dramatic backdrop of the Selkirk Mountains, the route follows the “Wild Horse Trail,” which was crucial for the Kootenai Tribe and settlers alike as this area of northern Idaho grew through the gold rush era. Keep an eye out for wildlife along the byway as you make your way through the McArthur Lake Wildlife Corridor toward the historic gold-mining town of Bonners Ferry and the Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge before ending at Porthill, the international border stop to enter Canada.

Length

59.2 miles
95.3 km

Time Icon

Time

1 hour, 30 minutes

When to Visit

Year-round

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.

Road Trip Tips

Turn-by-Turn Direction: This byway begins on U.S. 95 in downtown Sandpoint and follows it north through Bonners Ferry to the junction of U.S. 95 and Idaho 1, then proceeds north on Idaho 1 to the international border at Porthill.

Full Services in: Sandpoint and Bonners Ferry

Motorcycle Route: Yes

Full Services: When gas, food and lodging are available

Nearby Adventures

The Wild Horse Trail Scenic Byway showcases year-round outdoor recreation in the Selkirk Mountains and offers a wealth of historical stops to explore.

Download Before You Hit the Road

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

Idaho Roadsider

State Highway Map

Travel Tips

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

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