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easyForest RoadFamily Friendly

Bunco Road / High Drive

Panhandle Idaho
45 miles

Main arterial access into the Coeur d'Alene National Forest. Wide gravel road accessing countless side trails and lakes. Great for basecamp setup.

Trail Info

StatusSeasonal
Length45 miles
Difficultyeasy
Best Seasons
summerfall

GPS Data

Dispersed Camping

Allowed Vehicles

All Vehicles

Highlights

Easy access
Camping availability
Berry picking

Getting There

Trailhead Coordinates
47.9000°N, 116.6000°W
Open in Google Maps

Safety & Regulations

  • Always check current conditions before heading out. Weather can change rapidly in Idaho backcountry.
  • OHV registration required for all off-highway vehicles in Idaho.
  • Stay on designated routes. Respect wilderness boundaries and private property.
  • Carry extra fuel, water, and supplies. Cell service is often unavailable.

Complete Guide to Bunco Road / High Drive

Bunco Road / High Drive represents one of Panhandle Idaho's most notable offroad destinations, offering 45 miles of forest road terrain that attracts adventurers from across the region. Located in Idaho's Panhandle region, this route has become a destination for all vehicles enthusiasts seeking accessible adventures with stunning scenery.

Trail Overview and Terrain

The Bunco Road / High Drive is classified as a easy forest road, spanning 45 miles through Idaho's diverse landscape. This accessibility makes it an excellent choice for families, newcomers to offroading, and those seeking a scenic adventure without extreme technical challenges.

Current status for Bunco Road / High Drive is: Seasonal. Seasonal routes in Idaho are typically governed by weather conditions, particularly snow accumulation at higher elevations. Always check current conditions with local ranger stations or the Bureau of Land Management before planning your trip.

Vehicle Requirements and Preparation

Bunco Road / High Drive is designated for the following vehicle types: All Vehicles. While less technical, all vehicles should be in good mechanical condition and prepared for changing conditions.

Before tackling Bunco Road / High Drive, ensure your vehicle is properly maintained with particular attention to tires, brakes, and suspension. Carry sufficient fuel for the entire journey plus reserve, as Panhandle Idaho's backcountry offers limited services.

Planning Your Panhandle Idaho Adventure

Summer and Fall offer the optimal conditions for exploring Bunco Road / High Drive. Summer brings dry conditions and extended daylight hours, though afternoon thunderstorms are possible at higher elevations. Early starts are recommended during peak summer months. Fall provides spectacular color displays along with cooler temperatures, making for comfortable riding conditions. This season also brings reduced crowds compared to summer months.

Bunco Road / High Drive is well-suited for family adventures, making it an excellent introduction to Idaho's offroad opportunities. The combination of manageable terrain and scenic rewards makes this a destination families return to year after year.

The Panhandle Idaho Experience

The Panhandle region of Idaho offers a distinctive character that sets it apart from other areas of the state. Northern Idaho's Panhandle region features dense forests, historic mining districts, and mountain lakes that recall the frontier era of the American West.

Beyond Bunco Road / High Drive, the Panhandle region offers numerous additional offroad opportunities, camping areas, and outdoor activities. Many visitors combine their Bunco Road / High Drive adventure with exploration of nearby attractions, creating multi-day expeditions through some of America's most spectacular backcountry.

Responsible Offroading and Trail Preservation

Idaho's offroad access depends on responsible users who respect the land and follow established guidelines. When exploring Bunco Road / High Drive, practice Tread Lightly principles: stay on designated routes, pack out all trash, minimize campfire impacts, and respect wildlife and other visitors. These practices help ensure continued access to Idaho's remarkable backcountry for future generations of outdoor enthusiasts.

The unique features that make Bunco Road / High Drive special—including easy access and camping availability—are worth protecting for future visitors. By combining adventure with responsibility, offroaders can help maintain the wild character that makes Panhandle Idaho such a remarkable destination.