Cottonwood

Cutting through the foothills between the Boise River and Highway 21, Cottonwood is a one-lane road with some wide spots, small potholes, and shallow tire ruts. Only it goes into the foothills instead of along the river gorge. The National Forest section of the trail is very narrow, with lots of opportunities for pinstripes. There are several creek crossings. The northern end of the road passes th...

When to go: Summer and Fall typically offer the best window.

Vehicles: Jeep/Truck, SUV. Standard offroad prep applies: appropriate tires, ground clearance, and a basic recovery kit.

Southwest Idaho context

Southwest Idaho splits across the Snake River. South of the river is Owyhee high desert — sage flats, slickrock canyons, and a million-plus acres of BLM. North is the Boise National Forest, with mining-era roads, ponderosa, and quick out-of-Boise access. Most weekend trips work off Boise, Mountain Home, Marsing, or McCall.

Best for drivers who understand their vehicle and the cost of a mistake in remote country.