Harris Creek

Harris Creek connects the historic mining town of Placerville and Horseshoe Bend. Combine Harris Creek with Centerville Road to make a nice easy scenic loop to Idaho City. In 1863, at the height of the gold rush, Placerville had a population of 3,200, mainly consisting of miners and townspeople who worked the Basin. Later, logging and ranching became the predominant occupations. Since World War II...

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

Vehicles: Jeep/Truck, SUV. Standard maintenance and a spare tire cover the basics here.

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.