How difficult is the NF-356 road to Mount Jordan?
Usa, north-america
N/A
601 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, picture this: you're deep in the heart of Idaho's Salmon River Mountains, ready for a backcountry adventure unlike any other. You're headed to Mount Jordan, a peak way up there in the Challis National Forest, where the views are insane – a full 360 degrees of jagged peaks and endless pine valleys.
Getting there? That's where the fun begins. The climb up Forest Road 356 from Stanley Basin is short but brutal, only about 4.2 km (2.6 miles) long, but you're gaining a whopping 601 meters (almost 2,000 feet!). That's an average gradient of over 14%, making it one of the steepest sustained drives in Idaho.
The road is rough, all loose gravel, big rocks, and seriously deep ruts. You absolutely NEED a 4x4 with low-range gearing; no ifs, ands, or buts. This track is tippy, and with that extreme steepness, you'll need expert throttle control to keep from slipping. And if it's wet? Forget about it, unless you're a total pro.
Keep in mind, this road is usually snowed in until late spring, sometimes even July! And the weather up there in Custer County can change on a dime, so be prepared for sudden thunderstorms and temperature drops. Pack extra fuel and supplies because you are totally isolated up there. No services, just you, your rig, and those epic views after conquering those crazy steep slopes.
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Max Elevation
- 601 m
- Difficulty
- hard
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