Idaho Backcountry Journey

The Idaho Backcountry Journey

----Trail Leader----

Justin Pascarella/Shane Fisher

----Trip Dates----

July 28th through August 4th

—Idaho History—

The Name "Idaho" Was Made Up - The name “Idaho” was originally suggested in the 1860s for a new U.S. territory, but it turns out it was a fabricated word. It was claimed to be a Shoshone term meaning “gem of the mountains” or “sun comes from the mountains,” but historians later discovered it had no Native American origin. Despite this, the name stuck, and it became the official name of the state.

Idaho's Gold Rush Outshone California (Briefly) - In the 1860s, Idaho experienced a major gold rush, particularly in towns like Idaho City and Pierce. At its peak, Idaho City was the largest city in the Northwest—even bigger than Portland or Seattle at the time. The influx of miners and fortune seekers helped shape the early development of the region.

It Was a Hub for Japanese Internment During WWII - Minidoka, one of the ten internment camps for Japanese Americans during World War II, was located in southern Idaho. Over 9,000 people were forcibly relocated there from the West Coast. Today, the Minidoka National Historic Site serves as a memorial and reminder of this dark chapter in American history.

Atomic Energy Pioneering - In 1951, the town of Arco, Idaho, became the first city in the world to be lit by nuclear power. Idaho is home to the Idaho National Laboratory (INL), a key center for nuclear research. Many early nuclear reactors were built and tested here, including ones used in U.S. Navy submarines.

----Trip Description----

The Idaho backcountry is an unforgettable overland adventure that stretches over 1,200 miles from the Nevada border in the South to the Canadian border in the North. Designed for dual-sport motorcycles and high-clearance 4x4 vehicles, the route slices through the heart of Idaho’s most remote and rugged wilderness. This will be a journey of towering peaks, deep river canyons, alpine meadows, epic overlooks and historic mining towns—where cell service is non-existent and self-reliance becomes your closest friend. Some place warm, a place where the beer flows like wine, where beautiful women instinctively flock like the salmon of Capistrano. I’m talking about a little place called Idaho.

Our journey through the Idaho backcountry will begin in the town of Glenns Ferry where we will top off fuel and grab any last minute provisions. There will be several towns either nearby or on our route where we can restock throughout our trip, so food and fuel should not be of too great concern. From Glenns Ferry, our plan will be to continue to explore deep into the mountains as far North as we’re able, giving the time we have while maintaining a comfortable pace. There are a lot of waypoints of interest to see along the way and can be missed if rushed. The total overall route is 1,200+mi and may be broken up into multiple parts. We'll be utilizing some of the Idaho BDR with some alterations. Fauna throughout the area include moose, black bear, grey wolf, cougar, bobcat, coyote, rocky mountain elk, mule deer, grizzly bear, so we’ll have to keep an eye out for some awesome wildlife!

**Be prepared for varying types of roads and unpredictable weather conditions

As always, expect the unexpected. Adventure is subject to change.**

----Off-road Miles----

(Varied) 350mi +/- This will heavily depend on pace/progress. As always, this is about the journey, smiles over miles.

----Trail Difficulty----

Easy to Easy-Moderate - The majority of the route is graded dirt, gravel and forest service roads. I don’t anticipate anything technical.

----Vehicle Requirements----

Stock Clearance 4x4

Off-road/All-Terrain capable tires (plus wheel key)

Full-size spare

Frame mounted tow points front and back

----Recommended Equipment----

20,000+lb Tow Strap

2x (Soft) Shackles

----Minimum Recommended Equipment----

Fire Extinguisher

First Aid Kit

Extra Water

Extra Fuel

Vehicle Unique Tools

Warm Emergency Clothing

Personal Medication

----Ham Radio Comms----

Primary 146.550 

Secondary 146.580

----Meeting Location/Time----

Murphy USA - 9AM

14375 Lincoln St, Thornton, CO 80023

https://maps.app.goo.gl/eWQbdapKJq5CEP2m7

----Time to Trail Head----

11.5hr - 750mi +/-

---Cost---

$150 Per Vehicle

Price includes a fully guided trip and we will do our best to provide some special refreshments, treats and/or snacks/meals while we're at camp during breakfast and dinner times, but you're expected to be self-sufficient throughout the duration of the trip. If you have any questions please email me at justin@rockymountainoverland.com

Cancellation/Refund Policy:

2 Weeks Before Trip = 50% Refund

1 Week Before Trip = No Refund

No Show = No Refund

*While we understand unforeseen circumstances and emergencies occur, if there is any reason that you need to cancel within these timeframes, please reach out to us to discuss.