Broad Canyon Trailhead

Closed — Closed for the winter season. Access roads at this elevation are typically snowed in from late fall through spring, making the trailhead inaccessible.

About

Broad Canyon Trailhead is a primitive camping area located at 7,800 feet elevation in the Salmon-Challis National Forest, accessed via Copper Basin Loop Road #138 and Broad Canyon Road #506. The trailhead features eight dispersed campsites set among the trees, providing a rustic base camp for hikers and horseback riders exploring the Lost River Range. The location serves as a jumping-off point for several trails into the backcountry, including the popular Broad Canyon Trail which climbs toward alpine lakes and high mountain peaks. The trailhead is equipped with hitching rails to accommodate equestrian users, making it a suitable destination for those traveling with stock animals. One accessible vault toilet is available, but campers must bring their own drinking water. The area is typically accessed in summer and early fall when roads are passable. At this elevation in central Idaho, winter access is extremely limited or impossible due to snow closure of forest roads. The wooded setting provides natural shelter and a scenic environment for dispersed camping while maintaining a primitive, backcountry character.

Directions

From Mackay, take Trail Creek Road north to Copper Basin Loop Road #138. Follow this road 7.5 miles to Broad Canyon Road #506. Turn right and follow for 0.5 miles to the trailhead.

Nearby Campgrounds