Driving the steep 4x4 road to Swanholm Peak in Idaho

Swanholm Peak is a high mountain peak at an elevation of 2.662m (8,733ft) above sea level, located in Elmore County, in the U.S. state of Idaho. The road to the summit, on a very steep grade, is not for the faint of heart.

Swanholm Peak

Where is Swanholm Peak?

The peak is located 19 miles southeast of Lowman, in the central part of Idaho.

Can I drive to Swanholm Peak?

The road to the summit is entirely unpaved. It’s called FS Road 229LO, aka Swanholm jeep road.

How long is the road to Swanholm Peak?

Starting at FS Road 251, you need to drive about 3 miles to a summit. Continue over the summit for about 0.2 miles and look for FS Road 229LO, the Swanholm jeep road. FS Road 229LO is 2 miles to Swanholm Peak on a very steep grade.

How challenging is the road to Swanholm Peak?

The very bumpy rocky dirt road is not easy. It’s strictly for 4×4 vehicles. Long-wheel-based vehicles will have a difficult time navigating through the sharp switchbacks. Also, pull-outs are few and far between, so meeting oncoming vehicles requires much consideration and probably backing.

Is the road to Swanholm Peak open?

Set high in the Boise National Forest, the road is seasonally impassable in winters due to snow. It is open from June 15 to Sept 15.

Is the road to Swanholm Peak worth it?

The road provides stunning views. A fire lookout has stood on the summit since 1922. It is no longer in use.

 

 

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