Trail Overview

This 10-mile track, each way, takes you into Wood Canyon, under the shadow of Howe Peak. Nearby peaks include the Howe Peak Ridge and Jumpoff Peak. Most of the trail is in the Challis National Forest. You climb to an elevation of about 7300. If you're here before Memorial Day, you may encounter snow on the trails and in the forests. If it's rained recently, it will be muddy. Erosion occurs with heavy run-off. This track ends where we hit too deep of snow to get through, but the trails go beyond our track if you're here later than early May.

Photos of Arco Pass Road to Wood Canyon

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Difficulty

Erosion from run-off is the only complicating factor on this trail, or snow that hasn't melted yet. Otherwise, it's an easy ride.

History

The Challis National Forest is an Idaho State Park, and the section of the Forest in this area covers 135K acres. In total, the Salmon-Challis National Forest covers 4.3 million acres.

Technical Rating

Andy Wickham

Sep 12, 2025

Open

I came from the Howe Ridge side. I did not go to either peak. The descent from the pass is winding and very tight for a Jeep JKUR through a forest. Expect lots of scratches. Bumpy, minor off camber areas, but not technically difficult. Not a 2 rating at all, at least in the forested area up to the pass. Low range needed. A jeep will easily make the trail, but better suited for a SXS. Not near enough with for a full size truck.

Oliver AhMu

Mar 15, 2025

Open

Too much snow. Trail was not passable with a 2.5" lift on 33" tires, and rear locking diff. It gets difficult just as you get into the area where trees are on both sides and gets tight.

Kevin hebertson

Sep 01, 2024

Open

canyon is tight low hanging branches tight corners if you like you paint don't go. but absolutely pretty great trail