Trail Overview
Arco Pass Spur - FS 4259 is an approachable yet scenic connector trail ideal for offroaders seeking an easy route through the rugged Salmon-Challis National Forest. Spanning approximately 3.5 miles, this unpaved route links the Arco Pass Road to the Wood Canyon Trail. Drivers will encounter a cumulative elevation gain of 1,657 feet along a path that maintains a low technical difficulty during the dry summer months. However, early-season travelers visiting before May 1st should prepare for challenging conditions, as melting snowpack, active runoff erosion, and deep mud can significantly increase the difficulty.
Staging can be done directly in the town of Arco off Highway 20, or riders can access the trailhead by following the Hurst Canyon Trail or connecting from the Arco Pass Road to Wood Canyon Trail. Because this route sits within the vast 135,000-acre section of the Challis National Forest, visitors should carry plenty of water and supplies to support a full day of exploring the surrounding network of trails.
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.
