Mackay Mine Hill Bypass

Perfect for offroaders seeking an alternative route or a quicker descent, the Mackay Mine Hill Bypass offers an easy-going connection from Mackay up into the towering Lost River Range without having to follow the main Mackay Mine Hill Tour trail. Spanning approximately 2.35 miles through the rolling, sagebrush-covered lower hills, this scenic connector trail is suitable for most high-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicles, SxSs, and dirt bikes. Starting near Smelter Avenue, the route climbs steadily from an elevation of 6,194 feet up to 6,925 feet, offering panoramic views of the surrounding valley and the distant mountain peaks. The trail features a gentle average gradient of around four degrees, with a few steeper sections peaking near eleven degrees, making it a highly accessible route for drivers of all skill levels. While generally offering smooth, uncomplicated travel over unpaved dirt surfaces, drivers should remain alert for minor erosion, mud, or lingering snow patches during the early spring months. The route serves as a functional bypass, allowing visitors to customize their exploration of the historic White Knob mining district or quickly descend back toward town after a day in the high country. To reach the trailhead from Mackay, travel southwest on Smelter Avenue to the intersection with Segfried Lane, where staging is available, and follow the main tour trail until the bypass branches off to the left. Combining beautiful mountain backdrops with historical context, the area lies in the shadow of Idaho's tallest peak, Mount Borah, providing an excellent gateway to the rugged beauty of the region.