Trail Overview
This scenic 37-mile point-to-point route from Murphy to the historic ghost town of Silver City is perfect for stock high-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicles, SxSs, and dual-sport motorcycles looking for a rich historic journey through the rugged Owyhee Mountains. Starting near Highway 78 at an elevation of approximately 2,260 feet, the trail climbs steadily through dramatic desert canyons and sagebrush plains before ascending into dense evergreen forests, reaching a peak elevation of nearly 6,680 feet. Over the course of the drive, travelers will experience more than 5,600 feet of cumulative elevation gain, offering panoramic views of the Snake River Plain and the surrounding Owyhee peaks. The majority of the route consists of a maintained dirt and gravel road that is easily traversed during dry summer months, making it highly accessible for offroaders seeking a scenic mountain escape.
As the trail approaches Silver City, the terrain becomes increasingly rocky with embedded boulders up to six inches in height, where a high-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicle is beneficial to navigate the uneven surfaces. Snow typically blocks the upper mountain passes until late spring or early summer, making July through October the optimal season for travel. Once in Silver City, visitors can explore a remarkably preserved 19th-century mining town complete with historic wooden buildings, though they must respect private property boundaries within the townsite. Dispersed camping opportunities are available near the lower elevations of the route, and travelers should be prepared with self-recovery gear, plenty of water, and a full tank of fuel, as there are no services available along this remote mountain road.
History
Silver City was established in 1864 following the discovery of silver in the Owyhee Mountains. It quickly grew into a bustling mining town and served as the county seat of Owyhee County before declining in the early 20th century. Today, it remains one of Idaho's best-preserved ghost towns with dozens of historic structures.
Access Description
The route is typically impassable due to heavy snow from late autumn through late spring. The road is managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). No permits or fees are required to drive the road, but visitors must respect private property within the historic Silver City townsite.
