Trail Overview

This braided dirt road follows along the Owyhee River from the ford at Birch Creek Ranch to where the river dumps into the South end of the Owyhee Reservoir. This trail is mostly along the West side of the river, but there are two river crossings and a slow, rocky stretch on the East side that bypasses an old washout. Fording the river is only viable during low flow in the fall. Always wade in to test the depth and strength of the current before attempting to ford deep water. This is part of a long and very remote route that accesses the backcountry and numerous Wilderness Study Areas along the West side of the Owyhee Reservoir and Owyhee Canyonlands. There is very little traffic out here. Bring extra fuel, water, and spare tires. There is a high silica content in the dirt in this region. When dry, it's fine talc dust that gets everywhere and in everything. When wet, it becomes a slippery mess and dries hard on your vehicle like concrete. Be prepared to hike out if traveling in this area during the wet season.

Photos of Owyhee River Trail

Want to see more?
View All Photos

Difficulty

Easy dirt road with 2-4 river fords depending on route.

Technical Rating

Jack McCall

May 20, 2026

Open

Not only is the crossing leading from the campground marked as closed for preservation with signage. Staff have moved the old field sprinkler system to block the route. Even still some people have tried to dismantle it and pass anyway. Dont be that kind of person. Closed is closed. Continually ignoring things like this is how we lose access to more of this beautiful land.

Jonathan Cannon

May 09, 2026

Open

There is a section of the trail parallel to the river that is impassable by anything wider than a motorcycle or mountain bike. The trail is just to narrow for an ATV or wider vehicle. The section is located south (upstream) of the Owyhee reservoir and where the trail is parallel and right next to the river.

Tim Davis

Sep 28, 2025

Open

Tim Davis

Sep 20, 2025

Open

Per the Main, West Little, and North Fork Owyhee National Wild and Scenic Rivers Management Plan and Environmental Assessment, all river fords were closed in the 90's. -motorized use will be prohibited in a wild river area." -"Allowing visitors to then use non-motorized means to further enter the canyons. Refer to the motorized watercraft action rationale." -The motorized watercraft action rationale states, "Motorized use substantially interferes with the use and enjoyment of Outstanding Resource Values. Objective: Reduce bank erosion and protect the Morrison site from vandalism by closing vehicle access at the ford. Action: BLM, county, and Reclamation will close ~2 miles of road from the ford at Birch Creek to Griffith Ranch by 1995. Rationale: Closure protects scenic, recreational, cultural, and wildlife values, preserves solitude, and safeguards the historic ranch, without affecting other public access routes.

Nathan Jensen

Oct 25, 2024

Open

Where the road is washed out you can cross the river and see Hattie Harells ranch and then cross the river again. That will help you by pass the washed out road.

john j

Jun 11, 2024

Open

road has slide that came down and it also took most of the road with it, not possible with 4x4 or sxs. trail is possible with dirtbike

C Potter

May 24, 2024

Open

map shows open trail however the road has been washed out north of basque campsite.