Connecting Highway 21 and Highway 55 in southern Idaho is a little-known scenic back road that will take you on a spectacular adventure. Banks-Lowman Road, also known as the Wildlife Canyon Scenic Byway, spans for 33-miles and takes drivers through a myriad of bends and turns as it follows the South Fork of the Payette River. Known for its abundance of natural beauty and wildlife, you’re bound to be thrilled with the spectacular windshield views from beginning to end. Check it out:
Connecting the small towns of Banks and Lowman is a little-known back road called the Wildlife Canyon Scenic Byway. True to its name, this highway takes you through a canyon that’s rich with scenery and wildlife, and it makes for a fantastic road trip adventure.
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The 33-mile route follows an old miner’s supply route as it stretches east-west from Highway 21 to Highway 55. With only a few small towns scattered along the stretch of road, drivers will find themselves completely immersed in the backcountry beauty of south-central Idaho.
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In fact, the highway closely follows the South Fork of the Payette River for the entirety of the way. Prepare to stop at some of the several turnouts to get a closer look at this roaring whitewater river!
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The highway typically takes drivers around an hour to complete one-way, but you could easily spend an entire day making stops at the small towns and landmarks you’ll find yourself passing along the way. Full services can be found in the town of Garden Valley, and limited services are offered at Banks, Crouch, and Lowman.
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Winding through the heart of the Boise National Forest, you’ll want to keep your eyes peeled for the canyon’s abundant wildlife. From herds of elk and mule deer to wild turkeys, osprey, cougars, black bears, and wolves, this little section of Idaho is as wild as it gets.
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When it comes to recreational opportunities, you’ll find that whitewater rafting and kayaking are both popular along this stretch of the Payette. For a more relaxing experience, check out the beautiful Kirkham Hot Springs found just past Lowman.
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Additionally, Banks-Lowman Road is bookended by two scenic byways: Payette River Scenic Byway at the western end and the Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway at the eastern end. Once you’re done exploring the Wildlife Canyon Scenic Byway, you can hop onto one of these to continue the adventure.
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Have you traversed this scenic back road yet? We’ll definitely be taking this route the next time the opportunity presents itself!
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