Driving the steep NF-356 road to Mount Jordan in Idaho
Mount Jordan is a high mountain peak reaching an elevation of 2,889m (9,478ft) above sea level, located in Custer County, in the central part of Idaho, USA. Situated deep within the Salmon River Mountains, the road to the summit is recognized as one of the highest roads in the entire state.
The ascent is a raw backcountry experience, far from any paved civilization. The peak sits within the Challis National Forest, an area defined by its rugged wilderness and mining history. From the summit, the view is absolutely breathtaking, offering a 360-degree panorama of the jagged Idaho peaks and the deep, pine-covered valleys that define the "Gem State's" interior.
| Road facts: Mount Jordan | |
|---|---|
| Location | Custer County, Idaho (USA) |
| Elevation | 2,889 m (9,478 ft) |
| Road Name | NF-356 |
| Length | 4.18 km (2.6 miles) |
| Average Gradient | 14.37% |
| Max Gradient | Over 20% in sections |
How difficult is the NF-356 road to Mount Jordan?
The road to the summit, designated as NF-356, is a technical forest service track that starts from Loon Creek Road and runs along the scenic but steep Jordan Creek. The climb is short but incredibly intense, covering 4.18 km (2.6 miles). Over this distance, the road gains a massive 601 meters (1,972 ft) of vertical elevation. This results in a staggering average gradient of 14.37%, making it one of the steepest sustained drives in Idaho.
The surface is entirely unpaved, consisting of loose gravel, large rocks, and deep ruts. This is a high-risk route where 4x4 vehicles with low-range gearing are mandatory. The "tippy" nature of the track, combined with the extreme steepness, requires expert throttle control to maintain traction on the loose shale. During wet conditions, the road turns into a muddy trap, making the ascent nearly impossible for all but the most experienced wheelers.
When can you drive to the summit of Mount Jordan?
Due to its high elevation in the Idaho mountains, the road is usually impassable during the winter and well into late spring. Snow can block the NF-356 until July in some years. The weather in Custer County is notoriously unpredictable, with afternoon thunderstorms frequently hitting the high ridges. Drivers should be prepared for sudden drops in temperature and ensure they have enough fuel and supplies, as this part of the Salmon River Mountains is exceptionally remote. There are no facilities nearby, so self-sufficiency is a matter of survival when tackling the 14% ramps of Mount Jordan.