Road trip guide: Conquering Sunset Mountain in Idaho

Sunset Mountain is a high mountain peak at an elevation of 2.393m (7,851ft) above sea level, located in Boise County, in the U.S. state of Idaho.

Sunset Mountain

Where is Sunset Mountain?

The peak is located in the southwestern part of Idaho, within the Boise National Forest.

Why is there a road to Sunset Mountain?

The summit hosts a lookout tower built in 1958. The views are extensive with Boise Mountains in all directions.

Is the road to Sunset Mountain unpaved?

The road to the summit is totally unpaved. It’s called Sunset Mountain Road (Forest Road 316). The road has a few rough places, so a high clearance vehicle is required. It is very steep, hitting a 26% of maximum gradient through some of the ramps.

How long is the road to Sunset Mountain?

Starting at Mores Creek Summit, the ascent is 7.40km (4.6 miles) long. Over this distance the elevation gain is 522 meters. The average gradient is 7.05%.

Is the road to Sunset Mountain open year-round?

Set high at the northwestern corner of Boise Range, this road is not plowed and usually closed from late October through late June or early July (depending on snow).
Pic: Sebastien D.

 

 

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