Moscow to Elk City...and Back.
Don't confuse Elk City with another local favorite, Elk River.
This is a great 150 mile ride out to Elk City, ID along mostly lightly traveled roads. The top of the Orofino Grade offers splendid views of the Clearwater River valley. The stretch from Orofino to Kooskia along US12 is more heavily traveled but very scenic. In Kooskia, as you pick up ID13, the route will follow the South Fork of the Clearwater River. ID14, from its start at the base of the Harpster Grade to its end in Elk City, has been described as the best motorcycle ride in Idaho. The road flows along the South Fork of the Clearwater and is filled with sweeping turns, great scenery and very little traffic. Please be aware that the pavement runs out in Elk City with no way back other than to retrace the route to ID13.
Variations
Return via Grangeville and US95
This route displayed includes returning through Grangeville, ID and up US95. Alternatively, you can simply retrace the route to enjoy the scenery again.
Red River Ranger Station/Dixie
Just before Elk City, you will see the intersection with Red River Road. This road is paved to the old Red River Ranger Station. From the Ranger Station, you can follow this road another ~15 miles to Dixie. Please be aware, the last 3-4 miles of the road to Dixie are well-maintained compacted gravel however.
Southern Nez Perce Trail
For those who don't mind dirt roads, the Southern Nez Perce Trail can be picked up beyond Red River Ranger Station. This is 110 miles of dirt road over to Darby, MT and is reputed to be the longest continuous stretch of dirt road without any services in the West. **The Forest Service advises carrying a bucket, axe and a shovel with you when traveling this road.
Red River Hot Springs
From the Red River Ranger Station, you can follow gravel roads over to Red River Hot Springs where there is the lodge offers day use rates. (They do recommend calling ahead to make sure there is staff available to assist you)
The maps, directions and notes above are for information only. No representation is made or warranty given as to their content, road conditions or route usability or expeditiousness. User assumes all risks arising from the use of this information. Best Western Plus University Inn assumes no responsibility for any loss or delay resulting from such use.