The Peaks to Craters Scenic Byway in Idaho offers a fantastic road trip that mixes jaw-dropping scenery with a dash of geological wonder. This 140-mile stretch of highway takes you through some of the state’s most diverse landscapes- think towering peaks, sprawling valleys, and volcanic oddities.
Starting in Challis and winding its way to Craters of the Moon National Monument, this scenic byway is packed with must-see stops along the way. Let’s explore the best sights along the Peaks to Craters Scenic Byway and why it’s one of Idaho’s top scenic drives.
Starting the Journey: Peaks to Craters Scenic Byway
Land of the Yankee Fork State Park
Begin your trip in Challis, at the Land of the Yankee Fork State Park, where you can dig into Idaho’s rich mining history. You’ll find a cool interpretive center with exhibits on the area’s mining past, plus a chance to pan for gold yourself.
Explore historic ghost towns for a peek into Idaho’s wild history. There’s also a short trail to a bison jump site, where Shoshone hunters once herded bison. From Challis, the byway stretches south, and the views only get better from here.
Grand View Canyon
As you continue along, the Peaks to Craters Byway passes through Grand View Canyon. The narrow stretch and towering walls of the canyon kind of make you feel like you’re driving through a movie set. It was quite the experience! You’ll also spot free-ranging cattle and expansive views of the valley and surrounding mountains.
Reaching the Willow Creek Summit at 7,161 feet, you’ll catch your first glimpse of the Lost River Mountains. This stunningly rugged range is home to Idaho’s tallest peak, Mount Borah.
Lost River Fault Scarp Interpretive Site
Speaking of Mount Borah, don’t miss the interpretive site for the Lost River Fault Scarp. Take a quick detour from the highway down Doublespring Pass Road. The interpretive signs tell the story of the 6.9 magnitude earthquake that tore a 20+ mile visible scar (or scarp) along the mountain range in October 1983.
Mount Borah
This is also a prime location for stunning views of Mount Borah, Idaho’s tallest peak standing at 12,662 feet.
Mackay Reservoir
Continue your journey to the picturesque Mackay Reservoir, perfect for a relaxing and scenic stop. Enjoy fishing for rainbow trout, boating, or swimming in the beautiful blue water.
Hiking trails, picnic areas, a campground, and restrooms can be found at Joe T. Fallini Recreation Site. We spent a week camping in a lake front site and enjoyed the stunning scenery of Mount McCaleb and the Lost River Range. It even snowed during our stay… in June! The park was a fantastic base camp for exploring the Peaks to Craters Scenic Byway and nearby Mackay, Idaho.
Towns to Visit Along Peaks to Craters Scenic Byway
Mackay, Idaho
Next up is Mackay, a laid-back town surrounded by rolling fields and mountain vistas. Tour a ghost town, rent an ATV, or discover more about Mackay’s copper mining history on the very scenic Mine Hill Tour. Then head into Mackay’s main street to explore the Lost River Museum and stop by Scoops Corner Café for a delicious lunch or sweet treat. We recommend the huckleberry ice cream!
Want to learn more about the hidden gems in Mackay? Be sure to check out our post– Visit Mackay Idaho: Top Things to Do and See.
Arco, Idaho
A bit further along the byway is Arco, a small town with a big story. Arco was the first town in the world to be lit by atomic power. Learn more about nuclear energy at the Experimental Breeder Reactor-I (EBR-I) Atomic Museum. This national historic landmark is located just a short drive out of town.
Visit the museum, tour the power plant, and see four nuclear reactors! Pamphlets are available for self-guided tours, or you can sign up for a guided tour during the summer season.
Craters of the Moon National Monument
The grand finale of the Peaks to Craters Scenic Byway is Craters of the Moon National Monument. This place feels like a lunar landscape was just dropped into Idaho- truly otherworldly. Lava flows, cinder cones, and volcanic features stretch out in every direction.
The 7-mile scenic loop is a must-drive, offering plenty of trailheads, overlooks, and even caves to stop and explore along the way. If you are planning a cave trail, be sure to stop at the visitor center on the way in to receive a free cave permit before hiking.
Take the Caves Trail (1.6 mi round trip) to the Indian Tunnel, a lava tube you can hike through! This was such a neat experience and a huge hit with the kids.
Climbing to the top of Inferno Cone is another popular attraction in the park. The climb is pretty steep, but the views from the top are totally worth the hike! The stark beauty of this national monument is an experience you certainly won’t forget. For more details and things to do when visiting the park, be sure to visit the park’s website.
Peaks to Craters Scenic Byway- Wrap Up
The Peaks to Craters Scenic Byway is more than just a scenic drive; it’s a journey through Idaho’s natural and historical highlights. From the mining history of Mackay and Land of the Yankee Fork to the natural beauty of Mount Borah and Craters of the Moon, every stop offers something special. We hope you enjoy one of Idaho’s finest scenic byways.
Happy Travels!
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