Ghost Towns Accessible by ATV in Idaho

You’ll discover Idaho’s most authentic ghost towns by riding ATV trails through the White Knob Mountains to reach White Knob Mining Town, exploring the well-preserved structures at Bayhorse Ghost Town in Land of Yankee Fork State Park, and traversing the challenging Owyhee Loop to Silver City’s abandoned buildings. These backcountry adventures require proper safety gear, Idaho OHV registration stickers, and experienced riding skills to handle rocky terrain and creek crossings. Your complete expedition guide awaits below.

Table of Contents hide

1 Key Takeaways

2 White Knob Mining Town via Mackay Mine Route

3 Bayhorse Ghost Town and Pacific Mine Loop

3.1 Historic Mining Town Features

3.2 Trail Access and Fees

3.3 Adjacent ATV Route Network

4 Bonanza and Custer in Land of Yankee Fork State Park

5 Silver City Through Owyhee Canyonlands

5.1 Owyhee Loop Route Details

5.2 Technical Trail Challenges

6 Mine Hill’s Four Ghost Town Circuit

7 ATV Rentals and Trail Access Points

8 Frequently Asked Questions

8.1 What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Ghost Towns by ATV?

8.2 Do I Need Any Permits or Licenses to Ride ATVS on These Trails?

8.3 Are There Guided ATV Tours Available for Ghost Town Exploration?

8.4 What Safety Equipment Is Required When Riding ATVS to Ghost Towns?

8.5 Can Children Ride ATVS on These Ghost Town Trails?

9 References

Key Takeaways

White Knob Mining Town offers a 3.5-mile uphill ATV ride through historic copper and silver mining remnants from 1879.
Bayhorse Ghost Town features well-preserved 1880s structures, charcoal kilns, and requires a $7-8 entrance fee plus OHV registration.

Mine Hill’s Four Ghost Town Circuit provides a 24-mile tour following original railway routes with interpretive signage and ruins.
Bonanza and Custer Ghost Towns are accessible within six miles of Bayhorse, connected through extensive ATV trail networks.
ATV rentals are available in Mackay starting at $129 daily, with street-legal riding permitted for easy trail access.

White Knob Mining Town via Mackay Mine Route

When you fire up your ATV and tackle the rugged Mackay Mine Route, you’ll climb through the same White Knob Mountains where copper hunters struck it rich in 1879.

This 3.5-mile uphill ride leads to authentic mining history where boom-and-bust cycles shaped an entire community.

You’ll navigate rough terrain that once challenged miners hauling copper, lead, zinc, and silver down to Mackay’s smelter.

The ghost town’s remnants tell stories of 400 workers who called crude cabins, dugouts, and shanties home during peak operations from 1901-1905.

Pack extra water and check your machine before ascending—this isn’t playground riding.

White Knob’s mining history comes alive through scattered relics and foundations. The town got its name from the distinctive blue-gray limestone mountain that towers above the mining district. By 1914, the mines had generated an estimated $3,750,000 in total production value.

The freedom to explore where fortunes were won and lost makes every uphill mile worthwhile.

Bayhorse Ghost Town and Pacific Mine Loop

You’ll find Bayhorse Ghost Town nestled in a dramatic canyon at 6,000 feet elevation, featuring remarkably preserved structures including six beehorse charcoal kilns and a three-story mill from its 1880s silver boom.

The site requires a state park access fee since it’s now part of Land of the Yankee Fork State Park, where protective fencing surrounds dangerous mine shafts and historic buildings. The three-story structure was specifically designed to utilize gravity for processing rocks during the town’s mining operations.

Your ATV adventure extends beyond the ghost town itself through connecting trails that link to the Pacific Mine and broader Yankee Fork Mining District routes. The town’s name comes from Bayhorse Creek, which was linked to a memorable prospecting horse incident during the early days of fortune seeking in this rugged terrain.

Historic Mining Town Features

Silver-laden peaks and weathered timber frames tell the story of Bayhorse Ghost Town, one of Idaho’s most accessible and well-preserved mining settlements you can explore by ATV.

You’ll discover fourteen standing structures that showcase authentic mining history, including the iconic red-painted mill perched dramatically on the hillside. Navigate carefully around original log cabins, frame buildings, and stone foundry remnants that’ve withstood decades of mountain weather.

The ghost town preservation efforts shine through interpretive trails and information plaques that detail the boom-and-bust cycle from 1877 to 1915. At its peak in 1885, the town supported a population of 300 residents along with essential frontier amenities. Located within the Land of the Yankee Fork State Park, Bayhorse offers visitors access to additional ghost towns and historical mining sites throughout the region.

You can examine charcoal kilns, miners’ boarding houses, and wooden clapboard buildings with false fronts. Stay on designated paths to protect these National Register structures while experiencing the raw freedom of Idaho’s mining frontier legacy.

Trail Access and Fees

Getting to Bayhorse Ghost Town requires proper planning and permits before you fire up your ATV for the 13-mile Lombard Trail journey from Yankee Fork Visitor Center.

You’ll need Idaho’s mandatory OHV Registration Sticker ($12 annually) since other state permits aren’t accepted. Your machine must comply with vehicle regulations including spark arresting exhaust and 96 dB noise limits.

Budget $7-$8 for Bayhorse’s entrance fee, collected through a dropbox when staff’s unavailable. The dirt road’s decent but watch those crumbling edges on return sections.

Your registration fees directly fund trail maintenance, keeping these remote routes accessible year-round. From Bayhorse, you’ll access the Pacific Mine Loop through Challis Salmon National Forest, where freedom meets responsible riding across BLM and public lands. Navigate confidently using the IDPR Idaho Trails App for route planning and offline GPS functionality. For those without their own equipment, UTV/ATV rentals are available through local outfitters in the Challis area.

Adjacent ATV Route Network

Beyond Bayhorse Ghost Town‘s charcoal kilns and preserved buildings, you’ll discover an extensive ATV network that transforms this historic site into your gateway for multi-day exploration.

The Pacific Mine Loop connects you to Yankee Fork State Park and Garden Creek through less demanding motorized roads perfect for regional adventures.

Adjacent trailheads branch toward Juliette Creek’s rugged cow trails and Trealor Creek’s alternative routes. You’ll find Bonanza and Custer Ghost Towns within six miles, while Bayhorse Lake awaits five miles out.

The network supports direct access from properties like Sawmill Station, creating seamless connections across the broader riding area. The Bayhorse Staging Area provides a primary access point with designated facilities for vehicle parking and unloading equipment.

ATV safety becomes essential when maneuvering these multi-use trails shared with hikers and bikers. The area maintains clean facilities including bathrooms that ensure comfortable extended stays during your ghost town exploration. GPS maps guarantee you’ll stay oriented throughout this regionally-rated OHV system.

Bonanza and Custer in Land of Yankee Fork State Park

While most ghost towns require you to imagine their bustling past, Bonanza and Custer in Idaho’s Land of the Yankee Fork State Park let you experience two distinct approaches to preserving mining history.

Custer history unfolds through restored buildings from its 1879 founding, complete with museum and saloon where 600 residents once lived. Bonanza exploration offers authentic ruins you’ll discover unchanged since the mining boom ended.

Your ATV adventure includes:

Yankee Fork Road access to both towns with scenic wildlife viewing
Interpretive center near Challis featuring gold panning and exhibits
Extended trails connecting to nearby Bayhorse ghost town

At 6,500 feet elevation, you’ll find seasonal access through Labor Day.

The 521-acre park provides freedom to explore genuine frontier remnants while supporting responsible recreation.

Silver City Through Owyhee Canyonlands

You’ll navigate the challenging 50.9-mile Owyhee Loop, War Eagle, and Silver City trail system to reach this preserved 1880s mining town nestled in the remote Owyhee Mountains.

The southern trail sections provide direct ATV access through technical terrain featuring tight switchbacks, sandy washes, and steep rocky passages that’ll test your riding skills.

Before attempting this adventure, make certain you’re prepared for the demanding conditions and have proper safety equipment, as these canyonland routes require experienced off-road navigation through wilderness settings.

Owyhee Loop Route Details

The Owyhee Uplands Backcountry Byway presents one of Idaho’s most challenging and rewarding ATV adventures, stretching 102.7 miles through high desert landscapes, juniper woodlands, and deep river canyons from Silver City to Highway 78.

You’ll navigate gravel roads that’re one to one-and-a-half lanes wide, encountering potholes, ruts, and washboarding that demand careful attention. Historic mining remnants dot the route through ancient Lake Idaho’s former drainage areas.

Key route considerations include:

Access Points: Eastern entry from Highway 78 near Grand View or western entry through Jordan Valley, Oregon
Critical Landmarks: Salt desert shrubs at mile 87.2, Mud Flat Road junction at mile 93.2, and Oolite Trail at mile 94.0
Services: Limited fuel available only in Grand View and Jordan Valley—plan accordingly

Contact BLM offices for current trail conditions before departure.

Technical Trail Challenges

Beyond Silver City’s weathered storefronts, you’ll face Idaho’s most demanding ATV terrain as trails plunge into the rugged Owyhee Canyonlands through creek beds, boulder fields, and steep canyon walls.

Technical obstacles escalate dramatically – six-inch boulders become standard while creek crossings demand 4-low gearing and precise throttle control. You’ll navigate tight switchbacks, sand washes, and fallen timber from recent burns that’ll test your machine’s capabilities.

Essential gear recommendations include helmets, eye protection, long pants, and gloves for brush encounters. Pack tow straps, tire repair kits, GPS devices, and emergency supplies including waterproof matches and duct tape.

These untouched wilderness trails reward experienced riders with unparalleled freedom, but they’ll punish poor preparation. Respect muddy patches and vegetated areas to preserve access for future adventures.

Mine Hill’s Four Ghost Town Circuit

Twenty-four miles of rugged terrain await ATV riders on Mackay Mine Hill’s self-guided driving tour, where you’ll discover not just one ghost town but an entire network of abandoned mining sites spanning nearly a century of operation.

Twenty-four miles of rugged terrain reveal an entire network of abandoned mining sites spanning nearly a century of Idaho history.

This isn’t your typical ghost town exploration—it’s a complete mining complex that produced nearly one million tons of precious ore from 1884 through the 1980s.

The red route follows the original narrow gauge railway, perfect for ATVs under 50 inches wide.

You’ll encounter:

Cossack Tunnel – Active mining operations with interpretive signage
Rebuilt Trestle – Popular attraction reconstructed after 1998 condemnation
Smelter Ruins – Remnants of aerial trams and ore processing facilities

Check Forest Service alerts before riding, and remember—non-residents need Idaho OHV stickers for trail access.

ATV Rentals and Trail Access Points

Since Idaho’s ghost towns beckon from remote locations, securing reliable ATV rentals and knowing your access points can make or break your adventure.

You’ll find excellent rental options across key regions. In Mackay, Lost River Adventures provides access to surrounding mountains and ghost towns, while the town permits ATV use on any street.

Bayhorse offers Snowmobile and ATV Rentals with Polaris RZR packages starting at $129 daily, including helmets and transport service. Silver City rentals in Murphy feature 30-inch tire UTVs for challenging terrain.

Essential trail maps are available at Mackay stores for self-guided routes.

Bayhorse’s 4-mile dirt access road leads directly to the ghost town, with over 90 miles of adjacent trails. You’ll pay $5-$7 entrance fees, but gain access to authentic mining history and unlimited exploration freedom.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Ghost Towns by ATV?

You’ll find the best seasons are late May through October when weather conditions offer clear skies and accessible trails. Avoid winter’s heavy snow and spring’s muddy thaw for safe, unrestricted ghost town adventures.

Do I Need Any Permits or Licenses to Ride ATVS on These Trails?

Yes, you’ll need Idaho’s OHV registration sticker and valid driver’s license for ghost town trails. Check ATV regulations beforehand since trail restrictions vary by location, and always carry liability insurance for safe adventures.

Are There Guided ATV Tours Available for Ghost Town Exploration?

Most ghost town ATV experiences offer self-guided exploration with downloadable trail maps and interpretive sites. You’ll discover historical significance independently while enjoying freedom to explore at your own pace safely.

What Safety Equipment Is Required When Riding ATVS to Ghost Towns?

You’ll need DOT-approved helmets if under 18, plus mandatory mufflers meeting 96dB limits and spark arrestors. Essential safety gear includes gloves, boots, and protective clothing. Follow riding tips for safe ghost town adventures.

Can Children Ride ATVS on These Ghost Town Trails?

Children can ride these ghost town trails with proper ATV safety gear and child supervision. You’ll need safety course completion for kids under 16, helmets, and age-appropriate ATV sizing for maximum adventure.