Idaho is the place to be if you’re the type of adventurer who hates crowds. Our population density is one of the lowest in the country (7th lowest, to be precise), and there are some destinations in our state where you could drive for miles without seeing a single soul. The Owyhee Canyonlands is one of those places. Situated in the rugged and remote southwestern corner of our state, this wilderness area is rich with canyons, rivers, and endless natural beauty. It’s the type of secluded landscape you’ll find yourself returning back to again and again for your next adventure, so check it out.
Hiding out in southwestern Idaho's Owyhee County is a majestic landscape known as the Owyhee Canyonlands Wilderness. Although our state is full of remote wilderness areas, this one is by far one of the most extraordinary and underrated.
The Owyhee Wilderness Act was created in 2009 and it designated 518,000-acres of public lands in Owyhee County as official wilderness area. As a result, adventurers who visit this area are presented with a wealth of recreational opportunities and stunning sights.
The wilderness area is truly massive, stretching all the way from the Idaho-Oregon border to the Idaho-Nevada border in the state's southeastern corner. It's definitely a big place to explore, so be sure to plan ahead for everything you'd like to see.
Whether you're looking for a simple day hike or a multi-day backpacking adventure, there's something for every outdoorsman in the Owyhee Canyonlands. Plus, there's truly no bad time of year to visit, but spring and early summer are considered best since temperatures can soar in this exposed landscape.
For one of the most inspiring sights that the wilderness area has to offer, check out Bruneau Overlook. The overlook provides 360-degree views of the 800-foot-deep Bruneau Canyon, plus the Bruneau River below. Comprised solely of basalt formations, this canyon is an incredible sight to witness.
If you'd like to cover a lot of ground, a trip on the Owyhee Byway is definitely the way to go. This scenic road stretches for 100 miles starting in Grand View and ending in Jordan Valley, Oregon. Along the way, you'll drive past destinations such as Little Jacks Creek, Pole Creek, and the North Fork of the Owyhee River Campground.
Whether you're a casual hiker, backpacker, rafter, rock climber, camper, or any other type of recreation enthusiast, the majesty of the Owyhee Canyonlands is bound to deliver. Immerse yourself in this secluded landscape's rugged beauty and plan an adventure here soon.
