Description
Tucked in the Boise National Forest near Mores Creek Summit (Idaho Hwy 21) in Boise County, Sunset Mountain Lookout (7,869 ft) is a rewarding high-country detour for adventure motorcycle riders.
The staffed R-6 fire lookout tower, built in 1958 atop an older base, offers panoramic views of the Boise Mountains, North Fork Boise River country, and distant Sawtooths. Dual-sport and ADV riders tackle the rough, steep Forest Road #316 (some sections challenging with downed trees or exposure) from the summit parking area for a leg-stretch, photos, and epic vistas before rejoining backroads toward Idaho City or Lowman. Best in dry summer/fall—respect active fire lookout operations, pack in/pack out, and ride safe.
More Information
Coordinates: 43.898454, -115.647030
Elevation: 7850 ft
Difficulty: 3
What to Expect:
Check In
Use the form below to check in. Check-ins must include a photo of you or your bike at the challenge site with the 2026 bandanna. All participants must be registered IAMC Challenge Members. Leave a description of your ride and share road conditions — snow, water, obstacles, and tips for future riders are all appreciated.
Replying to another person's check-in is encouraged, but take care not to accidentally create your own check-in.
The stated difficulty is an estimate. Rating your experience helps future riders stay safe. You alone are responsible for the safety of your ride.
4 Check-Ins
Came over the top from Loftus hot spring. Perfect weather and no crashes.
Went back for a second run. The first time was with John Hart on eMTBs. This time with Andre Tipa on dualsports.
It's still a 3.5 on a big bike, 2.5 on a regular bike, because of some ruts and the fact that it's pretty steep and requires commitment.
Nice trip to the lookout on my T7 with the stock Pirelli Scorpian Rally STR tires. No problem with traction at all. I wouldn’t rate the road any more difficult than 3 with my size bike. There were no loose rocks or gravel so that is a major factor for me. I hate loose rocks!
So the first time up this on my 690 I got stopped by a downed tree. Then, Chatty and I rode to the top with our e-MTBs on Thursday the 11th. Then today (13th) I got up there with my 690. So here's the MTB pic AND the 690 pic. As previously stated in my first post (since deleted) I'm glad I rode my 690 although I have done this ride a few times on my BMW. I think Chatty gave this a 3.5 on a big bike...I'd concur, and add that there are one or two tricky sections that I thought were 3.5s on my 690, including a tricky lefthand hairpin about 3/4 of the way to the top. Finally, this is a really fun ride on an eMTB!! Highly recommended!
