Description
Tucked along the Idaho Backcountry Discovery Route (IDBDR) north of Burgdorf Hot Springs in remote Idaho County, the Old Bus (aka “Tetanus Express”) is a quirky abandoned yellow school bus rusting roadside above French Creek Grade.
ADV and dual-sport riders on knobby-shod bikes pause after technical forest roads for a quick photo-op with this long-time landmark before tackling the steep, switchback descent to the Salmon River. A fun, quirky stop that adds character and a laugh to the rugged backcountry journey. Pack in/pack out and keep the rubber side down.
More Information
Coordinates: 45.372559, -116.022150
Elevation: 5060 ft
Difficulty: 2
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.
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6 Check-Ins
Camped at Janette CG next to Burdorff picked up the bus on my way to Florence
Used Salmon Rapids Lodge (Riggins) as a nice home base. The pavement ride from Riggins to the Idaho BDR joining Old Bus and Florence is a really excellent and beautiful ride.
Fast gravel on 246 until French Creek Grade, which is bumpy and lumpy with a lot of embedded rocks.
I rode in from Bergdorf Hot Spings after a good soak in the pool.
I came up the grade from the Salmon River. Wow, what a treat. The road up is not difficult and provides loads of switch backs with stunning views.
