Length: 4.5 miles Off-Road: 4.5 miles Climb: 2,880 feet Trail Uses: Hiking Aerobic: Technical: Scenic: Rating Definitions

Description: Steel Mountain (9,730 feet) is located east of Boise in the Boise National Forest. The climb to the top is strenuous but short, and does not follow a marked trail. Views from the top are impressive.

Steel Mountain is one the higher and eastern-most peaks in the Boise Mountains. As a result, from atop the mountain many peaks in the Boise, Soldier, Smoky and Sawtooth Mountains can be seen. Furthermore, with Steel Mountain's rocky summit pinnacles as the foreground, the view of neighboring peak is further enhanced.

The hike begins along Phifer Creek Road (F.R. 1156). After a steep climb, the road passes through a saddle in the mountains at just over 6,840 feet. A small camp site is located on the west side of the road. Park at the camp site. The trail begins just across the road.

The climb to the first summit (7,943 feet) is mostly through tree cover. In places it's possible to make out the trail created by others who have climbed the mountain, but in most places it's a steep upward climb through the trees.

After the first summit, the number of trees is greatly reduced and is replaced mostly by scrub brush. The climb to the second summit (9,230 feet) follows a cliff edge where excellent views of the mountains to the north can be had. The climb to the second peak is less strenuous than the lower section.

On towards the mountain's summit, the trail once again becomes steep as you near the top. At the summit a 360 degree view of the surrounding mountains is quite impressive. A large bowl on the mountains northwest side drops deep into the valley below, and the jagged Sawtooths are visible to the east.

It's strongly recommended that USGS Topographic maps be taken to facilitate the return to the car. Be sure to descend along the same route, bearing further south if needed to ensure meeting the road and not having to climb back to the parking area.

Snow can also be quite deep on the mountain in spring and early summer. Snow shoes are advisable for early climbs. The route requires no technical climbing.
 

Location: Steel Mountain is located approximately 50 miles east of Boise in the Boise National Forest. Because of the poor roads in the area - both winding and unpaved - the drive from Boise takes approximately 3 hours.

From Boise or I-84 there are two routes into the area. One follows the middle fork of the Boise River, is very scenic, but follows dirt roads of much for the trip. The other goes through Idaho City, is somewhat less scenic, but uses more paved roads.

Boise River route: From Boise take Highway 21 east from town. It can be reached by taking Warm Springs Avenue towards Lucky Peak Dam, or off I-84 just east of town.

Follow Highway 21 past Lucky Peak Dam. Immediately after crossing Mores Creek Bridge (the first large bridge after the dam) turn right onto Forest Road 268 following the sign toward Atlanta. The road traces the banks of Lucky Peak Reservoir and Arrowrock Reservoir.

Turn right on to Phifer Creek Road (F.R. 156). Phifer Creek Road is the third bridge across the river, and at least an hour and a half down F.R. 268. Signs point to the town of Rocky Bar.

Proceed up the hill for approximately 10 miles before parking at the high point along the road. A small camping area is located in the saddle where the road passes.

Idaho City route: From Boise take Highway 21 east from town. It can be reached by taking Warm Springs Avenue towards Lucky Peak Dam, or off I-84 just east of town.

Follow Highway 21 north through Idaho City. Approximately 16 miles beyond Idaho City on Highway 21 turn onto Crooked River Road (F.R. 384) towards Atlanta. Edna Creek Campground is at this intersection.

Continue along Crooked River Road following the signs toward Atlanta. The road winds around eventually crossing the North Fork of the Boise River. Continue on towards Atlanta. After crossing another ridge the road splits just before reaching the Middle Fork of the Boise River. Bear towards Rocky Bar, not towards Atlanta.

As the road crosses the Middle Fork of the Boise River it becomes Phifer Creek Road (F.R. 156). Proceed up the hill for approximately 10 miles before parking at the high point along the road. A small camping area is located in the saddle where the road passes.