McCall to Kellogg Road Trip: Idaho's Scenic Byway Guide

This 230-mile route from McCall to Kellogg follows US-95 south and then I-90 east, a journey through Idaho's central mountains and historic mining districts. The drive typically takes 4.5 to 5 hours without stops, but the real value lies in the diversions.

Did you know that the stretch between New Meadows and Riggins crosses the Little Salmon River at the exact spot where the Nez Perce War's first skirmish occurred in 1877? This makes the route a living history book. To get more out of your trip, learn how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

Payette River Scenic Byway

From McCall south to New Meadows, the route parallels the North Fork Payette River. Watch for rafters on the river and enjoy views of the Payette National Forest. The town of New Meadows has a historic railroad depot.

• Stop at Zims Hot Springs (north of New Meadows) for a soak in natural mineral pools ($10/person).
• In Riggins, the Salmon River offers jet boat tours and fishing charters.

White Bird Battlefield & Canyon

The White Bird Battlefield, a National Historic Landmark, overlooks the canyon where the Nez Perce War began. The site has interpretive signs and a short trail.

The descent into White Bird Canyon offers dramatic views of the Snake River plain. This stretch is famous for its geological layers exposed by the Salmon River.

Silver Valley Mining History

From Kellogg eastward, the Coeur d'Alene Mining District produced billions in silver. The Sierra Silver Mine Tour in Kellogg takes visitors underground. Nearby Wallace is a historic district with preserved buildings.

• Local commerce: Kellogg shops sell mining memorabilia; try the Silver Mountain Grille for huckleberry pie.
• UNESCO? No sites, but the Coeur d'Alene River basin is a National Recreation Area.

Road Quality & Safety

US-95 south of Riggins has no shoulder in places. Use pullouts to let faster traffic pass. I-90 is in excellent condition, but winter maintenance is limited in remote stretches.

• Emergency services: Cell service is spotty south of Riggins and in the Salmon River canyon. Carry a paper map.
• Speed limits: 65 mph on US-95, 70 mph on I-90. Radar traps common near towns.

Family and Child Suitability

Best for ages 8+, as long drives can bore young kids. Break up the trip with short hikes near McCall (Ponderosa State Park) and the Wallace District Mining Museum (interactive exhibits).

Safe to bring pets? Most stops are pet-friendly. There are designated dog parks in McCall and Kellogg. Note many hiking trails require leashes.

Fatigue Management & Rest Zones

Plan stops every 2 hours. Recommended: New Meadows (rest area), Riggins (riverfront park), White Bird Summit (scenic overlook), and Coeur d'Alene (lakefront).

Hidden off-route spot: The ghost town of Burke (east of Wallace) is an authentic mining camp with no services.

US-95 from McCall to Lewiston is a two-lane highway with frequent passing lanes and moderate traffic. South of Riggins, the road winds along the Salmon River canyon with steep grades. I-90 from Coeur d'Alene to Kellogg is a four-lane interstate in good condition.

• Gas stations: Plentiful in McCall, New Meadows, Riggins, Grangeville, and Lewiston. Stretch from Cottonwood to Lewiston (40 mi) has limited services.
• Rest areas: At White Bird summit (elevation 4,200 ft) with scenic overlook; rest stops on I-90 near Cataldo.
• Road quality: US-95 is paved but narrow in canyon sections. Watch for deer and elk at dawn/dusk.
• Winter conditions: Snow possible from November to April; chains may be required on White Bird grade.

Fuel economy tip: Gas prices tend to be lower in Lewiston than in McCall or Kellogg. Fill up before heading into the mountains. The route crosses two time zones? No, all Idaho uses Mountain Time.