Sweet Sweet Redemption for HICKS. This was one heck of a drive. I can't wait to go back and explore that area more! You can find more V2R Content here: ua-cam.com/users/venture2roam
I agree, Will, Idaho is awesome! I just wish you'd quit telling everyone else about! When I was a kid (high school) I could drive almost anywhere. Forty years later (in Southeast Idaho) Californians and Utahans have bought up a lot of the land here, and fenced it all off. Of course it's not all Californians, or Utahans, just the rich snotty ones. But they have ruined my back yard!!! Please keep making your vids about Idaho. They are truly a blessing. Just don't be so excited about it!😉 Okay?!
LOL. I know what you mean..I grew up on a dirt road outside of Weiser..and now that dirt road has houses all along it. Things are changing...which is kind of why I feel a push to get out there while I still can. So appreciate your comment and that you are enjoying the vids!
I hold my breath as I watch your videos, I dread the day when you reveal my favorite spots and bring in the hordes. There's far too many people living in Idaho now, and the joy of solitude in the outdoors is almost a thing of the past.
@@MicahKamiah The VAST majority of people who watch these videos will not try to replicate the route...and I don't share GPS coords or route info. I bet this video is responsible for maybe 5 people additional heading to black lake...which is already a known place - no secrets here. But if it gives inspiration for people to get off the couch and take their kids outside, then I think it's doing more good than harm in the world.
Will, you crushed it with this one, dude. This part of Idaho is gorgeous. Love what you said at 11:06, “When you look at maps as much as I do, you start to dream in topo.” I can relate to that. Black Lake looks incredible. Goodness gracious… I have been there with thunderstorms. That can be pretty scary. Loved the banter in this one and the lighthearted humor. And as always, great story-telling and a great message.
Last time I went up that Kleinschmidt Grade I cut a sidewall on some slate and had to change a tire half way up. Not fun. What I've found in Idaho is most of those "no trailer" signs means "No big 16' camper trailers"
Ya, the trailer sign didn't mean our type of trailer...but it was still fun to get that sign on camera lol. Changing a tire up there would be really tight. Glad you made it out OK.
Idaho native here: I hiked Seven Devils as a boy scout. Thanks for the video! Your videography is nothing short of breathtaking. I also appreciated the drone footage while driving--knowing how technically difficult that type of footage can be to capture. The creativity with your final editing is top shelf! Hit me up if you want a third wheel following you in a RAM 2500. My wife and I have a strong camping game.
Love your channel! I burned through your whole catalog in the past week or so after initially discovering you and now I have to wait for uploads! Well done, Will.
That makes me so happy to hear...thank you. I'm so glad you are watching our vids..I have a ton more videos coming! Working as fast as I can to get them out 😎
Oh how I wish we had mountains like that here in Minnesota! Another great video showing some beautiful Idaho scenery. Im hoping to make a trip to Montana and Wyoming this year and after watching all your videos the last few months I’m thinking we’re gonna have to add Idaho to the trip.
What a beautiful video. Got a chuckle out of your pronunciation “top-o”. Us snooty Land Surveyors always say it like “toe-po”. Just a wonderful trip. Thanks for sharing.
summer almost seems like a lifetime ago. it seems like alot of our adventures this last year had some crazy weather in Idaho. you did a great job capturing the mountains and sunsets, and that lake was something else. just gorgeous. thanks for sharing your adventure with us. it was good to see the whole crew out having a great time.
We did that in an old Ford 4x4 pu. about 25 years ago. We came in from Council and it was a fun drive. I see the lake is still as beautiful as it was back then. I LOVED it thank you.
Wow!! What a great memory you shared. We went out via Council…stopped and got lunch there before heading back to Boise. I grew up in Weiser, so those mountains are super nostalgic for me too. Thanks for sharing!
Great video, as always! Couple tips for the trailer: take the springs off it and hard mount the axle. It will take a lot of the bounce out of it. If you don't want to do a spring delete, put shock absorbers on it. I have a small trailer I pull around from time to time. It's an odd Datsun pickup bed and frame converted to a trailer. It bounced a lot even with shocks, so I did a sring delete, used a couple small Maxxis Bighorn offroad tires, and I literally forget it's behind me at times.
Nicely done! Watching from Thailand. I decided to leave Minnesota's winter for 3 months. But this video gets me ready to head back out to the wilderness once I return home just in time for summer.
Another spectacular video all of you!! Will you are becoming an awesome story teller and your video work is top notch. I love seeing how genuinely appreciative all of you are for where you live, those around you and what you get to do. Keep it up all and one day I'd like to buy you all a round!!
Now your speaking my language...lol. Thanks for the kind words, I'm having a lot of fun right now...and it's really cool that other folks are even paying attention!
Your videos are always the perfect mix of epic scenery, humor and interesting dialogue. Seriously well done! Also, I believe that was a comet, not a satellite. Comets have the tail, satellites don’t. Adventure on!
Thank you so much...so glad you enjoy them. I wonder if it was a Starlink Satellite array...I've seen some other vids that show something similar. It was less of a tail..more like a straight line of satellites..hard to say...but it was really cool to see!
Hey Will once again you have created a piece to recreate the eyes and the souls. You have and excellent way of narrating. Really enjoying your videos . Making me want to visit Idaho.👍 Dario from Overland Dad's FL.
Hi Will! Thanks for this video and all of your other videos. You definitely show off the beauty of Idaho which is why I drove from Virginia to Idaho to overland in my full size rig. As I have been on some trails already it is pretty cool when I recognize a spot that you highlighted like the bus on Burgdorf to French Creek! I plan on going to Kleinschmidt and Black Lake this weekend. While I am definitely enjoying the discovery of places myself, your videos have been the start of multiple inspirations!
That lake is hard to fish because it has Muskie in it...I think it affects how the trout eat...but there are other lakes 1-2 miles hike from there with really good fishing. Thanks for watching!!!!
In 1972 I drove my Mom's 1970 Chevy Impala down the Kleinschmidt Grade into Hell's Canyon. It was intense. We had to back up a few times to let pickup trucks go by. The road looks better now than it did back then. My Mom has relatives buried up in the Bear, Idaho cemetery; that's why we drove up to Bear and Cuprum. On a whim decided to drive down Kleinschmidt on the way home to Nampa.
Awesome as always Will. THERE'S MORE however! We live in Cambridge and access these areas multiple times per year. If you want to see more of Hells Canyon from the rim, give us a shout and we'll share some tips. Keep up the great videos and narration. It's like we're riding with the bunch!
I actually live only a few miles from there, in a straight Line! LOL. I have been meaning to take an overland SXS trip that way. Your video has me hooked!
Ive spent most of my life living in Wash DC area.I have traveled up and down to every State on east coast, including Canada as far as Quebec. But.... 25 years later, I had no idea how beautiful Idaho is. You are the first person, who have opened my eyes and showed me a beautiful side of Idaho State. Thank you!
Idaho is my home state, but I never have explored it like you are doing...so incredibly beautiful. And, your film-making skills are superb. Thanks. Subscribed!
I had planned to head up the Kkeinschmidt Road, but was worried about the prediction of possible thunderstorms. So we went up to Black Lake out of Council. Beautiful drive. Beautiful Lake. Sadly all full to camp at this weekend (8/5/2023). Stayed at Lafferty Campground. Thank you for this video. My wife and I enjoyed the drive. Oh, Smith Mountain Lookout is absolutely incredible!
The council route is still pretty..But it's too bad you missed out on Kleinschmidt..it's a gem. You don't want to mess with thunderstorms out there though. Black Lake has become popular..most weekends during the summer you'll probably find people there. Lafferty is a good backup, but not nearly as pretty as the lake...but Smith Mountain is in my top 5..that's worth the drive by itself if you ask me. Thanks for sharing!
@@Venture2Roam we will do Klienschmidt at some point. I am still getting used to, a new to me, bone stock 2012 WK2. So feeling out its capabilities and my comfort level with it. Had a 97 TJ from 97 until 04, so not a new off-roader, just haven't had a decent off-roading vehicle since 04. Finally, congrats to you and the Mrs. on 21 years. Hope to come across you on the trail or at an event in the future
You guys don’t know how lucky you are. When I was your age we had either a state map or an atlas, that was it. There was nothing showing what’s private and what’s public, what open and what’s not. There was NO GPS, we had to just go and hope we could figure out routes. We’d either hit locked gates, or occasionally a mad property own with a gun. I still have one fuel tank off my old Honda XL250 that had 2 22 cal bullets in the tank, which left 2 holes for the gas to leak all over my pants. Things were different then, you guys get the greatest experiences with you friends and family, it’s wonderful. I’ll admit it, I’m a bit jealous, but still enjoy watching these videos as they bring back LOTS of memories. Remember, there were no roof top tents and the quick pop up tents were just coming out, but we had the best times making these trips. Thanks for sharing your lives with us.
Greetings from a fellow Boise Bro. Your videos of Idaho are awe-inspiring, and make me want to get my new Rubicon dirty. I see all these shiny gleaming Jeeps around town and I chuckle because I can’t wait to get mine filthy.
Awsome adventure! I love those Idaho lookouts, have u been to Trinity mtn lookout yet? Amazing cliff face vantage of the lakes below, fun drive and not too far from the valley, it's one of my favorite spots in Idaho.
I live on the north side of weiser, I was like "that looks like hitt mountain" then you said it. Mind blown, never seen a video from so close to home 😂❤️
@@Venture2Roam I would love that so much. Maybe we can plan an epic trip somewhere in the middle like Kansas or Oklahoma. Though not sure there is anything there.
There is another couple roads in Idaho you might like, One is between White Bird and Riggins, along the ridge that runs north and south between the Snake and the Salmon Rivers in the Hells Canyon Recreation Area. Views of Oregon and the highest peaks of the Seven Devils and lots of those long winding roads. But I think my favorite is an old mining area which is surrounded by a Wilderness area. I tried to reach it with my Subaru wagon but I couldn't. I have been a passenger coming down from the top in a Suburban, with better ground clearance. On the top is a fairly flat area stretching some 6 miles. The road travels the length of the flat region, and there are 12 mountain lakes here. I walked the area once with a Boy Scout troop. On top is a nice lake with tributary streams and we leaders had to stop the boys from pulling trout out of the streams. The road to get to this area is old mining country with piles of rocks that were use in the 1800's. The area is 20 air miles from the Ghost town that had a population of 10,000 in the gold mining are of Idaho in the 1800's. From the main lake on top, though not as big as one lower down, there is another lake. But from the top lake there is a trail to the Top of "The Buffalo Hump Mountain at an elevation of 8938 and 3 miles north is one that is 8918 feet elevation. Great views from up there to the Wiseboy Lakes below. And 15 miles to the west one has to go to the Elk City Road back to the Grangeville Salmon Road and go south to the Old Adams Ranger Station and then back east again to another relatively flat region surrounded by the Gospel Hump Wilderness Area. At the top still on a good gravel road, you look down into Gospel Lake. Beautiful and nearby are two 8000-foot peaks. Five miles farther east is Gospel Peak over 8000 feet. Then another lake and our Boy Scouts and our two leaders walked to the top of the Peak and found remains of a cremation site. Two more larger lakes seen from the top and walked to. And at the end of the road was Square Mountain Lookout at 8000-feet that had been restored. This area is Idaho County and Idaho county has more Lookouts than any county in the U.S. There are very few roads in this region due to the mountains and canyons. This lookout is sitting on the ground but from there you can see the County seat of Grangeville and the Camas Prairie. Those two places as one would be my favorite place in Idaho and I live some 45 air miles from here.
Really awesome info here. I think you're referring to Florence, Idaho. I've only been through there once...and didn't have time to really explore. I will put thse two places on my list of potential trips in 2025.
@@Venture2Roam I go alone and in a car, at age 79 Rarely will I stay more than 2 days since I live in the county where a lot of scenery is. Have taken my pickup some places but often had to walk a quarter mile even after going in very low gear. Fish and Game says no grizzlies but I've talked to landowners on bordering Forest lands who have seen the big hump on the back. Don't want to meet one. A couple years ago grizzly track discovered by Fish and Game near Fish Creek in mountains south of Grangeville. But most grizzlies are in North Idaho. Driving south on mostly paved Grangeville--Salmon Road, you will reach the remains of Florence and then continuing on a winding gravel Road you can reach what locals call "The Big Salmon." Then go east to the French Creek Grade. My wife didn't like that road, one bit. Get to the top and visit ghost town, Burgdorf. Keep going south to Upper Payette Lake and eventually McCall, or go east from Burgdorf to real ghost town at Warren. Map says road a bit rough but continuing on from Warren will take you to Yellow Pine, the home of the big harmonica festival I hope to get to this August.. From there you can drive south to Cascade Lake.
@@PatrickThreewit Love it. Thanks for sharing this! I've been around the French Creek Grade, Burgdorf, Warren, Yellow Pine, etc...quite a bit. It's one of my favorite places in the World. The Seven Devils are a place I haven't explored as much as I've wanted to, but that will change soon!!! Really appreciate your insights and perspective.
Great video! Best thing about the rain is that it got rid of all the dust. What was the point of the trailer? He didn’t have the rooftop tent on it or a kitchen or anything.
Ya the dust was bad until the storm. Chris brought the trail for redemption..but also to carry stuff like paddle boards that wouldn't fit in a Jeep full of kids.
It’s a known place, so you’ll probably see people there…but there are some dispersed areas around the lake to find a secluded spot. You can only get there July through Oct. we were there in August.
@@Venture2Roam I will let you know. Leaving Thursday night from Boise staying at an bnb close to Cambridge then head up Friday morning.. I'll let you know how far I make it
Agree with@zagrunner on using maps alot. Usually I watch your vids then go back and try to trace them with maps and such. For this 24min vid I spent 1.5 hrs figuring out your route on this one. Agree with your wife on the Chalets, I could live there and be totally happy.
Cant wait till Jun when we will be visiting family in Mt Home and using it as a base for travel. What month was this trip? Trying to decide trip time frame. Since I didnt see snow maybe mid summer but also no fire smoke? Surprised didnt see any other vehicles, what day of week would you recommend for a trip there? FYI, you are my fav Overlander. Like the way you do your vids. Its like going with friends on these trips.
Thank you so much…what a great compliment! Mtn. Home is right between the Owyhees and the Soldiers..lots to explore there! This was August on a weekend. There were other people out that way..but not many. No fires out there until September this year. I’d go midweek for less people. Safe travels!!
I hope to follow that path in early July after a conference in Coeur D'alene this year on a roundabout way back to Missouri. Plan on finding spots and routes in Utah and Colorado too.
@@Venture2Roam This will be my wifes first "overland" trip. What do you think the traffic on the rural lakes will be around the 4th of July? You, being a ~local I thought you might be able to give me some insight.
@@overlandtowater I think the 4th of July is busy if you're camping in Idaho. Idahoans love to get outside in the summer, and that's a holiday weekend. Not that you can't find you're own space...but I'd be shocked if there wasn't a bunch of people roaming around the mountains.
You are so right. Why go anywhere else when we have a beautiful backyard? Ironically my first planned trip will be in the Ruby Mountains in Nevada. Oh Well.
Trailer needs shocks so it doesn't bounce around so much and doesn't go over if it hits an odd rock or a pothole. In the mean time, you need to air down the tires even more on the trailer.
@@Venture2Roam Thats why I suggested airing down even "more". 😉 Another solution, is going with 16" wheels so the tires have much taller sidewalls and can be air down a lot more, so the trailer doesn't bounce around.
Hi, I have a 20’ off road travel trailer and very good skills. But from what I can read its impossible to do this de venture with that kind of trailer…. Your thoughts.
@@Venture2Roam Bout how far is that for you in travel time? Was thinking about trying that one out. Did you go to there for last years? Was wondering how it compares in size to the Rky Mt and West expos.
@@IcyReaper It's probably 5 hours from Boise. We overlanded our way there, so it took 3 days lol. Not sure how it compares to OX Mountain West..I'd say PNW is a good one to attend, at least it was last year..not too big, got to camp on the grass which was super luxurious. No real complaints.
@@Venture2Roam Yea, last year West was windy and Rocky Mt was REALLLLY hot and lots of dust. Pretty much everyone at RM wanted it moved either earlier or later in year.
Great video!! Favorite lines..... this is how we discipline our kids......excuse me ma'am id like to talk to you about your car insurance. Adding this trail to my to do list.
Sweet Sweet Redemption for HICKS. This was one heck of a drive. I can't wait to go back and explore that area more! You can find more V2R Content here: ua-cam.com/users/venture2roam
You KNOW we’re going back!!!
I agree, Will, Idaho is awesome! I just wish you'd quit telling everyone else about!
When I was a kid (high school) I could drive almost anywhere. Forty years later (in Southeast Idaho) Californians and Utahans have bought up a lot of the land here, and fenced it all off. Of course it's not all Californians, or Utahans, just the rich snotty ones. But they have ruined my back yard!!!
Please keep making your vids about Idaho. They are truly a blessing. Just don't be so excited about it!😉 Okay?!
LOL. I know what you mean..I grew up on a dirt road outside of Weiser..and now that dirt road has houses all along it. Things are changing...which is kind of why I feel a push to get out there while I still can. So appreciate your comment and that you are enjoying the vids!
Same where I live. Worst part is the new commers start voting to make it just like the place they left.
I have same worries about my part of CO.
I hold my breath as I watch your videos, I dread the day when you reveal my favorite spots and bring in the hordes. There's far too many people living in Idaho now, and the joy of solitude in the outdoors is almost a thing of the past.
Well I’m glad you are watching. I still find a lot of solitude out there, and I hope you do too!
I couldn't agree more. These types of videos are so sad to me.
@@MicahKamiah The VAST majority of people who watch these videos will not try to replicate the route...and I don't share GPS coords or route info. I bet this video is responsible for maybe 5 people additional heading to black lake...which is already a known place - no secrets here. But if it gives inspiration for people to get off the couch and take their kids outside, then I think it's doing more good than harm in the world.
Will, you crushed it with this one, dude. This part of Idaho is gorgeous. Love what you said at 11:06, “When you look at maps as much as I do, you start to dream in topo.” I can relate to that. Black Lake looks incredible. Goodness gracious… I have been there with thunderstorms. That can be pretty scary. Loved the banter in this one and the lighthearted humor. And as always, great story-telling and a great message.
Thanks Nick!
Last time I went up that Kleinschmidt Grade I cut a sidewall on some slate and had to change a tire half way up. Not fun. What I've found in Idaho is most of those "no trailer" signs means "No big 16' camper trailers"
Ya, the trailer sign didn't mean our type of trailer...but it was still fun to get that sign on camera lol. Changing a tire up there would be really tight. Glad you made it out OK.
Right! Jeep stuff works fine!
I really want to come to Idaho now! What a gorgeous place and beautiful cinematography to show it off!
Come on over. Open invitation!
Idaho native here: I hiked Seven Devils as a boy scout. Thanks for the video! Your videography is nothing short of breathtaking. I also appreciated the drone footage while driving--knowing how technically difficult that type of footage can be to capture. The creativity with your final editing is top shelf! Hit me up if you want a third wheel following you in a RAM 2500. My wife and I have a strong camping game.
Thank you so much!
From North Idaho thank you very much for your video beautiful Lake thank you very much Don and Donna
I'm hoping to get up North more this year! Thanks for watching, I'm so glad you both enjoyed it.
Love your channel! I burned through your whole catalog in the past week or so after initially discovering you and now I have to wait for uploads! Well done, Will.
That makes me so happy to hear...thank you. I'm so glad you are watching our vids..I have a ton more videos coming! Working as fast as I can to get them out 😎
Nailed it again! Thanks for sharing your time with friends and family with us.
So glad you liked it. This was a pretty special trip…so nice to have Kate in a video again..it feels like it had been too long!
Awesome, nicely done. You are a true story teller, love your channel.
Thank you so much!
Such a great video Will! Such a beautiful lake, Idaho is amazing...you are so lucky to have that as your backyard! 👍
Thanks Mike!
Oh how I wish we had mountains like that here in Minnesota! Another great video showing some beautiful Idaho scenery. Im hoping to make a trip to Montana and Wyoming this year and after watching all your videos the last few months I’m thinking we’re gonna have to add Idaho to the trip.
Those are both beautiful areas to visit. You can’t go wrong! So glad you liked the vid. Thanks for watching and leaving a comment!
What a beautiful video. Got a chuckle out of your pronunciation “top-o”. Us snooty Land Surveyors always say it like “toe-po”. Just a wonderful trip. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you for clearing that up! I’ve pronounced it both ways, but never knew which is correct. TOE-PO it is!!!
Idaho is Amazing! Thanks for taking us along on such a beautiful journey.
I agree! It’s so fun for me to try and showcase these parts of the State. So glad you enjoyed it!
What a perfect mid-winter amuse-bouche. So well done. THanks for sharing.
So glad you enjoyed it! It was fun for me to remember the warm months!
summer almost seems like a lifetime ago. it seems like alot of our adventures this last year had some crazy weather in Idaho. you did a great job capturing the mountains and sunsets, and that lake was something else. just gorgeous. thanks for sharing your adventure with us. it was good to see the whole crew out having a great time.
Thanks Jason! This is a great memory for me. It was so nice to be on the trail with Kate again. More of that coming soon!
Fantastic video, Will! Thanks for taking us along!
Thank you for taking the time to watch and leave a comment. So glad you like the video!
We did that in an old Ford 4x4 pu. about 25 years ago. We came in from Council and it was a fun drive. I see the lake is still as beautiful as it was back then. I LOVED it thank you.
Wow!! What a great memory you shared. We went out via Council…stopped and got lunch there before heading back to Boise. I grew up in Weiser, so those mountains are super nostalgic for me too. Thanks for sharing!
Great video, as always! Couple tips for the trailer: take the springs off it and hard mount the axle. It will take a lot of the bounce out of it. If you don't want to do a spring delete, put shock absorbers on it. I have a small trailer I pull around from time to time. It's an odd Datsun pickup bed and frame converted to a trailer. It bounced a lot even with shocks, so I did a sring delete, used a couple small Maxxis Bighorn offroad tires, and I literally forget it's behind me at times.
Great tips. Thank you!!!
Nicely done! Watching from Thailand. I decided to leave Minnesota's winter for 3 months. But this video gets me ready to head back out to the wilderness once I return home just in time for summer.
I mean....whatever it takes to get out of the Minn cold lol! Thanks for watching...glad it reminds you what's waiting for you back here.
Hicks handled it like a champ! Redemption run…complete.
Agreed!
Another spectacular video all of you!! Will you are becoming an awesome story teller and your video work is top notch. I love seeing how genuinely appreciative all of you are for where you live, those around you and what you get to do. Keep it up all and one day I'd like to buy you all a round!!
Now your speaking my language...lol. Thanks for the kind words, I'm having a lot of fun right now...and it's really cool that other folks are even paying attention!
Even though it was a video from "last year", it satisfied my V2R fix! Cant wait for the rental off road trailer review!
My next trip vid will heavily feature that trailer..then I’ll do the review. I put it through its paces 😎.
Your videos are always the perfect mix of epic scenery, humor and interesting dialogue. Seriously well done!
Also, I believe that was a comet, not a satellite. Comets have the tail, satellites don’t. Adventure on!
Thank you so much...so glad you enjoy them. I wonder if it was a Starlink Satellite array...I've seen some other vids that show something similar. It was less of a tail..more like a straight line of satellites..hard to say...but it was really cool to see!
I’m pretty sure it’s starlink
Guess that dust got handled.😁 Always so refreshing after a nice wash. Thanx for sharing such a beautiful place.
Lol ya..not so dusty after that storm. Thanks for watching and leaving a comment!
Hey Will once again you have created a piece to recreate the eyes and the souls. You have and excellent way of narrating. Really enjoying your videos .
Making me want to visit Idaho.👍
Dario from Overland Dad's FL.
Thank you so much. Making these vids is good for my soul…so I feel blessed that other people like watching them too!
Thanks for sharing. This inspires us to go adventuring.
So glad to hear it! Cheers to getting out there!
That crossfade at 23:33 was very nice.
Thank you!
Amazingly beautiful! A big reason I got back into offroading is because I considered moving to Idaho in early 2020.
Thank you!
Hi Will! Thanks for this video and all of your other videos. You definitely show off the beauty of Idaho which is why I drove from Virginia to Idaho to overland in my full size rig. As I have been on some trails already it is pretty cool when I recognize a spot that you highlighted like the bus on Burgdorf to French Creek! I plan on going to Kleinschmidt and Black Lake this weekend. While I am definitely enjoying the discovery of places myself, your videos have been the start of multiple inspirations!
I can’t believe that I met you today on the Kleinschmidt Grade. Thanks for stopping and saying hello!
Unbelievable coincidence. So awesome to meet you on the trail man. What a place to cross paths! Enjoy Blake Lake!
Awesome trip guys. Beautiful scenery , a real gem of a lake in the mnts.. Any fish ? Cheers from B.C. Canada.
That lake is hard to fish because it has Muskie in it...I think it affects how the trout eat...but there are other lakes 1-2 miles hike from there with really good fishing. Thanks for watching!!!!
In 1972 I drove my Mom's 1970 Chevy Impala down the Kleinschmidt Grade into Hell's Canyon. It was intense. We had to back up a few times to let pickup trucks go by. The road looks better now than it did back then. My Mom has relatives buried up in the Bear, Idaho cemetery; that's why we drove up to Bear and Cuprum. On a whim decided to drive down Kleinschmidt on the way home to Nampa.
That's a heck of a story. I think driving up is probably less scary that driving down. Tip of the hat to you sir.
You can tell a dang good story. Keep them videos coming!!!
Thank you so much. Lots more coming soon!
Fellow "Boisian" here, and I have a 2023 Colorado ZR2 on order for THIS purpose. Your videos are outstanding and giving me some great ideas. TY!
Right on! That ZR2 will be a ton of fun. So glad you're enjoying the vids. More coming soon!
Great video as always Will. Glad to see hicks back on the trails 🙌🏽
HICKS is BACK Baby!
Gary!!!
@@frontierstateoverland3816 Bestfriend Chris!!!
Awesome as always Will. THERE'S MORE however! We live in Cambridge and access these areas multiple times per year. If you want to see more of Hells Canyon from the rim, give us a shout and we'll share some tips. Keep up the great videos and narration. It's like we're riding with the bunch!
So glad you are enjoying the vids! I love that area so much..and know we’ve only done a fraction of the trails. Definitely headed back out there!
I actually live only a few miles from there, in a straight Line! LOL. I have been meaning to take an overland SXS trip that way. Your video has me hooked!
That whole area I’d phenomenal. I’m hoping to get back the Oregon side this year…we just scratched the surface!
Ive spent most of my life living in Wash DC area.I have traveled up and down to every State on east coast, including Canada as far as Quebec. But.... 25 years later, I had no idea how beautiful Idaho is.
You are the first person, who have opened my eyes and showed me a beautiful side of Idaho State.
Thank you!
I love reading comments like this! It’s so cool to me that my vids sparked an interest in Idaho. Thanks for sharing!
Love getting out. Grew up near N Idaho, so, many trips to CDA forest. Generally great roads.
Definitely on the list to get up there soon!
Idaho is my home state, but I never have explored it like you are doing...so incredibly beautiful. And, your film-making skills are superb. Thanks. Subscribed!
Comments like this from fellow Idahoans are the best. So glad you liked it!! Thank you.
I had planned to head up the Kkeinschmidt Road, but was worried about the prediction of possible thunderstorms. So we went up to Black Lake out of Council. Beautiful drive. Beautiful Lake. Sadly all full to camp at this weekend (8/5/2023). Stayed at Lafferty Campground.
Thank you for this video. My wife and I enjoyed the drive.
Oh, Smith Mountain Lookout is absolutely incredible!
The council route is still pretty..But it's too bad you missed out on Kleinschmidt..it's a gem. You don't want to mess with thunderstorms out there though. Black Lake has become popular..most weekends during the summer you'll probably find people there. Lafferty is a good backup, but not nearly as pretty as the lake...but Smith Mountain is in my top 5..that's worth the drive by itself if you ask me. Thanks for sharing!
@@Venture2Roam we will do Klienschmidt at some point.
I am still getting used to, a new to me, bone stock 2012 WK2. So feeling out its capabilities and my comfort level with it. Had a 97 TJ from 97 until 04, so not a new off-roader, just haven't had a decent off-roading vehicle since 04.
Finally, congrats to you and the Mrs. on 21 years. Hope to come across you on the trail or at an event in the future
Just made a day run this weekend and went UP the Kleinschmidt grade. Was absolutely enjoyable.
Thanks for sharing your adventures with us.
@@tommygatch Right on!!!
Great vid, Is it Black lake or Blake lake like in vid description? Also that's the Starlink Train launch you saw in sky.
Thank you! Black Lake.
That starlink gave me a heart attack!
You guys don’t know how lucky you are. When I was your age we had either a state map or an atlas, that was it. There was nothing showing what’s private and what’s public, what open and what’s not.
There was NO GPS, we had to just go and hope we could figure out routes. We’d either hit locked gates, or occasionally a mad property own with a gun. I still have one fuel tank off my old Honda XL250 that had 2 22 cal bullets in the tank, which left 2 holes for the gas to leak all over my pants.
Things were different then, you guys get the greatest experiences with you friends and family, it’s wonderful. I’ll admit it, I’m a bit jealous, but still enjoy watching these videos as they bring back LOTS of memories. Remember, there were no roof top tents and the quick pop up tents were just coming out, but we had the best times making these trips. Thanks for sharing your lives with us.
What a great comment. I hope people read this and get a sense go how things were not too long ago!! Thanks for sharing!
Black Lake is a great spot. Pretty intense road as you’re getting closer to it.
I love that place. Can’t wait to go back.
I’ve driven a fedex truck up the grade to make a delivery in Bear. Black Lake is one of my favorite places in Idaho!
Very cool. We drove through Bear on our way back. Thanks for watching!!
Greetings from a fellow Boise Bro.
Your videos of Idaho are awe-inspiring, and make me want to get my new Rubicon dirty.
I see all these shiny gleaming Jeeps around town and I chuckle because I can’t wait to get mine filthy.
A dirty Jeep is a happy Jeep!
Thanks. looks like a trip I need to make
I agree!
Idaho is beautiful definitely on my list of places to visit! Awesome video!!
Thank you so much for watching. I need to get up north to Canada..hopefully in 2023!
@@Venture2Roam if you make it to the Okanagan area in BC I can show you around
Beautiful ! Thanks for the video
Thank you for taking the time to watch. So glad you enjoyed it!
Cool video...I drove up the Kleinschmidt Grade in a Subaru in 1988. Large rattlesnakes
Awesome. We didn’t see any snakes, but they are certainly out there.
Great video. Such a beautiful place. I have to get out there.
Thank you!!!
Awsome adventure! I love those Idaho lookouts, have u been to Trinity mtn lookout yet? Amazing cliff face vantage of the lakes below, fun drive and not too far from the valley, it's one of my favorite spots in Idaho.
I’ve been up to Trinity many times….but never the lookout. Need to change that asap!
We have microbursts here in AZ. I have been stuck in a few. I can relate to your rainstorm adventure. Beautiful area though.
When that lighting hits, things can get interesting for sure!
I live on the north side of weiser, I was like "that looks like hitt mountain" then you said it. Mind blown, never seen a video from so close to home 😂❤️
I grew up out there! Just a few miles from Mann Creek Reservoir. I want to get back out there to film Sturgill peak.
@@Venture2Roam we could have been neighbors at one point, I'm also right next to manns Creek! 😂 What a small world!
Another awesome video! Beautiful spot!
Thanks Matt...would love to get on the trail with you someday.
@@Venture2Roam I would love that so much. Maybe we can plan an epic trip somewhere in the middle like Kansas or Oklahoma. Though not sure there is anything there.
I'm sure we could find someplace..it's a big country lol.
Excellent, thank you.
So glad you liked it!
what a great video, I want to go to that lake! So beautiful.
Come on over, you're boys would love it.
There is another couple roads in Idaho you might like, One is between White Bird and Riggins, along the ridge that runs north and south between the Snake and the Salmon Rivers in the Hells Canyon Recreation Area. Views of Oregon and the highest peaks of the Seven Devils and lots of those long winding roads.
But I think my favorite is an old mining area which is surrounded by a Wilderness area. I tried to reach it with my Subaru wagon but I couldn't. I have been a passenger coming down from the top in a Suburban, with better ground clearance. On the top is a fairly flat area stretching some 6 miles. The road travels the length of the flat region, and there are 12 mountain lakes here. I walked the area once with a Boy Scout troop. On top is a nice lake with tributary streams and we leaders had to stop the boys from pulling trout out of the streams. The road to get to this area is old mining country with piles of rocks that were use in the 1800's. The area is 20 air miles from the Ghost town that had a population of 10,000 in the gold mining are of Idaho in the 1800's. From the main lake on top, though not as big as one lower down, there is another lake. But from the top lake there is a trail to the Top of "The Buffalo Hump Mountain at an elevation of 8938 and 3 miles north is one that is 8918 feet elevation. Great views from up there to the Wiseboy Lakes below. And 15 miles to the west one has to go to the Elk City Road back to the Grangeville Salmon Road and go south to the Old Adams Ranger Station and then back east again to another relatively flat region surrounded by the Gospel Hump Wilderness Area. At the top still on a good gravel road, you look down into Gospel Lake. Beautiful and nearby are two 8000-foot peaks. Five miles farther east is Gospel Peak over 8000 feet. Then another lake and our Boy Scouts and our two leaders walked to the top of the Peak and found remains of a cremation site. Two more larger lakes seen from the top and walked to. And at the end of the road was Square Mountain Lookout at 8000-feet that had been restored. This area is Idaho County and Idaho county has more Lookouts than any county in the U.S. There are very few roads in this region due to the mountains and canyons. This lookout is sitting on the ground but from there you can see the County seat of Grangeville and the Camas Prairie. Those two places as one would be my favorite place in Idaho and I live some 45 air miles from here.
Really awesome info here. I think you're referring to Florence, Idaho. I've only been through there once...and didn't have time to really explore. I will put thse two places on my list of potential trips in 2025.
@@Venture2Roam I go alone and in a car, at age 79 Rarely will I stay more than 2 days since I live in the county where a lot of scenery is. Have taken my pickup some places but often had to walk a quarter mile even after going in very low gear. Fish and Game says no grizzlies but I've talked to landowners on bordering Forest lands who have seen the big hump on the back. Don't want to meet one. A couple years ago grizzly track discovered by Fish and Game near Fish Creek in mountains south of Grangeville. But most grizzlies are in North Idaho.
Driving south on mostly paved Grangeville--Salmon Road, you will reach the remains of Florence and then continuing on a winding gravel Road you can reach what locals call "The Big Salmon." Then go east to the French Creek Grade. My wife didn't like that road, one bit. Get to the top and visit ghost town, Burgdorf. Keep going south to Upper Payette Lake and eventually McCall, or go east from Burgdorf to real ghost town at Warren. Map says road a bit rough but continuing on from Warren will take you to Yellow Pine, the home of the big harmonica festival I hope to get to this August.. From there you can drive south to Cascade Lake.
@@PatrickThreewit Love it. Thanks for sharing this! I've been around the French Creek Grade, Burgdorf, Warren, Yellow Pine, etc...quite a bit. It's one of my favorite places in the World. The Seven Devils are a place I haven't explored as much as I've wanted to, but that will change soon!!! Really appreciate your insights and perspective.
Black Lake is an amazing drive in a UTV from McCall where I live.
I've been thinking about getting back there since we did this trip! P.S. McCall is my favorite place on earth.
I have visited the canyon there but that looks like a cool place to explore!
The canyon is very cool too. There are all kinds of roads up there, definitely worth exploring!
Great video! Best thing about the rain is that it got rid of all the dust. What was the point of the trailer? He didn’t have the rooftop tent on it or a kitchen or anything.
Ya the dust was bad until the storm. Chris brought the trail for redemption..but also to carry stuff like paddle boards that wouldn't fit in a Jeep full of kids.
Well done, as always!
Thank you!!
I agree that Idaho has so many roads a scenery that most people don't know. Let the crowd s go to Utah, California and other states.
I have zero problems with Idaho being underrated lol.
Well said!
Beautiful trip and great presentation. Thanks for sharing!
Thank you, so glad you liked it!!!
Awesome. Going here in august. Thanks for the idea.🤘
Enjoy! It's such a great area..one of my favs.
Amazing trip, did you see any UTVs?
Thank you! No UTVs on this trip…a few Jeeps, but that’s it!
I love the scenic views. How secluded was it? What would you recommend the best time of the year to do this run?
It’s a known place, so you’ll probably see people there…but there are some dispersed areas around the lake to find a secluded spot. You can only get there July through Oct. we were there in August.
@@Venture2Roam I appreciate the insight!
Cool place! We went there a few years ago. You need to check out Custer by the Yankee Fork Dredge, another cool ghost town
We'll definitely be checking that place out soon!
Some magnificent views! 🤠👍
I agree. I need to get back there this summer.
@@Venture2Roam never realized how beautiful Idaho is until I came across your videos, have to make it out that way someday myself.
Nice video, great job. Thanks for sharing
Thank you! So glad you liked it.
Oh I am so going next Thursday
Might be snowed in still??
@@Venture2Roam I will let you know. Leaving Thursday night from Boise staying at an bnb close to Cambridge then head up Friday morning..
I'll let you know how far I make it
ha ha ha you complained that the site was dusty, then the rain made it all perfect ;)
Lol. The Karma police were listening.
Love your enthusiasm! Great video!
Thank you!
Well done sir!
Thank you sir.
Did you see any mountain goats? That place is packed with 'em when I've gone backpacking there.
We didn't see any on this trip..actually we've never seen one out there...we get out to Hells fairly often...I feel like I'm missing out!
Thunder storm ⛈ remind of home 🇧🇿 out here in the Pacific Northwest I hardly see them but respect the danger when exploring the backcountry ⛰
Sometimes they bark more than they bite..but at 7K feet, it feels like it's right on top of you!
Agree with@zagrunner on using maps alot. Usually I watch your vids then go back and try to trace them with maps and such. For this 24min vid I spent 1.5 hrs figuring out your route on this one.
Agree with your wife on the Chalets, I could live there and be totally happy.
I do that with other YT channels too...1/2 the fun for me is figuring out the routes on the map!
Afternoon thunderstorms are always in the forecast for high mountain lakes
60% of the time it happens 100% of time :)
Great video ❤
Thank you 😊
Thanks!
I might have to take my CJ down there this summer.
A CJ would be really fun on that road!
Cant wait till Jun when we will be visiting family in Mt Home and using it as a base for travel. What month was this trip? Trying to decide trip time frame. Since I didnt see snow maybe mid summer but also no fire smoke? Surprised didnt see any other vehicles, what day of week would you recommend for a trip there? FYI, you are my fav Overlander. Like the way you do your vids. Its like going with friends on these trips.
Thank you so much…what a great compliment! Mtn. Home is right between the Owyhees and the Soldiers..lots to explore there! This was August on a weekend. There were other people out that way..but not many. No fires out there until September this year. I’d go midweek for less people. Safe travels!!
@@Venture2Roam Thanks a bunch
I hope to follow that path in early July after a conference in Coeur D'alene this year on a roundabout way back to Missouri. Plan on finding spots and routes in Utah and Colorado too.
That sounds like an awesome trip!!
@@Venture2Roam This will be my wifes first "overland" trip. What do you think the traffic on the rural lakes will be around the 4th of July? You, being a ~local I thought you might be able to give me some insight.
@@overlandtowater I think the 4th of July is busy if you're camping in Idaho. Idahoans love to get outside in the summer, and that's a holiday weekend. Not that you can't find you're own space...but I'd be shocked if there wasn't a bunch of people roaming around the mountains.
Are bears an issue there? Nice video!
We have Black Bears out there..but I wouldn’t say they are an issue.
Beautiful area.
One of my all time favs.
We were looking for a new place to go. Think we might check it out this summer. Any fish in the lake??
There's not good fishing in Black Lake, but just up over the rim of the mountain there are some good fishing lakes.
You are so right. Why go anywhere else when we have a beautiful backyard? Ironically my first planned trip will be in the Ruby Mountains in Nevada. Oh Well.
I mean...the Ruby's are definitely worth doing. And I'll be getting out of Idaho a bunch this year too...BUT...We don't have to, which is so nice.
@@Venture2Roam When it all comes to push and shove. It's about getting out and enjoying this wonderful country, and the company of my son.
Absolutely love it! You rock!
Thank you so much!
So were there any fish in Black Lake? I didn’t see any jumping.
Not a lot because there are some predator fish in that lake. Short hikes to good fishing lakes though.
Trailer needs shocks so it doesn't bounce around so much and doesn't go over if it hits an odd rock or a pothole. In the mean time, you need to air down the tires even more on the trailer.
Lol…I specially called out that we aired the tires down…and showed it being aired down. You are right about the shocks.
@@Venture2Roam Thats why I suggested airing down even "more". 😉
Another solution, is going with 16" wheels so the tires have much taller sidewalls and can be air down a lot more, so the trailer doesn't bounce around.
Enjoyed that!
So glad to hear it. Thanks for watching!!
Will you have done it again peri want one of those shirts my friend extra large
Lol. You know how to get one!
What type roof tents?
Desert Armor and OVS.
So awesome!
Thank you!!
Beautiful scenery. Makes me want to travel to Idaho. Chris seems to be pulling an empty trailer that causes anxiety. Not sure why he brought it.
Or does look pretty empty. I had the paddle board, firewood, and water back there. 🍻
Hi, I have a 20’ off road travel trailer and very good skills. But from what I can read its impossible to do this de venture with that kind of trailer…. Your thoughts.
I don’t think the trails are difficult on this route, but 20 ft seems like a long trailer.
Ok, last time I bother you for this vid🤓 Do you think you will be going to the Rocky Mt Overland Expo this year?
I don’t think so…but definitely going to OX PNW.
@@Venture2Roam Bout how far is that for you in travel time? Was thinking about trying that one out. Did you go to there for last years? Was wondering how it compares in size to the Rky Mt and West expos.
@@IcyReaper It's probably 5 hours from Boise. We overlanded our way there, so it took 3 days lol. Not sure how it compares to OX Mountain West..I'd say PNW is a good one to attend, at least it was last year..not too big, got to camp on the grass which was super luxurious. No real complaints.
@@Venture2Roam Yea, last year West was windy and Rocky Mt was REALLLLY hot and lots of dust. Pretty much everyone at RM wanted it moved either earlier or later in year.
Great video!! Favorite lines..... this is how we discipline our kids......excuse me ma'am id like to talk to you about your car insurance. Adding this trail to my to do list.
😂😂. That cow was so rude. So glad you like this vid, more coming soon!
@@Venture2Roam she obviously had a beef with you. Lol. Sorry, I had to say it.
Thinking about taking my small 15 foot teardrop trailer on this trail. Would you recommend?
Hard to say without knowing more about the trailer…but you can see in this vid we did it with a trailer. The roads are not difficult.
Normal weekends, with an abnormal father, are the best weekends!
That sums it up pretty well!
😂😂😂