The best walks and hikes in Idaho County

Hiking in Idaho County is most popular from late spring through fall. The high-elevation trails in the Seven Devils Mountains are often snow-covered until July, making summer the ideal time for alpine adventures. For lower-elevation areas like Hells Canyon, spring and fall offer more pleasant temperatures, avoiding the intense summer heat.

Yes, there are several options suitable for families. The Warm Springs Creek Trail to Jerry Johnson Hot Springs is a relatively flat and short walk leading to natural hot springs, which can be a fun reward. Another great choice is the trail to Goose Creek Falls, a well-regarded hike that leads to a beautiful waterfall.

Many trails in the national forests and recreation areas around Idaho County are dog-friendly, but they must be kept under control. In designated Wilderness areas like the Selway-Bitterroot, regulations can be stricter. Always check the specific rules for the trail you plan to hike and be prepared to keep your dog leashed, especially in areas with wildlife or other hikers.

Absolutely. The region has some beautiful waterfall hikes. A popular local choice is the Goose Creek Falls Trail near New Meadows. It's a scenic hike down to the falls with several viewpoints along the way. The Pulaski Tunnel Trail also features a stream with many mini waterfalls along its path.

Idaho County is a premier destination for backpacking. For a challenging and rewarding trek, the Five Lakes Trail in the Seven Devils Mountains takes you through a stunning landscape of alpine lakes. For those seeking solitude, the extensive Selway River Trail in the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness offers a less-traveled path along the river.

For most day hikes in the national forests, you do not need a permit. However, if you plan to enter a designated Wilderness area like the Frank Church-River of No Return or the Selway-Bitterroot, you are required to fill out a free, self-issue permit at the trailhead. Always check for trailhead fees or parking passes like the Northwest Forest Pass where required.

The vast wilderness areas are home to a diverse range of wildlife. It's common to see deer, elk, and various bird species. In more remote areas, you might be lucky enough to spot black bears, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, or even wolves. Always observe wildlife from a safe distance and store food securely, especially on overnight trips.

Yes, the Pulaski Tunnel Trail near Wallace is a highly-regarded interpretive trail that tells the story of the Great Fire of 1910 and the heroism of Ed Pulaski. It's an educational and scenic walk with signs and bridges along the way. Additionally, many trails lead to historic fire lookouts, such as the Dry Diggins Lookout, which offer a glimpse into the region's history.

For those seeking a serious challenge, the ascent to Mount Sampson and Cannon Ball Mountain offers significant elevation gain and incredible rewards with panoramic views. The terrain is rugged and steep, demanding excellent fitness and navigation skills.

Yes, the region is known for its natural hot springs accessible by trail. Besides the popular Jerry Johnson Hot Springs, you can also hike to the Stanley Hot Springs via the Boulder Creek Trail for a longer, more secluded experience within the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness.

The difficulty varies greatly. There are over 20 trails in the area, with a mix of easy, moderate, and difficult routes. You can find short, easy walks like the Heaven's Gate Lookout trail, moderate climbs to alpine lakes like the Granite Mountain hike, and strenuous multi-day treks through the wilderness.

The routes in Idaho County are very highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers frequently praise the incredible solitude, the stunning alpine scenery of the Seven Devils, and the wild, untamed character of the vast wilderness areas.