Idaho may be one of the smallest states and the least densely populated but it is filled with an interesting and diverse environment. Bordering Montana, Nevada, and Utah, Idaho is a place where you will meet all types of outdoorsy people. Whether you want to hike the Rocky Mountains or go fishing in the lake, the Gem State offers an array of adventure activities. Here, you will be surrounded by the state’s green landscapes with its nature parks, varied trails, and protected areas. If you’re looking to see the beauty of Gem State, check out our list of the top 10 hiking and trekking spots in Idaho, the USA.
1. Deadwood Hot Springs Trail
Deadwood Hot Springs Trail is one of the most interesting hiking trails in Idaho. The trail is pretty simple but if you’re not an experienced hiker, there might be some difficulty traversing certain parts of the path. There’s a hot spring that awaits you at the end of the path, and you can soak in it if you feel like going just slightly beyond the maintained area.
Deadwood Hot Springs Trail
Address: Boise National Forest, Deadwood Reservoir, Idaho, USA
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
2. Targhee Creek Trail
If you’re looking to immerse yourself in the serenity of nature, Targhee Creek Trail is a great place that is known to have a little “split personality.” Although the trail is moderately trafficked, it is spacious and quiet. You will notice that the first few kilometers are fairly easy to trek with tons of flowers but at a certain point, there is going to be steep elevation as it intersects with the continental divide. So if you’re looking for an easy and challenging hike, then consider yourself lucky. Dogs are allowed at the trails but must be on a leash. If you are hiking with kids, need not worry as Targhee Creek Trail is also kid friendly.
Targhee Creek Trail
Address: Forest Rd 057, Island Park, ID 83429, United States
Website: Targhee Creek Trail
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
3. Eastside Trail
No matter what time of the year it is, hiking the Eastside Trail always sounds like a great idea. Serving as the main trunk trail of Stack Rock trail system, Eastside Trail’s first part was built by mountain bikers from 2003 to 2004. The logging roads were made into hiking and mountain biking paths. There are also different lanes around the area that provide some alternatives for more professional riders. Needless to say, Eastside Trail is very popular for mountain biking in the summer. During the winter, it is overflowing with people who are into cross-country skiing.
Eastside Trail
Address: Eastside Trail Idaho 83629, USA
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
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4. Louie Lake Trail Head
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Louis Lake Trail is a very picturesque hiking trail that is not too difficult, but due to its rocky conditions, mobility-impaired adults might have a hard time trekking through the area. In comparison to many others around the state, the path is relatively short as the distance only covers 2.5 mi (4 km). The path is heavily trafficked and dogs are allowed here as well as the use of off-road vehicles. The path also goes around the lovely Louis Lake.
Louie Lake Trail Head
Address: Boulder Lake Rd, McCall, ID 83638, United States
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
5. Washington Lake Trail
Washington Lake Trail is beautiful and moderately trafficked. For anyone looking to reconnect with nature, this trail is brimming with towering trees, glistening lakes, and diverse fauna. The trails start near the area of Stanley, Idaho, and are rated as moderately difficult due to some high peaks that make the climb challenging. The trail loops around so you can always leave from where you start. Tourists who are only taking a leisurely walk can bring their dogs with them as long as they are on a leash.
Washington Lake Trail
Address: Washington Lake Idaho 83278, USA
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
6. Around the Mountain
Popular among hikers, Around the Mountain is an amazing loop around Bogus Basin Ski Resort. Boasting a few different trails, you can always come back and hike the other trails here. Aside from the paths being well maintained, there are tons of amazing sites from the top of the mountain with views of Sawtooth Range as well as wildflowers and wildlife. The mountain is classified as moderate to difficult so expect that the climb is going to be a little difficult.
Around the Mountain
Address: Lowman, ID 83637, United States
Website: Around the Mountain
Opening hours: 6am - 10pm (daily)
Price: 10 USD
7. Boulder Lake Trail #105
Despite its not-so-creative name, Boulder Lake Trail #105 is a nice place to hike if you’re looking for a short and moderately easy trail around nature. There are plenty of sights to enjoy while you walk such as mature rainforest trees and wildflowers. When you get to the end of the trail, get ready to be greeted by the beautiful Boulder Lake. Enjoy some birdwatching and marvel at the leaves changing colors in the autumn.
Boulder Lake Trail #105
Address: 500 N Mission St, McCall, ID 83638, United States
Website: Boulder Lake Trail #105
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
8. Huckleberry Trail
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Located on the shores of Ponderosa State Park, Huckleberry Trail is a great, small loop surrounded by nature—making it a nice alternative for trekking mountains. The park is popular and frequently visited by hikers and mountain bikers alike. Dogs are also welcome but must be on a leash. During the summer, you can take a refreshing dip in the lake on site.
Huckleberry Trail
Address: Huckleberry Loop Idaho 83638, USA
Website: Huckleberry Trail
Opening hours: 8am - 9pm (daily)
Price: Free
9. Sterling Justice Hiking Trail
Sterling Justice Hiking Trail is a connecting trail and relatively new hiking path offering stunning views of Pocatello. The path is categorized difficult as there are a few steep sections and elevations. The trail is a popular spot in the winter for cross-country skiing. Dogs are allowed on the path as long as they are on a leash.
Sterling Justice Hiking Trail
Address: Pocatello, ID 83204, United States
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
10. Waterfall Canyon Trail
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Waterfall Canyon Trail is for people looking to spend a lot of time hiking and trekking through the Idaho countryside. The trail here is over 20 mi (32 km) and is lightly trafficked. Although the trail is long, it is only rated with moderate difficulty and dogs are welcome to trek with you as well. Camping is a popular activity to do here, just in case you don’t feel like trekking the full 23 mi (37 km).
Waterfall Canyon Trail
Address: Waterfall Canyon Idaho 83428, USA
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
Explore the scenic landscapes of Idaho
Idaho is a great place for nature lovers as there is plenty of lush forests, crystal-clear lakes, and green mountains. Hike up to some points of the hills here and soak in the stunning views of nature around. Go on an unforgettable adventure, and don’t forget to see our list of the best hiking and trekking spots in the Gem State.
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