Fern and Shadow Falls Hike

Difficulty
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Very Easy
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
0.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
1.1 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
51 m
User Ratings
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Directions to Trailhead

The Fern and Shadow Falls Hike is a hidden gem in the Idaho Panhandle National Forests. This beautiful, family-friendly adventure explores a lush, green forest before culminating at a collection of waterfalls that cascade from Yellow Dog Creek.

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View Fern and Shadow Falls Hike on Map

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Route Description for Fern and Shadow Falls Hike

The Fern and Show Falls Hike is an impressively secluded and scenic adventure hidden in the Coeur d’Alene Mountains. This beautiful set of cascades plunges over 8 m into a basin of moss-covered rocky logs—presenting a truly enchanting scene. Head out in the spring during peak run-off season for the most impressive experience. Note that the road to the trailhead is rough and rugged, so a vehicle with high ground clearance is recommended.

Setting out from the parking lot and the trailhead, the Fern and Shadow Falls Trail tracks south, wandering into the lush woodlands. Hiking along the Yellow Dog Creek, you will almost immediately reach Fern Falls. Revel in the beauty of the vegetation framed cascade, then continue further into the valley to the larger, more impressive Shadow Falls. Enjoy the beautiful scenery of the cascading water into a pool of mossy rocks and logs. From here, you can either retrace your footing back along the creek or loop through the forestlands.

We chose the latter and crossed over the stream, traveling northwest into the woods and towards another small, seasonal stream. From here, you will be redirected east, reconnecting with the main trail. To get back to the trailhead, track north, retracing your steps.

Getting to the Fern and Shadow Falls Hike Trailhead

The Fern and Shadow Falls Hike is accessed from Forest Road 513.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    No

  • When to do

    May-October

  • Pets allowed

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly

    Yes

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Low

  • Route Type

    Lollipop

Fern and Shadow Falls Hike Elevation Graph

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Fern and Shadow Falls Hike Reviews

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