Hikes in Idaho

From wide open plains to dramatic mountain peaks, Idaho, the “Gem State”, is one of the great under-the-radar hiking destinations in the United States. Its landscapes run from the granite spires and alpine lakes of the Sawtooths, through the deep gorge of Hells Canyon and the jagged Seven Devils, to the ancient cedar groves and clear lakes of the northern Panhandle. With six national forests and more than a hundred routes to choose from, there is a trail here for every level, from gentle lakeside strolls to demanding multi-day summits.

What’s New in 2027

• Much of Idaho is bear country, so hike prepared. Black bears live across the state, and grizzly bears are present in the north Panhandle, near the Selkirk and Cabinet mountains, and in the eastern ranges bordering Yellowstone. Carry bear spray in an accessible holster, make noise on wooded trails, keep a clean camp, and never approach or run from wildlife. Idaho is also home to wolves and mountain lions, which are seldom seen but worth respecting.
• Snow, heat and wildfire shape the Idaho hiking calendar. The main season runs from about June to October, with the high alpine trails in the Sawtooths and Seven Devils holding snow into July. Late summer brings wildfire season across the West, which can close trails and fill valleys with smoke, so check current forest and fire conditions before you travel. Lower-elevation trails in the Panhandle and around Boise open earlier and stay walkable longer.
• Most Idaho trails are free, but check for local rules. Hiking in the national forests is generally free, though some trailheads charge for parking and popular hot springs and recreation sites can be busy. Wilderness areas such as the Sawtooth Wilderness have minimal restrictions, with no permit needed for small day-hiking groups, but always confirm the rules for your specific trail with the managing forest before you go.

The Best Hikes in Idaho

Idaho’s trails span the whole state, from the lake-and-cedar country of the Panhandle in the north to the granite high country of central Idaho. Here are some of the best from across the routes on this page to start your planning:

• Pulaski Tunnel Trail A creekside history hike near Wallace, following interpretive signs to the tunnel where ranger Ed Pulaski sheltered his crew during the great 1910 wildfire, saving all but a few. One of the most storied trails in the state.
• Mineral Ridge National Recreation Trail A family-friendly loop on the ridges above Lake Coeur d’Alene, with picture-perfect views of the mountain-bound reservoir and an easy grade suitable for most hikers.
• Settlers Grove of Ancient Cedars Trail An easy, enchanting walk through an old-growth grove of ancient western red cedars in the Panhandle, carpeted with wildflowers and alive with birdsong.
• Stevens Lakes Trail A great introduction to Idaho high country near the Montana line, climbing steep terrain and fording creeks to reach a pair of beautiful alpine lakes. The payoff is worth the sweat.
• Green Monarch Mountain Hike A ridge walk high above Lake Pend Oreille, Idaho’s largest lake, with sweeping overlooks, wildlife and wildflowers along the way.
• Elk Creek Falls Hike A short hike to a set of three cascades in the Nez Perce-Clearwater forests, including one of the tallest waterfalls in the state.
• Weir Creek Hot Springs Trail A short walk to one of nature’s hot tubs, a natural hot spring tucked along Weir Creek in the Clearwater country. Bring a swimsuit and soak.
• Sheep Lake Hike A long, arduous climb into the dramatic Seven Devils Mountains above Hells Canyon, rewarded with an idyllic alpine lake ringed by granite peaks. A shorter shortcut route also exists for those short on time.
• Upper Cannon Lake Hike A demanding trek into the Seven Devils to a lake hidden among snow-capped crags, one of the finest alpine destinations in central Idaho.
• Lewis and Clark Trail An easy, family-friendly meander with picture-perfect views over a forested river valley, following in the footsteps of the historic expedition.

When is the Best Time to Hike in Idaho?

The heart of Idaho’s hiking season runs from June through October. July and August bring the warmest, most settled weather and the best access to the high alpine trails in the Sawtooths and Seven Devils, though these higher routes can hold snow into July. Late spring and early summer are ideal for the lower forests and lakeshores of the Panhandle and the Boise foothills, when wildflowers are out and temperatures are mild. Autumn is quieter and often beautiful, with golden larches in the north, though the weather turns quickly at elevation. Bear in mind that late summer is wildfire season across the region, so check for trail closures and smoke before you set out. In winter, much of the state turns to snowshoeing and skiing.

Other Outdoor Activities in Idaho

Hiking is only the beginning in Idaho. The state’s rivers, including the Salmon, the River of No Return, are world-famous for whitewater rafting and kayaking, and its lakes are made for paddling, fishing and swimming in summer. The mountains draw climbers, mountain bikers and backpackers, and the many natural hot springs are a reward after a long day on the trail. In winter, resorts such as Sun Valley and Schweitzer plus endless backcountry open up for skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hiking in Idaho

Do you need a permit to hike in Idaho?

For most day hikes, no. Trails in Idaho’s national forests are generally free to walk, though some trailheads charge for parking. Wilderness areas such as the Sawtooth Wilderness have minimal restrictions and do not require a permit for small day-hiking groups, but rules vary, so check with the managing forest, especially for overnight backcountry trips and popular sites. Craters of the Moon and other special areas may have their own entrance fees or cave permits.

Are there grizzly bears in Idaho?

Yes, in parts of the state. Black bears are found across Idaho, while grizzly bears are limited to the north Panhandle, near the Selkirk and Cabinet mountains, and the eastern ranges bordering the Greater Yellowstone area. Encounters are uncommon, but you should carry bear spray, make noise on the trail, keep a clean camp, and never approach or run from a bear. Wolves and mountain lions also live in Idaho but are rarely seen.

What is the most famous hiking area in Idaho?

The Sawtooth Mountains, centred on the town of Stanley and the Sawtooth National Recreation Area, are Idaho’s best-known hiking destination, with hundreds of alpine lakes and dozens of granite peaks. The Seven Devils above Hells Canyon and the volcanic landscape of Craters of the Moon are other iconic draws, and the northern Panhandle offers gentler forest and lakeside walking.

Plan Your Trip to Idaho

Idaho is one of the great hiking states of hiking in the United States, and each of its national forests has its own hub. If you would rather have the planning handled, browse our Guided tours in the United States.