Pete Ott Lake Trail

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
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.
2-2.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
6.6 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.
242 m
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

The Pete Ott Lake Trail beckons the exploration of high-country enthusiasts. Hike amongst the impressive Clearwater Mountains and the complementing forests to the idyllic lake. Hidden amongst the peaks, the shimmering lake is a little slice of heaven in Idaho.

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Route Description for Pete Ott Lake Trail

The Pete Ott Lake Trail would make an excellent addition to your Clearwater National Forest hiking itinerary. This beautiful route explores dense mixed woodlands, exhibiting a diversity of flora and fauna before plunging down into the hidden oasis. Yielding tranquility, you will likely have the path all to yourself. Don’t forget your swimsuit and towel; the natural pool is inviting! Note the trail GPS may prove useful in navigating the final leg of the hike.

Your adventure begins from the Flat Mountain Trailhead. Setting out from here, you will be guided northward along the forested ridge above Ring Lake—though you will likely not enjoy views of this gorgeous pool! Minding your footing on the rocks and roots that obstruct the path, you will eventually confront an intersection. Here, veer right, and you will be diverted onto the Elizabeth Mountain Trail. Soon after diverting off the Flat Mountain Trail, you will reach yet another junction. Here you can veer left onto Ice Lake, keep straight towards Elizabeth Mountain, or right down to Pete Ott Lake.

Keeping right, you will wander down into the forested basin where you will find the idyllic lake. Notice the logs that sit at the bottom of the crystalline lake and revel in the grandeur of the forested cliffs that encircle that pool. When you are through admiring the scenery, retrace your footing back to the trailhead

Getting to the Pete Ott Lake Trail Trailhead

Access this hike from the Flat Mountain Trailhead off Upper Cool Springs Road A.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    Backcountry Camping

  • When to do

    April-October

  • Pets allowed

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly

    Yes

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Moderate

  • Route Type

    Out and back

Pete Ott Lake Trail Elevation Graph

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Pete Ott Lake Trail Reviews

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