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    Box Lake Trail

    Difficulty
    This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
    Hard
    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.
    4-5.5h
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    11.4 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.
    685 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 Box Lake Trail is a demanding hike into Idaho’s high country. Challenging even the fittest hikers with the vertiginous incline, the route culminates at an idyllic alpine lake perfect for cooling off! Yielding incredible scenery every step of the way, this hike is quite memorable.

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    Route Description for Box Lake Trail

    Who does love a high-effort, high-reward type of adventure? The Box Lake Trail is demanding but a worthwhile adventure to an alpine lake beautifully framed by the ridges of Beaverdam Peak. This dynamic adventure ascends numerous switchbacks through granite gardens, lush woodlands, montane meadows, and up to the alpine lake’s sandy beaches. This route is tireless, so pack plenty of water, wear a comfy pair of footwear, and consider trekking poles. Similar to all sorts of exploration in the area, it is important to be mindful of wildlife.

    Setting out from the trailhead off Lick Creek Road, you will be guided northwestwardly along the Box Creek Trail. Note the first few miles of the hike are the most demanding. Take your time navigating the vertiginous path that zigzags up the creek canyon. Eventually, the intensity of the ascent will relax, though you will continue to climb up to the lake. Weaving between meadows and woodlands, you will ultimately reach the shoreline of Box Lake.

    Revel in the scene of the blue-hued pool, encircling pines, and towering granite bluffs. Take a swim in the crystalline pool, then head back along the path down to the trailhead.

    Getting to the Box Lake Trail Trailhead

    Access this hike from the trailhead off Lick Creek Road.

    Route Information

    • Backcountry Campground

      Backcountry Camping

    • When to do

      April-October

    • Pets allowed

      Yes - On Leash

    • Family friendly

      Older Children only

    • Route Signage

      Average

    • Crowd Levels

      Moderate

    • Route Type

      Out and back

    Box Lake Trail Elevation Graph

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    Box Lake Trail Reviews

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