Hikes in Payette National Forest

A trip to the Payette National Forest is a staple when visiting Idaho. Encompassing over 2.3 million acres of beautiful, untouched backcountry, this wilderness area in west-central Idaho boasts boundless adventure opportunities. Explore deep river valleys, soaring granite crests, lush coniferous woodlands, hot desert grasslands, montane meadows, and crystalline alpine lakes. The topographical diversity and abundance of flora and fauna warrant incredible scenery and unrivaled outdoor pursuits.

Bound by two of the deepest canyons in North America—the Salmon River Canyon and Hells Canyon. The Payette National Forest encompasses the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness and peaks in the West Mountains, Lick Creek Mountains, Salmon River Mountains, Cuddy Mountains, and the Bitterroot Mountains. Indulge your recreational interests in the Payette National Forest and revel in the beauty of the backcountry. While there are countless ways to explore the wilderness, hiking is undoubtedly the most popular activity, and it’s our favorite way to discover this natural sanctuary.

What’s New in 2026

• Pick your trail by elevation, not just by season. This forest runs from about 1,500 ft in Hells Canyon to peaks near 9,500 ft, so there is no single best time. The low canyon and river trails are superb in spring and autumn but can top 100 degrees Fahrenheit in midsummer, while the alpine lakes that fill our list below usually hold snow until early July and are at their finest from July to September. Autumn is the quiet sweet spot in the high country before the snow returns.
• Mind which Duck Lake route you pick. Two very different hikes share almost the same name: the Duck Lake via Twentymile Trail is a gentle 4.5 km family outing, while the Duck Lake Trail to Loon Lake is a 34.6 km day with almost 1,200 m of climbing that takes most parties 10 hours or more. Check the distance before you set out.
• Wildfire regularly affects this part of the state, and several trails here already pass through old burns, which means standing dead trees and washed-out tread. Smoke can also settle into the valleys for days at a time in August and September. Confirm current fire restrictions, road status and trail closures with the forest before making a long drive to a trailhead.
• Day hiking here is free and permit-free, but the roads take planning. There is no entrance fee for the forest and no permit needed for day hikes, including in the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness. What does need thought is access: many trailheads sit at the end of long gravel forest roads, some shared with off-road vehicles, and services are thin once you leave McCall or New Meadows. Carry a map, fuel up, and do not count on cell coverage.

The Best Hiking Routes in the Payette National Forest

As self-proclaimed adventure experts, we took it upon ourselves to curate a list of the ten greatest hikes in the Payette National Forest, from easy-going adventures to demanding day hikes and everything in between—enjoy!

1. Loon Lake Loop Hike - The Loon Lake Loop Hike is one of the best adventures in the Payette National Forest. This impressive adventure showcases the beauty of Idaho’s Mountains from the shoreline of a beautiful alpine pool and boasts the opportunity to explore a historic plane wreck. The wreck is a B-23 bomber that crash-landed here in 1943 and has been left in place, so look but leave it as you find it.
2. Brundage Mountain Lookout Tower Loop Hike - Indulge in mesmerizing views of the West Mountains and complementing woodlands on the Brundage Mountain Lookout Tower Loop Hike. Accessible only in the summer, this hike explores the Brundage Mountain Ski resort, boasting incredible views of the mountainous landscape.
3. Snowslide Lake Trail - The Snowslide Lake Trail is a demanding adventure into the high country. Short but strenuous, this route climbs up to a postcard perfect alpine lake hemmed by beautiful snow-dusted granite bluffs. It involves a creek crossing and a steep scramble, and the lake holds snow into early summer.
4. Bear Basin Loop Hike - The Bear Basin Loop Hike explores the popular, year-round adventure in the Bear Basin Area near McCall. A popular destination among mountain bikers, this route has become a revered hiking route—boasting great views of the Idaho mountains.
5. Pearl Lake Hike - The Pearl Lake Hike is a hidden gem in the high country. Wander through montane meadows adorned with granite gardens and charming alpine pools before culminating at Pearl Lake. Abundant with wildflowers in the summer months, this hike is a must-add to your hiking itinerary.
6. Duck Lake Trail to Loon Lake - Like the Loon Lake Loop Hike, the Duck Lake Trail to Loon Lake takes a different approach to the charming alpine pool nestled beneath the Lick Creek Mountains. Immerse yourself in the backcountry and explore the historic plane wreckage.
7. Secesh Hot Springs Hike - Indulge in a natural spa-like treatment in the remote wilderness on the Secesh Hot Springs Hike. This gorgeous trail wanders along the wooded Secesh River to a set of relaxing hot springs.
8. Goose Creek Falls Hike - The Goose Creek Falls Hike is a wonderful trail that will get heart-pumping. Wander down into the creek canyon and enjoy the hypnotizing sight of the cascade. Those lacking the time to complete a longer, more involved adventure will enjoy this quick trek.
9. Boulder Lake Loop - Wander through lush woodlands and blossoming meadows on the Boulder Lake Loop. This lovely adventure reveals not one, but three beautiful alpine lakes nestled amongst the granite crests.
10. Louie Lake Trail - Seeking an exciting adventure? The Louie Lake Trail is a versatile route that can be enjoyed by hikers, bikers, and off-roaders alike. Explore lush woodlands before culminating at the lakeshore that boasts spellbinding scenery.

When is the Best Time to Visit the Payette National Forest?

The Payette National Forest is a dynamic and versatile swathe of wilderness that can be explored year-round in a myriad of different ways. While most of the area is open and accessible with the proper gear in the winter months, the summer is certainly the most popular time of the year to visit. In the warmer season, the soaring crests are free of snow, wildflowers blossom, and the alpine lakes are warmer—though still breathtaking!

Boasting a more sequestered experience, off-season exploration is equally as scenic, but there are inherent dangers and challenges. Campgrounds and roads may be closed, so your choice of accommodations and access to certain routes may be limited. Be mindful of inclement weather and the uneasiness of the snow-cloaked terrain.

The sweet spot depends on how high you are going. Spring and autumn are lovely on the low canyon and river trails, which turn uncomfortably hot in midsummer, while the alpine lakes generally only shed their snow from early July and are best from July into September. Autumn brings golden larches, cool air and far fewer people to the high country before the snow returns. No matter the season, no matter the type of recreation, we can assure you the Payette National Forest will leave you pleasantly surprised.

Other Outdoor Activities in the Payette National Forest

Offering numerous hiking routes, the Payette National Forest is a hiker’s oasis, but the area is not limited solely to hiking trails. Decorated with several alpine lakes, water adventures are a popular recreational activity here. Try kayaking or swimming in a crystalline lake or relax in the Council Mountain Hot Springs. Bikers are drawn to the Bear Basin Area, and off-roaders can explore the Louie Lake Trail, among others.

After the snowfalls, you can put on a pair of snowshoes or cross-country skis to admire a different perspective of the snow-dusted landscape. Specific routes will open to snowmobiles, and alpine skiers can enjoy the slopes of the Brundage Mountain Resort. No matter the season, the Payette National Forest offers a diversity of adventure opportunities to indulge.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Payette National Forest

Are there bears in the Payette National Forest?

Yes, there are bears in the Payette National Forest, amongst a diversity of other wildlife including coyotes, elk, mountain lions, moose, and more. These are black bears; grizzlies are not established in this part of Idaho at present. Carry bear spray, make noise on blind corners and store food properly all the same.

Where is the Payette National Forest?

The Payette National Forest is located in west-central Idaho, between Hells Canyon and Salmon River Canyon.

What mountain ranges does the Payette National Forest encompass?

The Payette National Forest includes peaks from the West Mountains, Lick Creek Mountains, Salmon River Mountains, Cuddy Mountains, and the Bitterroot Mountains. The Seven Devils, rising above Hells Canyon, hold the forest’s highest ground at close to 9,400 ft.

Plan Your Trip

The Payette is one corner of hiking in Idaho, and it pairs naturally with the neighbouring hiking in Boise National Forest to the south and hiking in Salmon-Challis National Forest to the east. If you would rather have the planning handled, browse our guided tours in the United States.

Find Other Amazing Hiking Regions in Idaho

• hiking in Boise National Forest
• hiking in Idaho Panhandle National Forests
• hiking in Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forest
• hiking in Sawtooth National Forest
• hiking in Salmon-Challis National Forest