Hikes/United States/Idaho/Payette National Forest

Louie Lake Trail

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
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.
3.5-4.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
8.2 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.
658 m
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
Be the first to add a review!
Directions to Trailhead
Google Maps
Apple Maps

Discover the beauty of the Payette National Forest on the Louie Lake Trail. Ideal for intermediate hikers and families with older children, this moderate adventure will get your heart rate up without over-exhausting you. Note this versatile trail is shared with off-roaders, so expect some company.

Download the 10Adventures App

View Louie Lake Trail on Map

View Map
View Map

Quick Navigation

Join our newsletter

Get a weekly dose of discounts and inspiration for adventure lovers

Route Description for Louie Lake Trail

The Louie Lake Trail beckons adventurers of all sorts year-round. Hike or drive in the winter, spring, or summer and indulge in the beauty of Idaho’s mountainous landscape. Note the tree canopy is mostly open, so while the path is wooded, you should expect sunny conditions. Wear SPF and dress in layers as insurance against changing conditions. Those hiking should be mindful of speedy off-roaders passing by, and those driving should be respectful of trekkers. Heads up– the road to the trailhead is rough and rugged!

Embark on your adventure from the trailhead off Boulder Lake Road. Setting out from here, you will be guided southward along the Louie Lake Trail. Escaping into the woodlands, the path will gradually climb into the wilderness abundant with a diversity of flora and fauna. Soon after your departure, you will travel through several intersections, keep left and maintain along the Louie Lake Trail. Soon the path will merge with the off-roading route, and you will be in the company of intrepid off-roaders driving up to the lakeshore.

After some hiking, you will ultimately reach the shoreline of Louie Lake. Revel in the scene of the forest-bound lake mirroring Jughandle Mountain. Admire the beautiful scene, then head back down the path the way you came to the trailhead.

Getting to the Louie Lake Trail Trailhead

Access this hike from the Louie Lake Trailhead off Boulder Lake Road.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    Backcountry Camping

  • When to do

    May-October

  • Pets allowed

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly

    Older Children only

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Moderate

  • Route Type

    Out and back

Louie Lake Trail Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

Check Area Weather

Louie Lake Trail Reviews

Add a comment

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Nearby Trails

Nearby Regions

Get travel inspiration and discounts

Join our weekly travel newsletter