Kane 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.
4-5.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
13.7 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.
544 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

Soaring crests, waterfalls, alpine lakes, wildlife, and wildflowers, need we say more? The Kane Lake Trail is an amazing day hike into the Pioneer Mountains that you won’t soon forget. Bring your camera, the scenery is quite photogenic.

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Route Description for Kane Lake Trail

The Kane Lake Trail is arguably one of the best hikes in the Salmon-Challis National Forest. This incredible trail travels through aspen groves, meadowlands, and alpine firs alongside a meandering stream set against a background of towering granite crests. As you wander, you may even see elk and deer occupying the lush environment. Note that the final push into the glacial basin progresses over rocky scree, so make sure you are wearing a sturdy pair of footwear and consider bringing trekking poles if you suffer from joint issues.

Embark on your scenic stroll into the alpine from the trailhead off the Kane Canyon Road. Setting out from here, you will be led south into the mountain-bound canyon. Traveling through pines interspersed with aspen groves, you will be in the company of the meandering outflow that offers scenes of several charming cascades. Enjoy the sights and sounds of the gurgling water in addition to the jaw-dropping views of the granite peaks rising above the treeline. After some hiking, the valley will narrow, and the tree shade will become sparse as you navigate the rocky scree. As you climb higher, views of the Pioneer Mountains will unfold before your eyes.

Soon you will crest the shoreline of the turquoise alpine lake. Explore the magical glacial basin and take a rejuvenating plunge in Kane Lake, which is hemmed by the ridges of The Devil’s Bedstead. Soak in the beauty of the landscape, then head back to the trailhead the way you came.

Getting to the Kane Lake Trail Trailhead

Access this adventure from the trailhead at the end of the Kane Canyon Road.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    Dispersed Camping

  • When to do

    May-September

  • Pets allowed

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly

    Older Children only

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Moderate

  • Route Type

    Out and back

Kane Lake Trail Elevation Graph

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Kane Lake Trail Reviews

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