Idaho Peak

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.
1.5-2h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
3.4 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.
276 m
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
Overall Rating
This is the average user-submitted overall rating on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the highest.
10.0
Physical Difficulty
This is the average user-submitted rating on the physical difficulty of this route. In general, green is beginner, blue is intermediate, black is advanced/most difficult and double-black is expert-only. It is recommended that users build up to black and double-black routes.
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Technical Difficulty
This is the average user-submitted rating on the technical difficulty of this route. In general, green is beginner, blue is intermediate, black is advanced/most difficult and double-black is expert-only. It is recommended that users build up to black and double-black routes.
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
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Directions to Trailhead
Panoramic view of Idaho Peak hike in West Kootenays, BC

Important Notice: The road leading to Idaho Peak trailhead is currently washed out by a mudslide and might take a long time to repair. Please check here for the up to date information.

The Idaho Peak hike is a relatively quick and easy walk along the ridgeline, through colourful wildflowers to an old fire lookout on the top of Idaho Peak. This classic local hike is not one to be missed! From the top of Idaho Peak you are rewarded with exceptional views of Slocan Lake and panoramic mountain ranges – you can see as far as Kokanee Glacier just outside of Nelson.

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Route Description for Idaho Peak

The hardest part of the Idaho Peak hike is getting to the parking lot. The final 12.0 km up Idaho Peak Road is narrow and 4WD is recommended. Once at the trailhead, parking is limited for the Idaho Peak hike and there are two parking lots. You can park in either parking lot, as the trails join shortly after you start the hike.

The trail up Idaho Peak is well marked and easy to follow, with plenty of signs to teach you about the wildflowers you are sure to see everywhere you look. The route is at the treeline, so you have great views as you look out. Some parts of this route are a bit narrow, so you wouldn’t necessarily want to do this with very young children.

This Idaho Peak trail is a wonderful way to enjoy alpine views without putting in the miles. You will wander along the ridgeline until finally you reach the old Fire Lookout. Beneath you is Slocan Lake and there are numerous signs pointing out all of the mountain ranges that can be seen from the lookout. There is also an outhouse at the top that could win awards for the view.

Return the way you came to get back to your car.

Insider Hints for Idaho Peak

  • If you don’t have a 4WD vehicle, there is an Idaho Peak Shuttle.
  • This hike can be busy, so leave early or you might find you spend a lot of time trying to pass descending vehicles on the narrow road.
  • The Idaho Peak hike is great for families with children or those who can’t easily get into the alpine.
  • Sunset is a particularly beautiful time to sit at the lookout, though bring a headlamp for the descent.
  • This whole area is a great day trip if you are on holiday in the area. Sandon is a historic mining town, and the Sandon Museum is very interesting. You can wander down to Slocan River and follow the Galena Trail if you’re feeling like a longer walk. Back near New Denver, Slocan Lake itself is stunning and one of the most beautiful and warmer lakes in the local area.

Getting to the Idaho Peak Trailhead

To get to the trailhead for Idaho Peak is a long drive. From New Denver, take the 31A for 8.4 km, turning right onto Sandon Road. Drive towards Sandon and go right just as you enter the old mining town of Sandon. Cross a bridge and drive through town, then turn right on Idaho Peak Road just as you exit town. This unpaved narrow road is 12.0 km long and a 4WD is recommended. Be careful as the road is narrow.

Route Information

  • When to do

    Mid July to Mid September

  • Backcountry Campsites

    No

  • Pets allowed

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly

    Yes

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Moderate

  • Route Type

    Out and back

Idaho Peak Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

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Idaho Peak Reviews

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