North Idaho is a hiking paradise, with its stunning landscapes, diverse trails, and abundant wildlife. From challenging mountain treks to leisurely nature walks, there is something for everyone in this beautiful region. Here are five of the best hikes in North Idaho, each offering its own unique experience and breathtaking scenery.
1. Scotchman Peak Trail
Scotchman Peak Trail is a challenging 7.5-mile hike that offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountain ranges. The trailhead is located near the town of Clark Fork, and the hike takes you through a variety of landscapes, including dense forests, rocky ridges, and alpine meadows. The final stretch to the summit is a steep climb, but the view from the top is well worth the effort. On a clear day, you can see as far as Montana, Washington, and Canada.
2. Mineral Ridge Trail
If you’re looking for a leisurely hike that still offers great views, the Mineral Ridge Trail is the perfect choice. Located in the Coeur d’Alene National Forest, this 3.3-mile loop trail takes you through dense forest and open meadows, with plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife along the way. The highlight of the trail is the stunning view of Lake Coeur d’Alene from the summit of Mineral Ridge. This hike is also great for families with children, as the trail is well-maintained and not too steep.
3. Bernard Peak Trail
Bernard Peak Trail is a moderate 7.8-mile hike that offers stunning views of Priest Lake and the surrounding mountains. The trailhead is located near the town of Coolin, and the hike takes you through dense forests and across a ridge with panoramic views. The summit of Bernard Peak offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding landscape, including the Selkirk and Cabinet Mountains. This hike is best done in the summer months when the trail is free of snow.
4. English Point Trail
The English Point Trail is a 4-mile loop hike located near the town of Hayden. The trail takes you through dense forest and open meadows, with stunning views of Lake Coeur d’Alene along the way. The highlight of the trail is the panoramic view of the lake from the summit of English Point. This hike is great for families with children, as the trail is well-maintained and not too strenuous.
5. Chimney Rock Trail
The Chimney Rock Trail is a challenging 7.6-mile hike that takes you through dense forest and rocky terrain to the summit of Chimney Rock. The trailhead is located near the town of Sandpoint, and the hike offers stunning views of Lake Pend Oreille and the surrounding mountains. The final stretch to the summit is a steep climb, but the view from the top is well worth the effort. This hike is best done in the summer months when the trail is free of snow.
In conclusion, North Idaho is a hiker’s paradise, with a variety of trails that offer stunning scenery and a range of difficulty levels. Before experiencing the natural wonders of North Idaho on these amazing hikes, make sure to stop by our shop in Sandpoint, ID for some local outdoor tips and to get your overland vehicle ready for adventure. Our team of experts can help you find everything you need to make the most of your outdoor experience in your overland vehicle. We’re dedicated to providing top-quality products and excellent customer service, so you can focus on enjoying the great outdoors with confidence. Visit us today and let us help you take your adventures to the next level!
