Southeastern Idaho is a treasure trove for backpacking enthusiasts, offering stunning landscapes ranging from rugged mountains to serene lakes and dense forests. Today, we are reviewing a few area destinations teeming with trails waiting to be explored!
City of Rocks National Reserve
City of Rocks offers a surreal landscape famous for its massive granite rock formations. Backpackers can explore trails winding through the rocks, offering scenic views and challenging climbs. The area is also rich in pioneer history, with trails passing near historic inscriptions from early settlers. Camping is available in the reserve, allowing for multi-day exploration of the unique ecosystems and rock-climbing opportunities.
Bear Lake Summit
Bear Lake Summit provides breathtaking views of the deep blue Bear Lake and the surrounding mountain ranges. The trail is well-maintained and offers several loops for varying skill levels. This area is lovely when wildflowers blanket the ground in the early summer. Wildlife sightings, including deer and various birds, add to the experience, making it an optimal spot for nature photography.
Big Elk Creek
Big Elk Creek Trail is ideal for those seeking a serene hiking experience along a creek. Dense forests surround the trail and offer periodic views of the valley below. The trail also leads to several small lakes where anglers can enjoy fishing. The area is less trafficked, providing a peaceful retreat with opportunities for spotting moose and other wildlife.
Blackfoot Mountains
The Blackfoot Mountains are a less-known gem, offering solitude and pristine nature. The trails here meander through varying terrain, from meadows to high ridges. Backpackers can find several dispersed camping spots along the way, making it easy to turn a day hike into an overnight trip. The elevation changes are significant, providing good exercise and stunning panoramic views.
Bannock Range
Bannock Range features a rugged landscape with opportunities for beginner and experienced backpackers. The trails boasts epic scenery and views of the surrounding valleys and peaks. The area is lovely in the fall when the foliage changes colors. Hikers can explore old mine sites and natural springs, adding historical and natural interest to their hike.
Pebble Creek Ski Area
Outside of winter, the Pebble Creek Ski Area becomes a fantastic backpacking destination with trails leading through alpine meadows and dense forests. The higher elevations offer cooler temperatures during the hot summer months and breathtaking views of Mount Bonneville and other surrounding peaks. This area is excellent for those seeking a strenuous workout with stunning natural beauty.
Portneuf Range
The Portneuf Range offers a variety of trails that cater to all skill levels. These trails access several high peaks and beautiful alpine lakes. Wildflowers and wildlife are abundant along these trails, making every hike a picturesque experience. The range is also known for its thermal hot springs, which provide a unique way to relax after hiking.
Scout Mountain
Scout Mountain is one of the most popular backpacking destinations in Southeastern Idaho. It is known for its extensive trail network and beautiful campgrounds. The area offers spectacular views of the surrounding valleys, particularly stunning in the spring and fall. It’s also a popular spot for bird-watching and wildflower viewing.
Sawtell Peak
Sawtell Peak offers backpackers an exhilarating climb with the reward of panoramic views at the summit. The trail is challenging but well-maintained, making it accessible for those with some hiking experience. From the top, hikers can see across multiple states and into Yellowstone National Park, making it a popular destination for photographers and nature enthusiasts. The area’s high elevation also makes it a fantastic retreat during the summer months.
Henrys Lake
Henrys Lake is a stunning high-altitude lake known for its fishing and beautiful scenic trails. The surrounding area offers numerous trails that range from easy treks to more strenuous hikes around the lake. The lake is surrounded by a unique ecosystem, making it an excellent place for wildlife viewing, including moose and eagles. The lake’s proximity to Yellowstone makes it an ideal base for the region’s longer road/multi-destination backpacking trips.
Kelly Canyon
Kelly Canyon offers a variety of trails suitable for both day hikes and extended backpacking trips. The area has lush forests, streams, and diverse flora and fauna. During the fall, the canyon is a popular spot for viewing vibrant autumn colors. The trails are also known for their peace and tranquility, providing a perfect escape for those looking to disconnect and enjoy nature.
Hell’s Half Acre Lava Field
For a genuinely unique backpacking experience, Hell’s Half Acre offers a landscape dominated by rugged lava flows and native shrubland. The area is a National Natural Landmark and contrasts the region’s typical mountainous terrain. The rough terrain is challenging and offers little shade. However, the unique geological features and the chance to explore a vast lava field make it a worthwhile adventure for those looking for something different.
Massacre Rocks State Park
Massacre Rocks State Park is rich in both history and natural beauty. The park offers trails along the Snake River with impressive rock formations and river valley views. This location is steeped in Oregon Trail history, providing educational opportunities alongside recreational activities. The park’s trails suit all ages and skill levels, making it a great all-age-friendly backpacking destination.
Lemhi Pass
Lemhi Pass is historically significant as Lewis and Clark used it on their expedition. Today, it offers challenging trails with rewarding views at the summit and along the ridges. The area is remote and less trafficked, ideal for those looking to experience solitude and the raw beauty of Idaho’s mountain ranges. The pass is also a great spot for spotting wildlife and enjoying wildflowers in the spring and summer.
St. Anthony Sand Dunes
For an unusual backpacking experience, the St. Anthony Sand Dunes provide a landscape of vast dunes up to 400 feet high. This area offers a different adventure where you can explore the shifting landscapes and enjoy nighttime hikes under the stars. The dunes are also famous for sandboarding and off-roading, making it a versatile destination for those seeking varied outdoor activities.
Palisades Creek Trail
Palisades Creek Trail is a scenic route that leads to stunning waterfalls and the serene Palisades Lake. The trail is well-maintained and offers a gradual incline, making it accessible for most fitness levels. This trail is particularly popular among photographers and nature enthusiasts for its spectacular waterfall views and abundant wildlife, including moose and deer. Overnight camping spots near the lake offer a peaceful retreat for those looking to extend their adventure in the wilderness.
Craters of the Moon Loop
The Craters of the Moon Loop provides a fascinating journey through volcanic landscapes that feel otherworldly. This trail loops around volcanic features, including lava fields and cinder cones, providing an educational and visually captivating experience. The trail is exposed with little shade, so it’s best tackled in the cooler months or early morning hours. The unique geological formations and the stark beauty of the lava fields make this a must-visit for those looking for a unique backpacking adventure.
Caribou-Targhee National Forest
The Caribou-Targhee National Forest offers endless possibilities for backpacking, with numerous trails that cater to all skill levels. The forest is home to diverse landscapes, from alpine lakes to dense woodlands, providing a unique experience with each hike. This area is popular among wildlife enthusiasts and photographers, as the forest teems with wildlife, including elk, deer, and even occasional sightings of bears. The diverse landscapes and well-maintained trails make this an excellent destination for all-age-friendly backpacking adventures.
