It’s no secret that Idaho is pretty much one huge natural playground. Our state is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, with hundreds of hiking trails that boast views that look like something straight out of a National Geographic magazine. You can’t find beauty like this anywhere else in the world! The seven hiking trails featured here are the best of the best when it comes to showing off Idaho’s incredibly natural beauty. The next time you feel like exploring our beautiful state, be sure to check out one of these world class hiking trails!
- Tubbs Hill
Amy F/AllTrails Tubbs Hill is one of the most iconic places in northern Idaho. The area is comprised of 120 acres and is completely surrounded by the majestic Lake Coeur d’Alene. One of the most popular trails on Tubbs Hill is the 2.2 mile interpretive trail that leads you around the perimeter of the hill. This easy trail is perfect for anyone, and offers incredible views of the lake and the beautiful city of Coeur d’Alene.
- Scotchman Peak Trail
Matt Cudmore/AllTrails Scotchman Peak is considered a must-do hike by many and is located near Clark Fork, Idaho. This 8 mile out and back trail is perfect for those who are seeking a more intense hiking experience. The trail is steep and some of it is quite difficult. However, you’ll be treated to some of the most breathtaking views once you reach the summit. As a plus, you’ll definitely come across a mountain goat or two during your hike!
- Mount Borah
Tucker Ray/AllTrails One of the best parts about this trail is that you’ll eventually find yourself at the highest point in the entire state. Does it get any better than that? This 7.5 mile trail is recommended for more experienced hikers, but is worth every strenuous step. With an elevation gain of over 5,000 feet, the trail takes you straight to the summit of the 12,662 feet high peak and the view is something you’ll remember for the rest of your life.
- Chilco Mountain Trail
Blake Riley/AllTrails The Chilco Mountain Trail is a moderate 3.6 mile out and back trail that offers incredible views of the Coeur d’Alene area. The mountain’s peak allows for amazing panoramic views of the forest covered surroundings. Huckleberry bushes adorn the rocky, uphill trail for a bonus treat during the early summer!
- Upper Palisades Lake Trail
James E Wells/AllTrails The Upper Palisades Lake Trail is a lengthy one at a whopping 15.6 miles out and back. However, every inch of the trail offers up something different to see and explore! The first part of the trail to the lower lake is very family friendly and incredibly popular during the summer time. The crowds drop off as you continue to the upper lake and you find yourself completely immersed in the serenity of this beautiful mountain lake in the middle of the forest!
- Iron creek to Sawtooth Lake
Tim Cheeney/AllTrails Located near Stanley, this is a 9 mile trail that leads you to the incredible Sawtooth Lake. The views of this beautiful alpine lake are simply out of this world! This place makes for the perfect camping spot, especially since you’ll probably find that you’ll want to stay at Sawtooth Lake forever. The water is crystal clear and the mountains are gorgeous. If this isn’t heaven, then what is?
- Cress Creek
Zane Schenk/AllTrails Cress Creek is a simple, one mile loop trail located near Ririe, Idaho. This hike may be short but it sure packs a punch with gorgeous views of South Fork of the Snake River along with the surrounding hills and valleys. Fall is the perfect time for this hike since the area comes alive with gorgeous autumn colors!
Have you hiked any of these breathtaking trails? What’s your favorite hike in Idaho? If you thought these trails were amazing, then check out this Amazing Hiking Trail In Idaho That Takes You Through An Abandoned Train Tunnel.
Amy F/AllTrails
Tubbs Hill is one of the most iconic places in northern Idaho. The area is comprised of 120 acres and is completely surrounded by the majestic Lake Coeur d’Alene. One of the most popular trails on Tubbs Hill is the 2.2 mile interpretive trail that leads you around the perimeter of the hill. This easy trail is perfect for anyone, and offers incredible views of the lake and the beautiful city of Coeur d’Alene.
Matt Cudmore/AllTrails
Scotchman Peak is considered a must-do hike by many and is located near Clark Fork, Idaho. This 8 mile out and back trail is perfect for those who are seeking a more intense hiking experience. The trail is steep and some of it is quite difficult. However, you’ll be treated to some of the most breathtaking views once you reach the summit. As a plus, you’ll definitely come across a mountain goat or two during your hike!
Tucker Ray/AllTrails
One of the best parts about this trail is that you’ll eventually find yourself at the highest point in the entire state. Does it get any better than that? This 7.5 mile trail is recommended for more experienced hikers, but is worth every strenuous step. With an elevation gain of over 5,000 feet, the trail takes you straight to the summit of the 12,662 feet high peak and the view is something you’ll remember for the rest of your life.
Blake Riley/AllTrails
The Chilco Mountain Trail is a moderate 3.6 mile out and back trail that offers incredible views of the Coeur d’Alene area. The mountain’s peak allows for amazing panoramic views of the forest covered surroundings. Huckleberry bushes adorn the rocky, uphill trail for a bonus treat during the early summer!
James E Wells/AllTrails
The Upper Palisades Lake Trail is a lengthy one at a whopping 15.6 miles out and back. However, every inch of the trail offers up something different to see and explore! The first part of the trail to the lower lake is very family friendly and incredibly popular during the summer time. The crowds drop off as you continue to the upper lake and you find yourself completely immersed in the serenity of this beautiful mountain lake in the middle of the forest!
Tim Cheeney/AllTrails
Located near Stanley, this is a 9 mile trail that leads you to the incredible Sawtooth Lake. The views of this beautiful alpine lake are simply out of this world! This place makes for the perfect camping spot, especially since you’ll probably find that you’ll want to stay at Sawtooth Lake forever. The water is crystal clear and the mountains are gorgeous. If this isn’t heaven, then what is?
Zane Schenk/AllTrails
Cress Creek is a simple, one mile loop trail located near Ririe, Idaho. This hike may be short but it sure packs a punch with gorgeous views of South Fork of the Snake River along with the surrounding hills and valleys. Fall is the perfect time for this hike since the area comes alive with gorgeous autumn colors!
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