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Best wildlife hiking trails in Idaho
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Best wildlife hiking trails in Idaho

Calling all nature lovers! These wildlife-rich trails give you the chance to spot some of the forest’s cutest (or wildest) inhabitants while keeping a respectful distance, of course.

Here are some great trails to explore in Idaho.

Most popular trails

1

Easy

Payette River Greenbelt

Payette County, Idaho · star 5.0 (43) · 5.1 km · Est. 1 hrs 3 min

2

Easy

Box Canyon Trail via Henry's Fork Snake River

Fremont County, Idaho · star 4.0 (41) · 6.9 km · Est. 1 hrs 32 min

3

Medium

East Shaw Mountain Road - Robie Creek Park

Ada County, Idaho · star 5.0 (50) · 19.6 km · Est. 4 hrs 59 min

4

Easy

Payette Lake - Peninsula Trail

Valley County, Idaho · star 4.0 (45) · 6.6 km · Est. 1 hrs 23 min

5

Medium

Ship Island Lake via Bighorn Crags Trail

Lemhi County, Idaho · star 4.0 (42) · 37.1 km · Est. 1 day 4 hrs

6

Easy

Boise River Greenbelt Loop

Ada County, Idaho · star 4.0 (55) · 16.2 km · Est. 3 hrs 19 min

7

Medium

Upper and Lower Palisades Lake via Lower Palisades Creek Trail

Bonneville County, Idaho · star 5.0 (59) · 11.1 km · Est. 3 hrs 1 min

8

Easy

Kathryn Albertson Park Loop

Ada County, Idaho · star 5.0 (54) · 1.3 km · Est. 15 min

9

Extra Difficult

Louie Lake from Boulder Lake Road

Valley County, Idaho · star 5.0 (47) · 4.1 km · Est. 1 hrs 53 min

10

Easy

Big Elk Creek Trail

Bonneville County, Idaho · star 5.0 (49) · 16.8 km · Est. 3 hrs 41 min

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Reviews for wildlife hiking trails in Idaho

Kai Williams avatar

Payette River Greenbelt

kai_outside · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Nice scenic trail. The leaves are beautiful this time of year. didn’t see many people on the trail except at the beginning where there are fishing spots then at the end at the park.

Prof. Kristel Fahey avatar

Box Canyon Trail via Henry's Fork Snake River

PeakviewWoodsman63 · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Usha Stehr I avatar

East Shaw Mountain Road - Robie Creek Park

TrailmateHighlander88 · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Madison Fritts avatar

Payette Lake - Peninsula Trail

MadiF · reviewed about 1 month ago

star star star star star

Msgr. Asa Franecki avatar

Ship Island Lake via Bighorn Crags Trail

OutbackOutfitter57 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hiking trails in Idaho

What is the climate like for hiking in Idaho?

Idaho experiences distinct seasons. The mild spring (March to May) offers beautiful blooms and waterfall views, ideal for hiking. Summer (June to August) brings heat but also long days, perfect for extended treks. Fall (September to November) introduces stunning foliage and cooler temperatures. Keep track of weather patterns at weather.com.

Do I need a permit to hike in Idaho?

In Idaho, hiking doesn't usually require permits, unless visiting designated wilderness areas or national parks. In such cases, contact the specific park service or Bureau of Land Management. For popular destinations like Sawtooth Wilderness, free self-issue permits are available at trailheads. Visit blm.gov/idaho for more info.

Is wild camping allowed in Idaho?

Wild camping, or dispersed camping, is generally permitted on public lands in Idaho, managed by the Bureau of Land Management or U.S. Forest Service. Restrictions may apply near water sources, roads, and trailheads. Detailed information can be obtained from the BLM's website, blm.gov/idaho.

Are there mountain rescue services in Idaho?

In Idaho, if you encounter an emergency while hiking, dial 911. For non-immediate rescue situations, you can reach out to Idaho Mountain Search and Rescue Unit. To help facilitate rescues, consider purchasing a CORSAR card. Further details can be found on their website: www.imsaru.org.

Are there dangerous plants in Idaho?

Idaho's diverse trails feature Ponderosa pines, wildflowers like the Syringa, and sagebrush, depending on altitude and region. Be mindful not to disturb plant habitats and learn to identify poisonous flora, such as poison ivy. More on Idaho's flora can be found at: www.fs.usda.gov/main/r4/plants-animals.

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in Idaho?

While hiking in Idaho, anticipate encounters with diverse wildlife including moose, deer, wolves, and many bird species. Beware of bears in forested areas and snakes in arid regions. For protection, make noise and carry bear spray. Idaho's wildlife guide is at: www.fishandgame.idaho.gov.

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