It's easy to find a hiking trail in Idaho that makes you feel as if you're far, far away from civilization. This trail, however, will make you feel as if you're on another planet. The Broken Top trail is part of the Craters of the Moon National Monument, which is a freak of nature within itself. This trail is otherworldly, literally.
The land is pretty flat and normal looking as you first approach the monument.
The Broken Top trail is a 1.9 mile loop trail. It's just one of the many trails at the Craters of the Moon monument, but it features beautiful wildflowers and is good for all skill levels.
The landscape begins to take on an ethereal feeling, until it really feels like you're not in Kansas (I mean, Idaho) anymore.
This trail will make you feel like you're on another planet! You can count on seeing pretty much every type of volcanic feature on this hike, and you'll either be hiking on top of loose cinders or rugged lava. How cool is that?
I love living in Idaho. I’m pretty sure that Mother Nature did some of her best work with the hidden gems and natural wonders found throughout our great state. And while there are many incredible places that inspire and awe, Warm Springs Creek Falls is one lesser-known area that every Idahoan should know about. This unique destination is remote but it's filled with some of our favorite things about Idaho — a scenic drive, hiking trail, hot spring, and beautiful waterfall. It's a pure delight.
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The Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests is a destination that every Idahoan should add to their bucket list. While there are several ways to explore this area, U.S. 12, also known as the Northwest Passage Scenic Byway is one of our favorites. This is Idaho’s longest byway as it follows the route Lewis and Clark took in 1803. U.S. 12 is just a small portion of this scenic drive.
This byway is beautiful as you pass multiple historic parks and trails, state parks, and more. It’s a drive that will certainly take your breath away. And, located right next to the road is the trailhead for Warm Springs Creek Falls. This is one trail that is worth lacing up your hiking boots and going on an adventure.
The parking area and trailhead are located just east of Jerry Johnson Campground, right by the Lochsa River — just look for the gorgeous bridge that crosses the river. If you complete the trail in its entirety, you will travel approximately 9 miles and climb more than 1,300 feet in elevation.
The first few miles of this trail are where you'll encounter the most people as it leads to the beautiful and popular Jerry Johnson Hot Springs. The journey to the hot springs is just two miles and quite flat, making it doable for even beginning hikers.
The trail takes you along Warm Springs Creek and through the forest. When you reach the hot springs, you’ll find several hot pools, perfect for taking a nice, long soak. And while you’ll want some time in the hot springs, I recommend you wait until you come back down the trail. For this adventure, we are going to pass the hot pools and continue on.
You’ll head deeper into the Selway Bitterroot Wilderness and you’ll walk through thick forests and some serene meadows. Keep an eye out for animals who may come up and say hello and the various vegetation growing along your way.
We also recommend you come prepared with proper footwear, long pants, bug spray, and lots of water. The trail past the hot springs is not as well maintained and easy to follow as the first part of your journey.
The last 1.5 miles will be some of the hardest as you’ll encounter some steep inclines. Feel free to take several breaks and admire the beauty surrounding you. There is so much to love here.
At the end of the trail, you’ll come to an overlook where you’ll get to view the remote, yet enchanting Warm Springs Creek Falls. It’s a pretty magical sight.
If you wish to venture all the way to Warm Springs Creek Falls, tacking this trail in the summer and early fall is best. Due to the higher elevation, spring and late fall can bring lots of snow along your way. But, no matter when you go, you’ll fall in love with the entire journey from the drive on the Northwest Passage Scenic Byway to the waterfall at the end. Idaho is so easy to love.
For more information on this trail and to read recent hikers’ reviews, visit AllTrails.
What are some of your favorite hikes in Idaho? Have you ever soaked in Jerry Johnson Hot Springs? Have you explored the Northwest Passage Scenic Byway? Let me know! I’d love to hear from you.
Hike to This Lesser-Known Lookout Tower in Idaho for an Unforgettable Adventure
The hike along Idaho's Granite Mountain Trail has a little bit of everything — inclines, magical views, a lookout tower, and plenty of peace and quiet outdoors.
It doesn’t matter if you’ve lived in Idaho your entire life or are just visiting, you’ll quickly realize the Gem State is home to all types of unforgettable adventures. From state parks to explore and alpine lakes to admire, there is always a remarkable place to add to your bucket list. One bucket-list-worthy destination that will take you on an unforgettable adventure is the Granite Mountain Trail in the Payette National Forest. This 6-mile trail just north of New Meadows has a little bit of everything for the perfect day outdoors.
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I love learning about new hiking trails in Idaho, such as the Granite Mountain Trail. This hike is a bit unique as it’s accessible from multiple trailheads such as the Twin Lakes Trail. For the purpose of this article, we will begin just off Forest Road 257, also known as Goose Lake Road. You will travel past Grouse Campground and can find the trailhead on the west side of the road.
This is a 6.1-mile, out-and-back trail. While not a super challenging route, there are some difficult areas so you’ll want to come prepared physically and mentally.
The climbs are some of the most difficult features of this hike. In total, you can expect to gain approximately 1,700 feet in elevation. The climbs can also be quite rocky so watch your step as you go.
While there are many things to love about this trail, the views are at the top of the list. As you climb, you will capture glimpses of forests and mountains. In the summer, you’ll enjoy meadows of colorful wildflowers, and in the fall, reds, oranges, and yellows transform your route. You’ll also want to watch for distant lakes, streams, and more.
At the end of this trail, you’ll come to an unmanned fire lookout tower. This tower sits at 8,480 feet above sea level — the scenery here is incredible.
Take your time at the lookout tower before you head back down. Snap a few photos, have a snack, and fall in love with Idaho all over again. Plus, the Granite Mountain Trail 165 is not as popular as other trails in the area, meaning you may just find yourself all alone in this beautiful space.
Because of the high elevation of this hike, it is best to tackle it during the summer and early fall. Even if you venture too late into the autumn months, you’ll likely encounter snow. During the spring, this trail can become very muddy and it’s best to give it plenty of time to dry out. Many hikers also report areas can become hotspots for bugs so don’t forget your bug spray and always be prepared for any wildlife you may come across.
For an unforgettable adventure with a slight challenge, magical views, a lookout tower, and plenty of peace and quiet, explore the Granite Mountain Trail. Add it to your bucket list today.
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Have you ever hiked the Granite Mountain Trail? Did you visit the lookout tower? Let me know! And if you’d like to learn more about this hike, make sure to visit AllTrails.
If you are looking for another quiet place outdoors, head to Gem Lake in Idaho’s panhandle. The hike to reach the lake is a challenge but the final reward makes every step worth it.
