The Idaho Trail With An Overlook You Just Can't Beat
By Courtnie Erickson|Published July 24, 2023
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Courtnie Erickson
Author
From Southern Utah to the Panhandle in Idaho, Courtnie Erickson has lived in what she believes are the best (and the most beautiful!) areas in the country. She graduated with a journalism degree from Utah State University and has more than 15 years of professional writing experience. You’ll likely see her with a Dr. Pepper in her hand and a pair of running shoes on her feet. Courtnie is a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState.
Lake Pend Oreille is an outdoor lover’s paradise. Not only is there plenty to do around the lake but there are hiking trails galore that are just waiting to be explored. Just south of Lake Pend Oreille is one trail that can’t be beat – especially during the summer months. The Chilco Mountain Trail is located in the Idaho Panhandle National Forest and it is one trail that has it all — beautiful views, plenty of shade, and even huckleberries! You’ll certainly want to add this hike to your bucket list.
The Chilco Mountain Trail is one trail that you will enjoy from start to finish. However, be aware — this journey isn’t the easiest. The trail is rated hard on AllTrails as there is quite a bit of elevation you will need to climb. In fact, in just under four miles, you can expect to gain nearly 1,500 feet.
You will find the trailhead just off Forest Service Road 332. You will travel several miles on rough roads and high-clearance vehicles are recommended. This area may also be closed during the winter months due to poor weather conditions.
The Chilco Mountain Trail is an out-and-back trail that is just short of four miles. This trail is well maintained and quite easy to follow. However, it does split into three different trails that offer different views and distances. While each has its benefits, the North Chilco Trail is one of the most popular.
Every step on this hiking trail in northern Idaho is beautiful. You will walk through forested areas that not only give you gorgeous landscapes to admire but also offer lots of shade.
… and even huckleberries! This trail is wonderful for picking huckleberries so you may want to bring a bag or bucket along with you.
Once you reach the top, the views are breathtaking. You can see for miles and will enjoy a little bit of everything — lakes, mountains, and wide-open skies.
The Chilco Mountain Trail can have a significant amount of bugs. Bug spray and lots of water are recommended. For more information on this trail in northern Idaho, visit AllTrails. You may also want to sign up for AllTrails+ for even more features and the ability to access trail maps offline.
Have you explored this hiking trail in northern Idaho? Did you find it difficult? Let us know in the comments! Make sure that before you head on this trail, you are prepared. To help, check out our ultimate hiking list featuring must-have accessories for your upcoming adventure.
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