Idaho is home to hundreds, even thousands, of lakes just waiting to be explored. The best part of hiking through Idaho’s incredible wilderness areas is coming upon a lake you’ve never seen before. During fall, the joy of hiking is amplified. The crisp fall air, the vibrant colors, and the view of shedding foliage is something that must be experienced during this special time of year. With so many incredible lakes in Idaho, it can be hard to choose which one to visit. St. Regis Lakes in the Lolo National Forest is particularly incredible during fall, and you’re about to see why.
St. Regis Lakes are located near Avery, on the border between Idaho and Montana. It's a short three mile hike, and rated as a fairly easy.
The trail head is located at the Lookout Pass Ski and Recreation Area. This backcountry hike will lead you to two small, but beautiful, lakes located near Stevens Peak.
To get there, you'll take Lookout Pass Exit 0 and follow that road (away from the ski area) for approximately a mile. You'll eventually come around a roundabout, where the trail head is located.
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The hike begins on a rugged road but eventually turns into an actual hiking trail. The trail steepens in some areas, but it's quite gradual.
You'll be led into some incredible views of the surrounding forest. During the summer, the area is taken over by gorgeous wildflowers. But in fall, you'll be overcome with outstanding colors of red and gold.
Looking across the long stretches of forest, you'll be amazed about how much beauty Idaho has to offer!
You'll have to cross a few shallow streams on the trail, but nothing will prepare you for the utter beauty that is the upper and lower St. Regis lakes. They are incredibly serene and you'll feel like you're in your own little slice of paradise.
Despite the incredible beauty of this trail, it's not very highly trafficked. You'll most likely have the entire place to yourself. It doesn't get much better than having two scenic lakes to yourself, totally surrounded by golden fall colors.
The Lolo National Forest is simply breathtaking all year long, but there's something special about experiencing it during Autumn. This simple hike is doable for all skill levels. And with it's incredible views of Idaho's stunning fall landscape, there isn't anything not to like!
