Follow This Abandoned Railroad Trail For One Of The Most Unique Hikes In Idaho
By Courtnie Erickson|Published March 02, 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.
When it comes to incredible rail trails in Idaho, the Route of the Hiawatha often comes first to mind, and for good reason. This trail is absolutely stunning. But, located in southeastern Idaho is another rail trail that also deserves just as much attention — the Ashton to Tetonia Trail.
The Ashton to Tetonia Rail Trail is a 29.6-mile trail that takes you from — you guessed it — Ashton to Tetonia. This trail follows the abandoned railroad grade of the Teton Valley Branch of the Union Pacific Railroad.
The majority of this trail is packed gravel and dirt, making it easy to explore and family friendly. As you hike, you’ll pass some of the most beautiful landscapes in Teton Valley.
… and will travel through farmland. You will even see features like the historic Pillsbury Mills Elevator in France, Idaho. With views of the Tetons in the background, these areas of the trail are awe-inspiring.
Some of the most popular areas of this trail include three historic trestles: Bitch Creek, Conant Creek, and Fall Creek. Stop on the trestles and just enjoy the views around you — they are quite incredible.
You can always tackle a small portion of this trail on foot or bring your mountain bike and explore the trail in its entirety during the warmer months of the year.
In the winter, the trail is a popular location for Nordic skiing and snowshoeing and is a delightful place to admire Idaho’s beauty, enjoy a little fresh air, and step outdoors during the winter months of the year.
Portions of the trail are even periodically groomed to make your adventure outdoors more enjoyable.
There are multiple parking areas along the trail, allowing you to easily break up the trail if you wish to explore it on foot. Some of these parking areas are found in Tetonia, France, and Lamont.
This unique rail trail in eastern Idaho is a hike the entire family is sure to love. Whether on bike, foot, snowshoe, or ski, it’s an adventure that is sure to be beautiful and exciting.
Have you ever explored the Ashton-Tetonia Trail in Idaho? If so, what did you enjoy most about your experience? Let us know in the comments. You can also learn more about this trail, access a trail map, and gather parking information on the Idaho Parks and Recreation website. Follow this trail’s Facebook page as well for current updates.
Do you have a favorite hiking trail in Idaho? Where are some of your favorite outdoor areas to explore? Fill out this form and tell us all about them! We can’t wait to hear from you.
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