7 Easy And Beautiful Spring Hikes Everyone In Idaho Will Love
When spring finally begins making an appearance in the Gem State, you know what that means — it’s officially hiking season. There’s no better way to take advantage of the warmer weather than by completing an easy and beautiful spring hike. While there are hiking trails all over the state, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best hikes in Idaho to tackle during the spring months. These hikes are simple enough for the entire family to enjoy but boast some gorgeous views that you won’t soon forget.
This 3-mile loop trail is located in Ponderosa State Park north of McCall, Idaho. The trail really has everything you could ever want in a springtime outing. An amazing overlook of Payette Lake, wildlife, and plenty of gorgeous beaches make this a hike you'll never forget. There's not much of an elevation gain on this hike, making it one of the best kid-friendly hikes in Idaho.
This 2.6-mile loop is part of Pocatello's awesome City Creek trail system. The beginner loop is rated easy and features beautiful wildflowers during the spring. The trail takes you through the city's surrounding foothills, providing great views of Pocatello in the distance while still maintaining a backcountry vibe.
City Creek Bike Trails, 577-805 S Lincoln Ave, Pocatello, ID 83204, USA
If you're seeking something far away from civilization, then we recommend the breathtaking Blue Lake Trail. This out-and-back trail is one of the best hikes in Idaho and is located in the Boise National Forest near Cascade. At only 1.6 miles, it's a pretty short adventure but it sure does boast some memorable views of the awe-inspiring Blue Lake. There are some steep areas of the trail, but the overlook at the end makes it all worth it.
Running through the heart of Boise, the Boise River Greenbelt is like a natural oasis in the middle of the city. Everybody should experience at least a portion of this trail at some point. The paved pathways make it doable for almost everyone and it follows the gorgeous Boise River. There are many points along the greenbelt where you can explore the natural areas and feel as if you've escaped into the wilderness. Plus, you may not know it, but the Boise River Greenbelt was named one of the best river walks in the entire country.
Hiking Tubbs Hill is almost an iconic activity for locals of Coeur d'Alene. You'll often find other people taking advantage of the epic beauty that this trail has to offer. The 2.4-mile trail around the hill provides amazing overlooks of the lake and you'll find plenty of beach spots that are perfect for cooling off as the temperatures get hotter.
Located near Idaho's eastern border in the town of Irwin is a little-known trail that provides some serious adventure. In its entirety, the trail is approximately 10-miles long but the first half is easiest and widest. The trail provides great views of the nearby creek and offers plenty of shade with the surrounding pine trees. You'll also find plenty of wildlife along the trail. The Big Elk Creek Trail is perfect if you're looking for something a little more rugged, but still simple.
Big elk creek trailhead, Forest Rd 262, Irwin, ID 83428, USA
One of Idaho's greatest hiking areas is also one of the state's weirdest landscapes. Craters of the Moon is home to many hiking trails, and you'll often see them fill up during the springtime. Despite its desolate appearance, this is when the area is overcome with wildflowers and blossoming plant life. The Broken Top Loop Trail is merely 2-miles long and is one of the best ways to experience all of the unique volcanic features within the park. Just remember to wear sturdy shoes!
Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve, Idaho, USA
What do you think are the best hikes in Idaho? Is spring the best time to explore the Gem State? It’s this time of year that wildflowers are blooming and our landscapes have never looked more beautiful. We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments! Don’t forget to check out this wildflower trail through Idaho that we put together so you can enjoy these lively scenes!
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The OIYS Visitor Center
Best hikes in Idaho
March 11, 2022
Courtnie Erickson
What are some easy hikes in Idaho?
Idaho is home to a plethora of hikes – some much longer and more difficult than the others. However, if you are searching for easy hikes in Idaho, the hike to Revett Lake must be on your bucket list. This is a 3-mile, round-trip hiking trail in the Idaho Panhandle National Forest. There are only a few small inclines to tackle and the views around you are absolutely mesmerizing. Bring your entire family along and enjoy a delightful day outside together.
The Lydle Gulch Trail at Lucky Peak State Park near Boise is another one of the best easy hikes in Idaho. Here, you will tackle a 2-mile loop trail up one of the ravines in the state park. Along your way, you will capture views of a river, lake, and city — it’s absolutely gorgeous.
What are the most scenic hikes in Idaho?
It is hard for us to narrow down the best scenic hikes in Idaho. From up in the panhandle down to the Utah and Idaho state line, you will find scenic hiking trails for every skill level. To help you enjoy many of the best scenic hikes in Idaho, we created this list. There are 12 scenic hikes for you to explore this year, one for every month.
One of our favorite scenic hikes in Idaho is the Table Rock Trail. While still a family-friendly hiking trail in Idaho, there are some challenging areas so be prepared. You will climb nearly 900-feet in elevation, but the views of Boise and the surrounding area are worth every step. Make sure you give yourself plenty of time to enjoy the views at the top.
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