Idaho
Nature|Hiking

Explore The Bottom Of The Snake River Canyon In Idaho On The Stunning Mogensen Trail

The Mogensen Trail in Snake River Canyon offers a scenic and easy hike with stunning views of waterfalls, the Perrine Bridge, and the rugged Idaho landscape.

Published Feb 24, 2021

Written by 

Emerson

Carving out over 50 miles of the southern Idaho landscape, the Snake River Canyon is one of the Gem State's most iconic wonders. Home to waterfalls, hiking trails, and the majestic Snake River, it makes for a fantastic place to explore when you feel like an adventure. The hiking trail featured here is especially worth checking out, as it boasts spectacular views of the famous Perrine Bridge, the river, and so much more. Take a look:

The city of Twin Falls is pretty lucky to have such an epic canyon right in its backyard! The Snake River Canyon is a must-see natural wonder in Idaho and the Mogensen Trail is a great way to explore it.

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K Rozo/AllTrails

This easy out-and-back trail clocks in at just over two miles, making it perfect for a casual hike in a downright beautiful setting. Stretching along the bottom of the canyon, the Mogensen Trail gives hikers a unique perspective of this rugged landscape.

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Holly Asmussen/Google

Starting near Centennial Waterfront Park, the hike quickly immerses you in the wild scenery of the Snake River Canyon. Delivering breathtaking views every step of the way, you won't be able to believe that all of this pristine nature is right in the middle of Twin Falls.

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Carly Dew/AllTrails

The hike is really straightforward and easy to follow. You'll reach a fork at one point in the trail. Stick to the bottom trail to delve even deeper into the gorgeous canyon. Although, you can't go wrong with either path.

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Craig Tyler/AllTrails

Along the way, you'll trek over bridges, climb down stairways, and even walk by several of the canyon's iconic waterfalls and springs. There's truly never a dull moment on this hike, so be sure to take your time and appreciate every minute of it.

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Brent Moody/AllTrails

The views of the Perrine Bridge are one of the highlights of this canyon trail. If you're lucky, you could spot a BASE jumper flying off of it. Seeing this iconic Idaho landmark from below is definitely a unique experience.

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Remi C/AllTrails

To find the trail from Twin Falls, simply take Canyon Springs Road into the Snake River Canyon. The start of the trail can be found where the road forks before leading down to Centennial Waterfront Park. For more information, see the trail map here.

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Cathy Camarena/Google

Have you explored the Mogensen Trail yet? When's the last time you visited Idaho's Snake River Canyon? Feel free to share your adventures with us in the comments below!

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Nature|Hiking

The Parking Lot for This Lake Hike in Idaho is Often Full by 9 a.m.

Harrison Lake Trail in northern Idaho may be challenging but the payoff at the end is breathtaking. Just make sure you arrive early - parking can be limited!

Published Sep 30, 2024

Written by 

Courtnie Erickson

There are several hiking trails in Idaho that I love. However, many other individuals love them as well. Because of the popularity of these trails, it’s not uncommon to arrive for a day of adventure and find the parking lot is completely full — early mornings are definitely the best time to explore these trails. Harrison Lake Trail in the Kaniksu National Forest in northern Idaho is one of these trails. It’s not too long and the views make the journey worth every step. But parking is limited and if tackling this trail on the weekend, you likely won’t find yourself alone on your journey.

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The Harrison Lake Trail is a beautiful hike in northern Idaho, approximately 30 miles north of Sandpoint. It is recommended to have a high-clearance vehicle to reach the trailhead as portions of the road are quite rocky and uneven. We also suggest you begin your journey early in the morning as parking at the trailhead is limited and will fill up quickly. Timing your visit just right will save you from a parking headache.

The Harrison Lake Trail is an out-and-back hike that is approximately 4.5 miles. It’s not a very easy trail — it will challenge you physically. There are some steep inclines you must tackle and some portions of the trail are rocky and feature large roots. Watch your feet, wear sturdy shoes, and come prepared for an adventure.

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Mary Healey/AllTrails

This trail will take you through the beautiful Kaniksu National Forest. You’ll hike through thick shaded areas and even do a little rock scrambling as you go. Don’t be afraid to take breaks often as the mountain and forest views are inspiring. When you want to give up, the surrounding landscapes will motivate you to keep moving forward.

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Barry Smith/AllTrails

And you will certainly want to keep going to reach the serene Harrison Lake. This may be one of the most beautiful small lakes in the panhandle. It’s surrounded by forests and cliff walls. The mountains create quite a stunning backdrop.

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Tim Sand/AllTrails

The water is clear and will likely tempt you. However, this small lake can be quite chilly so proceed with caution.

Harrison Lake is a beautiful area and a great backpacking destination. Just make sure that no matter how long you plan to stay, you come prepared with bear spray and wear bear bells. This is bear country and you must always be alert and prepared for wildlife encounters.

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Brandon Creed/AllTrails

Harrison Lake Trail is a wonderful summer destination but fall is also a picture-perfect time to visit when the leaves change colors. The vibrant reds and oranges mixed with the evergreen trees create a beautiful sight.

Harrison Lake Trail may be challenging but the payoff is worth the effort. As you explore and spend time near the lake, you’ll understand why we recommend arriving early in the day — everyone wants to enjoy this area in person.

For more information on the Harrison Lake Trail, check out AllTrails. And if you are wondering about a kid-friendly, popular, and beautiful trail in southern Idaho, check out one of my family’s favorites — Cress Creek Nature Trail. You may also want to check out our list featuring more than a dozen of the best hiking trails around Idaho.

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Nature|Hiking

Explore One Of the Clearest, Most Remote Lakes in Idaho’s Panhandle

You will find clear water and inspiring scenery at Fault Lake, a remote lake in Idaho's panhandle.

Published Sep 20, 2024

Written by 

Courtnie Erickson

Did you know that Idaho is home to more than 2,000 named lakes and thousands of unnamed bodies of water? This makes a day at the lake a fairly simple adventure no matter where you may be located. While I love lake days, I don’t love the crowds that many of these destinations bring. This is why a visit to a remote lake that requires a hike is an adventure I'm willing to take. Fault Lake is one of these gorgeous remote lakes that is tucked away in the Kaniksu National Forest, just east of Priest Lake in northern Idaho. A visit to this lake is going to challenge you but the views are astounding and the water is mesmerizing. It’s a little slice of heaven.

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Kat Atherton/AllTrails

Lace up your boots and grab your hiking gear because the journey to Fault Lake is going to test you physically and mentally. This is a 12.4-mile, out-and-back hike that is considered hard in difficulty. The trail is full of steep climbs and rocky terrain. In total, be prepared to climb more than 2,800 feet in elevation. Also, there are a few creek crossings so bring extra footwear and a towel for these areas.

Fortunately, there’s no need to rush this journey. Your entire path is lined with gorgeous and inspiring views. You’ll hike through forests and to areas where you’ll feel like you are on top of the world.

There are also waterfalls and cliff walls that will take your breath away. I recommend taking plenty of breaks and enjoying the natural wonders you will come across. This is nature therapy at its best.

At the end of your journey, you will come to the beautiful Fault Lake. This remote body of water is surrounded by rugged mountains and tall trees. It’s not a huge lake but it’s remarkable. And because not many people are willing to tackle the trail, don’t be surprised if you find yourself all alone here.

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Ali Johnston/AllTrails

And while the scenery surrounding the lake is exquisite, the water itself is just as beautiful. This remote lake is home to clear, blue water that will tempt you (brace yourself for the cold!).

The best time to visit Fault Lake is late summer and early fall. In the summer, you may come across huckleberries. In the fall, you may enjoy bright yellows, reds, and oranges on the trees surrounding the clear lake. Just make sure that if you do visit during the fall months, you are prepared to encounter snow. You never know when cold weather will strike.

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Kevin Lewis/AllTrails

Also, pack wisely for this hiking adventure as you are entering country that is home to bears and wolves. You may also want to utilize features such as Alltrails+ where you can download a trail map before you go as portions of this trail are a bit overgrown.

Fault Lake is the type of place where you can find a little serenity in nature. If you are willing to put in the effort, you’ll always be grateful you visited.

For more information visit AllTrails.

Have you ever visited Fault Lake? What was your experience like? What are some of your favorite remote lakes in Idaho? Let us know!

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