Underrated National Forest Hikes in Idaho That Rival the Best National Park Hikes

Did you know Idaho has up to 20.5 million acres of national forest land? This means the national forests in Idaho are larger than Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island combined! No wonder the Gem State is a hiker’s paradise. Within these incredible forests, there are dozens of hikes to choose from, some more popular than others.

While many of Idaho’s national forest hikes get a lot of love, today, I want to highlight a few underrated routes. These trails vary in length and skill level, but each one is incredibly scenic and boasts such unique qualities that it rivals several of the best national park trails around the country.

1. Crooked River Trail – Boise National Forest

• Location: Near Idaho City
• Length: 9.3 miles

The Crooked River Trail is the longest hike on our list, but you won't mind the length as your entire route is stunning. You’ll walk along the Crooked River in the Boise National Forest, and experience a variety of terrain including thick forests, open meadows, wooden bridges, and more. Be prepared for some challenging portions of the trail and make sure you bring plenty of sun protection and water. This is a great trail for a backpacking adventure, or you can make it a full-day hike. Just promise me one thing: you won't rush your journey. The Crooked River Trail takes you through some of Mother Nature’s greatest creations.

2. Alpine Creek Trail – Sawtooth National Forest

• Location: Near Alturas Lake and Sawtooth City
• Length: 6.3 miles

The Sawtooth National Forest constantly amazes me with its beauty, and this trail does not disappoint. This quiet, moderately challenging hike is enchanting, with clearings that provide views of the mountains and forest. We love this route when autumn’s colors make an appearance, but don’t trek too late into the year, as even the early winter months can see a lot of snow.

3. Hazard Creek Trail – Payette National Forest

• Location: Near New Meadows
• Length: 5.3 miles

Payette National Forest is home to more than 200 hiking options, including the breathtaking Hazard Creek Trail. This hike is moderately challenging and has steep areas, but the views are magical. Waterfalls, creeks, overlooks, groves of trees, wildflowers—the list of natural features you'll spot along your way is quite long. Plus, this is a lesser-known hike, so you may just find yourself all alone in this beautiful part of the Payette National Forest.

4. Aldous and Hancock Lake – Caribou-Targhee National Forest

• Location: North of Dubois
• Length: 5.4 miles

The Aldous and Hancock Lake Trail, near the Idaho and Montana state line, is a beautiful destination for a day outdoors. This family-friendly hike in Idaho is shaded, provides gorgeous views of Ching Creek, is an excellent spot for wildlife viewing, and is not too difficult. It’s a great backpacking option for beginners, and you’ll even find tables and metal fire rings around Aldous Lake for an overnight adventure. If you wish to continue the trek from Alduous Lake to Hancock Lake, this portion of the trek is much more difficult but Hancock Lake is a hidden gem you don't want to miss.

5. Beehive Lakes – Kaniksu National Forest

• Location: Near Samuels
• Length: 6.7 miles

Beehive Lakes Trail is not for the beginning hiker. To reach the lake, you will need to scramble over some rocks, and in total, you’ll climb more than 2,000 feet in elevation. However, this trail shows off Idaho’s natural beauty—it’s the type of hike that will make you fall in love with the Gem State. I recommend this trail in the late summer months as you can find huckleberries to munch on along your way.

6. Stevens Lakes Trail – Idaho Panhandle National Forest

• Location: Near Mullan
• Length: 4.6 miles

Stevens Lake Trail is one of the more popular trails on our list, but I believe this hike doesn’t get the attention it deserves. It is less than 5 miles but it’s hard—you’ll climb more than 1,600 feet of elevation on this out-and-back trail. However, it marks off all the boxes for a perfect hike including a gorgeous lake, waterfalls, wildflowers, thick groves of trees, and so much more. Be prepared for a climb and then sit back and enjoy the views. 

7. Sand Mountain Lookout Trail – Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forest

• Location: Near Harvard
• Length: 5.5 miles

As you hike the Sand Mountain Lookout Trail, you may feel like you’ve entered a fairytale. This gorgeous trail takes you through an old-growth forest where you may find you are all alone with nature’s soundtrack playing in your ear. This is a moderately-challenging hike with some inclines, but you’ll enjoy features such as boardwalk bridges, a flowing creek, and stunning overlooks. This trail is particularly beautiful in autumn when vibrant fall foliage makes an appearance.

Yes, we know there are many other underrated national forest hikes in Idaho that deserve to be on this list, but this is just a start as you plan your next outdoor day trip. If you have a favorite trail in Idaho, let us know by filling out this nomination form. And, before you tackle any trail in the Gem State, no matter how long or difficult, make sure you always pack the proper gear. Preparedness is key in the wilderness.