Idaho Panhandle National Forests Guide
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Idaho Panhandle National Forests features three jointly administered forests — Coeur d'Alene, Kaniksu, and St. Joe — with elevations ranging from 2,100 to 7,600 feet. These areas offer many opportunities for recreation, including cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. Multiple trails within the location ensure you can comfortably explore the natural and mountainous surroundings, view wildlife, and access different historical attractions. Additionally, the forests have lakes and rivers that enable you to enjoy beautiful scenery and fishing adventures. With multiple campgrounds available, you can have an enjoyable trip to the Idaho Panhandle National Forests at any time.
RV Rentals Near Idaho Panhandle National Forests
Idaho Panhandle National Forests Hiking Trails
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Pulaski Tunnel Trail
You can walk along this route to explore the historic 1910 fires and learn about Edward Pulaski and the firefighters who battled them. The trail leads you to the Pulaski Tunnel, where you can find an overlook across the creek. Visitors with disabilities can use a wheelchair along the first 725 feet of the route.
Length: 2 miles
Intensity: Moderate
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Graham Creek Trail
Graham Creek Trail presents a rugged terrain that makes it a suitable venture for adventurous travelers. You can expertly negotiate the path to the bottom of the Graham Creek and cross the creek multiple times during ascension to the Graham Ridge. In addition, the trail supports mountain biking for those who prefer pedals to boots.
Length: 5 miles
Intensity: Strenuous
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Malin Ridge Trail
This single-track secondary trail links St. Joe River to the Bird Creek Road 338. Along the path, you'll see various plant species, including cedars, ferns, and ponderosa pine. You can view an old harvest unit on your way to Bird Creek Road. Malin Ridge Trail's trailhead has a campsite with parking and stock water available.
Length: 6.7 miles
Intensity: Moderate
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Lake Darling Trail
This route offers a looping hike around the scenic Lake Darling, starting from the trailhead at pathway #52 and then linking to trails #67 and #161 before switching back to the beginning point. The counter-clockwise hike enables you to reach the Pend Oreille Divide with open vistas of the Selkirks. Horseback riders can also use this moderately trafficked course that features wildlife like moose.
Length: 8.3 miles
Intensity: Moderate
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Big Creek Cabin Trail
You can ride a horse or walk your dog along the Big Creek Cabin Trail. The pathway offers lovely views of a river and is busiest from June to October. It links to several other trails, and you can see different animals during your hike along grassy meadows, including elk and beavers.
Length: 13 miles
Intensity: Moderate
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Stevens Lakes Trail
This heavily trafficked route has well-shaded woods to facilitate a convenient walk during summer trips. You can reach two picturesque lakes below Stevens Peak while meeting many squirrels along the way. The trail has campsites halfway in the woods and at the two lakes for an exciting stay in nature.
Length: 6.1 miles
Intensity: Difficult
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Shoshone Ridge Trail
The Shoshone Ridge Trail features flat terrain to maneuver at the start before switching to a challenging ascension to the peaks. You can take in panoramic views of the mountains and forests from the top, making it a perfect option for tours from spring to fall. The pet-friendly route is a great place to bring your dog for a complete family adventure.
Length: 6.8 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Activities in Idaho Panhandle National Forests
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Identifying Flora and Fauna
The Idaho Panhandle National Forests are homes to diverse flora and fauna with numerous plant species at different locations, including the Big Creek Campground, St. Joe River, and Coeur d'Alene River areas. Mixed conifer forest dominates the region, but you can find several ancient cedar groves, as well as wildflowers in spring and summer.
Idaho Panhandle National Forests have impressive wildlife, and you may have rare encounters with uncommon animal species like pika and the woodland caribou. The abundant water ensures you can watch various bird species, including osprey, eagles, and great blue herons.
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Fishing
The forests provide some of the best fishing spots, including family-friendly areas like Robinson Lake and Idaho's largest lake, Pond Oreille. You can enjoy a relaxing yet exciting afternoon hunting for a catch on the rivers. You can even enjoy Blue Ribbon trout fishing on the St. Joe River, which connects to several campgrounds via numerous trails.
How to get to Idaho Panhandle National Forests
Address: 3815 N Schreiber Way, Coeur d’Alene, ID 83815
Fee: Entry fee $0
The tapestry of water and land within the Idaho Panhandle National Forests ensures you can experience excellent fishing while taking in beautiful views of the evergreen mountains. Coeur d'Alene, Kaniksu, and St. Joe Forests are rich in wildlife, enabling you to see various species. An RV is an excellent means of touring the Idaho Panhandle National Forests because it gives you the chance to enjoy the campgrounds and recreational opportunities while navigating the scenic area in comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions About Idaho Panhandle National Forests
Is there a fee to get into Idaho Panhandle National Forests?
No, there is no fee to get into the Idaho Panhandle National Forest. However, there are some recreational activities and sites that do cost a fee within the forest boundaries.
Does Idaho Panhandle National Forests offer free camping sites?
Yes, the Idaho Panhandle National Forest does have free camping sites. Dispersed camping is allowed throughout the forest and does not cost. Campers just need to be aware that there are no amenities, and they need to make sure they leave no trace when they're finished camping.
Do you need a permit to fish or hunt in Idaho Panhandle National Forests?
Yes, you need a permit to hunt in the Idaho Panhandle National Forest. If you are 14 or older, you will also need a permit to fish in the forest, or on any other public lands in Idaho.
What type of wildlife lives in Idaho Panhandle National Forests?
Wildlife living in the Idaho Panhandle National Forest includes white-tailed deer, mule deer, elk, bears, moose, coyotes, wolves, skunks, marten, beavers, and other small animals. There is also a variety of birds that live in the forest as well.
What is the closest town to Idaho Panhandle National Forests?
One of the closest large towns to the Idaho Panhandle Forests is Bayview. Sandpoint is also near the forest area.
