Seeing the wilderness from your own two feet is a time-honored tradition for a reason: it’s one of the simplest ways to experience the joy of the outdoors. Our region offers unparalleled hiking opportunities, with trails that lead to mountain views, meadows full of wildflowers, raging high-elevation rivers, and areas steeped in the history of the Wild West.

Prepare and Stay Safe
Hiking in our remote mountain region is not without its challenges and risks, so if you’re new to outdoor exploration, we recommend sticking to shorter routes recommended below that are nearer to roads and amenities. Remember, you won’t have cell service in most of our region, so always prepare with maps ahead of time and make sure someone knows where you’re hiking and when you’ll be returning.
Wear layers to hike, even in the summer, to protect yourself against sun, ticks, and the irritation of brush and branches. Always bring plenty of water, and stock up on hearty snacks to keep your energy up. We also recommend packing along your binoculars, guide books, and cameras, because this scenic wilderness is sure to reward your hike with wildlife sightings and fascinating flora.
Best Hiking Trails
This region provides countless trails to explore, whether you’re looking for interpretive and historic, short and sweet, or long and strenuous hikes. Here are a few of the trails we recommend, but you’re always welcome to chat with our staff at the lodge for more recommendations based on your preferences.
LEWIS & CLARK TRAIL
History and nature collide on this 8-mile historic trail accessible from the lodge. Hike between the Wendover/Whitehouse and Whitesands campgrounds, with beautiful views of the Lochsa River as you follow along the historic path of Lewis and Clark.
DEVOTO CEDAR GROVE
A visit to our area isn’t complete without seeing the ancient giants at DeVoto Cedar Grove. The easy trail winds through towering western red cedar trees, some over 2,000 years old, that were preserved by noted conservationist and historian Bernard DeVoto.
SHERMAN CREEK TRAIL #203
For longer day hike options, head to the Sherman Creek trailhead across from Wilderness Gateway Campground. This trail provides access to the historic Lolo Motorway, which was once the path used by the Nez Perce to reach their Salish allies in Montana. The Sherman Creek Trail provides approximately seven miles of hiking, ending at Noseeum Meadows. The Lochsa Downriver Trail, also accessible here, is 16 miles traversing the north face of Lochsa Canyon with beautiful views of the river and mountains across steep rocky terrain.
CASTLE BUTTE LOOKOUT
The area around the Castle Butte Lookout has an abundance of day hiking opportunities, including the Nez Perce National Historic Trail (Nee-Me-Poo National Historic Trail) and the Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail.
COLGATE LICKS NATIONAL RECREATION TRAIL
A great option for families, this 1-mile loop features an interpretive trail that meanders around a unique ecological area: a natural mineral lick. The trail also boasts views of the Lochsa River and Bear Mountain, as well as several open meadows that fill with wildflowers during the spring and summer.
LOCHSA PEAK
For the more adventurous hiker, check out Lochsa Peak, a semi-challenging hike through towering forests to ascending peaks, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. This is an out and back trail with the longest version being nine miles.
Adventure is Waiting for You in the Lochsa
Lochsa Lodge guests are from all over the world and all walks of life, but they share one thing in common: a taste for adventure. Whether you’re looking for that connection to the history of the West, the beauty of nature, or wildlife encounters, you’ll find it here—and we can’t wait to host you.