Dec 5, 2024

Best Snowshoeing Trails Near Lochsa Lodge

Snowshoeing, Winter

Man snowshoeing through the trees in a couple feet for snow

One of the things we love about snowshoeing is that it’s one of those sports that requires little to no special skills or advanced training—you can just strap on snowshoes for the first time and get outside in the great outdoors.

It’s also one of the most stunning ways to experience the winter wonderland that is our backyard here at Lochsa Lodge: you’re as quiet as a winter hare on your snowshoes, and your chances of seeing wildlife are higher than with noisier sports like snowmobiling. Snowshoeing allows you to access backcountry trails that would be otherwise impassable during the winter months, as well, and there’s a deep sense of tranquility and stillness while you work up a sweat and connect with nature. 

In this blog post, we’ll give you all the tips you need to get started with snowshoeing, as well as our insider hints about what trails are best for snowshoeing around Lochsa Lodge. 

GEAR RENTALS

The lodge rents snowshoes and poles at $15 per person per day on a first come, first served basis. If you’d rather not rent from the lodge, we recommend bringing a pair from home. 

snowshoeing

Tips for First-Time Snowshoers

Like we mentioned, this sport is beginner-friendly, and if you have kiddos strong enough to hike, it’s family-friendly too. For families with younger children, pulling a sleigh or sled is always an option for an even better workout for parents. 

1. Dress in Layers

When you first walk outside to start your adventure, you’ll feel Old Man Winter’s frosty bite. But trust us when we say, your stroll through the woods is going to work up a sweat in no time. Dress in multiple layers, starting with a high-quality base layer to keep warmth at your core. Think waterproof, especially from the waist down: nothing is more miserable than wet and cold toes while recreating in the winter. Wear a hat and gloves, and consider a scarf or gater you can cover your nose and mouth with: extremities, face, and ears tend to feel the cold most.

2. Start Small in Layers

For most of our beginning snowshoeing guests, we recommend getting started right outside the lodge or your cabin. Snowshoeing is essentially walking with extra gear, so it’s not hard to pick up, but it’s nice to have some time to get used to the wider steps you’ll need to take, as well as to properly fit your snowshoes to your shoes. Read on for our tips for finding winter adventure right outside your doorstep when you stay at Lochsa Lodge. 

3. Stay Safe and Respect the Environment

Remember, the areas around Lochsa Lodge don’t have cell coverage (if you ask us, it’s one of the perks of our mountain getaway!) Stay safe by staying in your group, recreating while it’s light out, and staying on marked trails. Respect the environment and nature, as well: snowshoeing is a low-impact activity that’s great for leaving no trace, but be sure to pack out all trash and gear and leave it better than you found it. 

Snowshoe Trails Near Lochsa Lodge 

  • Explore Near Lochsa Lodge: We usually advise lodge guests to start snowshoeing right outside your cabin and around the lodge–it’s a winter wonderland during the cold months and snowshoeing is an excellent way to explore this history- and nature-rich area. You can make your way to the Powell Campground nearby, which is closed in the winter months but excellent for snowshoeing. You can also traverse the nearby Lewis & Clark Trail for great snowshoeing–the trailhead is near the lodge and we can point you in the right direction if you need assistance. 
  • Devoto Cedar Grove: Also nearby to the lodge is the Devoto Cedar Grove, which offers snowshoers two quiet loops through ancient red cedar trees (some over 2,000 years old!) 
  • Eagle Mountain Trailhead: An ungroomed trail follows the Wild and Scenic Lochsa River, just a short drive from the lodge. Although the trail is open year-round, the road leading to the trailhead may not always be plowed, so call the Lochsa/Powell Ranger District before planning your trip at 208-942-3113.
  • Elk Summit Campground: For those looking for the real rugged country experience, Elk Summit Campground is one option just 24 miles south of Highway 12. Keep in mind the roads are not plowed during the winter. Hoodoo Lake is just a stone’s throw away from the campground, while other alpine lakes and stunning peaks are also accessible from this area.
  • Lolo Pass Visitor Center: For those looking for a family-friendly option, the Lolo Pass Visitor Center serves as a major trailhead for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. The area offers groomed trails during the winter season and a welcoming visitors center–including a gift shop, complementary hot chocolate, and snowshoes that can be checked out for a small donation. Note that some fees may apply for recreation passes, depending on the time of your visit. Check the Lolo Pass Visitor Center Facebook page for grooming updates and trail reports, as well as up-to-date hours and information. 
  • Split Creek Trailhead and River Access: Those who venture about an hour from Lochsa Lodge will be rewarded with the Split Creek Trailhead area. The trails are not groomed, but the views of the Lochsa River and the backcountry scenery can make for one of those unforgettable “back to nature” experiences.
  • Wilderness Gateway Campground: With more Lochsa River views, the ungroomed Boulder Creek Trail near the Wilderness Gateway Campground is a popular destination for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. 

Your Gateway to Winter Adventure

Whether you’re here in the winter for snowshoeing, skiing, snowmobiling, or a cozy weekend getaway and date night, we’re ready to welcome you at Lochsa Lodge. 

There are few things more magical and exhilarating in the winter than exploring in the brisk cold air, seeing the sparkle of snow-covered trees and ice-covered rivers, and then returning to the cozy lodge for a hearty meal in front of the fireplace. 

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