Spring
Things to Do
Planning Your Spring Getaway
Spring in North Central Idaho brings a unique charm to Lochsa Lodge. As the sun’s warmth strengthens and rivers swell with crisp mountain runoff, nature calls for a different kind of adventure.


Snow lovers find the extension of their winter sports a welcome gift, making spring an ideal adventure season that always caps off with stunning meadows bursting to life around Memorial Day.
Although you’ll still experience winter weather conditions well into April and May in the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness, the spring season reveals a landscape just beginning to wake up from winter’s quiet. From spotting wildlife emerging from hibernation to hiking through trails bordered by early wildflowers, there’s no better time to experience the refreshing beauty of Idaho’s backcountry. A spring getaway at Lochsa Lodge is the perfect way to connect with nature’s reawakening before the hustle of peak adventure season.

Barbara Barker in her flower bed at Lochsa Lodge circa 1938, photo by Bud Moore, 1917-2010
Know before you go
Powell Road and Lochsa Lodge’s driveways and parking areas are kept plowed into the spring. Local road conditions in early spring are typically plowed with packed snow and ice, giving way to slush and wet roadways later in the season. We advise AWD or 4×4 during heavy snow; however, reaching Lochsa Lodge and driving on US Hwy 12 is accessible with most all standard vehicles, even in early spring while snowpack is still unmelted. Chains may be required on Lolo Pass occasionally.
US Hwy 12 is plowed and kept in excellent condition during winter months and into the spring and is rarely closed–even if some travel map apps say otherwise. We highly recommend using Idaho 511 to view current road conditions rather than map apps–it’s the only official source of information regarding road closures and is highly accurate.
Spring Hours of Operation
M – TH …….. 8AM – 9PM
FRI …………… 8AM – 10PM
Sat …………… 8AM – 10PM
Sun …………. 8AM – 9PM
Cabin Rentals are available 365 days a year. To book a Cabin, please book online. You may also email us or call 208-942-3405

*Lochsa Lodge observes & operates on Mountain Standard Time (MDT). For Pacific Time (PDT), simply subtract 1 hour from the above times. (For Example: 9am = 8am Pacific)
Related Posts & Guides
Activities
Cross-Country Skiing
Snowshoeing is the perfect way to truly experience the otherworldly quiet of a spring landscape still blanketed in snow. The sunshine glittering, the slow drip-drip of a long spring melt, and the trails all to yourself may turn you into a lifelong snowshoer, regardless of your experience with the sport. You don’t need any experience to snowshoe, just a willingness to blaze new trails, making it a great way to dip your toes into winter sports for the first time.
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.
Trails
- Lolo Pass Visitor Center: The Lolo Pass Visitor Center serves as a major trailhead for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling, and is by far the best option for anyone looking to cross-country ski near Lochsa Lodge. With bathroom facilities, cell services, internet, and plowed parking right off Highway 12, the Visitor Center is easy to access and family-friendly. 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.
- 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.
- 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.
Snowshoeing
Snowshoeing is the perfect way to truly experience the otherworldly quiet of a spring landscape still blanketed in snow. The sunshine glittering, the slow drip-drip of a long spring melt, and the trails all to yourself may turn you into a lifelong snowshoer, regardless of your experience with the sport. You don’t need any experience to snowshoe, just a willingness to blaze new trails, making it a great way to dip your toes into winter sports for the first time.
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.
Trails
- Explore Near Lochsa Lodge: We usually advise any 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.
Snowmobiling
When there’s snow on the ground, the Lolo Pass trailhead becomes a hub of snowmobiling activity as enthusiasts fan out through the extensive network of nearby trails. Our area boasts great snow, jaw-dropping vistas, and plenty of technical trails to keep it interesting. No matter what kind of adventure you’d like to have, you’ll find trails and locations that will fit the bill here.
We recommend using the Idaho Snowmobile Trails interactive mapping application to plan your trip. Keep in mind that you will not have cell service in most parts of our area, so plan your trip accordingly. Remember, spring conditions can increase avalanche risk, so stay safe out there.
Outfitters
New to snowmobiling, or want to experience a guided snowmobiling adventure? Contact Pinpoint Outfitters: they offer amazing guided tours.
Trails
- Lolo Pass Visitor Center: The Lolo Pass Visitor Center serves as a major trailhead for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling, and is by far the best option for anyone looking to snowmobile safely near Lochsa Lodge. Groomed trails from the Visitor Center can get you access to just about anywhere in the vicinity! With bathroom facilities, cell services, internet, and plowed parking right off Highway 12, the Visitor Center is easy to access and family-friendly. 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. Several snowmobiling routes near the visitor center adjoin the Lolo National Forest snowmobile trail and run parallel to the Great Burn roadless area, so make sure to download or purchase a map to keep only in the designated areas. Maps are available at the visitors center and online: Over Snow Vehicle Use Map and Motor Vehicle Use Map. Check the Lolo Pass Visitor Center Facebook page for grooming updates and trail reports, as well as up-to-date hours and information.
- Elk Summit Road (USFS 111): We often recommend parallel parking along Elk Summit Road (USFS 111) right off US Highway 12: it’s a great and safe spot for snowmobiling. Snowmobiles are allowed on Elk Summit Road and over Savage Pass for adventuring around Hoodoo Lake. Elk Summit Road is about two miles east from the lodge off Powell Road, and from this area, snowmobilers can park and access groomed trails right away. The groomed trails here lead up to Lolo Pass via Beaver Ridge as back to Lochsa Lodge.
- Lolo Creek Campground: Just 21 miles northeast of Kamiah, Lolo Creek Campground is close to the lodge and a popular snowmobiling destination. Road 100 near the campground is groomed in the winter season for snowmobiling.
- Musselshell Meadows: Although the drive to Musselshell Meadows can be long, many snowmobile enthusiasts find the area worth the trip. Forest Service Road 100 is groomed for snowmobile use during the winter months.
Day Hiking
This time of year, exploring the backcountry on your own two feet might mean assessing the conditions and choosing your mode accordingly: snowshoeing can transition to hiking, but hiking should likely always include gear like Yaktrax, waterproof layers, and winter weather preparedness until later in the season. We recommend hiking beginning in the later spring months, such as mid-April to late May. Be prepared for varied conditions: snow patches, muddy trails, and rewarding vistas as the landscape transitions into warmer months.
Trails
- Explore Near Lochsa Lodge: Lochsa Lodge is surrounded by incredible trails for exploration. You can make your way to the Powell Campground nearby, which opens in mid-May every year but is accessible for hiking and exploration year-round. You can also traverse the nearby Lewis & Clark Trail for great hiking–the trailhead is near the lodge and we can point you in the right direction if you need assistance. Also nearby to the lodge is the Devotos Cedar Grove, which offers hikers two quiet loops through ancient red cedar trees (some over 2,000 years old!)
Mushroom Foraging
Spring in the Lochsa area is a prime season for mushroom foraging, as the melting snow and warming soil create the perfect environment for a variety of fungi, including prized morels. Morel season isn’t always predictable, but their short growing season tends to start when daytime temperatures are in the 60s and nighttime temperatures are in the 40s. Always use a reliable mushroom guidebook, as some species can be toxic.
Rock Hounding
Spring is a great time for rock hounding in the Lochsa area, as snow runoff and rain uncover hidden treasures. Idaho is known as the gem state for a reason, and you may be able to find all sorts of gemstones, rocks, petrified wood, mineral specimens, and even fossils if you have a keen eye and patience. Make sure you’re collecting in a not specifically restricted or prohibited area or on private property, and that your collection doesn’t significantly disturb the natural environment.
Fly Fishing
Anglers who wade into the freezing waters of the Lochsa River will be rewarded with a huge array of fish: bull trout, kokanee, steelhead, and salmon. This is a special chance to fish a never-dammed, wild river, and you won’t soon forget the experience of a brisk early spring morning in the Lochsa. The season is catch-and-release from Dec. 1 through the Friday before Memorial Day weekend, with no bait allowed except for maggots, so bring your waders and your skills.
Licenses and Gear
The Lochsa Lodge was founded as a hunting lodge, and today, staying true to our roots, we are an Idaho Fish & Game licensed vendor. We sell hunting and fishing licenses as well as game tags and limited hunting and fishing supplies.
Outfitters
Looking for a guide to enhance your experience? Contact Pinpoint Outfitters: they offer backcountry and guided fishing experiences.
Fishing Locations
Hunting
Originally built as a hunting lodge in the early 20th century, Lochsa Lodge is a popular base camp for hunters still today, offering unparalleled wilderness access. Our lodge sits in Game Management Unit 12, adjacent to units 17 and 10. The area is popular for big game, upland bird, small game, and waterfowl hunting. We recommend planning your hunting trip using the Idaho Hunt Planner, an interactive search and mapping engine. Follow all regulations and safety guidelines.
Licenses and Gear
The Lochsa Lodge was founded as a hunting lodge, and today, staying true to our roots, we are an Idaho Fish & Game licensed vendor. We sell hunting and fishing licenses as well as game tags and limited hunting and fishing supplies.
Outfitters
Looking for a guided hunting adventure? We recommend Pinpoint Outfitters and Boulder Creek Outfitters: they offer backcountry and guided hunting experiences.
Guides & Maps

Idaho Snowmobile Trails
Use the Idaho Snowmobile Trails interactive mapping application to plan your trip. Keep in mind that you will not have cell service in most parts of our area, so plan your trip accordingly.
Snow Depth Map
Use the National Water and Climate Center's Snow and Water Interactive Map to see snow depth throughout the Lochsa region to plan your trip.
Avalanche Information
Stay safe in the backcountry and check the avalanche danger map before adventuring.
Over Snow Vehicle Use Map - Powell Area
Use the Over Snow Vehicle Use Map for the Powell area to plan your trip. Keep in mind that you will not have cell service in most parts of our area, so plan your trip accordingly.
Idaho Hunt Planner
The Idaho Hunt Planner is an interactive search and mapping engine for Idaho Hunting Regulations.

Relaxing & Family-Friendly
Wildlife Viewing
Spring brings the Lochsa area to life with incredible wildlife activity, making it a prime time for spotting everything from birds to big game. Spring in the forest means a symphony of chirping birds, rushing rivers, and rustling leaves—a full sensory experience that makes each wildlife encounter even more memorable.


Photo by Roger Lynn
Spring wildlife sighting opportunities include:
Rufous hummingbird migration
These vibrant, copper-colored hummingbirds are a highlight in spring, passing through on their northward journey. Look for them buzzing around flowering shrubs and trees, feeding on nectar to fuel their trip. Read more about how to catch this tiny, stunning bird on our blog.
Birdwatching hotspots
Bring binoculars and settle in! Spring welcomes back a variety of birds, including warblers, finches, woodpeckers, and the occasional owl, adding color and song to the forest.
Bald eagles and hawks
Along the Lochsa River and nearby clearings, you might spot bald eagles, hawks, and other birds of prey returning to nest and hunt. Early morning and late afternoon are prime times to see these majestic birds in action.
Big game sightings
As the snow melts, elk, deer, and even the occasional black bear start venturing out. Keep an eye out along trails and riverbanks, especially around dawn and dusk, when animals are most active.

Jerry Johnson Hot Springs, Photo by Roger Lynn
Hot Springs
Cap off your day with a dip in one of two backcountry hot springs: Jerry Johnson Hot Springs, which is located 10 miles west of the lodge, and Weir Creek Hot Springs, which is 20 miles west. Hot springs are a perfect spring activity, but remember that trails may still be icy, snowy, or muddy.
Remember to recreate responsibly and leave no trace at our beloved natural soaking spots. Because hot springs can receive heavy usage, it’s more important than ever to pack out all trash and belongings, stick to designated trails, and adhere to all posted guidelines.
Jerry Johnson Hot Springs
A local favorite spot, Jerry Johnson Hot Springs is accessed through the Warm Springs Trailhead. A short hike is rewarded with the opportunity to soak in several pools with rock walls. The parking area is plowed during the winter, but be aware that the trail leading up to the hot springs can be treacherous. We strongly advise guests to wear snow cleats, Yaktrax with snow boats, or snowshoes, and bring along your hiking poles to navigate the very icy, muddy, snow covered and slick trail. We sell Yaktrax in our country store and rent snowshoes with poles for those who don’t have their own.
Weir Creek Hot Springs
Weir Creek Hot Springs is accessible via the Weir Creek Trailhead, with deep pools and beautiful wintry surroundings in the cold months. Be aware that the Weir Creek parking area is not always plowed in the winter. The trail leading to the springs is often very slick and icy, muddy, and snowy, so we strongly recommend wearing snow cleats, Yaktrax with snow boats, or snowshoes, and bring along your hiking poles. We sell Yaktrax in our country store and rent snowshoes with poles for those who don’t have their own.
Spring Lodge Amenities
If relaxing around the lodge is your jam–and we hope it is–there’s more than enough here to warm you up and keep you entertained. After a day exploring the crisp, snow-dusted trails and scenic wilderness, there’s nothing better than coming back to the cozy comfort of Lochsa Lodge. Unwind with a hot meal and a drink in the rustic lodge after your spring adventures. The lodge’s inviting atmosphere and welcoming cabins make it easy to relax and recharge, whether you’re resting up for tomorrow’s adventure or simply savoring a peaceful evening in the mountains. Here, comfort meets the call of the wild, and there’s no better place to disconnect.

Hearty Comfort Food Meets Northwest Fresh
We’ve the only full-service restaurant in a 50-mile radius, and we’re more reliable than the US Postal Service in our remote area: rain or shine, snow or storm, we’re slinging hashbrowns and serving pints of beer year-round, breakfast, lunch, and dinner, 365 days a year.

Your Cozy Hub in the Woods
Our cozy tavern has been a hotspot of fun for nearly 100 years. Gather with your buddies for a beer, make new friends over a friendly game, or just unwind after a day of fishing or snowmobiling. Order a bite to eat off our restaurant menu to go with your beer or cocktail. You’ll be able to feel the good vibes the tavern has hosted for decades, proving why the Lochsa Lodge Tavern is a favorite of both travelers and locals alike.