Winter
Things to Do
Planning Your Winter Getaway
Winter is magic out here in the backcountry. Snowdrifts add a special kind of quiet to an already tranquil landscape, inviting the adventurous to discover a whole new world.



Trips to the mountains can take longer during winter, especially if you encounter storm conditions or icy roads. Get an early start!
We won’t lie, the conditions can get dicey up here in the winter, so be prepared and be safe. As the only full-service lodging, restaurant, mercantile and fueling station open for business 365 days a year in a 50-mile radius, we’re more than used to navigating the deep snow, cold, and magic of the winter season here at Lochsa Lodge. So don’t let the chill stop you: come experience the unparalleled winter activities and accommodations with us here in the Lochsa and warm up in front of our cozy hearth in between your adventures.
Know before you go
US Hwy 12 is plowed and kept in excellent condition during winter months 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.
Powell Road and Lochsa Lodge’s driveways and parking areas are kept plowed all winter. Local road conditions in the winter are typically plowed with packed snow and ice. 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 winter. Chains may be required on Lolo Pass occasionally.
Winter 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
People who love cross-country/Nordic skiing swear there is no better way to winter–just you, your skis, and the power of your own body moving you through some of the most gorgeous country in the Lower 48. Lochsa Lodge is a popular basecamp for skiers every winter, boasting easy access to some of the most stunning trails in the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forest. With a combination of groomed and ungroomed trails for any skill level in the Lochsa/Highway 12 Corridor, you can plan an unforgettable winter getaway. For those staying at Lochsa Lodge, your access to these trails means more time on the snow and less time traveling. After a day of skiing, the cozy warmth of the lodge is waiting for you, the perfect place to relax and recover with hearty meals and warm cabins.
Gear rentals
Don’t have your own gear? We recommend renting gear before you arrive at Lochsa Lodge. Our remote mountain location means we’re not near to outfitters or gear rental shops.
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 lets you travel through country impassable by any other means. In other words: A lot of work, but big payoffs! 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
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.
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 casting amidst snow-covered trees. 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
While winter offers fewer open hunting season opportunities, early in the winter hunters still flock to the lodge. 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? Contact Pinpoint Outfitters: they 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
On the surface, winter may seem like the quietest time for wildlife, where sightings are rare. But there’s nothing more awe-inspiring than coming across big game, small mammals, and birds during the sparkling winter months. We recommend snowshoeing, winter hikes, and Nordic skiing as the best winter activities for wildlife viewing and bird watching.
When viewing wildlife around Lochsa Lodge in winter, it’s important to keep a safe distance so animals aren’t disturbed. Use binoculars or a camera’s zoom to watch without getting too close. Stay on marked trails to avoid damaging habitats, and keep noise to a minimum to avoid startling animals. Keep control of your four-legged friends on the trail for their safety as well as to not disturb wildlife. Never feed wildlife—this interferes with their natural habits and can make them dependent on human food.


Winter wildlife sighting opportunities include:
Large game animals
Adventurers may spot elk, mule deer, white-tailed deer, and moose. Bighorn sheep and mountain goats can also be seen near rugged cliffs and hillsides, particularly in areas with less snow.
Small mammals
Snowshoe hares, squirrels, pine martens, chipmunks, and the occasional river otter might be visible. These animals tend to be active through winter, foraging or hunting for food in wooded areas.
Birds of prey
Snowy owls are an inspiring sight in the winter in the Lochsa if you’re lucky enough to see one! Bald eagles are common in winter near open water, especially along rivers. Visitors may also spot red-tailed hawks, northern goshawks, and rough-legged hawks hovering above snowy meadows in search of prey.
Small birds
Chickadees, nuthatches, and various species of woodpeckers are often spotted in the forested areas. Other small winter residents include jays, grouse, and finches, many of which are adapted to colder temperatures and foraging in snowy conditions.

Hot Springs
Cap off your chilly 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. It’s about a one-mile hike into both locations, but the payoff–a well-earned “ahhhhhh”–is worth the effort.
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.

Winter 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. In winter, Lochsa Lodge is the perfect cozy spot to kick back after a day in the snow. The main lodge, with its big stone fireplace, invites you to warm up and relax, while the restaurant serves up hearty comfort food classics that hit the spot. The snug cabins offer a private escape with forest views, and the country store has all the essentials, plus a few local treats. It’s a warm, laid-back place to enjoy the season and make the most of Idaho’s winter wonderland.

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.