Hiking

It has been estimated that over 19,000 trails abound in Idaho and many visitors choose to explore these areas on foot.  Whether you are interested in hiking terrain near mountains, lakes, rivers, or flat lands, Idaho BLM public lands have something for you to explore.  If you choose to hike into the solitude of the wilderness or stay near town, a variety of trails are available for every age and skill level. 

Check out some Idaho Hiking Guide recommendations here (Idaho Parks and Recreation)

Search for a region-specific hike here (www.visitidaho.com) 

Hiking Tips

• Watch the weather! Many roads that access trails become impassable when wet!
• Watch out for rattlesnakes and poison ivy. Learn to recognize poison ivy before you go.
• Bring plenty of food and water. If you feel thirsty, you are already dehydrated.
• Wear sturdy hiking gear and layer your clothing for rapid weather changes.
• Minimize wildlife disturbance and protect water quality by camping at least 200 feet from streams.
• Use a backpack stove instead of building a fire.
• Don’t wash your dishes in streams.
• Human waste and toilet paper should be buried in a small “cat hole” (six to eight inches deep and at least 200 feet from a water source).
• Know your own hiking and navigation skills. 
• Bring a basic first aid kit.
• Winter snow and summer heat may make the hikes impossible.
• Understand navigation with and without GPS and know how to navigate by map. Deep canyons will often render GPS useless.
• Pack out what you pack in.
• Leave No Trace. Keep these beautiful areas wild for future visitors!