Hidden Lake & West Fork Lake, North Idaho
The access road to the trailhead might be the most arduous thing about a trip to Hidden Lake in the Idaho Panhandle north of Bonners Ferry. Even with an SUV, it may be necessary to add a little extra mileage to the hike due to a rocky last few miles on the rough Forest Service road. Once on trail, however, it’s a relatively easy hike of just under a mile with only moderate elevation gain to Hidden Lake, one of the largest hike-in alpine lakes in the region. The lake is gorgeous and offers excellent swimming, with such a short access hike that it’s worth considering bringing a small watercraft along for the trip.
Playing at Hidden Lake may be enough for some hikers, but it’s also worth the extra effort to tack on the hike up to West Fork Lake, either as a day-hike from a base camp or as an additional camp location. The Hidden Lake Trail climbs above the south end of the lake, ascending a ridge before intersecting the trail to Red Top (an alternate trailhead access point). Turn right and descend to West Fork Cabin, available for camping on a first-come, first-served basis and an excellent choice for larger groups. There are bunks inside if the weather is poor, and plenty of space for tents in the large flat area outside.
Continue just over a quarter mile beyond the cabin and turn right on the trail to West Fork Lake, which ascends a series of switchbacks up to the lake. Campsites are available here, although West Fork Lake is shallow and much of the surrounding terrain is marshy. A better camping option, at least in good weather, would be to top off water containers and continue ascending the spur trail that leads to the rocky plateau above the lake, home to a wobbly and picturesque fire lookout tower and fantastic views in all directions. It’s approximately 8 miles one way from the Hidden Lake Trailhead to the fire lookout tower above West Fork Lake.
Getting There:
From Bonners Ferry, continue north on U.S. 95 for 15 miles, then turn left on Highway 1. After 1 mile, turn left toward Copeland. Cross the bridge over the Kootenai River and turn right on West Side Road. In 9 miles, turn left onto Smith Creek Road and continue 4 miles to the Hidden Lake trailhead.
Holly Weiler is the Eastern Washington Region Senior Coordinator for Washington Trails Association, but is looking forward to volunteering with some other fantastic regional organizations while on sabbatical this summer.
