The best walks and hikes in the Clearwater Range
5.0
(1)
49
hikers
12
hikes
Hiking in the Clearwater Range explores a region characterized by dense forests, rugged mountains, and significant river systems, primarily within national forests and wilderness areas. The landscape features varied terrain, from river valleys to higher elevations, offering diverse hiking experiences. This area is part of the larger Rocky Mountains ecosystem, providing a natural environment for outdoor activities. Trails often traverse through areas like the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests and the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness.
Best hiking trails in the Clearwater Range
- The…
Last updated: May 10, 2026
6
hikers
8.08km
02:32
500m
40m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
hikers
2.02km
00:33
50m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
25
hikers
3.88km
01:04
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
11
hikers
15.8km
04:51
570m
570m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
28.9km
10:15
660m
660m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
7.74km
02:28
330m
330m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
2.00km
00:31
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
10.7km
04:12
800m
800m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
22.9km
08:38
1,610m
1,610m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
27.3km
09:33
1,550m
1,550m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The summit of Round Top Mountain starts at Boyd Creek Campground, which is a nice starting point bellied up to the Selway River. Once you are appraching the top, the trees clear and you are rewarded with views of the river valley down below and the ridge leading to Coldwater in the West.
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Coolwater was one of the first lookout sites developed in the Lochsa-Selway country, built in 1915. One of the duties of early lookouts here was relaying heliograph messages from other lookouts that were not serviced by telephone lines.
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Starting at O'Hara Campground, you rise gain elevation pretty fast from 1580 feet to 5070 feet and then dropping to 4840 feet to its end at an old fire lookout. The trail is thickly timbered along its entire length. There are no scenic views. There are numerous places along the trail where wild ginger grows in abundance.
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According to the nimíipuu creation story, Iceye’ye (Coyote) killed a large monster along the Clearwater River near present day Kamiah, Idaho, thus creating different tribes in the region, including the nimíipuu. A rock formation in the area is said to represent the heart of the monster described in the legend. It is sacred to the nimíipuu people.
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This is a great trail that winds thorough he trees and along the shore line providing shaded views of the North Fork Clearwater River. If someone in the group has an Idaho State Park Passport, you can leave one car at the Big Eddy Marina and take another to Freeman Creek Campground, thru-hike the 10 miles, and then return for the second car.
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This small, lovely campground just outside the boundary of the Gospel Humps Wilderness makes an excellent basecamp for exploring the Crystal Lake Trail to the west, Columbia Ridge Trail to the north, or Nipple Mountain Trail to the east.
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Summit the North Pole for spectacular 365-degree views of the Gospel Peaks, as well as mountain ranges farther afield in neighboring states.
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This extension off the Crystal Lake Trail follows the ridge up to North Pole, where you'll find views of four states.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in the Clearwater Range?
The Clearwater Range offers a selection of 10 hiking routes, catering to various preferences and skill levels. These trails explore dense forests, rugged mountains, and significant river systems within national forests and wilderness areas.
What are the different difficulty levels for hiking in the Clearwater Range?
Hikers in the Clearwater Range can choose from a range of difficulties. There are 2 easy trails, 5 moderate trails, and 3 difficult trails, ensuring options for beginners and experienced hikers alike.
Are there any easy hikes suitable for families or beginners in the Clearwater Range?
Yes, for an easy and accessible experience, consider the Warm Springs Creek Trail to Jerry Johnson Hot Springs. This 2.4-mile path leads to natural hot springs and is generally completed in just over an hour. Another easy option is the Heart of the Monster Trail loop, a shorter 1.2-mile route.
Where can I find more challenging hikes in the Clearwater Range?
For those seeking a challenge, the Clearwater Range offers several difficult routes. The Big Eddy Trail in Dworshak State Park is a demanding 17.9-mile hike. Another strenuous option is Coldwater Mountain via Rackliff Trail, covering 14.2 miles with significant elevation gain.
Are there any circular hiking routes in the Clearwater Range?
Yes, the Heart of the Monster Trail loop in Nez Perce National Historic Park is a circular route, offering a convenient way to explore without retracing your steps.
What natural attractions can I discover along the hiking trails?
The Clearwater Range is rich in natural beauty. You can visit the famous Jerry Johnson Hot Springs, explore the impressive Salmon River Canyon, or experience the wild beauty of the Middle Fork Clearwater Wild and Scenic River. The Heart of the Monster is another significant natural monument.
Are there any historical sites or points of interest in the Clearwater Range?
Beyond natural wonders, the region holds historical significance. You can visit the Hydraulic Mining Historical Marker to learn about the area's past. The Time Zone Bridge & Salmon River is also a notable landmark.
What do other hikers say about the trails in the Clearwater Range?
The trails in the Clearwater Range are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 5.0 stars from over 1 review. More than 35 hikers have already used komoot to explore the diverse terrain, suggesting a positive and rewarding experience for visitors.
Are there any hikes that lead to hot springs in the Clearwater Range?
Yes, two popular routes lead to natural hot springs. The easy Warm Springs Creek Trail takes you to Jerry Johnson Hot Springs, while the moderate Stanley Hot Springs via Boulder Creek Trail explores the rugged Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness to another set of springs.
Can I find trails with scenic viewpoints in the Clearwater Range?
Many trails in the Clearwater Range offer scenic vistas due to the mountainous terrain. For example, the North Pole via Crystal Lake Trail leads through mountainous areas, and the Camas Prairie viewpoint & historic marker is a dedicated spot for panoramic views.
What kind of landscape can I expect when hiking in the Clearwater Range?
The Clearwater Range is characterized by dense forests, rugged mountains, and significant river systems. You'll encounter varied terrain, from river valleys to higher elevations, often within national forests and wilderness areas like the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests and the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness.
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Most popular attractions in the Clearwater Range
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