Things to Do around Palisades Reservoir

Palisades Reservoir is primarily known for hiking, offering a variety of trails through mountain-river country. The region provides opportunities to explore diverse landscapes, from forested hillsides to expansive shorelines. Other activities like ice fishing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling are available in colder months.

The Palisades Lakes Trail is a popular option, leading to Lower and Upper Palisades Lake. Other notable trails include the Big Elk Creek Trail, which offers views through a canyon, and the more challenging Taylor Mountain Loop Trail with panoramic vistas. The Spring Run trail provides a unique experience into Blowout Canyon.

The initial section of the Palisades Lakes Trail, leading to Lower Palisades Lake, is suitable for a shorter and easier outing. This trail follows Palisades Creek through forested canyons, offering a gradual incline. The area provides diverse terrain that can accommodate various skill levels.

The region features forested hillsides, snow-capped mountains, and the expansive Palisades Reservoir itself, which covers approximately 25 square miles (65 km²). Palisades Creek flows into the reservoir, leading to the geologically unique Lower and Upper Palisades Lakes. Diverse forests of lodgepole pine, spruce, aspen, and fir are also present.

The Palisades Reservoir region is home to a variety of wildlife. Visitors may spot moose, elk, black bears, and mule deer. The area also supports populations of wolves, mountain lions, and numerous bird species, including raptors, shorebirds, waterfowl, and songbirds.

The Palisades Lakes Trail features a gradual incline along Palisades Creek. The hike to Lower Palisades Lake, about 4 miles (6.4 km) in, is considered easier. Continuing an additional 2 miles (3.2 km) to Upper Palisades Lake involves steeper sections, making it a more extended and moderately challenging adventure.

Yes, komoot offers guides to help explore the region. For detailed information on hiking paths, consult guides such as Hiking around Palisades Reservoir. These guides provide insights into various routes and points of interest.

Palisades Reservoir has received positive feedback from the komoot community. More than 60 visitors have shared their experiences, resulting in an average rating of 5.0 out of 5 stars for the available routes. This indicates a high level of satisfaction among users.

Official information regarding Palisades Reservoir recreation is available through Recreation.gov. For direct inquiries, the Idaho Falls Interagency Visitor's Center can be reached at 208-523-3278, or the Palisades Ranger Office at 208-523-1412.

The Caribou-Targhee National Forest administers recreation in the Palisades Reservoir area. This ensures the protection of extensive natural areas for exploration and the maintenance of the environment's integrity. The Forest Service also manages facilities, including campgrounds with reservoir and mountain views.

Palisades Reservoir covers an area of approximately 25 square miles (65 km²), which is about 16,100 acres. It features an extensive shoreline of around 70 miles (113 km), including sandy beaches, coves, and inlets.