The best walks and hikes in the Caribou Range
41
hikers
9
hikes
If you've ever tried to plan hiking in the Caribou Range, you know how quickly the options can feel overwhelming. With so many trails crisscrossing this stunning region, it's tough to figure out which routes are genuinely worth your precious time and effort, and which are just filler. We get it β you're looking for the best hiking routes in the Caribou Range, not just a list. That's where komoot comes in. Our community has mapped, walked, and reviewed theseβ¦
Last updated: May 11, 2026
10
hikers
9.70km
02:41
240m
40m
The Palisades Creek Trail near Swan Valley, Idaho, offers a delightful journey through pine-covered hillsides and along a rushing creek, leading to the beautiful Lower Palisades Lake. You'll find aβ¦
1
hikers
4.32km
01:17
180m
50m
The Kelly Canyon Trail in Idaho offers a delightful journey through varied terrain, starting with shaded underbrush and the calming sound of nearby creeks. As you climb, the path opensβ¦
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1
hikers
4.08km
01:26
210m
210m
The Alpine North Loop takes you on a journey through diverse terrain, from lush forests alongside creeks to open ridgelines offering expansive views of the surrounding mountain ranges and theβ¦
1
hikers
14.9km
04:04
290m
110m
If you're seeking a trail that evolves from gentle paths to a more rugged adventure, the Big Elk Creek Trail near Swan Valley, Idaho, is a solid pick. This moderateβ¦
2.66km
00:53
230m
0m
The Little Kelly Canyon Trail near Ririe offers a delightful escape into nature, characterized by its varied terrain and lush scenery. You'll navigate through dense "tunnels of vegetation" and crossβ¦
1.64km
00:27
20m
20m
The Hidden Vista Loop trail in Ririe, Idaho, offers a delightful, easy hike through gently rolling terrain, perfect for a quick escape into nature. You'll find yourself on a straightforwardβ¦
2.17km
00:34
30m
0m
The Jordan Canyon trail offers a delightful, easy walk, perfect for a quick nature fix. You'll find yourself on a straightforward path, likely meandering through pleasant, light natural surroundings, providingβ¦
2.08km
00:36
10m
130m
The Webster Dam Trail offers a surprisingly diverse and engaging hiking experience, leading to a unique man-made waterfall that's a true local gem. You'll wander through forested paths and rollingβ¦
29
hikers
13.4km
03:41
220m
220m
The Along Palisades Creek β Lower Palisades Lake loop offers a beautiful journey through diverse forests to a stunning alpine lake, making it a favorite for many hikers in theβ¦
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Tips from the Community
Palisades Creek rushes out of Upper and Lower Palisades Creek and is home for several species of trout. The Palisades Creek Trail runs along and takes you the two scenic alpine lakes nestled in the Palisades Creek Canyon.
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Palisades Creek Campground is an idyllic place for hiking, fishing and recreation. It is nestled in the Palisades Creek Canyon and offers picnic tables, toilets and drinking water. It operates on a first come, first served-base and is open from May. There are five single units and two double units. Fees per night range from 12 Dollars for a single unit to 24 Dollars for a double unit. It a located next to the trailhead for the popular Palisades Creek Trail that leads to Lower and Upper Palisades Lake.
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The beautiful Lower Palisades Lake is a scenic alpine lake nestled in Palisades Creek Canyon and below Palisades Peak. It is located in the Caribou-Targhee National Forest and a great place to take a hike and fish. It is about 2.5 miles to hike up to Upper Palisades Lake.
2
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A beautiful trail through the canyon of Palisades Creek. We were traveling with 2 dogs. There are always ways to get to the water. π
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of hiking trails can I expect in the Caribou Range?
The Caribou Range, primarily within the Caribou-Targhee National Forest, offers a diverse range of trails. You'll find everything from rugged mountain paths and subalpine forests to open sagebrush plains. The region is known for its stunning landscapes, including peaks, alpine meadows, and river valleys.
Are there any easy hikes suitable for families in the Caribou Range?
Yes, the Caribou Range has several easy trails perfect for families. For a gentle introduction to the area, consider the Hidden Vista Loop trail, which is just 1.6 km long with minimal elevation gain. Another accessible option is the Jordan Canyon trail, offering a pleasant 2.1 km walk.
Where can I find trails with scenic viewpoints in the Caribou Range?
Many trails in the Caribou Range offer spectacular views. The region is part of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, providing vistas of rugged mountains and diverse ecosystems. While specific viewpoints vary, trails leading to higher elevations or along canyons, such as the Palisades Creek Trail, often provide expansive panoramas of the surrounding wilderness.
Are there any loop hikes available in the Caribou Range?
Yes, you can find loop hikes in the Caribou Range. A notable option is the Along Palisades Creek β Lower Palisades Lake loop from Palisades Creek, which offers a moderate 13.3 km journey. For a shorter, easier loop, the Hidden Vista Loop trail is a great choice.
What are some longer, more challenging hikes in the Caribou Range?
For those seeking a longer and more challenging experience, the Big Elk Creek Trail is a moderate 14.8 km route with nearly 300 meters of elevation gain, leading to Big Elk Lake. The Palisades Creek Trail is another moderate option, covering 9.7 km with significant elevation changes.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter while hiking in the Caribou Range?
The Caribou Range is rich in wildlife, being part of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Hikers often have the chance to spot elk, moose, mule deer, and various bird species like ospreys and bald eagles. While less common, black bears, grizzly bears, and wolves also inhabit the area, so it's always wise to be bear-aware and carry bear spray.
Are there any trails that lead to lakes or waterfalls in the Caribou Range?
Absolutely. The Caribou Range is dotted with pristine lakes and impressive waterfalls. The Big Elk Creek Trail leads to the stunning Big Elk Lake. While not directly on our listed routes, the region is also home to Mesa Falls, featuring both Upper and Lower Mesa Falls, which are accessible via nature trails and offer spectacular cascades.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in the Caribou Range?
The Caribou Range is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the region's rugged natural beauty, the variety of terrain, and the opportunity to experience expansive, wild landscapes. The peacefulness and stunning views are frequently highlighted.
How many hiking routes are available in the Caribou Range?
There are 10 curated hiking routes available in the Caribou Range, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging treks. This collection includes 6 easy routes, 3 moderate routes, and 1 difficult route, ensuring options for various skill levels.
Can I find trails that are less crowded for a more solitary experience?
While specific crowd levels vary, the Caribou Range, particularly within the vast Caribou-Targhee National Forest, offers many opportunities for solitude. Exploring trails beyond the most popular access points or opting for longer, more challenging routes like the Big Elk Creek Trail can often lead to a more secluded hiking experience amidst the wilderness.
Most popular routes in the Caribou Range
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