Box Lake Trail
View PhotosBox Lake Trail
Difficulty Rating:
The Box Lake Trail is a demanding hike into Idaho’s high country. Challenging even the fittest hikers with the vertiginous incline, the route culminates at an idyllic alpine lake perfect for cooling off! Yielding incredible scenery every step of the way, this hike is quite memorable.
Getting there
Access this hike from the trailhead off Lick Creek Road.
About
Backcountry Campground | Backcountry Camping |
When to do | April-October |
Pets allowed | Yes - On Leash |
Family friendly | Older Children only |
Route Signage | Average |
Crowd Levels | Moderate |
Route Type | Out and back |
Box Lake Trail
Elevation Graph
Weather
Box Lake Trail Description
Who does love a high-effort, high-reward type of adventure? The Box Lake Trail is demanding but a worthwhile adventure to an alpine lake beautifully framed by the ridges of Beaverdam Peak. This dynamic adventure ascends numerous switchbacks through granite gardens, lush woodlands, montane meadows, and up to the alpine lake’s sandy beaches. This route is tireless, so pack plenty of water, wear a comfy pair of footwear, and consider trekking poles. Similar to all sorts of exploration in the area, it is important to be mindful of wildlife.
Setting out from the trailhead off Lick Creek Road, you will be guided northwestwardly along the Box Creek Trail. Note the first few miles of the hike are the most demanding. Take your time navigating the vertiginous path that zigzags up the creek canyon. Eventually, the intensity of the ascent will relax, though you will continue to climb up to the lake. Weaving between meadows and woodlands, you will ultimately reach the shoreline of Box Lake.
Revel in the scene of the blue-hued pool, encircling pines, and towering granite bluffs. Take a swim in the crystalline pool, then head back along the path down to the trailhead.
Similar hikes to the Box Lake Trail hike
Hard Creek Falls Hike
The Hard Creek Falls Hike would make a great addition to anyone's Payette National Forest hiking itinerary. This lovely route…
Rapid Lake Trail
Discover the beauty of Idaho’s high country on the Rapid Lake Trail. This beautiful adventure explores a myriad of shimmering…
Granite Mountain Trail
What the Granite Mountain Trail lacks in scenery on the way up it makes up for at the summit. After…
Comments