Shannon Lake Hike

Those seeking a family-friendly adventure in the Kootenai National Forest are encouraged to explore the Shannon Lake Hike. Located just above the Kootenai River, this trek is a great extension of the popular Kootenai Falls Trail. Enjoy marvelous views of the Rocky Mountains, the famed waterfall, and unique geological features, and read the interpretive signs that line the path-detailing the history and ecology of the area. Don’t forget your camera; the scenery is picture-perfect!

Setting out from the trailhead off the highway, this lovely adventure follows the Historic Highway 2 West Trail. Traveling west, the path will gently climb into the wilderness, wandering through a corridor of towering pines and cedars. Enjoy the scene of ferns and wildflowers carpeting the woodlands and admire the sporadic views of the river valley below and the snow-capped mountains above. Reading the interpretive signs as you wander, you will eventually reach a footbridge over a charming waterfall. Beyond this point, you will confront a junction; turn left here onto the Shannon Lake Trail.

Redirecting you south, you begin a steep ascent to the lakeshore. After some hiking, you will crest the shoreline of the shimmering pool. Admire the lovely scene, and then when you are done, head back the way you came to the trailhead.