Lake Serene Trail

The Lake Serene Hike is a one-of-a-kind adventure in the Payette National Forest. This lovely route explores an area of tree burn and regrowth. Boasting impressive views of the alpine landscape, the exposed terrain also warrants extreme conditions—so check the forecast and dress accordingly. Note much of the route is rocky, uneven, and steep, so a comfy pair of footwear is a must! Don’t forget to bring plenty of water and download the trail GPS prior to departure.

Your adventure to Lake Serene begins from the Grassy Mountain Trailhead. Setting out from here, the Grassy Mountain Trail tracks northward, steeply climbing into the wilderness. Mind your footing on the steep terrain, and you will soon reach an intersection—keep right, and you will be diverted onto the Lake Serene Trail. Weaving through sections of lush regrowth and barren tree burn, you will be guided up to pass overlooking Lake Serene below. From here, the route will plunge into the basin adorned with Serene Lake.

Enjoy the serenity of the secluded lake and marvel at the beauty of the bounding granite bluffs. Then, rejuvenate your tired feet in the chilly alpine waters; when you are ready, head back the way you came down to the trailhead.