Prairie Lakes to Miner Lake Loop Trail

The Prairie Lakes to Miner Lake Loop Hike in Sawtooth National Forest is a high-effort, high-reward hike into the backcountry. This stunning adventure explores a variety of landscapes and demands several creek crossings, so come prepared to get your feet wet! Additionally, as this route is lightly trafficked, there are sections of overgrowth, making the trail difficult to follow at times, so using the trail GPS is advised. Don’t forget to bring your swimsuit and towel; the hidden lakes are quite tempting!

Setting out from the Prairie Lakes Trailhead, your adventure along the Prairie Lake to Miner Lake Loop Trail tracks southwest along the Prairie Creek Trail. Alternating between unshaded terrain and pine coverage, the path will ultimately reach the Prairie Lakes. Admire the beauty of the crystalline pools complemented by rings of towering evergreens, then continue southwardly, using the trail GPS. After some hiking, you will be diverted east to the Norton Lakes Trailhead. Here, the Norton Lakes Trail will guide you northeast along Norton Creek and up along a ridge overlooking a basin abundant with shimmering lakes.

Soon you will summit the southwestern ridge of Norton Peak. Beyond this point, you will dive down to Miner Lake. Take a swim in the alpine waters bounded by the ridges anchored by Norton Peak. When you are through luxuriating in the waters, travel northwest down Miner Canyon. Eventually, you will reconnect with the Prairie Creek Trail and retrace your footing north back to the trailhead.