Idaho Peak hike
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Idaho Peak hike
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Important Notice: The road leading to Idaho Peak trailhead is currently washed out by a mudslide and might take a long time to repair. Please check here for the up to date information.
The Idaho Peak hike is a relatively quick and easy walk along the ridgeline, through colourful wildflowers to an old fire lookout on the top of Idaho Peak. This classic local hike is not one to be missed! From the top of Idaho Peak you are rewarded with exceptional views of Slocan Lake and panoramic mountain ranges – you can see as far as Kokanee Glacier just outside of Nelson.
Getting there
To get to the trailhead for Idaho Peak is a long drive. From New Denver, take the 31A for 5.2mi, turning right onto Sandon Road. Drive towards Sandon and go right just as you enter the old mining town of Sandon. Cross a bridge and drive through town, then turn right on Idaho Peak Road just as you exit town. This unpaved narrow road is 7.5mi long and a 4WD is recommended. Be careful as the road is narrow.
About
| When to do | Mid July to Mid September |
| Backcountry Campsites | No |
| Pets allowed | Yes - On Leash |
| Family friendly | Yes |
| Route Signage | Average |
| Crowd Levels | Moderate |
| Route Type | Out and back |
Idaho Peak
Elevation Graph
Weather
Route Description for Idaho Peak
The hardest part of the Idaho Peak hike is getting to the parking lot. The final 7.5mi up Idaho Peak Road is narrow and 4WD is recommended. Once at the trailhead, parking is limited for the Idaho Peak hike and there are two parking lots. You can park in either parking lot, as the trails join shortly after you start the hike.
The trail up Idaho Peak is well marked and easy to follow, with plenty of signs to teach you about the wildflowers you are sure to see everywhere you look. The route is at the treeline, so you have great views as you look out. Some parts of this route are a bit narrow, so you wouldn’t necessarily want to do this with very young children.
This Idaho Peak trail is a wonderful way to enjoy alpine views without putting in the miles. You will wander along the ridgeline until finally you reach the old Fire Lookout. Beneath you is Slocan Lake and there are numerous signs pointing out all of the mountain ranges that can be seen from the lookout. There is also an outhouse at the top that could win awards for the view.
Return the way you came to get back to your car.
Insider Hints
If you don’t have a 4WD vehicle, there is an Idaho Peak Shuttle.
This hike can be busy, so leave early or you might find you spend a lot of time trying to pass descending vehicles on the narrow road.
The Idaho Peak hike is great for families with children or those who can’t easily get into the alpine.
Sunset is a particularly beautiful time to sit at the lookout, though bring a headlamp for the descent.
This whole area is a great day trip if you are on holiday in the area. Sandon is a historic mining town, and the Sandon Museum is very interesting. You can wander down to Slocan River and follow the Galena Trail if you’re feeling like a longer walk. Back near New Denver, Slocan Lake itself is stunning and one of the most beautiful and warmer lakes in the local area.
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YukihiroSato 4 years ago
I super love this hike! The views are incredible!
Brandon Houston 4 years ago
Fairly easy hike with a tiny bit of exposure that takes you from the trailhead to the old lookout tower with the most amazing views. The wildflowers here are stunning too.
Kevin Dufont 4 years ago
Idaho Peak is a family-friendly hike that offers panoramic views of the region. As you hike you are surrounded by beautiful wildflowers. Worth pushing through!
verdanaf. 5 years ago
The extensive scenery of the mountain ranges was remarkable considering the effort we exerted to complete the hike.
metamorphiks 5 years ago
Worth hiking! It's a short hike with mild elevation. You should try it. Don't carry too much weight.
Tara Green 5 years ago
a short hike with beautiful views!
Carissa Alvarado 5 years ago
Exquisite hike with remarkable scenery. Quick and easy. Perfect for the family.
cartersans 5 years ago
Amazing panoramic views! The kids enjoyed a lot!
adayinahikerslife 5 years ago
a fantastic way to warm up your legs...definitely nice and healthy...
Shad J. 5 years ago
The views from the summit of Idaho Peak are well worth the hike. They are nothing short of amazing. It was awesome, and I would recommend it.