Roman Nose Lakes, Bonners Ferry, Idaho
Looking for a recommendation for an easy hike to see alpine lakes? Roman Nose
Do you want to see incredible fall colors? Roman Nose
Do you want an easy backpacking trip? Roman Nose
Looking for an ADA-accessible place in the North Idaho wilderness? Roman Nose
Kid-friendly hike? Roman Nose
Fishing? Roman Nose
Roman Nose Lakes, in the Kaniksu National Forest and Selkirk Crest, near Bonners Ferry, Idaho, is hike 48 in 100 Hikes in the Inland Northwest: A compact, heavily used trail system in the shadow of 7,260-foot Roman Nose Peak gives hikers a quick-fix alpine adventure in a region lush with huckleberries in August and September. Drive directly to an alpine lake and a campground, while trails lead to two more lakes. Because the distance is only 1 mile from the trailhead to the next lake, expect company not usually associated with backcountry travel. But the terrain is captivating, with plenty of opportunities for scrambling away from the beaten track.
It’s a rough road to the trailhead, and the road is often not accessible until the snow melts very late in spring or early summer. Due to the popularity of these trails with those “not usually associated with backcountry travel,” the trailhead can get busy, especially on the weekends, so you may find yourself having to park further away. Even if you have to park a little further away, you won’t regret packing up an adventure partner, some water inflatables, stopping by Joel’s Mexican in Sandpoint to get a to-go burrito, to go explore these easy trails and enjoy a relaxing float on a beautiful alpine lake.
