Group leading hikes into choice North Idaho destinations
TRAILS -- A North Idaho conservation organization has been leading group trips to acquaint the public with special backcountry areas this summer. Some choice Inland Northwest destinations remain on the schedule in August and September.
Experienced leaders with the Idaho Conservation League have stepped up to organize the treks -- mostly hikes but also some kayak paddles. The treks have ranged from easy to strenuous.
Visit the website, www.idahoconservation.org, or call (208) 265-9565, for contacting leaders prior to the trip. Assess your abilities accordingly as you check out these offerings.
Sunday, Aug. 17, West Fork Lake and Peak – A moderate 6- to 7-mile hike in the Selkirk Mountains, Bonner Ferry Ranger District.
Aug. 31, Snow Lake - A moderately strenuous hike of nearly 10 miles roundtrip in the Selkirk Mountains, Bonners Ferry Ranger District. Option to scramble to West Fork Peak for fantastic views of the Selkirk Crest.
Sept. 6, Chimney Rock – A moderately strenuous 11-mile roundtrip hike from the Pack River to the iconic granite spire of the Selkirk Crest.
Sept. 7, Upper Priest Lake kayak – Paddle up the “Thorofare” to Upper Priest Lake from Beaver Creek Campground area, at least six miles round trip.
Sept. 12, Trout-Big Fisher Lakes – A moderately strenuous 12-mile roundtrip hike to a pair of nifty mountain lakes.
Sept 14, Beehive Lakes scramble – A strenuous 12-mile hike involving trail walking and cross-country scrambling over granite talus slopes between Harrison and Beehive lakes at the head of the Pack River drainage.
Sept. 19-21, Lion’s Head Backpack – Six hardy backpackers will be allowed on this difficult, double overnight involving off-trail bushwhacking and boulder hopping to Lion’s Head Peak, an often seen but rarely visited Selkirk Crest granite icon beyond Priest Lake.