Enjoy fall weather, bright foliage on 5-mile hike
Next Saturday, head up to Fourth of July pass and join the Hiking Vikings for their fifth annual trek. This is your chance to enjoy the fall weather and changing foliage during a free guided hike.
Part of the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation’s “Idaho Park ‘N Ski” area, the trailhead is about 18 miles east of Coeur d’Alene off Interstate 90. Take exit 28, turn right at the stop sign and bear to the right on the dirt road to the parking area.
The Fourth of July trail system includes three loops winding through a thick evergreen forest with mountain vistas in the background. Used primarily for cross country skiing, the wide trails also make for a great hiking adventure.
Bright fall colors, with green backgrounds of cedars, pines and firs, are in their prime. Moose and deer are occasionally seen in this area, along with a host of smaller critters.
Barbara Rostad, of the Hiking Vikings, will lead hikers on a five-mile (round-trip) section of the system. Inspiration for the local Hiking Viking group came from Rostad’s association with the Sons of Norway, where the outdoor adventure group originated nationally for members. Hikers don’t have to be a member of the organization to tag along on any of the numerous hikes offered throughout the year.
“This (the Fourth of July trail) is where we had our first hike, five years ago, so we go back every year,” says Rostad. “This hike is an easy drive, its accessible this time of year and there is a cabin (provided by the Nordic Club) if the weather is bad.”
Kids and dogs are welcome on the hike, which Rostad classifies as “easy.”
Hiking boots or good walking shoes are suggested and hikers should bring water and lunch. Rostad says its common practice for hikers in the group to bring a food item to share with the group, and homemade cake will be served after the hike to mark the fifth anniversary.
Those interested in carpooling should meet at the ShopKo parking lot near U.S. Highway 95 and Ironwood at 9:30 a.m. The hike will start at 10.