Sara Sheehy worked in partnership with Visit Idaho to create this Travel Tip.
The woods are quiet and still. Evergreens, heavily laden with snow, release an occasional small flurry of snowflakes. The only sounds are the soft fall of snowshoes on the trail and the frosty exhale of your breath.
Snowshoeing is a classic winter activity for all ages and abilities. With snow on the ground and snowshoes on your feet, the world is yours for exploring. Stick to a trail or blaze your own through Idaho’s winter wonderland.
Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned pro, it is the season to check out Idaho’s best spots for a snowshoe adventure.
1. North Idaho: Schweitzer
The views from Schweitzer are spectacular from snowshoes or a snowboard. Photo credit: Schweitzer.
Try out the sport by joining a hosted snowshoe tour at Schweitzer in Sandpoint. Leaving every Saturday and Sunday at 10:00 a.m. from the Activity Center, a host leads the way while describing the area’s geology, flora and fauna and identifying the nearby mountain ranges. Keep an eye on the ground to catch wildlife tracks, but don’t forget to look up to enjoy the beautiful aerial views of Lake Pend Oreille.
If you’d rather explore on your own, check out Schweitzer’s 32km of snowshoe and ski trails.
More Information on Schweitzer
2. East Idaho: Harriman State Park
Peaceful beauty abounds at Harriman State Park. Photo credit: Harriman State Park.
On a chilly winter’s day, there is nothing better than the warmth of a woodstove in a trailside hut. Harriman State Park, located in Island Park, has two warming huts in their 40km winter trail system.
All winter trails in Harriman State Park are open to snowshoes and are exceptionally well marked. For a great beginner snowshoe outing, take the Ranch Loop, which explores the shores of Silver Lake and winds through the historic Harriman Ranch.
When snowshoeing the Ranch Loop, visit the Jones House along the Henry’s Fork River or venture to the Becker Warming Hut deeper in the park. Huts are open on the weekends and Monday holidays.
Snowshoe rentals are readily available at outdoor shops in Island Park, West Yellowstone and Idaho Falls. Note: rentals are not available within Harriman State Park.
More Information on Harriman State Park
3. Central Idaho: Galena Lodge
Man and beast enjoy snowshoeing in the powder at Galena Summit. Photo credit: Sara Sheehy.
Located a short drive from Sun Valley Ski Resort, Galena Lodge offers snowshoe adventures in the heart of the Sawtooth National Forest. With more than 25km of packed snowshoe-only trails and epic views of the Boulder Mountains, Galena is perfect for all skill levels and ages. Dogs are welcome. ($5 trail pass, snowshoe rental packages available)
If you have three or more people, consider calling ahead to hire a snowshoe guide to receive a trail pass, all equipment and a guide for two hours.
Whether you’re on the trail for 20 minutes or three hours, leave time for a meal in the cozy warmth of Galena Lodge. Home-cooked meals sourced from local ingredients complement the excellent selection of beer, wine and extra large cookies.
More Information on Galena Lodge
4. Southwestern Idaho: Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area
Exploring the trails at Bogus Basin. Photo credit: Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area.
Located just north of Boise, Bogus Basin offers snowshoe opportunities close to the city. Five trails provide 6km of dedicated snowshoeing, plus snowshoeing is also allowed on all 27km of nordic trails.
For a truly unique experience head to Bogus Basin after the sun goes down for night snowshoeing in Idaho. Trailside solar-powered lamps illuminate the route, making for easy nighttime navigation. Call ahead to confirm night snowshoe dates and hours.
More Information on Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area
What to Wear and Pack
Snowshoeing doesn’t require fancy equipment or gear, but bringing a few key items will help you stay warm, dry and comfortable.
- Winter boots or waterproof hiking boots
- Snow pants or synthetic pants and long underwear
- Layers on top: wicking long sleeve shirt, warm middle layer and water-resistant coat
- Hat and gloves or mittens
- Backpack to carry extra layers, a water bottle, snacks and camera
- Sunscreen
- Gaiters, if you plan to snowshoe off-trail
Sara Sheehy seeks adventure in the mountains of Idaho and beyond. Follow her on Instagram at @sarasheehy.
Updated on October 21, 2022
Published on December 13, 2016
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