Swan Valley Hiking
Palisades lake and Swan Valley during autumn offer one of the most scenic theaters one will discover in Idaho. There are many brilliant fall colors in this one spot. Best time for fall colors is within the first couple weeks of September and into the first week of October — if snow doesn't come early.
One seasonal favorite (May — October) is the Palisades Creek Trail, and begins in Swan Valley. The trail is a fun and easy hike with many photographic opportunities. There's a four-mile trek to lower Palisades Lake or 6.2 miles to Upper Palisades Lake (elevation 6,800 feet) with breath-taking mountain views of the Snake River range. Palisades Creek Trail is limited to only hikers, backpackers or horses, as it is in the Palisades Wilderness Study area.
For those choosing to hike to Upper Palisades Lake, two miles above Lower Palisades Lake, leave the Palisades Creek trail and trek up Waterfall Canyon Trail. Just a short distance to Waterfall Canyon.
Giant landslides formed both lakes when slides rushed down the canyon and dammed the creek. Palisades Canyon is densely forested with aspen, fir and willow. The canyon is famous for the steep magnificent cliffs.
Fall Creek Falls is considerd one of the most scenically-located waterfalls you will discover, as the falls descend over 60ft right into the Snake River. The Falls reside in the Caribou-Targhee National Forest and is administered by the USDA Forest Service.
More advanced hikers may enjoy the Taylor Mountain Loop Trail. This is a 14.2 mile trail for those seeking some solitude on the trail. The journey winds to the top of Taylor Mountain, connects with the Coal Creek Trail, and one can return via the Moose Creek Trail. The hike is steep, so be prepared and wear appropriate footwear.
The Loop is near Wilson, Wyoming, and offers beautiful meadows of wild flowers and abundant opportunities to see wildlife. Best hiking from July to October, and expect to share the experince with dogs and horses.
Big Elk Creek Trail, for hiking, biking and horseback riding, begins at nearby Big Elk Campground, and meanders up a beautiful canyon brimming with wildflowers, towering trees and views of the surrounding mountains.
Highlights
