Anybody else feel like escaping into nature for a few hours? Living in Idaho, it’s easy to do just that. Our entire state is a playground of hiking trails that allows us to experience nature firsthand, whenever we want. The trail featured below is one of the most remarkable in the Gem State. However, few people even know it exists. This underrated gem is located in the small town of Weiser and it’s comprised of 84 whopping miles of epic natural beauty. The next time you get that itch to get outdoors, consider taking this enchanting backwoods hike.
Located in southwestern Idaho, the Weiser River Trail officially opened in 1998. Spanning an impressive 84 miles, it's considered Idaho's longest rail-trail and it's an absolute paradise for hiking and cycling enthusiasts.
The trail follows an old railroad line in Weiser and takes you through small towns such as Council, Midvale, and Cambridge before ending up in New Meadows. The best thing about this trail is the variety of landscapes you'll experience. There's no limit to the amount of beauty you'll experience on this serene trail.
As you start off on the trail, you'll quickly be swept into a tranquil wooded area. There's nothing but the sound of nearby streams and perhaps the slight rustling of wildlife as you make your way across the charming trestle bridges.
Exploring the trail in its entirety would take a few days at least. However, that shouldn't stop you from completing smaller sections if you don't have that kind of time. Although the trail is well known among locals, it's likely you won't see another soul on the trail at the same time as you.
As you cross different sections of the trail, the scenery begins to change. You'll come across every type of landscape imaginable including forest, orchards, meadows, sagebrush canyon, and more. The scenery is absolutely delightful no matter what stretch of the trail you find yourself on.
The history of the trail itself is also incredible. The Pacific & Idaho Northern Railroad Company created the railway around 1901. The railroad was primarily used to take travelers from Boise to the cluster of small towns around Weiser.
You're bound to come across some wildlife sightings during your time on the rail-trail. Deer, elk, bears, heron, and wild turkeys are the most common types of species seen along the trail. You might even come across a gigantic herd of goats which are used to keep weeds under control.
Of course, the Weiser River itself is absolutely stunning. At 103 miles long, it's Idaho's longest free flowing river and it makes for a picture perfect setting for a backwoods hike!
Interested in making this beautiful trek? Check out the Friends of the Weiser River Trail website for more information about this splendid rail-trail.
Doesn’t this backwoods hike look absolutely lovely? It’s hard to believe more people don’t know about this! If you enjoyed learning about this hike, you’ll be absolutely floored by the natural beauty found along this beautiful bridge hike.
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