Hunt Lake In Northern Idaho Is So Little-Known, You Just Might Have It All To Yourself
By Courtnie Erickson|Published May 17, 2023
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Courtnie Erickson
Author
From Southern Utah to the Panhandle in Idaho, Courtnie Erickson has lived in what she believes are the best (and the most beautiful!) areas in the country. She graduated with a journalism degree from Utah State University and has more than 15 years of professional writing experience. You’ll likely see her with a Dr. Pepper in her hand and a pair of running shoes on her feet. Courtnie is a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState.
One of my favorite ways to spend the day is at the lake and here in Idaho, there are hundreds of bodies of water to choose from. While you can always share the water with countless others, I prefer a little peace and solitude. Tucked away in the Selkirk Mountains is one lake that is so little-known, you won’t have to fight the crowds. In fact, you may just have it all to yourself. Hunt Lake is one of the most beautiful alpine lakes in northern Idaho and is certainly worth a visit. But, a visit to this remote lake in Idaho does require a little bit of extra effort.
Hunt Lake is located in Idaho’s backcountry — in the Selkirk Mountain Range. To reach it, you’ll have a 2.2-mile out-and-back trail to conquer.
Keep in mind that the trailhead isn’t the easiest to find either. From the southern end of Priest Lake, you’ll drive east on Shore Road. Immediately after crossing Hunt Creek, turn right onto a forest road. You’ll follow this road for several miles (approximately 45 minutes) until you reach the trailhead. Four-wheel-drive and high-clearance vehicles are best for the forest road.
Because the trail isn’t highly trafficked, it can be quite rough in some areas. Keep an eye out for markers to ensure you are on the path and it’s always wise to download a trail map to avoid becoming lost.
But, nothing beats the view of this remote lake in Idaho from its shores. The surrounding mountains, trees, and boulders create a scene that is heavenly. It is easy to find peace and quiet here.
Plus, because of the lake's remote location and the challenge of the trail, you likely won’t see many others — if anyone — at the lake. You truly might just have the entire area to yourself.
Remember to always pack out what you pack in and be respectful of this mesmerizing area.
Have you hiked to Hunt Lake before? Were you the only one at this lesser-known lake in Idaho? We’d love to hear all about your experiences in the comments!
For another remote lake in Idaho that you need to visit, check out Baker Lake in the Sawtooth National Forest.
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