Hike Into The Clouds On The Schweitzer Nature Trail In Northern Idaho
By Courtnie Erickson|Published June 16, 2022
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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.
There is nothing like the feeling that you are on top of the world. While there are multiple mountain peaks you can climb around the Gem State that will provide this extraordinary feeling, the Schweitzer Nature Trail is a little less intense – but you’ll still hike high above the clouds. Located at Schweitzer Mountain Ski Resort in Sandpoint, this is one of the few hiking trails on the mountain and only accessible during the summer months, but it is certainly bucket-list-worthy.
The Schweitzer Nature Trail is a 2.5-mile trail that takes you to the summit of the mountain.
Be prepared mentally and physically for quite the journey as this trail is steep. You will climb more than 1,700 feet in elevation in just a few miles.
Fortunately, the trail is well maintained and easy to follow, making the adventure a little less daunting. Plus, while many of the trails on the mountain are busy with mountain bikers, this is a hiker-only trail, allowing you to more easily connect with nature and enjoy a slower pace.
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As you climb, you’ll walk through large grassy areas …
You may even find some hidden gems like huckleberry bushes! During huckleberry season, this trail is filled with these delicious berries. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself constantly stopping to grab a few.
As you summit, you’ll be greeted with some of the most remarkable views. You can see for miles and even capture views of Lake Pend Oreille on clear days.
You are so high up that you will definitely feel like you’ve hiked into the clouds and are on top of the world. There is no greater feeling after such a steep and challenging hike.
Plus, if you are hiking while the chair lift is in operation, you can always ride the lift down, allowing you to enjoy the view even more - but without all of the work this time!
Have you ever tackled this hiking trail or others at Schweitzer Mountain Ski Resort? What are some of your favorite trails in Idaho that make you feel like you are on top of the world? Share with us your experiences in the comments!
If you are searching for another hike that makes you feel on top of the world but is going to challenge you in many ways, check out Cervidae Peak in the Boise Mountains.
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