Living in Idaho means constantly being blown away by what our beautiful state has to offer. Whether you’re a relatively new Idahoan or you’ve lived here your whole life and have a closet full of hiking boots, there are always unique destinations waiting to be explored. The incredible geologic formation known as Chimney Rock in Idaho is one of these spots that should for sure be on your bucket list of Idaho adventures. Hidden away in a remote area of the Selkirks, many nature lovers aren’t even aware that this natural wonder exists. The photos of this stunning formation are enough to leave you in awe, so plan a hike to Chimney Rock to experience its beauty firsthand.

In the remote landscape of North Idaho's Selkirk Mountain Range, a massive granite spire called Chimney Rock towers over everything. As one of the most impressive landmarks in the Selkirks, seeing this stunning natural wonder is a must for any Idahoan.
Chad Cleveland/AllTrails
Although popular among rock climbers and backcountry hikers in the area, Chimney Rock really doesn't get the attention it deserves as one of North Idaho's most inspiring icons. This may be due to its remote location, but standing underneath this impressive formation is well worth the journey it takes to get here.
Chad Cleveland/AllTrails
It's worth the expedition to see these stunning views and understand the tru breadth of the Idaho landscape.
The trail to Chimney Rock can be found in the Priest Lake State Forest. It's a long drive to the trailhead and the trip may require a high-clearance vehicle, so be sure to pack everything you'll need for this off-the-beaten-path adventure.
Chad Cleveland/AllTrails

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To get there, you'll take Idaho State Highway 57 23-miles north from the town of Priest River before turning east toward Coolin. You'll keep driving north for around 13 miles on East Shore Road. From here, you'll turn onto Hunt Creek Road No. 24. Keep going for another 12 miles until you reach the trailhead.
Christina Lamb/AllTrails
Rated as moderate and stretching for ten miles round-trip, you'll definitely need some endurance to complete this bucket list trek. However, it's known to start off very easy before increasing in difficulty. It definitely helps that the views are stunning right from the start, though!
Chad Cleveland/AllTrails
Sometimes it's the hardest hikes that are the most rewarding. You might find that the extra struggle makes the resulting views feel that much more magical.
The steepest part of the trek is the last half-mile or so before you reach the summit of Mount Roothaan. Once at the top, you'll be rewarded not only with a fantastic view of the Selkirks and Priest Lake but the incredible Chimney Rock that stands before you, too. The towering 380-foot column is almost otherworldly, and it will take your breath away.
Bill Grace/AllTrails
You can see extremely far from the summit of this hike and in every direction the landscape looks different and beautiful.
The hike to Chimney Rock is no walk in the park, but it's certainly possible for any hiker with some determination. The sight of this unique geologic formation at the end is more than enough to make you grateful you completed this adventure, so add this trek to your bucket list stat. Just be sure to bring a map!
Scott Collins/Google

We are constantly blown away by the amazing sights within our state. Did you know about this natural wonder in Idaho? If so, let us know in the comments below. We love hearing your firsthand accounts of these beautiful, natural territories.

For more must-see destinations like this one, take a look at this list of The 7 Greatest Natural Wonders In Idaho. 

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More to Explore

Nature In Idaho

CC | December 01, 2023

Where can I visit nature preserves in Idaho?

If this hike just isn’t enough time in the natural world, there’s plenty more to see in the state. Check out these natural sites in Idaho. You can take a dip in a beautiful lake, go bird watching in conversation land, and hike through incredible landscapes.

  • Centennial Marsh Camas Praire
  • Bruneau Sand Dunes
  • Mesa Falls
  • Mount Borah
  • City of Rocks
  • Redfish Lakes
  • Hells Canyon
  • Crater of the Moon
  • Jerry Johnson Hot Springs
  • Alice Lake
  • Morley-Nelson Snake River Birds of Prey Conservation Area
  • The Palouse

 

Where can I visit state parks in Idaho?

There’s so much opportunity to connect with nature in Oklahoma. After visiting the hike, visit, and perhaps consider camping at, these state parks in Idaho. They’re beautiful spaces in their own right, but some of these parks also offer year round camping so you can enjoy the natural beauty here in any and all seasons of the year. The experience is different every time.

  • Old Mission State Park, Coeur d'Alene
  • Harriman State Park, Island Park
  • Ponderosa State Park, McCall
  • Mary M. McCroskey State Park, Farmington
  • Heyburn State Park, Plummer
  • Hells Gate State Park, Lewiston
  • Priest Lake State Park, Coolin
  • Farragut State Park, Athol
  • Bear Lake State Park, St. Charles

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Chimney Rock, Idaho 83638, USA