Outbound Collective logo

Packsaddle Lake

Tetonia, Idaho

4.8/5
based on 5 reviews

Details

Distance

0.74 miles

Elevation Gain

259 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Josh Packer

Packsaddle Lake is a hidden gem in southeast Idaho, with a relatively easy hike and a great spot to camp. Bonus: it has a rope swing!

Directions to the lake:
To get here, head North on Highway 20 as if you’re heading to St. Anthony. Then, take exit 339 towards Driggs on ID-33 E. Turn right onto 9th N for .5 miles. Then follow ID-33 E for 24.4 miles until you reach the dirt road Hoopes Rd. Drive. Drive on this road for 5.9 miles and then turn right onto Packsaddle Lake Road. Drive on Packsaddle Lake Road for 1.8 miles and then turn left to stay on Packsaddle Lake Road for .6 miles. The road is pretty steep and bumpy this last stretch, so you can start the hike from here as well. If you drive to the top, you can park and walk down to the lake. You should be able to see a little bit of the lake from the top. 

Trailhead:
It's about a half-mile hike to the lake with multiple switchbacks. It's a beautiful area and even has a rope swing at the lake.

Packsaddle Lake is a great adventure for you, your friends and your family. It's a great day adventure and is easily accessible if you have 4-wheel drive. People also camp here at the lake. You can make the hike as long as you want by parking along the road/trail on the way up to the lake. I parked towards the bottom of the road and hiked most of the way up but if you have 4-wheel drive, you should be able to make it to the top.

Wildlife and birds can be seen along the trail and at the lake. I came across a beautiful great gray owl along the hike, which was a spectacular sight. 

Also, on clear days, you can see the magnificent Tetons off in the distance behind you as you ascend the road/trail. Once you hit the top of the road, you'll see a little bit of the lake. From here, you'll take the short trail down to the lake.  

Read More

Download the Outbound mobile app

Find adventures and camping on the go, share photos, use GPX tracks, and download maps for offline use.

Get the app
Download GPX File

Features

Chillin
Photography
Hiking
Family Friendly
Forest
Lake
Scenic
Swimming Hole

Packsaddle Lake Reviews

Breeze of a hike, great view of the Tetons

I thought this was a fun little lake. rope swing and diving board made out of a tree log. fun swimming with the kids. my 6 and 2 years old girls loved it and asked the next day to go back.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Scenic Drive Up to Grand Targhee Ski Resort

Explore Teton Creek along Sheep Bridge Trail

Hike Darby Canyon to the Wind Cave

Summit Table Mountain

Camp at Fall Creek Falls

Hike Coal Creek Trail

Visit Idaho

Idaho is a picturesque state filled with beautiful scenery and warm, wonderful people. It's an ideal destination for family travelers, outdoor enthusiasts, adventure seekers, or those just looking for a relaxing getaway.

Learn More