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Shadow and Fern Falls

Shoshone County, Idaho

4.7/5
based on 3 reviews

Details

Distance

0.76 miles

Elevation Gain

233 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Rachel Christiansen

Hike through a beautiful inland temperate rainforest in the Coeur d'Alene National Forest. Enjoy gorgeous, picturesque waterfalls. Want to make this an overnight adventure? There's a nearby campground is peaceful and isolated.

See both Fern Falls, just 0.2 mile from the parking lot, and Shadow Falls (20-25 ft tall), a beautiful cascade among moss-covered rocks. A footbridge takes you behind the falls, as well.

These waterfalls are best photographed in the early morning hours or at dusk and twilight, before the sun has seeped above the mountains. This is especially relevant if you want to photograph with an extended shutter speed.

The road to the falls is not the easiest to find, so follow the signs and pay close attention to forest road numbers. Also note that the road to the falls is fairly rough, but fun if you like driving high into the mountains.

There is plenty of camping, fishing, rock climbing, and hiking in the area. Historic Wallace, right off the interstate, is a great place to eat and talk to the locals. The Fainting Goat is recommended for dinner and a fine glass of wine, or there is a local brewery, as well.

Come back in the winter for snowboarding/skiing at Lookout Pass, Silver Mountain, or Schweitzer. Northern Idaho is a great place to play.

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Features

Photography
Hiking
Scenic
Waterfall

Shadow and Fern Falls Reviews

Beautiful hike, even if there was a still a little snow on the ground we weren't prepared for. The road is slightly overgrown, not suitable for a rig you wouldn't want a little Idaho pinstriping down the side. Our three kids made it up and back with plenty of energy to spare.

We went during the end of April and there was too much snow over the path to drive. So we walked about 4.6 miles to the falls and back. It was super pretty, but the waterfall wasn't as big as expected.

A place that'll entertain the kiddos and inspire all adults. Nice walk in, not tough.... lots of scenery to take in.

Leave No Trace

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

Nearby

Revett Lake

Blossom Lakes Trail

Hike the Pulaski Tunnel Trail

Pear Lake Trail

Hike to Stevens Lakes

Ski Lookout Pass

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.

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